Lyon

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

The Basilica, so emblematic of Lyon, located right in the heart of what is locally known as the ‘hill that prays’, overlooks the Vieux Lyon quarter and offers a panoramic view of the city: on a clear day one can even catch a glimpse of the Mont Blanc! Access the summit in mere minutes by means of the funicular trains that leave from the historic quarter below.

The basilica, a Neo-Byzantine work of art by the architect Pierre Bossan never fails to surprise with the exuberance of its interior decor and the four soaring towers that have earned it nickname of ‘the upside-down elephant’.

Le Vieux Lyon

The historic city centre on the banks of the river Saône, offers visitors enchanting walks amid the narrow, paved streets and Renaissance architecture, together with the alleyways and their traditional boutiques. Enjoy a moment on the terrace of one of the many cafes with their colourful red and white Vichy tablecloths, so typical of the local restaurants, affectionately known as « bouchons ». The real highlight is of course the Cathedral dedicated to St John the Baptist.

Travel back in time by strolling through the animated, vibrant neighbourhood and awaken childhood memories here where the puppet Guignol (Punch) is still a household name.

Le Musée des Confluences

The newest arrival in Lyons offers a rather unusual environment with its modern, present-day architecture and urban planning. The focal point is « Le Musée des Confluences », for all the world like a 2000 m² cabinet of curiosities, housing a superb collection of over 2 million objects from many different walks of life, all retracing the human saga. You really must visit this wonderful avant-garde monument that is fast becoming one of the iconic symbols of the city.

The Peninsula

Ideally situated between the rivers Saône and Rhône, the peninsula of Lyon is famous for its 19th century bourgeois architecture, making it a must see during your stay. Classified a World Heritage site by UNESCO, this neighborhood is home to cultural areas such as the Place Bellecour, one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe, as well as the Place des Terreaux and the superb Fine Arts museum. Stroll through the streets and visit the local markets, booksellers’ stalls and gourmet food outlets including the Maison Pralus with its famous pink praline brioche bread.

The Tête d’Or Park

Check out the city’s green lung, inaugurated in 1857,the same year as Central Park in New York. Swap the business of the city for shady walks.

Perfect for a family outing, the park offers a host of activities for young and old alike, with a chance to visit the zoo or ramble in the botanical gardens and the rose arbors that provide a glorious backdrop.

Boats are available at the pier for those who wish to explore the two islands in the lake. Enjoy a well-deserved break in this enchanting setting.

La Croix Rousse

“The hill that works”, located to the North of the peninsula will take you back in time to the world of the silk workers, known as « The Canuts », who lived back then in this wonderful village-like atmosphere. In the 16th century a royal edict granted the city the monopoly of the silk industry, giving a great boost to the vitality and growth of Lyons.

Check out this local heritage gem, where you can also visit what is now the newest bastion of young local designers.

L’Institut Lumière

The family property, Lumière castle, who have seen the revolution of the seventh art, offers nowadays a retrospective of the history. Watch classic cinema projection in the place where all have started more than undred years ago.

Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Created in 1971, under the patronage of triple Michelin-starred chef Paul Bocuse, this temple of Lyonnais gastronomy brings together over fifty traders wishing to highlight the excellent quality of local produce.

This indoor market is an ode to all things gourmet and is the perfect place to find specialties such as brioche sausage or Lyonnais dumplings.

The Painted Walls

Throughout the city, the history of Lyon is told and staged on the Painted Walls. This local curiosity was first developed in the 19th century by artists who wished to make art and culture accessible to all. Major works like the Canute Wall or the Cinema Wall allow visitors to immerse themselves in local heritage.

The Festival of Lights

Every year to mark December 8th, the city is clothed in a mantle of light, thanks to the consummate engineering skills of scenic artists whose displays highlight every single one of the city’s monuments. For the past twenty years, Lyon plunges into the life and light for four evenings with a series of illuminations offering a spectacle to delight young and old alike.

Les nuits sonores

The biggest electronic festival in France is organized each year in Lyon. In May, have 5 festive nights and enjoy the music of artists from all around the world. Let’s the festivities begin!

Les nuits de Fourvière

The multidisciplinary cultural event during summer, since 1946, in the spectacular ancient theater of Fourvière, in Lyon. The program? play, dance, circus and of course music!