Travel Lyon France : the recommendations of Guides France
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Lyon, located in east-central France, is a city renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional cuisine. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, it boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional bouchons. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features stunning Renaissance architecture and charming traboules, hidden passageways used by silk weavers. Lyon is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, with landmarks like the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the contemporary Confluence district. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers breathtaking views of the city from its hilltop perch. Lyon’s dynamic blend of history, culture, and gastronomy makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic French experience.
Guides France offers you the best recommendation to travel to Lyon.
Flights to Lyon
Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is an increasingly popular destination for travelers from both the USA and the UK, thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine. With the recent introduction of direct flights from major cities in the USA and the UK, visiting this gastronomic capital has never been easier.
Travelers from the USA can now enjoy direct flights from cities such as New York and Atlanta, operated by major airlines. These non-stop routes reduce travel time and make it convenient for Americans to explore Lyon’s delights without the hassle of layovers. Similarly, British travelers benefit from direct flights from London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, enhancing accessibility and encouraging more visitors to experience Lyon’s unique charm.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, a modern and efficient gateway to the city. From here, the city center is easily accessible via the Rhônexpress tram, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to city exploration. Lyon offers an array of attractions, from the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its Renaissance architecture and hidden traboules, to the bustling Presqu’île district, perfect for shopping and dining.
Trains to Lyon
Travelers from the USA and the UK looking to visit Lyon, France’s gastronomic and cultural hub, can take advantage of convenient train connections, making their journey both comfortable and scenic. While there are no direct train routes from the USA due to the Atlantic Ocean, travelers can fly into major European hubs such as Paris or London and then take high-speed trains to Lyon.
For American travelers, the journey typically starts with a flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. From there, the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) offers a direct route to Lyon Part-Dieu, the city’s main train station. The TGV journey takes around two hours, whisking passengers through the picturesque French countryside. Alternatively, travelers can also fly into other major European cities like London, where they can connect to the Eurostar train service.
British travelers have the advantage of taking the Eurostar train from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. After a brief transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon, they can board a TGV train directly to Lyon. The entire journey from London to Lyon by train takes approximately five and a half hours, offering a seamless and scenic travel experience.
Drive to Lyon
Renting a car in France to drive to Lyon offers a flexible and scenic way to explore the country. For travelers arriving from the USA or the UK, major French airports such as Paris Charles de Gaulle, Nice Côte d’Azur, and Marseille Provence provide numerous car rental options from international and local companies. Renting a car at these locations allows you to start your journey conveniently right after landing.
Driving from Paris to Lyon takes about 4-5 hours via the A6 motorway, also known as the “Autoroute du Soleil.” This route offers picturesque views of the French countryside, passing through charming towns and vineyards. Along the way, travelers can stop at notable destinations such as Burgundy, renowned for its wine, or the historical city of Dijon.
If starting from the south, a drive from Nice or Marseille to Lyon offers a different experience. The A7 motorway, another major route, takes about 4 hours from Marseille and 4.5 hours from Nice. This scenic drive hugs the Mediterranean coast before heading inland, providing opportunities to explore the Provençal landscapes and stop at picturesque towns like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.
Car rentals in France are generally straightforward, with a range of vehicle options to suit different needs, from compact cars for city driving to larger vehicles for families or groups. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
The best places to visit in Lyon
Lyon, the gastronomic and cultural heart of France, offers numerous attractions, but two places stand out for their unique charm and historical significance: Vieux Lyon and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): This UNESCO World Heritage site is a journey back in time to the Renaissance period. Nestled along the banks of the Saône River, Vieux Lyon boasts narrow, cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and the famous traboules—hidden passageways once used by silk workers. Key landmarks include the Saint-Jean Cathedral, with its impressive astronomical clock, and the Musée Gadagne, housing both the Lyon History Museum and the Puppetry Museum. Wandering through this district, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of medieval Lyon.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Dominating the skyline from Fourvière Hill, this stunning basilica is a symbol of Lyon’s spiritual and architectural heritage. Built in the late 19th century, the basilica features a unique mix of Romanesque and Byzantine styles. Its interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, stained glass, and ornate details that captivate visitors. The basilica also offers panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for photography. Adjacent to the basilica is the metal tower of Fourvière, often compared to the Eiffel Tower, which adds to the site’s appeal.
Cooking in Lyon
Cooking in Lyon, often hailed as the gastronomic capital of France, is an art form deeply rooted in tradition and innovation. This city is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, which has been shaped by centuries of diverse influences and a profound respect for local ingredients.
At the heart of Lyon’s culinary scene are its famous bouchons, traditional eateries that serve hearty, rustic dishes. Signature dishes include quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings in a creamy sauce), tablier de sapeur (breaded and fried tripe), and andouillette (a coarse-grained sausage made with pork). These dishes reflect the city’s love for robust, flavorful food.
One of Lyon’s most iconic figures in the culinary world is the late Paul Bocuse, a pioneer of nouvelle cuisine. His restaurant, L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges, just outside the city, is a pilgrimage site for food lovers. Bocuse’s influence extends throughout Lyon, inspiring many chefs and eateries to uphold high standards of culinary excellence.
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