Lyon
“In Lyon, the true light does not come from above, but from below”. Frédéric Dard
France’s second-largest city has a whole jumble of factoids to its name. It was once a centre for silk production, and continues to be famous for its wine. But it also played a role in the emergence of cinema, and has become the food capital of France. Probably the last three have caught your attention.
Hailed even by Parisian chefs, Lyon’s eateries are a gastronomic dream. Over 150 Michelin star restaurants dot the streets, as well as renowned bakeries. Before you have your fill, make your way to one of the city’s world-renowned museums, or the maze-like, 4th-century streets of the silk district. The world’s first cinematograph is at the Lumiere Institute. If visiting in December, don’t miss the Festival of Lights, which can only be described as a phantasmagoria. Other sights in this UNESCO Heritage city include the Fourvière Basilica, the Renaissance district Vieux Lyon, and innumerable lush gardens.
Places to Stay:
Activities
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Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Lyon
A stunning Basilica on Fourvière Hill that has been a spiritual symbol of Lyon for centuries.
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Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation, Lyon
Poignantly located in former Gestapo headquarters, the CHRD is dedicated to Lyon's important role in the French Resistance during World War II.
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Fourvière, Lyon
Famous Fourvière Hill is an icon of Lyon: a UNESCO world heritage site where you can see the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, ancient Roman ruins and a breathtaking view of the city.
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La Croix-Rousse, Lyon
This famous Lyon district is popular with both locals and tourists, notable for its historical significance and also being the place to find some of the city's best restaurants, bars, markets.
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Le Gros Caillou, Lyon
A large rock in the popular district, La Croix-Rousse, that has a fascinating history.
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Le Krépiôt, Restaurant, Lyon
Try some of the best crêpes in Lyon at Le Krépiôt, a cosy restaurant on the banks of the Saône just outside of Vieux Lyon.
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Max Poilâne, Bakery, Lyon
On your way to the Parc de la Tête d'Or stop at Max Poilâne for classic French bread, pastries and more.
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Musée Miniature et Cinéma, Lyon: All Year
An exhibition of handcrafted miniature models as well as a collection of film props and an insight into making special effects, in this museum hidden away in Vieux Lyon.
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Musée de l'Imprimerie, Lyon: All year
The Museum of Printing and Graphic Communication's internationally renowned collection explores the history of western printing and the graphic arts: from early woodblock printing, to Gutenberg's letterpress and eventually to colour photography.
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Musée des Beaux Arts, Lyon: All Year
In an impressive 17th century building in the centre of Lyon is the Musée des Beaux Arts. This museum hosts one of France's finest collections of paintings and sculptures outside of Paris, featuring works from Matisse, Monet and Rodin.
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Musée des Confluences, Lyon: All Year
A natural science and anthropology museum in a modern, eye-catching building in Lyon's newest developed neighbourhood: Confluence.
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Musée gallo-romain, Lyon: All year
Next to the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatres on Fourvière hill is the Musée gallo-romain where visitors can learn more about Lyon's fascinating history.
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Parc de la Tête d'Or, Lyon
An idyllic park with a botanical garden and zoo, not too far from Lyon's centre and all free of charge.
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Place Bellecour, Lyon
This large square in the centre of Lyon is vitally important in the city's history and the fourth biggest of its kind in France.
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Péchés Gourmands, Confectionery, Lyon
Take home some French artisan biscuits, chocolates, nougats, jams and more from Péchés Gourmands in Vieux Lyon.
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Vieux Lyon
In Lyon you can find one of France's largest old towns: a UNESCO world heritage site filled with cobbled streets, Renaissance buildings, charming boutiques and typical Lyonnais restaurants.
