Lyon

Traveling in Lyon: A Comprehensive Guide

Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. As one of the most visited cities in Europe, Lyon has something for everyone. This guide will help you navigate this beautiful city like a local.

Places to Visit

Landmarks

  • Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vieux Lyon is a historic district filled with narrow streets, charming squares, and medieval architecture.
  • Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon: A stunning Gothic cathedral built in the 15th century, featuring intricate stone carvings and impressive stained-glass windows.

Museums

  • Musée des Confluences: A science museum showcasing a wide range of exhibits on natural history, anthropology, and archaeology.
  • Musée Lumière: A photography museum dedicated to the life and work of Louis and Auguste Lumière, pioneers in the art of cinema.

Parks and Gardens

  • Parc de la Tête d’Or: A large urban park featuring a beautiful lake, walking trails, and plenty of green spaces for picnics or relaxation.
  • Jardin des Plantes: A charming botanical garden with over 65 species of plants and trees.

Activities

Food Tours

  • Gastronomic Walking Tour: Explore Lyon’s culinary scene on a guided tour that takes you to local markets, bakeries, and restaurants.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit wine bars or wineries in the city for an opportunity to taste some of France’s finest wines.

Cultural Events

  • Les Nuits de Fourvière: A summer festival featuring classical music concerts on a stunning outdoor stage overlooking the Rhône River.
  • Lyon Festival d’Automne: A cultural event showcasing theater, dance, and music performances from around the world.

Where to Eat

Fine Dining

  • La Maison Troisgros: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite French cuisine in an elegant setting.
  • Le Gourmand: An upscale eatery serving refined dishes with a focus on local produce and wine pairings.

Bistros and Brasseries

  • Brasserie Georges: A classic Lyonnaise brasserie serving traditional dishes like escargots, steak tartare, and duck confit.
  • Bistro de la Place des Terreaux: A cozy bistro offering a range of French comfort food in a lively atmosphere.

Markets

  • Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A bustling market featuring fresh produce, cheese, meats, and prepared foods from local vendors.
  • Marché aux Puces: A weekly market selling everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Sofitel Lyon Citéa: A 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms and a range of amenities like a fitness center and spa.
  • Hotel Novotel Lyon Confluence: A modern hotel featuring comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

Boutique Hotels

  • Hotel Le Royal Lyon: A charming boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Hotel La République: A stylish hotel offering modern rooms and a trendy bar serving craft cocktails.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Ibis Lyon Part-Dieu: A no-frills hotel providing clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • Hostel Le Faucon: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for travelers on a tight budget.

Things to Know

  • Language: French is the official language of Lyon. While many locals speak some English, it’s still appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn basic phrases.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency in France.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is considered polite for good service.

Transportation

Public Transport

  • Metro: Lyon has a comprehensive metro system with 4 lines and over 50 stations. A single ticket costs around €1.80.
  • Tramway: The tram network in Lyon features 5 lines and covers many areas of the city.
  • Bus: Buses are another affordable option for traveling within Lyon, with a single ticket costing around €1.80.

Bike Rental

  • Velov Lyon: A bike-sharing system offering high-quality bikes for rent at various stations throughout the city.

Tips and Tricks

  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular areas like Vieux Lyon can get very crowded during peak season, especially on weekends.
  • Learn Basic French Phrases: Make an effort to learn basic phrases like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “excusez-moi” (excuse me).
  • Respect Local Customs: Avoid eating on the go or in public places, as this is not considered polite in France.

Other Interesting Facts

  • Lyon has a rich history of silk production, dating back to the 16th century. Today, you can visit the Musée des Arts Décoratifs to learn more about this fascinating industry.
  • The city hosts several film festivals throughout the year, including the prestigious Lyon Film Festival.
  • Lyon is home to over 1,000 hectares of parks and gardens, making it one of the greenest cities in Europe.