Lyon

Welcome to Lyon, a city steeped in history, originally founded as a Roman settlement and now celebrated as France’s gastronomic capital. This dynamic destination combines the charm of its historic old town, iconic landmarks, and a thriving sports culture, led by Olympique Lyonnais. With its vibrant culture, pleasant weather, and exciting sporting events, Lyon is well worth a visit. Whether you're flying in from London or arriving by train at Gare de Part-Dieu, your Lyon adventure is ready to begin.

Must-See Sights in Lyon

The Vieux Lyon District:

Wandering through the narrow alleys of Old Lyon, a Renaissance neighborhood once home to wealthy bankers and Italian merchants, is a pleasure. Take the traboules—Lyon’s secret passageways used by silk traders and the French Resistance during WWII—and explore fascinating towers and hidden corners. It feels like being in a real-life historical adventure!

The Land of Golden Stones in Beaujolais:

In southern Beaujolais, villages built from ochre stone create a unique golden hue. These houses, churches, and castles light up the rolling landscape, earning the area the nickname "Little Tuscany of Beaujolais."

The Le Corbusier Site in Firminy:

Featuring a stadium, church, cultural center, and residential units, Le Corbusier’s architectural vision is showcased here. The site exemplifies France's post-war growth period, with innovations still relevant today, like limiting cars, encouraging pedestrian spaces, and maximizing light in buildings.

The International City of Gastronomy in Lyon:

Set to open in 2019 within the restored Grand Hotel-Dieu, this multi-level space will offer interactive, educational culinary experiences with tastings, workshops, and live demonstrations. It promises to be a gastronomic delight!

Tête d’Or Park:

Spanning over 100 hectares (247 acres) in the heart of the city, the park features a 17-hectare (42 acre) lake, an African zoo, a botanical garden with 20,000 plant species, a stunning rose garden, and much more. It’s easy to fall in love with Tête d’Or!

The Dombes Ponds:

Northeast of Lyon lies a land of a thousand ponds, a haven for anglers and bird watchers, and France’s top freshwater fishing area.

- The Medieval City of Pérouges:

Ranked among France’s most beautiful villages, Pérouges preserves its medieval charm, with cobblestone streets, a fortified church, and a square tower. The medieval atmosphere feels wonderfully authentic.

- The Croix-Rousse Slopes and Traboules:

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this area was the hub of Lyon’s silk industry. The high-rise buildings once housed precious silk looms. Wander through the narrow traboules, hidden passages between streets, like the silk workers once did.

- Montmelas Castle in Beaujolais:

Dating back to the 12th century, this castle retains its medieval fortress appearance despite 19th-century restorations. The estate has been producing Beaujolais Village Marquis de Montmelas wine since 1566!

- Opera and Confluence Museum in Lyon:

Lyon blends the old with the new in its architecture. The Opera House, redesigned by Jean Nouvel, retains its original walls but features a modern dome of granite and wood. Meanwhile, the striking glass, concrete, and steel structure of the Confluence Museum stands out at the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône rivers.

Essential Activities in Lyon

Taste Delicacies at Les Halles Paul Bocuse:

In the Part-Dieu district, step into this covered market named after the legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Nearly 50 vendors—fishmongers, cheese makers, bakers, and more—celebrate Lyon's rich gastronomic heritage.

Climb to the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière:

Perched on Fourvière Hill, this late 19th-century basilica offers stunning mosaics and marble decorations.

Stay in the Vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône:

Along both banks of the Rhône, between Vienne and Avignon, more than 20 grape varieties produce world-renowned wines such as Côte Rôtie, Crozes-Hermitage, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Experience Nuits Sonores:

Each year, during the Ascension weekend, Lyon comes alive with electro music for this festival, featuring concerts all over the city.

Marvel at Lyon’s Festival of Lights:

Since December 8, 1852, the people of Lyon have placed candles in their windows to light up the city. Today, the Festival of Lights draws crowds to witness innovative light displays on Lyon’s landmarks, squares, and iconic buildings.

Explore Place des Jacobins and Passage de l'Argue:

In the heart of the city, Place des Jacobins features a beautiful white marble fountain. From there, visit Passage de l’Argue, a covered shopping arcade with specialty stores like hat makers and cutlers.

Bike the Bois de Bouchat Trail:

In the Lyonnais mountains, just south of the city, this wooded area offers scenic mountain biking trails for all skill levels, with a rewarding panoramic view over the Mornantais countryside.

Enjoy a Traditional Lyonnais Bouchon:

Lyon’s iconic restaurants, certified by a label, serve up hearty local dishes like dumplings, Lyonnaise salad, and cervelle de canut (a local cheese specialty). Be sure to book ahead, as these spots fill up fast!

Visit the Glay Quarries:

At 420 meters (1,378 feet) above sea level, these quarries offer panoramic views stretching 50 km (31 miles) over the Azergues valley.