Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: reviews and practical tips

+29
recos
5/5 6 reviews
8 Place de Fourvière, 65009 Lyon, France
8 Place de Fourvière, 65009 Lyon, France
Notre Dame de Lyon
Basilique de Lyon
Tour

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière in brief

Perched atop the colline de Fourvière (Fourvière Hill), within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière stands as a primary symbol of this French city, drawing over 2 million visitors each year. You will notice its distinct architecture, which blends Byzantine and medieval styles, alongside an interior defined by opulent decoration. If you have the time, climb the 287 steps to reach the observation deck. The view of the Monts du Lyonnais, the Monts d'Or, and the Pilat massif is impressive. Take a moment to look at the intricate slate roofing of the basilica as well.

Built in the late 19th century on the site of an ancient Roman forum, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière was commissioned by Archbishop Monseigneur de Genouilhac following the French defeat in the war of 1870. Dedicated to both Saint Thomas Becket and the Virgin Mary, whose golden statue you will spot from a distance, the site was long considered a place of protection during plague outbreaks and remains a popular pilgrimage destination. Pierre Bossan, a local architect, led the project with the assistance of Louis Sainte-Marie Perrin.

Start your visit by examining the exterior facade. Behind the imposing octagonal towers, some statues remain unfinished due to budget constraints at the time. Inside, you will find extensive gilding, mosaics, marble, and luxury stonework. While it feels like a timeless sanctuary, the space retains a sense of deep serenity.

On your way down, enjoy the view from the esplanade toward the Vercors, Bugey, and Chartreuse ranges in the distance. Afterwards, follow the walking paths of the jardin des Rosaires (Rosary Garden), which will lead you toward the montée Saint-Barthélemy. Various thematic guided tours of the basilica are available. Check with the local tourism office for schedules and pricing.

Reviews of Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

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Summary of 6 reviews
5/5
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Ratings by visit type

With family
4.5
As a couple
5
With friends
5

Avygeo ranking

#58
in the world
#56
in Europe
#34
in France
#1
in Lyon

Simply a must-see!

You can head up to the Fourvière neighborhood by funicular or on foot from Vieux Lyon. A work of architects Bossan and Sainte-Marie Perrin, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is the emblem of the city of Lyon. I especially love admiring the four towers, forty-eight meters high, which represent the cardinal virtues: Prudence (northeast tower), Temperance (southeast tower), Fortitude (northwest tower), and Justice (southwest tower). The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière consists of two superimposed churches, accessible from the square. The upper church is just incredible, with very rich decor.

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Gorgeous!

A bit like the Sacré-Cœur in Paris, visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers a superb panoramic view of the entire city. The building itself is really beautiful, both on the outside and the inside, with its stunning mosaics. Special mention to the crypt that you can visit. If you are passing through Lyon, you cannot miss it!

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A monumental basilica

Notre-Dame de Fourvière is breathtaking. The little red funicular you take to get there adds so much charm to the trip. I suggest taking the funicular up and walking back down. A magnificent view of the city awaits at the top. Clearly, it is a must-see and without a doubt one of the most beautiful religious buildings you will ever see.

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Byzantine basilica

I am not saying this because I grew up in Lyon and all Lyonnais are biased, but I have never seen a more beautiful religious building in France than the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. It is topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary, inaugurated in the rain on December 8th, which gave rise to the famous Lyon Festival of Lights. There are several ways to get up to Fourvière, on foot or by funicular. Up there, you have the most beautiful view of Lyon. I recommend the tour under the roofs, it is spectacular.

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A neo-Byzantine gem

This building with its unusual architecture really stands out near the Roman ruins. It is already disorienting when you admire it from below, but the cathedral is dazzling once you reach its level. Inside, the stained glass windows and even more so the mosaics are truly sublime. Don't forget to visit the crypt, which is just as splendid with the altar to Saint Joseph and its very colorful ceiling. From the square, the unobstructed view of Lyon is magnificent.

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Beautiful haven of peace at the top of the city

Hiking up to the top of Fourvière hill and catching your breath while taking the time to visit the exterior and interior of the basilica, that is a great outing to do in Lyon.
From the outside, the view over the capital of the Gauls is unbeatable.
Inside, you will find some very beautiful mosaics depicting the Virgin Mary.

The building is quite recent (built in the 19th century), which is why it might seem surprisingly well preserved to you.

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