Lyon
Lyon, at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, pairs a UNESCO-listed old town and Renaissance streets with a lively culinary and cultural scene.
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About Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Lyon is France's third-largest city and the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, built where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. Known as a gastronomic capital, it combines UNESCO-listed heritage with a lively cultural scene and a strong business district.
The city's history stretches back to the Roman settlement of Lugdunum. Its Renaissance silk industry left a legacy of traboules, hidden passageways that connect courtyards and streets, especially in Vieux Lyon and on the Croix-Rousse hill.
Key landmarks include the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière with its sweeping city views, the medieval and Renaissance lanes of Old Lyon, Place Bellecour, and the futuristic Musée des Confluences at the southern tip of the Presqu'île. Parc de la Tête d'Or offers large green spaces, a lake and a botanical garden.
Neighbourhoods such as the Presqu'île, Croix-Rousse, Vieux Lyon and Confluence each have a distinct character, from shopping and restaurants to silk-weaver history, riverside architecture and contemporary development.
Lyon is also an important centre for business, conferences, technology and the life sciences, anchored by the Part-Dieu district. Its celebrated food scene, bouchons, markets and the December Fête des Lumières attract leisure and business travellers year-round.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn are the most pleasant seasons for walking the Presqu'île and the Fourvière and Croix-Rousse hills. December is especially rewarding for the Fête des Lumières, while summer brings warm riverside evenings.
How to Get Around
Lyon's metro, tram and bus network is easy to use, and a funicular climbs to Fourvière. The city centre is compact and walkable, with Vélo'v bike-sharing stations and taxis as practical alternatives.
Where to Stay
The Presqu'île is the most central base for shopping and restaurants, while Vieux Lyon offers historic charm and Croix-Rousse has a village-like feel. Part-Dieu suits business travellers near the main rail station.
Food & Drink
Lyon's dining ranges from traditional bouchons serving quenelles and salade lyonnaise to the food stalls of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. Local Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône wines complete the experience.
Ground Transportation Services in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Airport Transfers
Travel between Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport and hotels, the Presqu'île, Part-Dieu and other destinations across Lyon.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, events, sightseeing and wine trips around Lyon.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Lyon for independent travel to the Beaujolais vineyards, the Rhône Valley or the nearby Alps.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate events, conferences, airport transfers and guided tours in Lyon.
Airports in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Frequently Asked Questions
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