Police were armed, the mayor expressed regret and the president expressed concern. But Saturday's demonstration in central Lyon was peaceful, at least in the afternoon, French media reported.
According to Le Monde, around 3,200 people participated in the demonstration, which attracted participants from all over the country.
"No one in France should have to die for their opinions," a protester, Irène, told Le Figaro.
She said she wanted to show her support for Quentin Deranque's family and "to defend freedom."
Quentin Deranque, 23, died last weekend after being attacked days earlier by at least six people at a protest held by the French far-right in Lyon. Seven people face charges of murder or accessory to murder, but police are searching for more suspects.
The fatal beating has sparked strong reactions in France, and Deranque's death has been compared to the murder of American right-wing debater Charlie Kirk. But Deranque's parents have called for calm ahead of the march, and President Macron wants to tone down the rhetoric.
"This is a moment of remembrance and respect for this young compatriot who was killed, for his family and loved ones. That is where the focus must be," said President Macron before the demonstration.
Lyon Mayor Grégory Doucet - who represents the Ecologists - said ahead of the demonstration that police would "maintain extreme vigilance" for any signs of possible violence or far-right expressions.
"I don't want Lyon to become the capital of the far right," he said.
