Lyon

Title: Ultimate Travel Guide to Lyon, France

Welcome to the captivating city of Lyon! Known as the “Gastronomic Capital” and the “City of Lights,” Lyon offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy that will leave you spellbound. Here’s an exhaustive guide to help you navigate this beautiful city.

Places to Go

  1. Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with Renaissance architecture, visit the Traboules (secret passages), and marvel at the St Jean Cathedral.

  2. Fourvière Hill: Climb up to the hill for a panoramic view of the city, explore the basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and discover the Roman Theater.

  3. Presqu’île: Visit the iconic Halle de Lyon food market, walk along the Saône river, and explore the historic Palace of Justice.

  4. Bellecour Square: The largest square in France is a great place to relax, people-watch, or catch a tram.

  5. Confluence District: A modern and vibrant area where the Rhone and Saône rivers meet, offering contemporary art museums, shopping, and restaurants.

Activities

  1. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience Lyon from above with a hot air balloon ride.

  2. Croissant-making Workshop: Learn the art of French pastry making in a local bakery.

  3. Bike Tour: Explore Lyon’s parks, historic sites, and hidden corners on a bike tour.

  4. Roman Museum: Dive into the history of Lyon with a visit to this fascinating museum.

Where to Eat

  1. Bouchons Lyonnais: Traditional Lyonnaise restaurants serving classic dishes like Quenelles and Coq au Vin.

  2. Paul Bocuse’s L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges: A Michelin 3-star restaurant, it’s a must for fine dining.

  3. Les Filles de Louis: A trendy bistro serving contemporary dishes with a twist.

  4. Le Comptoir de Mathias: Another great spot for modern French cuisine in a casual setting.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Cour des Loges: A luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Vieux Lyon.

  2. ibis Styles Lyon Part-Dieu: A budget-friendly option with modern rooms and great transport links.

  3. Grand Hotel du Palais de la Méditerranée: A historic 5-star hotel offering elegance and luxury.

Things to Know

  1. Currency: Euro (€) is used in Lyon.

  2. Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  3. Public Holidays: Be aware of public holidays as many shops and restaurants may be closed.

Transportation

  1. Metro (Métro): A cheap and efficient way to get around the city.

  2. Tram: Modern trams run regularly throughout Lyon, making it easy to navigate.

  3. Bikes: Bike rental services are available for exploring the city at your own pace.

Tips

  1. Sample Local Cheeses: Try local cheeses like Comté and Roquefort.

  2. Visit During Festivals: Lyon hosts numerous festivals, such as Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) in December.

  3. Stay Hydrated: Tap water is safe to drink in Lyon, so feel free to refill your bottle.

Enjoy your time in Lyon! This captivating city awaits you with open arms and a warm “Bonjour!”