Greater Lyon Travel Guide

Discover the captivating city of Greater Lyon in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, is a captivating destination that offers visitors a blend of modern city life and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts two rivers, the Rhône and Saône, that converge in the heart of the city, providing stunning views around every corner. Greater Lyon is also home to a wealth of museums, historical sites, and outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking to experience the very best that France has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Lyon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Greater Lyon is home to a range of museums and historical sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural legacy. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is a must-visit attraction, housing a vast collection of paintings and sculptures from the medieval period to the present day. Another must-see in the city is the stunning Notre Dame de Fourvière Basilica, an ornate church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Other notable cultural attractions include the Museum of Miniatures and Film Sets, the Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization, and the Lumière Institute Museum.

Natural Attractions of Greater Lyon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, Greater Lyon features a wealth of activities and scenic vistas that will not disappoint. A popular destination is the Parc de la Tête d’Or, a sprawling park that features a rose garden, playgrounds, and the Lyon Zoo. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails that wind through the park, or take a boat ride on the lake. Another popular outdoor destination is the Monts d’Or, a range of mountains located just outside the city that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon is home to a range of hiking and biking trails that offer visitors the chance to get out and explore the city’s stunning countryside. One popular route is the Véloroute Viarhôna, a 1200-kilometre trail that runs from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular route is the Monts du Lyonnais, a network of trails and paths that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Greater Lyon: Activities and Tours

In addition to its numerous museums, historical sites and outdoor activities, Greater Lyon also offers a range of activities and tours that will keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. Visitors can enjoy a culinary tour of the city, exploring the many food markets and dining venues that make Greater Lyon a foodie’s paradise. Another popular activity is the Lyon City Tour, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that provides visitors with a comprehensive overview of the city’s top attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Lyon

Day 1: Explore the historic Old Lyon district Day 2: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon and the Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization Day 3: Take a boat ride on the Rhône and Saône rivers Day 4: Hike in the Monts du Lyonnais and enjoy a picnic Day 5: Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or and Lyon Zoo Day 6: Enjoy a culinary tour of the city’s many dining venues Day 7: Take a day trip to the surrounding countryside to visit the Monts d’Or mountains

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Lyon

Must-Try Dishes

Greater Lyon is a mecca of incredible food, with a range of dishes that showcase the city’s culinary excellence. A must-try dish is the traditional Lyonnais dish, Coq au Vin, which is chicken cooked in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and onions. Another popular dish is the Quenelles, which are light dumplings made of fish and eggs and smothered in a rich sauce.

Local Beverages

The city of Greater Lyon is also famous for its wine. Visitors can indulge in world-class wine tasting tours, exploring the many vineyards that dot the surrounding countryside. Beaujolais is the quintessential local wine, famous for its light and fruity flavours.

Where to Stay in Greater Lyon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Greater Lyon offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and needs. High-end options include the InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu, housed in a historic property along the banks of the Saône River and the Hotel Le Royal Lyon - MGallery, set in the heart of the city’s shopping district. Budget-friendly accommodation choices include hostellyon and Aura Guesthouse, both located in the city centre.

What to Buy in Greater Lyon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Greater Lyon, be sure to bring home local specialities. Locally made cheese like Saint Marcellin is a must-try souvenir. The city’s silk industry is also world-famous, making a perfect Lyon silk scarf or tie an excellent gift from your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon is a city that takes pride in its culture and traditions. In addition to its celebrated cuisine and wine scene, Greater Lyon is well-known for its theatre and music. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting cultural locations and observe the etiquette.

Best Time to Visit Greater Lyon

The best time to visit Greater Lyon depends on your needs. The high tourist season runs from June to August, with temperatures averaging at around 23°c. However, winter months will often be less crowded and also be noted for the unique Christmas markets that spring up throughout the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Lyon

Do:

  • Attempt to learn some French before arriving.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting cultural sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to staff in hotels and at museums.
  • Overlook local customs and ettiqute.

Safety and Health

Safety in Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon is a mostly safe city, with low instances of crime. Visitors are advised to take normal precaution measures and lock their

accommodations properly. Stay cautious when in crowded areas, as pick-pocketing may occur.

Health in Greater Lyon

France is a mostly safe country regarding public health, and Greater Lyon is no exception. Always drink bottled water or sterilised water. Good medical facilities are available in the city, with doctors and hospitals that receive foreigners and travellers.

Getting to Greater Lyon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon is served by two airports. Lyon Saint-Exupéry is one of France’s busiest airports and receives flights from numerous countries, while the smaller Lyon-Bron airport is more restricted and specializes in private jets and business planes.

Bus Stations Near Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon has a range of bus stations, making it easy to travel around the region. The city also benefits from modern metro systems and regional rail networks that make it easy to get around.

Other Options

For those traveling independently, Greater Lyon can also be reached by car on the motorways running north-south through the region.

How to Get Around in Greater Lyon

Greater Lyon benefits from an excellent public transportation system that is both affordable and efficient. Trams, buses, and metro lines all run frequently, connecting different areas of the city. Visitors can also rent bicycles from rental shops.

Where to Go Next from Greater Lyon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Greater Lyon is a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding region. Day trips to the vineyards of Beaujolais or the famous winemaking areas of Burgundy are a must. The Pilat Regional Nature Park and the stunning medieval town of Pérouges also make for great day trip destinations.

Conclusion

Greater Lyon is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Boasting a blend of modern city life and timeless cultural heritage, visitors will discover a unique and captivating destination that will remain in their memories long after their trip has ended. Whether you are a culture lover, a foodie, or an adventure enthusiast, Greater Lyon is sure to delight and leave a lasting impression.

Cize–Bolozon viaduct (combined rail and road bridge) Cize–Bolozon viaduct (combined rail and road bridge) A TGV in Lyon Part-Dieu station A TGV in Lyon Part-Dieu station Place Lazare Goujon à Villeurbanne: The town hall Place Lazare Goujon à Villeurbanne: The town hall Roman aqueduct of Gier - Chaponost Roman aqueduct of Gier - Chaponost A vineyard around the Chateau de Bagnols in Beaujolais A vineyard around the Chateau de Bagnols in Beaujolais


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