Lyon tourism office destroyed

Is there a reason they targeted the tourism office out of all buildings, is there an anti-tourist element to this that I'm missing?

No anti-tourist element.
Local politicians, including the mayor of Lyon, emphasized that public buildings such as the tourist office (a historic building dating from 1852) are viewed as communal property and symbols of the established order. Radicals often direct their anger at such government institutions.

Ok thanks for clarification

We were in Marseille today and had a front row seat for protests. We actually had to cross a long parade of protesters to get to our bus but never felt unsafe. Having said that we heard what sounded like popping gunshots a block over a few minutes before and saw students running. I later read in the news that the police fired off tear gas after masked protesters broke into city hall and began damaging stuff.

A few clarifications

These acts of destruction and violence are entirely separate from the demonstrations themselves. They are carried out by various groups, ranging from far-left or anarchist factions to individuals with no political motives at all. They use the protests as an opportunity to cause chaos and provoke the police.

The tourist office is not the target of these actions, rather, these individuals are solely focused on creating disorder, setting fires, and looting shops. Because they are often well-organized and equipped, it is difficult for authorities to apprehend them mid-demonstration.

That's why it's best to stay clear of any protests, as situations can escalate very quickly.

https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2026/10/17/france-faces-day-of-combined-protests_6758706_7.html

The Black Block often shows up at peaceful demonstrations like the annual Paris labor day march and breaks windows etc drawing police action. We got caught in the tear gas one year when we got too close.

I would exercise great caution after dark. There are reports of direct robberies of persons, especially older persons. During the day, the demonstrations can be peaceful. After dark, the problems begin.