Travel to Lyon

Travel to Lyon

The second largest and most populous French city, Lyon is a major centre of business located between Paris and Marseille. Known as the French capital of gastronomy and cinema, Lyon welcomes visitors from all over the world to experience its metropolitan feel of the bustling city with a blend of charming Renaissance architecture.

Transportation to Lyon

Saint-Exupry International Airport, located 20 kms to the east of Lyon, is the main gateway receiving many transatlantic and European flights a week including low-cost flights from EasyJet and the like. Alternatively, you can fly to and depart from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Lyon is also connected to the north and south of France by the high-speed TGV trains,being two hours from Paris and three hours from Lille. The Eurolines intercity coach operates to other regions with the terminal located at the Lyon-Perrache train station. If you want travel to Lyon by car from Nice, head west along the E1/A7 towards Aix-en-Provence and continue northwest towards Avignon. By-pass the city and continue north along the same route into Lyon. From Paris, simply drive southeast along the A8/E1 into Lyon.

What to see

The first interesting place to visit is Cathdrale St-Jean on rue St-Jean.Also, just beyond the cathedral, you can find the funicular station and the Vieux Lyon metro leading you to the remarkable Roman remains. Two impressive excavated theatres and the Muse Gallo-Romain et Parc Archologique de Fourvire can be found here. To the west of Fourvire is situated the elaborately decorated Notre-Dame de Fourvire basilica. There you'll findmany convents, the palace of the Archbishop and the Tour mtallique, all of which are famous spots for holidaymakers. The 16th century Htel Paterin is an impressive building at the northern end. The north is also home to many charming silk workshops, which the city is famous for.

Day trips

Lyon is a great location if you want to travel around to explore other places nearby. The Monts du Lyonnais, located at the southwest of the city, features lush green forests and many charming cherry orchards. You can also see pretty local villages scattered around this area. Also visit Prouges and Crmieu, two of the fascinating medieval villages. Taking an enjoyable ride on a steam train leaving from LArbresle is also another good choice to spend an excursion. For some animal spotting, head to Courzieus Animal Park to experience fun adventures.

Activities and leisure

The Parc de la tte d'or, one of Europe's largest urban parks is a good place if you want to escape from the busy city. The park boasts many ponds and charming rose gardens, botanical gardens and a small zoo. The children will be entertained by the many amusements in the park.

Safety issues

Travelling to unfamiliar destinations is always prone to unexpected danger. Be alert everywhere you go and take extra care of your belongings. Language barriers can cause problems in booking and making schedules. It is advisable to take out travel insurance for you and your family.