TOP 5 REASONS TO VISIT LYON, FRANCE – EXPLORE THE SOUL OF FRANCE, WHERE HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE AND FLAVOURS UNITE
When one thinks of France, Paris often comes to mind. However, if you have already checked off iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower from your list, it’s time to venture further south for your next French adventure. Lyon, France’s second-largest city, provides a refreshing and inviting experience compared to its more renowned counterpart. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Lyon boasts a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere. Notably, it is renowned for having one of the best food scenes in all of France. So, if you’re seeking a city that offers a warm and manageable visitor experience, combined with a fascinating historical background and an unparalleled culinary journey, Lyon is the ideal destination to explore.
Nestled in the heart of France, Lyon is a captivating city renowned for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon is the third-largest city in France and boasts a unique blend of ancient Roman heritage and Renaissance architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lyon enthralls visitors with its well-preserved historic sites, including the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the ancient Roman amphitheater. Beyond its architectural splendor, Lyon is a gastronomic paradise, celebrated for its world-class cuisine and the birthplace of renowned French chef Paul Bocuse. With its vibrant festivals, thriving arts scene, and charming neighborhoods, Lyon offers a captivating experience that showcases the best of French culture and joie de vivre.
Here are five reasons to have Lyon on your list.
1. Two Rivers Flow Through Lyon
Lyon is graced by the presence of two beautiful rivers that flow through the city, enhancing its natural charm and creating a unique atmosphere. The first is the Rhône River, which runs along Lyon’s eastern edge, offering scenic views and opportunities for waterfront activities. The second is the Saône River, which embraces Lyon from the north, meandering through the city and contributing to its picturesque landscapes. These two rivers not only add to Lyon’s beauty but also provide a delightful backdrop for leisurely walks, boat cruises, and a vibrant riverside culture. They are an integral part of Lyon’s identity and contribute to the city’s allure and allure and ambiance.
2. Architecture
Lyon has a long history of constructing remarkable buildings, evident from its earliest days. The city showcases a rich architectural heritage, with notable structures that capture the attention of visitors. For instance, side by side above the Old Town, stand two Roman theatres, reminding us of Lyon’s ancient past. The prominent white Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière gracefully adorns the hilltop, serving as a striking symbol of the city’s religious heritage. Throughout Lyon, historic churches can be found, nestled amidst lively squares, charming shops, and inviting restaurants.
On the banks of the Rhône River, the 18th-century Hôtel Dieu stands as a dominant presence with its grand dome, shaping the city’s skyline. It is in this remarkable location that one will find the esteemed 5-star Intercontinental Lyon Hotel Dieu, offering a luxurious stay and an exceptional experience in the heart of Lyon.
For enthusiasts of contemporary architectural design, Lyon presents intriguing structures. The modern vertical extension at Opéra de Lyon, featuring steel and glass, adds a captivating element to the city’s architectural tapestry. Additionally, the Confluence Museum finds its home within a striking steel and glass structure, while the vivid green Euronews headquarters stands out in the redeveloped docks area.
3. Museums
Lyon stands out among non-capital cities for its exceptional array of museums, reminiscent of the cultural richness found in cities like New York. The Gallo-Roman Museum is a notable example, with its Brutalist concrete structure seamlessly integrated into the hillside above the Roman theatres. Here, visitors can explore Lyon’s Roman history through engaging exhibits.
Located in the Old Town, the Museum of the History of Lyon shares a building with the Puppet Museum, offering an immersive journey through a much broader historical period. It provides insights into Lyon’s captivating past and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Art aficionados will find themselves immersed in a day of wonder at the Musee des Beaux Arts. This extensive museum features a diverse collection, ranging from Ancient Egyptian artefacts to exquisite Art Deco furniture. In addition to this renowned museum, Lyon also houses smaller, specialized collections like the Museum Soieries Brochier, a private museum dedicated to silk.
4. Ease of Getting Around on Public Transport
Lyon’s Old Town is a highly walkable area, nestled between the river and a steep hill that is home to significant tourist attractions such as the basilica and the Roman theatres. However, navigating the hilly terrain is made easier by Lyon’s excellent public transport network, which provides efficient and affordable options to reach various destinations within the city.
To ascend the hill and reach the Old Town, a funicular is available, offering a convenient and enjoyable mode of transportation. Additionally, Lyon boasts a comprehensive public transport system that includes buses, trams, and metros, ensuring convenient access to all desired locations throughout the city.
The city’s investment in its public transport infrastructure has paid off, resulting in reduced traffic congestion compared to other cities of similar size. This not only contributes to the overall efficiency of travel but also helps to lower air pollution levels, creating a more environmentally friendly and pleasant urban environment for residents and visitors alike.
5. Food
When it comes to gastronomy, any trip to France is bound to be a delight, but Lyon holds a strong claim to being the country’s culinary capital. The city’s markets alone are a feast for the senses, showcasing a magnificent array of fresh produce that will leave you salivating. With an impressive 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, Lyon offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Additionally, every neighborhood in Lyon boasts a rich selection of bars, cafes, and family-run restaurants, ensuring that culinary delights are never too far away.
For those eager to sample the local cuisine, seeking out a Bouchon Lyonnais is highly recommended. These establishments specialize in serving traditional Lyonese dishes, providing an authentic taste of the city’s culinary heritage. During my visit, I had the pleasure of indulging in the menus of several Bouchon Lyonnais, with Le Bistro d’Abel and Chez Lucien standing out as personal favorites.
A visit to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is an absolute must. This covered food market, named after Lyon’s most famous chef, offers an unparalleled selection of culinary delights. With stalls dedicated to the finest cheeses Lyon has to offer, it is an experience that cheese lovers simply cannot miss.
Other Top Attractions Nearby
- Beaujolais Wine Region: Located just north of Lyon, the Beaujolais wine region is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Explore picturesque vineyards, taste renowned Beaujolais wines, and immerse yourself in the charming wine villages.
- Annecy: Situated about 140 kilometers east of Lyon, Annecy is a stunning alpine town known as the “Venice of the Alps.” Explore its picturesque canals, visit the Château d’Annecy, and enjoy the beautiful Lake Annecy surrounded by mountains.
- Pérouges: A medieval walled town located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Lyon, Pérouges offers a step back in time. Wander through its narrow cobbled streets, admire the well-preserved timber-framed buildings, and soak up the medieval ambiance.
- Vienne: Situated around 30 kilometers south of Lyon, Vienne is a historic city with Roman roots. Discover its ancient ruins, including a well-preserved Roman theater, visit the Gothic-style Vienne Cathedral, and explore its charming old town.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: Located in Lyon itself, Parc de la Tête d’Or is a vast urban park offering a tranquil escape. Enjoy leisurely walks, rent a boat on the lake, visit the zoo, or admire the botanical gardens within the park.
- Les Monts d’Auvergne: To the west of Lyon, the Auvergne region is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including volcanic mountains and picturesque villages. Explore hiking trails, visit Clermont-Ferrand with its unique black volcanic stone architecture, or relax in the thermal spa towns of Vichy or Mont-Dore.
- The Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval: Located approximately 90 kilometers south of Lyon, in the town of Hauterives, you’ll find the extraordinary Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval. This whimsical structure, built by a postman over several decades, showcases a unique blend of architectural styles and is a testament to human creativity and perseverance.
These attractions near Lyon offer a diverse range of experiences, from wine tasting and history to stunning natural landscapes, providing ample opportunities for exploration and discovery beyond the city itself.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lyon largely depends on personal preferences and what you plan to do during your trip. Lyon experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering different experiences throughout the year. The months of April to June and September to October are often considered the best times to visit Lyon, as the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. However, Lyon has something to offer year-round, so it ultimately depends on your preferences and the specific activities and events you wish to experience.
