Lyon:
Our Lady of Fourvière
Lyon : Our Lady of Fourvière
Step into the spiritual heart of Lyon, one of France’s most historic and faith-filled cities. This enriching walking tour invites you to discover a unique blend of devotion, history, and breathtaking views, centered around the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière. Rising above the city, this sacred hill has been a place of prayer and pilgrimage for centuries. Whether you are on a pilgrimage or seeking to explore the Christian heritage that shaped Lyon, this tour offers an inspiring journey through faith, culture, and timeless beauty.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, Lyon’s most iconic Marian shrine, renowned for its stunning architecture and deep spiritual significance.
Explore the Fourvière Hill, a historic place of pilgrimage offering panoramic views over Lyon and the Rhône and Saône rivers.
Learn about Lyon’s devotion to the Virgin Mary and the tradition of gratitude that inspired the annual Feast of Lights.
Discover the ancient Christian roots of Lyon, one of the earliest centers of Christianity in France.
Walk through the charming streets around Fourvière, rich in religious heritage, history, and timeless French character.
Pause at peaceful viewpoints and chapels for moments of prayer, reflection, and contemplation.
Conclude your journey at the Basilica, ending with quiet time to reflect and give thanks in one of France’s most beloved sacred sites.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions : Experienced licensed tour guide, guided visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, small group experience
Tour Exclusions : Personal expenses, hotel pickup, food and drinks, transportation to/from Fourvière Hill, optional donations, entrance fees (if applicable)
Distance : Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility : Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point : Please arrive 10 minutes early in front of the main entrance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière (8 Place de Fourvière, Lyon). Your guide will be waiting at the main entrance. Please refer to Google Maps for exact directions.
Lyon : Our Lady of Fourvière
Step into the spiritual heart of Lyon on this inspiring walking tour dedicated to Our Lady of Fourvière, the city’s most beloved Marian shrine. Perched high above the Rhône and Saône rivers, Fourvière Hill has been a place of prayer, protection, and pilgrimage for centuries, drawing visitors from around the world seeking faith, history, and breathtaking views.
Your journey begins at the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, a magnificent 19th-century sanctuary built in thanksgiving to the Virgin Mary for her protection over Lyon. Discover the story behind the basilica’s construction, its rich mosaics, soaring towers, and profound devotion to Mary, who is honored here as the protector of the city. Learn how Lyon’s citizens have repeatedly turned to Our Lady of Fourvière in times of plague, war, and hardship.
Continue with a visit to the Fourvière Sanctuary complex, including the historic chapel that predates the basilica and remains a powerful place of prayer for pilgrims. Hear about the Vow of the Aldermen of Lyon, an annual tradition dating back to 1643, when city leaders entrusted Lyon to the Virgin Mary — a devotion still observed today.
As you walk across Fourvière Hill, take in panoramic views over Lyon’s old town, rivers, and rooftops. These peaceful viewpoints invite reflection and offer a deeper appreciation of Lyon’s unique blend of faith, history, and culture. Along the way, learn how Christianity took root in Lyon, one of the oldest Christian cities in France, and how Marian devotion shaped its spiritual identity.
Stroll through the historic surroundings near the basilica, where Roman, medieval, and modern history intertwine. Your guide will share stories of saints, martyrs, and believers who helped shape Lyon’s enduring Christian heritage.
Your tour concludes at the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, allowing time for quiet prayer, reflection, or simply admiring the sacred beauty of this iconic landmark. Leave with a deeper understanding of Lyon’s Marian devotion, its rich Catholic history, and the timeless faith that continues to watch over the city from Fourvière Hill.
Lyon : Our Lady of Fourvière
Rising above the historic city of Lyon in southeastern France, Fourvière Hill is the spiritual heart of the city and a treasured center of Christian faith. Dominating the skyline is the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, a powerful symbol of Marian devotion and gratitude. Pilgrims and travelers are drawn to Lyon not only for its rich cultural heritage but also for its deep spiritual roots, which date back to the earliest days of Christianity in Gaul. From panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Rhône and Saône rivers to sacred chapels filled with prayer, Lyon offers a profound journey of faith, history, and devotion.
Among the most important places to visit is the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, built in the late 19th century as an act of thanksgiving to the Virgin Mary for her protection over the city. Nearby stands the ancient Chapel of Saint Thomas, the original Marian sanctuary on the hill, which has been a place of prayer since the Middle Ages. The surrounding esplanade offers breathtaking views of Lyon’s Old Town (Vieux Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the hill itself preserves layers of Roman, medieval, and Christian history that reflect the city’s unique spiritual identity.
Our Lady of Fourvière and the Vow of Lyon (1643)
One of the most significant events in Lyon’s spiritual history is the Vow of the Aldermen, made in 1643 during a devastating outbreak of plague. Fearing for the city’s survival, Lyon’s civic leaders consecrated the city to the Virgin Mary, promising an annual pilgrimage if she spared Lyon from destruction. The city was soon delivered from the plague, and the vow has been faithfully renewed every year since. This act of trust and gratitude firmly established Our Lady of Fourvière as the protector of Lyon.
Each year on 8 December, Lyon celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, when the city is illuminated with candles and lights in honor of the Virgin Mary. What began as a religious tradition has grown into the famous Fête des Lumières, yet at its heart remains a powerful expression of Marian devotion and thanksgiving.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière
The Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière is both an architectural masterpiece and a living place of pilgrimage. Its richly decorated interior features mosaics, stained glass, and chapels dedicated to the Virgin Mary, reflecting themes of protection, hope, and faith. Beneath the basilica lies the Crypt of Saint Joseph, a quieter space for prayer and reflection.
For centuries, pilgrims have climbed Fourvière Hill to entrust their families, city, and lives to Mary. Countless votive offerings within the sanctuary bear witness to answered prayers, healings, and moments of profound spiritual renewal.
Lyon and Its Pilgrim Tradition
Lyon is one of the oldest Christian cities in France, known in Roman times as Lugdunum. It was home to early Christian martyrs such as Saint Blandina and Saint Pothinus, whose witness laid the foundations of faith in the region. Over the centuries, Lyon became an important stop for pilgrims, missionaries, and travelers moving through Europe.
Today, pilgrims and visitors continue to journey to Our Lady of Fourvière, finding in Lyon a place where ancient faith meets living devotion. Whether you come for prayer, history, or breathtaking views, Fourvière Hill offers a timeless encounter with the Virgin Mary and a deeper connection to the Christian soul of Lyon.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to Lyon
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and experience Lyon, one of France’s most important cities of faith, history, and culture. Home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière, Lyon offers pilgrims and travelers a rich spiritual journey combined with UNESCO-listed heritage, panoramic views, and vibrant city life.
Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth and stress-free travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available for arrivals and departures at major airports serving Lyon.
A dedicated assistant will greet you, help with luggage, check-in, and security procedures, ensuring a seamless start or end to your journey.
Please note: this service is provided only within the airport.
Airport Meet & Assist is especially helpful for first-time visitors to France, elderly travelers, families, or pilgrims seeking extra comfort and assistance.
By Air
Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) – ~25 km from the city center
Approx. 30–40 minutes by car, taxi, or Rhône Express tram.
From the airport, you can reach central Lyon easily by:
Rhône Express tram to Part-Dieu station
Taxi or private transfer
- Rental car
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
Lyon is one of France’s major rail hubs.
Main Stations:
Lyon Part-Dieu (most high-speed trains)
Lyon Perrache
Approximate travel times:
From Paris: ~2 hours (TGV)
From Marseille: ~1.5–2 hours
From Geneva: ~2 hours
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Lyon is well connected by France’s motorway network (A6, A7, A42).
Approximate driving times:
From Paris: ~4.5–5 hours
From Geneva: ~1.5–2 hours
From Marseille: ~3 hours
Public and paid parking is available throughout the city, including near Fourvière Hill and the historic center.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Long-distance buses connect Lyon with major French and European cities.
Regional buses also serve surrounding towns and pilgrimage destinations.
Schedules vary—check in advance before traveling.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct and comfortable journey from the airport, train station, or nearby cities.
Ideal for small groups, families, and pilgrims with luggage.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
Lyon is a highly walkable city with excellent public transport (metro, tram, bus, funicular).
The Funicular to Fourvière provides easy access to the Basilica
Vieux Lyon, Fourvière Hill, and the city center are easily explored on foot
Where to Stay in Lyon
Find the perfect accommodation near Our Lady of Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, or the city center.
Choose from boutique hotels, pilgrim-friendly guesthouses, or comfortable family-run B&Bs.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Find the Best Local Stays – Book your unique local stays with Homestay 
Experiences & Activities
Make your visit unforgettable by exploring Lyon’s spiritual, cultural, and culinary treasures.
Guided visits to Our Lady of Fourvière
Walking tours of Vieux Lyon (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Christian heritage and martyr sites
Day trips to Ars-sur-Formans (Saint John Vianney) or Burgundy
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Be prepared and comfortable for your pilgrimage and city walks.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
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Find your Travel Insurance on Safty Wings
Find your local luggage storage on LuggageHero
Religious & Devotional Items
If you cannot visit Lyon in person, you can still bring a piece of its Marian devotion into your home.
Explore Catholic devotional items inspired by Our Lady of Fourvière, Marian traditions, and the saints of France.
Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items
Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
Combine train travel + local public transport or taxi for the easiest and most efficient way to reach Fourvière Hill and Lyon’s historic center—comfort, convenience, and flexibility in one journey.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.