Lyon, located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, is the third-largest city in France and its undisputed Capital of Gastronomy. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a well-preserved historic center (Vieux Lyon), famous for its traboules (hidden passageways) and Renaissance architecture. Lyon is not only history but also modernity and innovation, with an intense cultural and artistic life. Our travel designers consider it a complete sensory experience, where elegance blends perfectly with the pleasure of the table.

What our travel designers recommend to see: Architecture and Culture

• Vieux Lyon and the Traboules – The Renaissance district, where we recommend exploring the traboules, covered passageways connecting the streets, ideal for avoiding the rain in the past.
• Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière – The basilica dominates the city from the top of the eponymous hill and offers a spectacular panoramic view, especially at sunset, the ideal moment for photographs.
• Presqu'île – The peninsula between the two rivers, elegant and rich in luxury boutiques, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Place des Terreaux.
• Musée des Confluences – An impressive modern architectural structure dedicated to science and society.

Gastronomy: The Temple of 'Bouchons Lyonnais' and Starred Restaurants

• Quenelle de Brochet – Pike dumplings baked and often served in Nantua sauce (a crayfish sauce).
• Saucisson de Lyon – A typical sausage, often accompanied by potatoes.
• The Bouchons Lyonnais – Lyon's traditional and convivial bistros, where you can taste typical dishes in an authentic atmosphere.
• Praline Rose – Caramelized almonds covered in pink sugar, used for the Tarte aux Pralines.

Events and Culture: Fête des Lumières

• Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) – One of the most famous events in the world, held in December and illuminating the entire city with spectacular light installations.
• Biennale de Lyon – Alternates each year a contemporary art biennale and a dance biennale, establishing Lyon as a center of modern culture.
• Theatres and Opera – A very lively art scene with the Opéra National de Lyon and the Théâtre des Célestins.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the City of Lyon
• Official Tourism Website of Lyon

Top 5 Luxury Accommodations Recommended by our local guides

• Hôtel Le Royal Lyon - MGallery – An elegant historic hotel on the Presqu'île, with a strong emphasis on gastronomy.
• InterContinental Lyon - Hôtel Dieu – Located in a former historic hospital (Grand Hôtel-Dieu), it offers breathtaking luxury in restored Renaissance architecture.
• Cour des Loges – A luxury hotel in Vieux Lyon, composed of four Renaissance buildings, offering a magical atmosphere and a starred restaurant.
• Boscolo Lyon Hotel & Spa – Elegance and Italian design in the heart of the city.
• Villa Maïa – Discreet luxury and spectacular views of the city from the Fourvière hill.

Top 5 Recommended Starred Restaurants (and Institutions)

• Le Restaurant Paul Bocuse (L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges) – The institution par excellence, cradle of Nouvelle Cuisine, even if no longer three-starred, it remains a gastronomic pilgrimage.
• Georges (Tour Rose) – (Michelin-Starred) – Panoramic restaurant at the top of the Part-Dieu Skyscraper, for a dinner with a breathtaking view.
• Le Neuvième Art – (Two Michelin Stars) – Contemporary and technical cuisine of the highest level.
• La Mère Brazier – (Two Michelin Stars) – Historic restaurant, a temple of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine revisited with elegance.
• Les Halles Paul Bocuse – Not a single restaurant, but a high-quality covered market where you can taste fresh oysters, cheeses, and local specialties in a lively atmosphere.