Institut Lumière

NileGuide Expert Says:

For fascinating insight into the conception and evolution of cinematography, Institut Lumière is a must-visit site in Lyon.

User Rating:


25 rue du Premier Film
69352 Lyon, France


+33 4 7878 1895

NileGuide Expert tip:

For access to Institut Lumière, take metro line D and stop at Monplaisir-Lumière station, or take the number 9, or number 34 bus and get off at the Monplaisir-Lumière stop. If you're driving; the institute features a free parking area.


In 1895 the Lyonnaise inventor Louis Lumiére patented a device which he called the 'cinématographe', and thus, the world of cinema was born! The Institut Lumiére pays tribute to this achievement and the development of cinematography since its birth.

The institute is located on the grounds of the former Lumiére family residence (Lumiére Villa) and the Lumiére factory, which provided the set for the world's first ever film footage.  The institute includes a museum dedicated to the lives of the Lumiére family and the world of cinema, a cinema theatre, a library and a gift shop. Don't miss the 'filmmaker's wall', which includes comments from international directors who have made the pilgrimage to the birthplace of cinema.

