Lyon

A Comprehensive Guide to Travelling in Lyon

Lyon, the vibrant capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in France, is a city brimming with history, culture, gastronomy, and beauty. Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon offers a delightful blend of ancient architecture, modern amenities, and a thriving culinary scene. This guide will help you navigate the wonders of Lyon and make the most of your trip.

Where to Stay:

Lyon caters to all types of travellers with a wide range of accommodation options:

  • Old Town (Vieux Lyon): Immerse yourself in history by staying in the heart of the city, amongst the charming Renaissance-era buildings and winding cobblestone streets. Explore the unique “traboules” and enjoy the ambiance of historic courtyards and cobbled alleys.

    • Renaissance & Medieval Charm:
      • Hotel de la Cour des Loges: A luxurious boutique hotel nestled within the medieval heart of Lyon, housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century mansion.
      • Cour des Hospices: This historic hotel offers charming rooms with traditional décor and breathtaking views of the city.
      • Maison Boulanger: Located near the Place Bellecour, this unique property allows you to experience Lyon’s history in a truly intimate way.

  • Presqu’île District: Stay in the heart of Lyon’s vibrant cultural scene. This district is a hub for museums, theatres and restaurants.

    • Hotel Royal: Enjoy luxurious accommodations with access to all the excitement the Presqu’île has to offer.
    • Cour des Loges Hotel

  • Bellecour Area: Experience the grandeur of Lyon’s iconic square, Place Bellecour, while staying in a modern hotel.

    • Hôtel Silky by HappyCulture: A stylish and comfortable option for visitors looking for a vibrant and central location.

  • Confluence District: Stay near the modern architecture and art installations in the Confluence District.

    • Mama Shelter Lyon: Enjoy the unique and playful atmosphere of this hotel, which embraces the modern spirit of the city.

  • Hotel Ibis Styles Lyon Confluence: A trendy hotel choice with a focus on affordability and affordability.

Where to Eat:

Lyons is renowned for its culinary delights. From traditional bouchons (rustic Lyonnaise restaurants) to Michelin-starred establishments, you’ll find something for every palate. For a truly authentic experience:

  • Bouchon Experience:

    • Le Bouchon des Filles: Indulge in classic Lyonnaise cuisine with a modern twist.
    • Le Neuvième Art: This renowned restaurant offers a cinematic journey through its delectable dishes and cocktails.
    • Les Apothicaires: Enjoy a fine dining experience featuring the freshest local ingredients, and don’t forget to try their famous “quenelles.”

  • Modern Dining:

    • Explore the bustling food scene around Place Bellecour for cafes, bistros, and restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from French classics to international fare.

What To Eat in Lyon:

  • Bouchon Dishes: While in a bouchon, try traditional dishes like quenelles (creamy fish dumplings), salade lyonnaise (Lyonnaise salad with poached eggs and bacon dressing), or bouchée à la reine (puff pastry filled with chicken and cream sauce).

  • Lyon’s Specialties: Throughout the city:

    • Quiche: Enjoy a slice of this savory tart, a classic dish in French cuisine.
    • Cheese Boards: Embrace the “cheese platter” tradition at one of the many cheese shops and markets throughout Lyon. Sample local cheeses like Saint-Marcellin (a soft, creamy cheese) or Reblochon (a washed rind cheese).
    • Charcuterie: Visit a local market like Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse and savor the city’s famous “charcuterie” - cured meats like saucisson, pate and rillettes are a must-try.

Things To Do:

Lyon offers a plethora of activities for all types of travellers:

  • Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town): Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and admire the Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss the Renaissance & Medieval Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views.

  • Wander Through the Parks: Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Lyon’s numerous parks.

    • Parc de la Tête d’Or: Stroll through this vast green space, visit the zoo, or take a boat ride on the lake.

  • Visit the Museums:

    • Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts): Admire masterpieces from renowned artists like Rubens and Michelangelo.
    • Musée Gadagne: Explore the history of Lyon through its collections of art, textiles, and furniture.

  • Enjoy the Culinary Scene: Experience the culinary delights at one of Lyon’s many restaurants.

Things to Know:

  • Language: French is the official language in Lyon. While English is spoken in some tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn some basic French phrases for a more immersive experience.

  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency used in France and the rest of the Eurozone.

  • Bouchons: These are traditional Lyonnaise restaurants, often small and family-run, that offer hearty, regional cuisine.

  • Weather: Lyon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Expect warm summers and chilly winters. Be prepared for rain all year round.

  • Transportation:

    • Lyon Metro: A convenient and efficient way to get around the city center.
    • Tram & Bus System: Extensive and well-connected, covering most of the city.

Where to Find Authentic Experiences:

  • Bouchon Markets: Embrace the vibrant local culture by visiting one of the many “bouchon” restaurants or markets.
  • Local Festivals: Immerse yourself in the local spirit by attending a festival like the Fête des Lumières, celebrating the city’s history and architecture.

Food & Drink:

Lyon is known as the “gastronomic capital of France,” so be sure to experience its culinary delights:

  • Bouchon Cuisine: Enjoy traditional “bouchon” dishes

  • Local Wine: Sample some Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wines, both from the surrounding region.

  • Bouchons: Indulge in Lyon’s famous bouchons and their unique atmosphere of local history and culture.

Things to Do Beyond the Food:

  • Explore the city: Visit the historic Fourvière Basilica for stunning views of Lyon.
  • Discover the history: Wander through the Roman ruins at Lugdunum, or explore the Musée de la Civilisation (Museum of Civilization) for an exploration of local culture and history.
  • Experience the arts: Stroll through the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire their impressive collection of art from antiquity to the 20th century.

Historical Sites:

  • Fête des Lumières: Witness the breathtaking spectacle of light installations illuminating the city during this annual celebration.
  • Musée de la Resistance: Learn about Lyon’s crucial role in the French Resistance during World War II.
  • Vieux Lyon (Old Town): Explore the charming “traboules” and hidden courtyards of Lyon’s Renaissance district.

Beyond Lyon:**

  • Lyon’s Food Markets: Visit one of the vibrant food markets throughout the city, like Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, which features a variety of local produce and cheeses.
  • The Rhône Valley: Explore vineyards and wineries in the picturesque Rhône Valley, enjoying a taste of the region’s renowned wines.

Other Tips:

  • Transportation: Utilize the efficient and convenient Lyon metro system for getting around the city, and experience the charm of exploring local markets and food stalls.

  • Sights & Experiences:

    • Try the “Bouchon” Experience:

  • Savor the Culinary Scene: Immerse yourself in Lyon’s gastronomic culture by trying its local specialties.

  • Enjoy the Charm of Lyon’s Architecture:

  • Transportation: The Rhône Valley is easily accessible from Lyon for those who want to venture further afield, and it’s a great place to explore the region’s culinary heritage.**

    • Explore the city:
    • Savor local specialties:

  • Visit the Iconic “traboules”: Discover these secret passageways that connect buildings in the Lyon cityscape.

  • Enjoy the Rhône Alps: Take advantage of the scenic beauty surrounding the city and explore the Rhône Alps, a region known for its majestic mountains and charming villages.

Getting around:

  • Public Transportation: The Lyon metro system is a great way to get around the city, with lines A, B, and C connecting most key destinations.

  • Bike Sharing: Utilize the Vélo’v bike-sharing program for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Enjoy the “Lyon” experience:

  • Visit the Musée des Confluences: This museum offers an immersive experience in science and history, showcasing exhibits on everything from evolution to space exploration.

  • Explore local markets: Discover the vibrant flavors of Lyon’s cuisine at a local market.

  • Consider the Rhone Pass: Enjoy unlimited access to public transportation (including the funicular) with a Rhone Pass for a set period.

  • Enjoy local festivals:

  • Lyon Tram:

Experience the history and beauty of the city while exploring it on a tram, you can see the cityscape and enjoy local culture.

Getting Around:

  • Transportation:

The Rhône-Alpes region offers various transportation options:

  • Public Transportation:

**

  • Explore the Rhone-Rhones: Take advantage of the efficient public transport system in Lyon to explore the city and its surroundings.

Enjoy local wines:

  • Explore the Rhône Valley: Venture beyond the city walls for a taste of the famous Beaujolais, a wine that embodies the spirit of the region.

  • Savor the flavors of the “Bouchons”: These traditional restaurants are often known for their unique ambiance and focus on local ingredients.

Explore the Rhône Alps: Discover charming towns and villages like Annecy (known for its stunning lake) or Chamonix (a haven for mountain sports).

  • Learn about Lyon’s history: Visit the historical “Old Lyon” district with its cobbled streets and Renaissance architecture, or explore the Roman ruins at Lugdunum.

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Explore the local food scene:

The Rhône Alps is a region of culinary excellence. Enjoy traditional Lyonnaise cuisine:**

  • The Wine Route:

Explore the vineyards and wineries along the “Rhone-Alpes Wine Route” (which starts in Lyon) for a taste of the region’s famous wines.

  • Explore the local markets:

Discover the unique flavors of the Rhône Alps by visiting the vibrant “Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse” with its focus on local cheeses and traditional dishes.

  • Experience the Lyon Food Scene: Enjoy the vibrant food scene and explore the history of the region’s culinary tradition.

Explore the Rhone-Alps:

  • Lyon’s Cheese: Sample a variety of cheeses, from creamy “Lyonnaise” cheeses like “St. Marcellin” and “Bresse chicken” to the more pungent “Cheeses of the Alps.”

Beyond the food scene:

Embrace the culture:

  • Explore the city: Take a stroll through the charming “Old Town” (Vieux Lyon), with its winding streets and historic buildings, or explore the modern architecture and amenities in the “Presqu’île” district.
  • Experience the local arts & culture:

Enjoy the city:

  • Sample the local cuisine: The Rhône-Alpes region is known for its culinary delights.

Other Things to Enjoy:

  • Explore the museums: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée des Confluences and other museums in the region.

Lyon’s “Bouchons”

  • Local markets:

These traditional restaurants are a great way to experience the local cuisine:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere: Explore the unique ambiance of a “Bouchon” at one of Lyon’s many “bouchon” festivals, or enjoy the charm of the Rhône-Alpes region.
  • Try the “Cheese and Wine” pairing experiences: Learn about the region’s wine pairings

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Savor the local cheeses:

Experience the “Rhône-Alpes” experience with a cheese tasting class.

  • Enjoy the vibrant “Lyon Food & Drink” scene:

Enjoy a delicious meal and explore the unique culinary traditions of the Rhône-Alpes region.

Discover the beauty and charm of Lyon:

Explore the city’s numerous historical sites, including its charming “traboules” (covered passageways) and its stunning architecture.

  • The Musée de la Civilisation: Explore the history of the Rhône Alps

Learn about Lyon’s history:

  • Take advantage of the “Rhône-Alpes” region’s architectural marvels:

Explore the history of the “Rhône-Alpes” through its exhibits and artifacts.

Enjoy local specialties:

  • The Rhône Valley: Enjoy a variety of wines from the renowned “Wine Route.”
  • Local Markets: Explore the diverse range of wines produced in this region, known for its unique flavors and “traboules.”

Discover the history: Walk through the local markets, like the Halles Paul Bocuse, and experience the variety of local cheeses.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere: The best place to find local wines is along the Rhône Valley Wine Route.

  • Explore a variety of local cheese options: Enjoy the experience with a “Cheese & Wine” pairing.

Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights): Learn about the history and culture of Lyon through its architecture and museums.

Beyond the Rhône Alps: You can’t mention “Bouchon” without mentioning the famous “Beaujolais Villages” wine region.

  • Explore the Rhône-Alpes: The city is a great place to start your journey of discovering local wines.

  • Enjoy the beauty and charm of the region:

Beyond the local cheese:

  • Local cheeses:

Transportation:

  • Take advantage of the “Rhône-Alpes” region’s wine trails and cycling routes.

Enjoy the unique charm of the region:

  • Lyon’s Wine Route: Enjoy a variety of wines, including Beaujolais.

  • Bike lanes:

The “Rhône” region is renowned for its culinary heritage.

Transportation & Food:

  • Local Markets: