Lyon

Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital of France

Lyon: The gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is a city that delights all of the senses. From its exquisite cuisine to its stunning architecture, Lyon offers a truly unique experience for visitors.

History

Visit Lyon

Common questions

• What are the best things to see in Lyon?

  Lyon is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. Here are some of the top attractions you should visit in Lyon:

  • The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: A beautiful basilica located on top of Fourvière Hill, offering stunning views of the city.
  • The Vieux Lyon: The old town of Lyon, with its cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and charming atmosphere.
  • The Musée des Beaux-Arts: One of the largest art museums in France, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities.
  • The Parc de la Tête d’Or: A large urban park with a zoo, botanical gardens, and a beautiful lake.
  • The Croix-Rousse: A historic neighborhood known for its silk production and its unique atmosphere.

  Where can I find the best food in Lyon?

  Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and vibrant food scene. Here are some places where you can find the best food in Lyon:

  • The Bouchons Lyonnais: Traditional Lyonese restaurants serving hearty and delicious local dishes.
  • The Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse: A famous covered food market offering a wide selection of fresh produce, cheeses, and gourmet products.
  • The Rue Mercière and Rue des Marronniers: Streets lined with numerous restaurants and bistros, offering a variety of cuisines.
  • The Les Halles de Lyon: A gourmet food hall where you can sample a variety of regional specialties.

  What are some fun activities to do in Lyon?

  There are plenty of fun activities to do in Lyon. Here are some suggestions:

  • Take a boat cruise on the Rhône or Saône rivers to admire the city’s stunning architecture from a different perspective.
  • Visit the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, which houses an incredible collection of miniature models and movie props.
  • Explore the Traboules of Lyon, which are hidden passageways that date back to the Renaissance and are a unique feature of the city.
  • Go on a wine tasting tour in the nearby Beaujolais region, known for its excellent wines.
  • Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the riverbanks and parks of Lyon.

  What is the public transportation like in Lyon?

  Lyon has an efficient public transportation system that makes it easy to navigate the city. Here are the main modes of public transportation in Lyon:

  • Tram: The city has an extensive tram network that connects different parts of Lyon, making it convenient for getting around.
  • Metro: Lyon has four metro lines that serve the city and provide quick transportation between different areas.
  • Bus: There is a comprehensive bus network in Lyon that covers the entire city and its suburbs.
  • Bicycles: Lyon has a bike-sharing system called Vélo’v, which allows you to rent bicycles for short trips within the city.
  • Walking: Lyon is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

  Where can I shop for souvenirs in Lyon?

  If you’re looking to buy souvenirs in Lyon, here are some places you can visit:

  • The Rue de la République: Lyon’s main shopping street, where you’ll find a variety of shops, including clothing stores and gift shops.
  • The Vieux Lyon: The old town is filled with boutique shops and craft stores where you can find unique souvenirs.
  • The Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse: This covered food market also has gourmet shops where you can find local delicacies to bring back as gifts.
  • The Quai de Bondy Flea Market: Held on Sundays, this flea market offers a range of vintage items and antiques.

  Are there any day trips from Lyon worth visiting?

  Yes, there are several day trips from Lyon that are worth considering. Here are some options:

  • The Beaujolais Wine Region: Explore the nearby wine region and visit vineyards for wine tastings.
  • The Pérouges Medieval Village: A well-preserved medieval village located just outside of Lyon, known for its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
  • The Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat: A regional park with stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and panoramic viewpoints.
  • The Annecy: A picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Annecy, known for its stunning mountain views and charming old town.

  What are some free attractions in Lyon?

  Lyon offers several free attractions that you can enjoy without spending any money. Here are some options:

  • The Parc de la Tête d’Or: Lyon’s largest urban park, offering free entry and a beautiful lake, gardens, and walking paths.
  • The Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica: While entry to the basilica may require a fee for certain sections, you can still admire the stunning architecture from outside.
  • The Old Town (Vieux Lyon): Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Vieux Lyon and admire the historic buildings.
  • The Street Art: Lyon has a vibrant street art scene, and you can explore the city to discover various murals and graffiti.

  Where can I find the best views of Lyon?

  For the best views of Lyon, make sure to visit these locations:

  • The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Located on Fourvière Hill, it offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
  • The Montée du Gourguillon: A picturesque street in the Vieux Lyon with stunning views of the city.
  • The La Tour Métallique: This metal tower in the Parc de la Tête d’Or offers breathtaking views of Lyon.
  • The Croix-Rousse Hill: Climb to the top of the hill for fantastic views of Lyon’s rooftops.

  What are some family-friendly attractions in Lyon?

  Lyon offers several family-friendly attractions that your children will love. Here are some options:

  • The Musée Miniature et Cinéma: This museum houses a fascinating collection of miniature models and movie props that will captivate all ages.
  • The Parc de la Tête d’Or: Lyon’s largest urban park, with a zoo, playgrounds, and pedal boats on the lake.
  • The Aquarium de Lyon: A popular attraction where you can explore the underwater world and see various marine creatures.
  • The Espace Pierres Folles: This geological museum and park allow children to learn about rocks, minerals, and fossils in a fun and interactive way.

  What are some cultural events in Lyon?

  Lyon is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts several events throughout the year. Here are some cultural events worth attending:

  • The Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières): A four-day event in December where the city is illuminated with stunning light installations and artistic displays.
  • The Biennale de la Danse: A biennial dance festival that brings together dance companies from around the world for performances and workshops.
  • The Nuits de Fourvière: A summer festival held at the Roman amphitheater, featuring concerts, theater performances, and dance shows.
  • The Lyon Street Food Festival: A culinary event that celebrates street food from around the world, with food trucks, live music, and entertainment.

  What are some must-visit museums in Lyon?

  Lyon is home to several excellent museums that showcase art, history, and culture. Here are some must-visit museums in Lyon:

  • The Musée des Confluences: A contemporary science and anthropology museum with interactive exhibits and stunning architecture.
  • The Musée des Beaux-Arts: One of the largest art museums in France, housing a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • The Institut Lumière: A museum dedicated to the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinema, showcasing the history of filmmaking.
  • The Musée Gallo-Romain de Lyon-Fourvière: An archaeological museum located on Fourvière Hill, showcasing the Roman history of Lyon.