Flight prices from London typically range between £30 to £80 and take about one hour and 40 minutes
There are incredible skyline views from the terrace of the Fourviere basilica(Image: Nicolas Guyonnet / Hans Lucas / AFP via Getty Images)
We all know Paris as one of the most iconic cities in the world. However ‘the city of love’, famous for its iconic landmarks is a place that is a massive tourist hotspot and attracts huge crowds which can become overwhelming and time consuming. But imagine some of that French magic with less crowds, different landmarks and great food, well, this is where Lyon comes in.
Lyon is the third largest city in France. According to Skyscanner, the flight there from any London airport is around one hour and 40 minutes. Flights tend to be available daily from London Heathrow via British Airways, as well as from Gatwick and Luton airports via easyJet.
It is approximately a 4-and-a-half hour drive from Paris. Lyon’s public transit network is quite extensive and includes a metro, multiple tram lines, and two funiculars. And yes, there is also Uber.
A good starting point is Vieux Lyon, the historic centre. It is packed with gift shops, cafes, street crepe vendors, casual entertainment and is also a good neighbourhood to stay in. You will find both electric bike and Segway tours in Lyon which are equally fun options that offer the chance to see the city in a safe and enjoyable way.
Tours will include some of the best places to see in Lyon , including Vieux Lyon (the old town), the Parc de la Tête d’Or, and along the banks of the river Rhône, giving you a fantastic overview.
The segways also offer tours at night too which gives spectacular views of the city. It is also uniquely located close to an important wine region and the French Alps and can be a convenient stop on many different road trips.
Best places to eat and drink
Foodies will also love La Croix-Rousse as it is home to an open market which offers an amazing range of local produce, plus plenty of lively bars, and a wide choice of places to eat in Lyon including unmissable patisseries, and hip restaurants.
Lyon is known as being the culinary capital of France and for good reason. According to Tripadvisor, here are three of the best places to eat in Lyon.
Empanadas Club
This chain has four restaurants, one of which is based in Lyon. Their flagship product is, as the name suggests, the empanada, which is a small pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, typical of Argentinian cuisine. It has nearly 550 reviews and is rated 4.9 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.
Table & Partage
It says it has a concise menu consisting of four starters, four main courses, four desserts, and a lunch menu that changes according to market availability and the seasons. It is also rated 4.9 out of 5 and has over 560 reviews. Reviews frequently highlight the attentive and friendly service, with staff offering personalized recommendations that enhance the warm ambiance.
Choufimafi
Choufimafi is a popular destination for many travelers seeking authentic Lebanese cuisine, praised for its fresh ingredients and generous portions. It is also rated as 4.9 of 5 out of almost 100 reviews.
Three of the best things to do on a Lyon city break
A boat trip for as low as 15 euros
Explore the historic heart of Lyon and its bright ochred façades. Sail along the banks of districts inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, from Renaissance Vieux-Lyon to the Presqu’île. Be sure to look up, so as not to miss the Fourvière district and the basilica, the cathedral of Saint-Jean below, and the charming neo-Gothic church of Saint-Georges.
Fourvière Hill
Take the funicular up to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, featuring Roman ruins.
The Museum of Fine Arts
This is meant to be very interesting, if that’s your thing. The building was once a royal Benedictine abbey. When it’s open, there’s supposed to be a really lovely shady garden in the back.
