France’s third-largest city, Lyon is located in the country’s east, between Paris and Marseille. While struggling to attract as many visitors as Paris, its unique location in the Rhône region and position as a gateway to the Beaujolais region makes it a rewarding destination for gourmet enthusiasts.
Lyon cuisine is renowned worldwide and has been part of Lyon’s art of living for centuries. The city prides itself on being France’s gastronomic capital. When the sun sets, Lyon is lit with 1,000 lights to really highlight the city’s heritage and generate a delightful background for night owls.
UNESCO has recognized the extraordinary nature of Lyon by listing its historical site as a World Heritage site. A trip along the Rhône or Saône rivers by day or night will give a genuine impression of Lyon’s gentle atmosphere. Fashion fans will find an array of haute-couture shopping outlets where they can max out their credit card.
Highlights
UNESCO World Heritage site: the Saint-Jean and the Croix-Rousse areas are renowned for their narrow passageways that lead through buildings and connect the streets on both sides.
Primatiale St-Jean Cathedral: was built between the 12th and 15th centuries, and its extraordinary stained-glass windows date from the same period.
Notre Dame de Fourvière Cathedral: stands atop Fourvière Hill and was constructed in the late 19th century, with an ornate interior to contrast its weighty façade.
Place des Terreaux: is the beautiful public square, always bustling in the evenings and lit up at night by a stunning 19th century fountain.
Museum of the Resistance: houses a collection of historical documents about the French resistance to Nazi occupation, in which Lyon played a central part.