LYON

One of my last trips this year was a weekend getaway to Lyon, France. Lyon is a city located in south-east of France sitting on the junction of two rivers - Rhone and Saone. The city reflects many historic cultural, from the Roman, medieval, Renaissance to the modernity.

Trip to Lyon was very relaxing and we were very lucky with the sunny weather. Having a friend who lives there, makes it so much easier to get around. It is also one of the main reasons why we have made this trip at the first place.

What to do and see in Lyon?

1. Vieux Lyon, or also called the old city district of Lyon is one of the largest Renaissance quarters in Europe. Wondering around this quarter, you may find many passage ways and buildings influence by classical Italian and French Renaiisance.

2. Roman Theatre of of Fourviere - Established in 15BC by Augustus, the theatre is the oldest Roman Theatre in France. The entrance is free to the open space theatre and apart from emerging yourself into the ancient history, you may also enjoy the beautiful view on Lyon from the top.

3. Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere-The magnificent church located on the hill is the icon of Lyon. The basilica and its crypt over magnificent view over the city. The basilica is build next to the already existing chapel of the Virgin.

4. Parc de la Tete d'Or

The largest park in the city can not only offer a peaceful walk in the nature and lakes, but you may also visit the small zoological garden and botanical gardens in it.

5. Cathedrale St.Jean

A Roman catholic church located in the old city of Lyon is also called simply as Lyon cathedral.

The cathedral is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and is the seat of the Archbishop of Lyon.

6. Musee des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
For those who are seeking for artsy stuff, visit the Lyon's fine art museum located near Hotel de Ville.

7. Jardin des Curiosites
Jardin des Curiosites is a beautiful park on top of the hill with beautiful views.

8. Fresco paintingshttps://travelfrance.tips/lyon-the-amazing-mural-paintings/
Apart from street art as in graffitis, where we found everywhere, Lyon has amazing wall mural paintings (fresco) around the city. One of the largest and important fresco is "Mur des canuts", and it is amazing with all those little details that it looks so alive.

9. Place des Jacobins
Place des Jacobins is a square located in the city center of Lyon. Surrounded by many coffee shops and shops. The fountain in the middle of the square is the highlight. The square is classified by UNESCO.

10. Musee des Confluences
For those who would like to see modern architecture, make sure to visit the area called Confluences. In here you will find a shopping mall, the science and anthropology museum as well as it is a place where two rivers meets each other.

How to get there?

We flew from London Luton by Easyjet and get off to Lyon past midnight. As our flight had a delay, we didn't catch the fast train to the city centre. Thus we had to took Uber to get to my friend's place. The trains - Rhoneexpress to/from the airport runs every 15 minutes. However, the last one is at midnight, so make sure to check the schedule before. In case you have missed it or would prefer to take Uber, you may use my code for £5 off your ride (just enter the code: thuyp1132ue).

Where to stay?

One option could be an Airbnb for those who seek budget but not a hostel. Sign up using my Airbnb link and get £13 of travel credits! Additionally, if you prefer hotels, book your stay through my Booking.com link to get travel credits too!

How to get around the city?

Lyon city center is pretty easy to walk around. However, they are well connected with their four lines underground as well as trams lines. The public transport runs from about 5am to midnight. You can purchase tickets in any ticket machine available on the stations. The one off ticket (which is for about 1 hour) cost €1.80 and can be used for buses, trams or underground. If you plan to travel more frequently, then t is worth to buy a full day ticket for €5.50.