A historic city split into three unique parts by the rivers Saône and the Rhône, there’s plenty to explore in the dynamic and exciting streets of Lyon.
Delve into the past by discovering the Old Town and venturing along the west of the Saône river, then hang out in the heart of the city at the classic ‘1st arrondissement’ district – or indulge on gourmet food and luxury shopping in the city’s eastern quarter. You can also take a day trip or two into the wider landscape.
The choice is yours, and there is much to see and do.
Historic landmarks
A city dating back to Roman rule in 43BC, Lyon has a wealth of history to discover. Once a pioneer of silk and textiles, the city has grown from strength to strength, preserving its rich heritage while making room for further innovation.
No building stands out as the pinnacle of Lyon’s historic splendour quite like the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière. Towering over the city and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this stunning structure has long been a symbol of strength and purity for Lyon and its people, with its looming white towers and awe-inspiring grandeur. Head inside to see this ornate place of worship at its best, or head to its terrace for sweeping views of Lyon below.
Another impressive sight to spot from the top of the basilica is the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Effortlessly blending both Gothic and Roman styles, the cathedral took three centuries to complete. The real treasure is the 14th-century Astronomical Clock inside the cathedral, which not only displays the time and date but also the position of the sun and moon.
Gastronomic feasts
Often proudly referred to as ‘the food capital of the world’, Lyon provides the perfect opportunity to tantalise your taste buds – with everything from Michelin-star splendour to quaint, authentic bistros to enjoy.
For an explosion of flavours and colour, head to Les Halles de Lyon, an indoor food market which has to be experienced to be believed. Peruse more than 50 stalls offering authentic French staples, from pastries and chocolates to cheese and wine. You can even head to the hall in the evening to experience the coming-together of these flavours in its many restaurants.
Lyon also has its own signature restaurant style, not found anywhere else in the world. Dubbed the ‘bouchon’, these often small, intimate family-owned bistros offer traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, with delicious meat dishes and other options served up with a truly personal touch.
Mountaintop views
Lyon is in touching distance of magnificent national parks and stunning mountains, providing the perfect starting point to venture into the blissful tranquillity of some of France’s best-loved mountain ranges.
To start your journey to the peaks, head to Grenoble – less than two hours’ away via the A43 and A48. Surrounded by national reserves and spellbinding views, Grenoble is often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Alps’ – with Chartreuse to the north, the Vercors range to the south and west, and Belledonne to the east. Delve into natural beauty by hiking, skiing and riding your way to fresh heights.
Towards the centre of France, the picturesque destination of Clermont-Ferrand lies among the vast Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park. You can enjoy the city itself, or hike your way to the top of these dormant craters, which offer sweeping panoramas of the breath-taking scenery all around.
From delicious food to astonishing views, ensure you fully immerse yourself in a wonderful city and the allure of the French landscape, with car hire in Lyon.
