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Lyon village with a view of the bridge

Ultimate Guide to Lyon travel in France’s Gastronomic Capital

1. Lyon Travel - France

Lyon is a vibrant city located in the southeast of France, roughly two hours by train from Paris. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and as a hub of gastronomy — that means it’s famous for its food! The city sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, making it quite picturesque. Often referred to as a cultural gateway between northern and southern Europe, Lyon is celebrated for its lively cultural scene and historical landmarks, making it a compelling destination for Lyon travel enthusiasts.

Table of Contents

2. Transportation

  • A. Getting from Paris to Lyon :
    Public Transportation:
    By Train : The most popular and efficient way to travel from Paris to Lyon is by train. The high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) connects Paris Gare de Lyon station to Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache stations. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a quick and comfortable option. Trains run frequently throughout the day, starting early in the morning until late at night.
    By Bus : Buses are a more economical alternative to trains. Several companies, including FlixBus and BlaBlaBus, offer services from Paris to Lyon. The bus trip can take approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Buses might be a good option if you’re traveling on a tighter budget and have more time to spare.
    Rental Car:
    Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore the route between Paris and Lyon, which is about 460 kilometers via the A6 motorway. The drive typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. This option is ideal if you plan to make stops along the way or prefer the privacy and convenience of personal transport. Major rental companies can be found at airports and many locations throughout Paris. Remember that toll fees apply on the A6, and these can add to the cost of your trip.
  • B. Getting from Geneva to Lyon :
    Public Transportation:
    By Train : The train is a convenient option for traveling from Geneva to Lyon. Direct trains are available, usually taking around 2 hours to reach Lyon from Geneva. The main train operator for this route is SNCF, with services departing from Geneva’s main railway station and arriving at Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache stations. You can check schedules and book tickets on the SNCF website or through other train ticket platforms.
    By Bus : Buses are another economical choice for this journey. Operators such as FlixBus offer direct routes from Geneva to Lyon, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours. Buses might depart from various points in Geneva and arrive at different locations in Lyon, including Lyon Part-Dieu bus station.
    Rental Car:
    Driving from Geneva to Lyon offers scenic views and the flexibility of exploring the route at your own pace. The distance is about 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles) via the A40 and A42 motorways in France. The drive typically takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can rent a car from various agencies located at Geneva Airport or within the city. Remember to check if you need a vignette (a highway tax sticker) for Swiss motorways, and be prepared to pay tolls once you enter France. This route takes you past some picturesque towns and regions, offering potential stops to enhance your trip.
  • C. Getting from Marseille to Lyon :
    Public Transportation:
    By Train : Taking a train from Marseille to Lyon is one of the quickest and most comfortable ways to travel. High-speed TGV trains operated by SNCF connect Marseille Saint-Charles station to Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache stations. The journey usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it a convenient option whether traveling for business or leisure.
    By Bus : If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, several bus companies, including FlixBus and BlaBlaBus, offer direct services from Marseille to Lyon. The bus ride takes approximately 4 hours and can be a good choice if you’re not in a hurry and want to save money on travel costs.
    Rental Car:
    Driving from Marseille to Lyon allows for a flexible schedule and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route. The distance is around 315 kilometers (about 196 miles) via the A7 motorway, part of the Route du Soleil, which is famous for its beautiful landscapes, especially during the summer. The drive typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to make stops along the way or prefer the convenience of traveling at your own pace. Be aware of potential tolls on the A7 motorway, which can add to the travel costs.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere in Lyon

3. Must-Try foods during Lyon travel

In Lyon, often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France, there are several traditional dishes that you must try to truly experience the local cuisine. Here are the top 5 foods to enjoy when visiting Lyon:

  • Quenelles de Brochet :
    This is a creamy, fish-based dumpling. Typically made from pike. It is often served with Nantua sauce, which is a creamy, crayfish-based sauce.
  • Salade Lyonnaise:
    This is a classic Lyonnais salad. It combines frisée lettuce, crispy bacon, croutons, and a poached egg, topped with a warm vinaigrette. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients. It can be elevated into something exquisite.
  • Cervelle de Canut :
    Literally translating to “silk worker’s brain”. This is actually a fresh cheese spread made with fromage blanc, seasoned with chopped herbs, shallots, salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar. It’s a refreshing and light dish, traditionally eaten with bread.
  • Coq au Vin :
    A famous French dish that is particularly revered in Lyon. coq au vin is chicken cooked slowly in red wine along with mushrooms, onions, and often bacon. The wine used is typically a local variety, which imbues the dish with rich, deep flavors.
  • Tarte aux Pralines :
    A sweet tart made with pralines (candied almonds covered in cooked sugar). There is a specialty of the region. The tart features a bright pink filling, owing to the pralines, and offers a unique taste. That’s both nutty and sweet.

4. Top 5 Must-Try wine in Lyon

Lyon, with its rich gastronomic heritage, also offers a delightful wine. While Lyon itself isn’t a wine-producing region. However, it is very close to several renowned wine-producing areas in France, making it a prime spot for wine enthusiasts. Here are the top 5 wines associated with the Lyon area:

  • Côtes du Rhône Wine :
    The Rhône Valley, close to Lyon, is famous for its vineyards. Producing some of France’s finest wines. Côtes du Rhône wines are a must-try, offering a range from robust reds to aromatic whites.
  • Beaujolais Wine :
    Just north of Lyon, the Beaujolais region is renowned for its light and fruity red wines, made from the Gamay grape. The most famous is Beaujolais Nouveau, which is celebrated with its own festival when the new vintage is released each year in November.
  • Lyonnais Rosé :
    While less famous than its red and white cousins, the rosé wines from the Lyon area are delightful, especially during the warmer months. They’re typically light, refreshing, and pair beautifully with local cuisine.
  • Condrieu :
    In the northern Rhône, Condrieu is famous for its white wines made from Viognier grapes. These wines are highly aromatic, with notes of peach, apricot, and almond. It is known for its richness and texture.
  • Hermitage :
    Hermitage wines, from a small appellation in the northern Rhône, are considered some of the finest in France. The reds are made predominantly from Syrah and are known for their deep color, complex flavors of red and black fruits, and potential to age well.

5. Top 5 restaurants recommended when you go to Lyon travel

Lyon, known for its rich culinary heritage, boasts several famous restaurants and bars are essential visits for any gourmet.

  • Paul Bocuse Restaurant – L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges :
    This iconic restaurant, often simply called “Paul Bocuse” after its legendary chef, is a must-visit in Lyon. It has held three Michelin stars for over 50 years, a testament to its exceptional French cuisine and impeccable service. The restaurant’s decor, with its vibrant colors and traditional design, reflects the grandeur of classic French gastronomy.
  • La Mère Brazier :
    Founded by the famed Eugénie Brazier, known as “La Mère Brazier,” this restaurant is a cornerstone of Lyonnais cuisine. It has earned two Michelin stars under the current chef, Mathieu Viannay, who revitalizes traditional dishes with modern techniques and presentations. The setting combines elegance and simplicity, creating a refined dining experience.
  • Le Sud :
    One of several brasseries in Lyon run by Paul Bocuse, Le Sud focuses on Mediterranean cuisine. It features a bright, airy atmosphere with a decor that brings to mind a Provençal market. The restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with dishes that celebrate the flavors of southern France.
  • Bouchon Lyonnais Chez Hugon :
    A bouchon is a type of restaurant found in Lyon known for a casual, friendly atmosphere and traditional Lyonnais dishes. Chez Hugon is one of the best, offering an authentic experience with classics like quenelles, andouillette, and Lyonnaise potatoes. It’s small and cozy, providing a genuinely local feel.
  • L’Antiquaire :
    Known for its cocktail bar, L’Antiquaire serves up some of the best cocktails in Lyon with a speakeasy vibe. The bartenders are masters of their craft, and the decor harkens back to the 1920s Prohibition era in the U.S., making it a great spot for evening drinks and a lively atmosphere.

6. Visit to attractions

  • Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) :
    One of Europe’s largest Renaissance neighborhoods, Vieux Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with narrow passageways (traboules) that connect the historic buildings. It’s a great place to wander, explore the architecture, and visit museums like the Musée Gadagne, which houses the history of Lyon and puppetry.
  • Take a Tour of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière :
    Located on the hill overlooking the city, this stunning basilica offers panoramic views of Lyon. You can also explore the crypts or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance.
  • Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or :
    This is one of the largest urban parks in France and includes a lake, a zoo, and beautiful botanical gardens. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out, whether you’re interested in boating, visiting the greenhouse, or simply enjoying a picnic.
  • Discover the Confluence District :
    This newly developed area at the southern tip of Lyon’s peninsula is home to the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum with an impressive modern architecture. The area also offers shopping centers, leisure facilities, and a marina.
  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc :
    Chamonix, located about 2.5 hours by car from Lyon, is a stunning alpine town near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy. It’s famed for its dramatic landscapes and is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts, particularly those interested in skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering. The town also offers year-round cable car rides to nearby peaks, providing breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. Chamonix serves as a spectacular contrast to the urban charm of Lyon, making it an excellent addition for travelers seeking both city and mountain experiences.

7. Best time to visit

Lyon experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it a versatile destination for Lyon travel. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s parks. Summers (June to August) are warm and vibrant, perfect for festival-goers and outdoor dining, though it’s the peak tourist season. Winters are chilly but generally mild, suitable for enjoying festive lights and indoor attractions. For the best balance of pleasant weather and smaller crowds, spring and early autumn are recommended times to visit.