Capital of the Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon is famous for its historic centre inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Situated between the Fourvière hill and the Saône river, old Lyon abounds with places of interest to discover. Its picturesque streets, its Renaissance period houses, its cathedral, its traboules covered passageways and its inner courtyards will delight walkers and those who love architecture. Unmissable, the Saint-Jean, Juiverie, and Boeuf streets are also great to stroll around.
The city also boasts important ancient Roman remains at the Romains de Fourvière Roman theatres. The esplanade of the Fourvière basilica offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city.
The Presqu'île peninsula between the Rhône and the Saône rivers is a great place for walkers and shopping fans with its many stores and beautiful squares, including Place des Terreaux, Place Bellecour, Place des Jacobins and Place Louis Pradel. Next stop is Croix-Rousse, the silk district with its plateau and sloping streets.
To relax, there is nothing like a stroll in the Tête d'Or park. Featuring green spaces, a lake and a zoo, this park attracts walkers, joggers, and rollerbladers. The covered market hall of the city boasts good local products, Bouchons, typical Lyon bistrots, brasseries and great restaurants that will be a hit with gastronomes.
Lyon also offers a wide choice in museums, with the Fine art museum, the Contemporary Art museum, the Textiles museum (Musée des Tissus), the Decorative arts museum, the Musée des Hospices Civils (hospital museum), the Marionette International museum, and many more.
The Light festival, which takes place in December, is a magic and unforgettable moment. At night, the bridges, monuments and buildings of the city are illuminated. A magnificent show not to be missed!
