Lyon

Lyon, the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is France's third-largest city and widely regarded as its culinary capital. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. Its historic centre, including the Vieux Lyon and the Presqu'île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also a major economic hub and the heart of France's gastronomic tradition.

Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) serves flights across Europe and intercontinental routes. The TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon reaches Lyon Part-Dieu in approximately 2 hours. Direct TGV services connect Lyon to Marseille, Strasbourg, Brussels, and Geneva. The A6 and A7 autoroutes provide road access from the north and south.

By Train

Lyon has two main stations: Lyon Part-Dieu (high-speed) and Lyon Perrache (regional). Both are well connected by metro and tram.

Lyon has an efficient public transport network operated by TCL, including four metro lines, tram lines, and an extensive bus network. The historic Vieux Lyon is best explored on foot. The funicular takes visitors up to Fourvière hill. Vélo'v bike-sharing stations are located throughout the city.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière dominates the skyline. Vieux Lyon features Renaissance architecture and traboules (hidden passageways). The Musée des Confluences at the tip of the Presqu'île is a striking modern museum. The Roman theatre and the Gallo-Roman Museum date from the Roman era.

Take a boat cruise on the Saône. Explore the traboules of Vieux Lyon. Visit the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse for gourmet food shopping. Attend the Fête des Lumières in early December, when the city is illuminated by spectacular light installations.

Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France. Traditional bouchons serve Lyonnaise classics such as quenelles de brochet, tablier de sapeur, and saladier lyonnais. The city is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Local specialities include andouillette, saucisson de Lyon, and cervelle de canut cheese.

The Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône wine regions surround Lyon. Local aperitifs include kir Lyonnais (white wine with crème de cassis). The city has a thriving craft beer scene.

Lyon offers accommodation from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The Presqu'île and Vieux Lyon are central and popular with visitors. Part-Dieu is convenient for business travellers near the train station.

Local shops offer regional products, handicrafts, and everyday necessities. Markets may be held weekly in the town square.

The Alps are 1-2 hours east. Beaujolais vineyards are 30 minutes north. Avignon and Provence are 1 hour south by TGV. Geneva is 2 hours east by road.