A day in la Guillotière

8 am – Lyon stirs

© Ho36

Two alternatives: either you slept here, in a private room or dormitory, or you’ve just come for breakfast. Either way, the hostel and restaurant Ho36 is a great starting point to explore the neighbourhood. Like the surrounding area, this is a warm and friendly place, where the servings are generous, and locals and visitors rub shoulders.   

Breakfast from 6:30 to 11 am (10:30 am on Sunday)

10 am – Morning fun

© A Maze in game

Once you’ve eaten your fill, make your way to A Maze in Game. The escape game concept has been well explored, but not many have taken the narrative detail and scripting so far. Whether you choose to dive into the wreck of a disappeared Soviet submarine or delve into the secrets of a mysterious cabinet of curiosities, you will discover some highly original game mechanics. With no time limit and no way to lose, it’s perfect for sore losers and those of a nervous disposition. 

Noon – Asian lunch 

© Bao Haus - Le Gastrogone

It’s hard to outdo La Guillotière in terms of exotic food options for lunch.

Set course for China at Bao Haus, where you can discover bao zi, small steamed dumplings with fillings like fried chicken, tataki beef and grilled tentacles. 

© @almondinephotographie

Alternatively, you can take a trip to Malaysia at Boleh Lah, the temple of nasi goreng and roti cheese. Make sure you don’t forget to book a table! 
 

2 pm – African adventure 

© Ake O’lokan

Time to change continents with a visit to the Sarraounia cultural space, which means ‘queen’ in the Hausa language. This recently opened space dedicated to African cultures hosts shows, conferences, concerts, workshops and exhibitions. The first, Trésors d’Ailleurs (treasures from elsewhere), running until 30 June 2024, puts the spotlight on objects that were imported or made by people who one day decided to leave for other shores. It tells personal stories through photographs and writings. The exhibition trail also includes a documentary and sculptures by Togolese artist Ake O’lokan.

8 pm – Towards an ideal world

© Théâtre de l'Uchronie

Uchronie is “a utopian space that defends the idea of local culture that is demanding, accessible and sensitive.” It is a theatre that fights for diversity and strives to be accessible to all audiences, while offering a rich choice of shows (drama, dance and music) and covering a wide range of topics. Escape the cold this winter as you watch a performance: Les Guérillères by the collective Polyèdre, Bal-Trap by the company La Raconterie and La Déferle by the company Lunée l’Ôtre.

10 pm – Winter sun

© Le Gastrogone

For a taste of summer in the heart of winter, make your way to Italy with Mimo. The menu includes antipasti (home-made focaccia and sautéed artichokes), main courses worthy of an authentic Italian trattoria and colourful cocktails. 

Want to keep the night going? Have a drink at La Faute aux Ours. There’s always a good reason to meet up at this lively bar with a quirky interior: blind tests on Wednesdays, karaoke on Thursdays, DJ sets on Fridays and Saturdays… 

© Elsa & Cyril