Is Lyon the most underrated city in France? C’est possible. She’s lived in the shadow of her big sister, Paris, for hundreds of years. They are the same age, over 2000 years old. Paris is crossed by a mighty river, la Seine, but Lyon has two, la Saône et le Rhône. Paris has two major islands, L’Ile de la Cité and l’Ile Saint Louis. Lyon has la Presqu’Ile, a peninsula located between le Rhône and la Saône. In Paris and in Lyon, it helps to know the difference between la Rive Droite, and la Rive Gauche. It helps to know where to find les bouquinistes. Both cities were Roman settlements, as Lutetia (Paris,) and Lugdunum (Lyon,) and have beautifully preserved Roman ruins to prove it, but Lugdunum (Lyon) was for a while, the Capital of Gaul. They boast uniquely appealing architecture, their older neighborhoods harboring Medieval and Renaissance buildings, streets, and churches, not to mention grandiose cathedrals.  They both enjoy world-famous gastronomic reputations, with restaurants ranging from simple bistros (Lyon’s are known as les Bouchons,) to the most elegant and sought-after Michelin-starred establishments (Lyon’s most famous chef is Paul Bocuse, a local and French legend.) Paris is referred to as la Ville Lumière (the City of Light,) while Lyon’s nickname is la Ville des Lumières (the City of Lights.) Lyon’s moniker has something to do with lights: The most famous festival in town, La Fête des Lumières, (the Festival of Lights,) happens at the beginning of December. For four days, building façades are adorned with spectacular light patterns, often created with candles. Lyon, it is a well-known fact at least in France, has a lot to offer. Yet, many foreign visitors do not take the time to explore this splendid city, only breezing through her busy international airport, or leaving Paris, however briefly, for a weekend adventure in Normandy, or in the Champagne region instead. Lyon is only a two-hour TGV ride from the French capital: Quel dommage!

city of Lyon

Lyon, France: Two rivers, la Saône, (foreground) le Rhône, (background,) and in the middle, la Presqu’Ile (the Peninsula,) with the elegant Place Bellecour.

I lived in Lyon, France, over 30 years ago. I moved away to go to college in the United States for my Junior year. By the time I came home, my family had relocated to Paris. When I decided to return this summer, I had not seen Lyon since a quick visit back in the 1990s, and only had one weekend to get re-acquainted with her. I knew it would be too short, (I was on my way to Nice,) but I went anyway. A smart move. Lyon was determined to make an impression. She blew this French, Americanized tourist away! Had she changed, as I had, over the last 30 years? Had I forgotten how magnificent the city was? I do not know, but for two perfect, gloriously sunny days, I re-discovered the great French city I used to call “Home.”

Saone river, Lyon, France

When visiting cities, I tend to book an apartment or a hotel in the heart of the old town, wherever that may be. I like feeling surrounded by history, older buildings, and walkable, small streets. This often means staying in a touristy area. In Lyon, France, I lucked out: A friend had recommended the College Hotel, and I got a decent price on Booking.com. It is ideally located in the heart of le Vieux Lyon, a few minutes away from the Saône river, medieval streets with restaurants and shopping, and la Cathédrale St Jean. The theme: School. This is original, and really fun, especially if you have experienced the French education system. From the breakfast room evocative of an old-style réfectoire, or cafeteria, to the spacious and bright bedrooms furnished with old-style wood desks, and bathrooms decorated with accessories inspired by school supplies, this is a great place for visitors with an eye for detail.

College Hotel, Lyon, France

Murals are a local tradition in Lyon, France

College Hotel, Lyon, France

Le réfectoire, (cafeteria) where guests enjoy a generous continental-style breakfast in the morning

College Hotel Lyon, France

Toiletries displayed in an old-fashioned Plumier (pencil case) in the airy and spacious bathroom

College Hotel, Lyon, France

School-inspired decor under the stairs

My favorite parts of the hotel? My bedroom with a view, with a balcony overlooking the old town and Fourvière hill, and the elevated patio where guests can relax or enjoy breakfast. I could have spent hours there.

College Hotel, Lyon, France

#enterrasse, where I like to be.

College Hotel, Lyon, France

My balcony was the middle one, on the top floor, with the window open

Time was in short supply. I only had two days to get a feel for Lyon, 30 years after my last visit. So I picked up my camera, a small guidebook I had highlighted during the 2-hour TGV ride from Paris; strapped on my comfy, cute sandals; and I walked. Le Vieux Lyon, the old town, kept me busy for the first day. From Medieval streets to beautiful Renaissance architecture and former Hôtels Particuliers turned into museums, the old town was a feast for the eyes. Dépaysement garanti, (change of scenery guaranteed,) as the French say.

Vieux Lyon, Lyon, France

Vieux Lyon, France

Vieux Lyon, France
toupee for men

Being a dutiful tourist, I had to experiment in Le Vieux Lyon, and walked through les traboules, those dark, covered passageways linking two parallel cobbled streets, namely rue du Boeuf and touristy rue St Jean. These streets are lined with Renaissance façades dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, the buildings’ massive wooden doors identified by old signs and sculptures. Les traboules are so famous in Lyon, that their name has been turned into a verb: It is, therefore, recommended to trabouler while in the old town. I can trabouler if trabouler is required, and had a lot of fun! Note to Seattle: You would be well inspired to build a few traboules so those of us who wear glasses and spend fortunes on our hair don’t have to look like wet rats during Monsoon season.

Traboule, Lyon, France

Dive into darkness and follow your traboule, all the way to the next street.

Traboule, Lyon, France

Don’t forget to look up when la traboule crosses an old Renaissance courtyard linking two buildings.

Traboule, Lyon, France

I was determined to meet with an old friend, well-known by all French children for several generations. He is a local celebrity, and for a simple puppet born at the beginning of the 19th century, has done really well for himself. Meet Guignol, the most famous puppet in France.

https://www.addcolo.com/

Welcome back, French Girl in Seattle!

To meet Guignol, and learn more about his career and his many friends, I had to leave the touristy medieval streets and Guignol’s look-alikes, to visit le Musée Gadagne, a beautifully preserved 16th century private mansion. The Museum of the History of Lyon, it also boasts a remarkable collection of puppets hailing from around the world. This is Guignol‘s true home.

Musee Gadagne, Lyon, France

Musée Gadagne, Lyon, France

Guignol, Lyon, France

The best part about le Musée Gadagne: The suspended gardens on the museum’s top floor, where visitors can lounge in the grass, or have a drink at the small outdoor restaurant. Peace above a busy section of town: Heaven.

Musée Gadagne, Lyon, France

However crowded, especially on weekends, le Vieux Lyon and its lifeline, rue St Jean, are a must-see. Many of Lyon’s traditional restaurants, les Bouchons, are located in the neighborhood. Not all Bouchons are created equal (more about this in a later post.) La Cathédrale St Jean, built between the 12th and the 15th century, and her magnificent gothic façade, tower over sections of the old town and sits by the Saône river.

Cathedrale St Jean, Lyon, France

The cathedral seems to be looking up at the other big church in town: Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Built in the late 19th century, the basilica sits high on a hill, above Lyon, and can be seen from almost every street corner.

Fourvìere Funicular, Lyon, France

Basilique de Fourvière: Overlooking the old town.

Getting to the Fourvière basilica is an adventure in itself, and a trip back in time, when Lyon was still named Lugdunum and the Romans occupied the area. The trip involves riding in a funicular that has run for years (the original version was pulled by horses.)

Funiculaire

When reaching the top of the hill, most visitors head to the Basilica. When you are named “Basilica,” you have to live up to your reputation, because you aren’t just – well – a church. There is no doubt la Basilique de Fourvière delivers, both inside, and out, with panoramic views of Lyon, the great city at her feet.

Lyon

P1040593

Fourvière, Lyon, France

Looking across the Saône river towards la Croix Rousse

Avoiding the crowds, I took off promptly to explore the rest of Fourvière hill. I quickly found a scenic walk, then the cemetery, and ended up in a lovely park where families had gathered to play in the summer sun. There, locals were treated by the city of Lyon to a buvette (small outdoor bar,) games for children (and their parents) led by professional animateurs (counselors,) and even a cute caravane (the diminutive French version of an American RV) turned into a play room. I ordered a cup of lemonade for 1 Euro and sat down, enjoying the children’s laughter, and their parents’ conversations. It was a perfect summer scene, and I was privileged to watch it just two days after the Nice terror attack.

On Fourviere 1

Games

Eau des Ludes

L’eau des Ludes, the traveling toy and game library

On my way down to le Vieux Lyon, I stopped at the area’s other major attraction: Lyon’s Théâtre Antique, Lugdunum‘s old Roman amphitheater, almost perfectly preserved. It seats over 6000 people. Every summer, locals and visitors are treated to outdoor concerts during les Nuits de Fourvière festival.

Theatre antique, Fourvière, Lyon, France

If you have not decided by now to add Lyon to your next French adventure, then the other two stories I wrote about Lyon on this trip might finish to convince you. In the meantime, look at these photos and ask yourself: “Why have I never seen the City of Lights?”

A bientôt.

Lyon, France

A mes amis, Gilda et “Red Teddy.”

Merci pour la musique, et tous les bons moments. Je n’ai pas oublié. – Véro  (“Nounou.”) 

+ = + = + = + 

Bonus Video: Lyon as if you were there… 

Véronique - France with Véro
Véronique of France with Véro

Véronique of France with Véro

Vero shares her homeland weekly on social media with virtual tours, photo essays, live events and other publications at France with Vero. Learn more.

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30 Comments

  1. Our French Oasis on August 13, 2016 at 1:05 am

    I am so glad when you went back that it was still fantastic. I love going back to old haunts, often they have changed, but usually for the better, some things remain as they have for centuries, others have evolved. Looking forward to part II, and yes I am guilty, despite having lived in France for many years, I am a coastal girl, I know every department from Normandy down the west coast to the Pyrennes Atlantique and then all of the Mediterranean coastline, but not the interior! Guilty as charged!!!

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 13, 2016 at 6:51 pm

      Thank you for your visit. It sounds to me as if you have been busy touring other wonderful areas in France while away from Lyon. I guess you can catch it later! Happy French travels!

  2. Peter Olson on August 13, 2016 at 7:59 am

    What a report after such a relatively short stay… and a second episode to follow! You can really find that you love Lyon (as you love Paris, Nice, Toulouse….)! Although I’m a bit of a Paris fan, I agree with you – Lyon is a very nice place! I’m sure you have been able to convince some of your faithful followers! 🙂

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 15, 2016 at 6:29 am

      Merci de votre visite Monsieur Olson. C’est un grand honneur. You are correct: I always find something to love in every city I visit, including Lyon.

  3. Dale on August 13, 2016 at 10:07 am

    A wonderful story and photos Veronique!! You included so much detail and I love the 30 year return trip to discover what has changed and what has not. How much have our own changes and experiences affected those perceptions? I’ve done that a few times in different places and it’s always difficult to fully describe. You did it beautifully. Lyon is one of my favorite places in France and I’d love to go back and visit there again one of these days soon. One of the best dining experiences I ever had was at Paul Bocuse – not simply the meal, but the events leading up to it as well talking with Paul and his wife afterward. Thanks for sharing!

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 13, 2016 at 6:54 pm

      Always fun to hear from you, Dale! Since you know Lyon well, and love her, I am happy you enjoyed this post and think I did her justice. I did not get to eat chez Monsieur Bocuse, unfortunately, but did not go starving either. More about that later. A bientôt.

  4. Cherie Moore on August 13, 2016 at 10:35 am

    Merci for the wonderful vicarious trip to Lyon this morning, such a beautiful city. You make it all seem so easy to see everything and thoroughly enjoy the city. I’m so glad you were able to visit your past and that it didn’t disappoint. You are an excellent ambassador to France. I look forward to your next post.

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 13, 2016 at 6:55 pm

      Merci Cherie. No, Lyon did not disappoint. For one, she looked even better than in my memories. I could not ask for more, really. Happy summer!

  5. Dominique Riera on August 13, 2016 at 1:10 pm

    Old paved streets, small restaurants with wonderful food, good wines, I feel like I want to pack again and hit the road to say hi to Guignol. Thank you for that lovely trip without leaving my chair.

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 13, 2016 at 6:56 pm

      Merci Dominique. You and Guignol would have a blast! I brought back a Guignol puppet, and Mademoiselle Coco, the pretty Calico cat you know very well, loves it!

  6. Debra on August 13, 2016 at 3:58 pm

    Oh my! How I enjoyed this post! Lyon will definitely be on my to do list. So beautiful! However did you get anything done in 2 days? The history seems fabulous. The streets so quaint. The Basilica is stunning. Thank you so much for sharing. I am learning so much from you. I really appreciate the opportunity to follow you.

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 13, 2016 at 6:58 pm

      Bonsoir Debra. I did pack a lot in two days, but made sure there was time to sit down, pause and enjoy “special moments” too, like that visit to the beautiful park on the top of Fourvière hill shown in the video. I really appreciate to have you as a reader. Merci.

  7. Eric on August 14, 2016 at 6:58 am

    Thanks for the inspiration, I am one of those who have bypassed Lyon. My next trip begins with Lyon! (Returning home From Nice, I miss France already… Waiting for part 2 – your travel posts will have to do until the next trip)

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 14, 2016 at 8:53 pm

      Excellent resolution Eric. I am glad this post inspired you! To be fair, Nice is pretty good too. Then again, as you probably know, I am biased 🙂

  8. Red Teddy on August 15, 2016 at 1:20 am

    Merci !!… Et bonsoir Seattle !! 😉

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 15, 2016 at 6:10 am

      Tu me fais grand plaisir en venant me rendre visite. Je t’embrasse.

  9. George on August 16, 2016 at 11:43 pm

    I just discovered your wonderful blog and loved your trip report. I could close my eyes and almost imagine myself in the places you visited.

    As a 30 year Resident of Japan from the PACNORWEST area, I am always amazed about life choices that take some of us far beyond where we grew up or were born.

    Keep up the good work and I look forward to reading many more stories. Arigato Gozaimasu.

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 17, 2016 at 7:33 pm

      Merci beaucoup George et bienvenue ! I do not know Japanese yet but would certainly love to discover this beautiful country and its culture. A bientot !

  10. Pat Wilson on August 17, 2016 at 4:21 pm

    I’m not sure how I got on the list for this Facebook post but it is so timely. We are leaving in three weeks for a month in Europe. The first half is filled in and we are working on the remaining. Your post settles one gap. Thank you!

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 17, 2016 at 7:30 pm

      Bienvenue chez FGIS! I am so happy I can be of assistance. Have a wonderful trip!

  11. Heather Pye on August 20, 2016 at 2:20 am

    Although Paris will always have my heart, I absolutely LOVED Lyon! It’s a beautiful city with great food, excellent shopping, many interesting museums, silk!, but you didn’t mention the people! They were wonderful and so very warm and friendly. Having lived in Toulouse many years ago as a student, I saw a lot of the southwest, and also Provence. But all these many years later I made Lyon a destination on a trip which included only Paris and I am so glad I did. I would recommend to a first time visitor the Hop On bus service. Ride the entire route and get an overview of the city, then use it to go to the places that interest you. I had a 3 day pass and used it as transportation during those days. The metro is very efficient as well. After Paris it is now my favorite city in France.

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 20, 2016 at 5:36 am

      Bienvenue Heather. Thank you for mentioning the people of Lyon. I dedicated this story to two of them, who used to be good friends of mine when I lived in the city. Many more deserve recognition! As for the silk industry, well, that is worthy of another blogpost entirely. So many stories, so little time. Bon weekend!

  12. Richard on August 21, 2016 at 10:49 am

    Lyon is one of our favorite places in France, too, and your text and pictures bring back fond memories of our visits there! Paul Bocuse’s Brasserie Sud is among the best values anywhere in French cuisine (although Brasserie Georges is also fun for the antique atmosphere). The little town of Vienne (20 minutes south of Lyon) is almost a destination in itself, with some of the richest Roman ruins in the country. Glad I found my way to this blog!

    • French Girl in Seattle on August 21, 2016 at 11:07 am

      Merci Richard. I am glad you have found French Girl in Seattle too. I see you are familiar with Lyon and the area around it. Bienvenue. I hope you stick around for a while.

      • French Girl in Seattle on August 21, 2016 at 11:08 am

        … and I forgot to mention I just shared a brand-new post about Lyon you may enjoy too!



    • Heather Pye on August 21, 2016 at 12:57 pm

      We also enjoyed Brasserie Georges for the experience!

  13. Rosie Maher on October 11, 2016 at 7:12 am

    Je viens de découvrir votre blog, c’est magnifique ! J’habite actuellement à Lyon (je suis anglaise) et je trouve que c’est vrai, la majorité de touristes ignorent cette belle ville avec sa basilique, ses traboules, ses marchés incontournables… J’adore aussi le Parc de la Tête d’Or, ses jardins botaniques, les serres, les cerfs et le parc zoologique, trop bien en été!

    • French Girl in Seattle on October 14, 2016 at 6:43 am

      Merci beaucoup Rosie. Ravie de votre visite. Oui, la belle ville de Lyon mérite vraiment un détour. Je suis pour ma part très heureuse d’y être repassée brièvement l’été dernier. Bienvenue chez French Girl in Seattle! Revenez quand vous voulez!

  14. Eric Mitchell on July 11, 2017 at 6:10 pm

    Bonjour French Girl, one of the wonderful things about a blog, they live on. I’m in Ireland in August for work, but feel I have to take some time afterwards for several days in France. I know you’ve raved about both Bordeaux and Lyon, neither of which I’ve visited. I’ve visited a number of other French cities, so now I’m debating between these two. Any strong feelings? Merci en avance !

    • French Girl in Seattle on July 15, 2017 at 7:05 am

      Bonjour Eric. Sorry, I only just saw this message. Lyon and Bordeaux are obviously very different cities, but there are similarities as well (both boast museums, and atmospheric old towns, beautiful riverbanks, and excellent public transportation.) If you are interested in gastronomy, I would pick Lyon over Bordeaux, but if you love to learn about wine, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, especially with the new “Cité du Vin.” Tough choice, really. I don’t think I want to make it. I love both (but have only lived in one.) 😉 Bonne chance et bonne visite.

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