Lyon - The master Silk Weavers
Lyon is one of the most stunning cities in France and considered a political, cultural, and economic hub in the European continent. In the 18th century, it was the most eminent silk production hub, known for its unparalleled quality. With theatres, restaurants, clubs, museums, churches, and historical sites, a few of the most influential architectural beauties are in Lyon. Several Roman remnants keep this place historically relevant, including rare artefacts and exhibitions. Some cathedrals provide magnificent views of the city, and they remain precious. Lyon becomes cosy during the winters when the snow comes.
Lyon’s cuisine is also truly unique and up to the expectations of French cuisine. Quenelle Lyonnaise, Cervelle de Canut, and Tablier de Sapeur are a few of the most relished dishes in Lyon. Many restaurants like Lep Apothicaires, Agastache restaurant, and Culina Hortis provide the organic flavours of these dishes.
Places to visit in Lyon
Lyon has a combination of undiscovered and famous places. It is a perfect city to go to for spontaneous exploration.
- Vieux Lyon - Vieux Lyon is the perfect remnant from the Renaissance period. Several mansions with hidden courtyards and terracotta-tiled roofs form the overall structure of this place. It is the city’s oldest district, a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Many vintage shops have thrived here for decades.
- Theatres Romains de Fourvière - Theatres Romains de Fourvière is an ancient Roman theatre and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This theatre was built on the hill of Fourviere. It also has pieces of a temple from the Roman Empire. The central annual performing arts festival, Nuits de Fourvière, is organised here.
- Musee du Cinema et de la Miniature - The museum presents several props and items from sets of famous films and television shows. These miniatures are highly descriptive, and a lot of attention to detail is apparent in those pieces. It is a museum of hyper-realistic everyday scenes. Movie enthusiasts would love this.
- Colline de Fourvière - Colline de Fourvière is a historic site from the Roman Era. It is at Fourvière. This site has ancient ruins from that period. It is a perfect place to get some spectacular views of the city. Several tombs and headstones have persisted over all these years. People use a funicular to get to the top and look at the vestigial properly. Tourists love to spend some time here and adore the sunset.
- Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière - Constructed in the 19th century, the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is a minor basilica in Lyon. It was built to express gratitude to the Virgin Mary for protecting the city from external invasions due to the Franco-Prussian War. The interior of the basilica has exquisite mosaics, marble, and stained-glass windows, while the panoramic view from its roof provides tourists with an excellent opportunity to appreciate the city's beauty.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or - This park has a double course of 18 tracks, including one for mini-golf. A small zoo, contemporary art museum, and famous statues and shades make this an ideal park. Tourists enjoy spending time here with giraffes, zebras, and red pandas.
- La Place Bellecour - La Place Bellecour is one of the largest pedestrian urban squares in the city. The city tourist office is a must-visit here. It is simple and beautiful. Additionally, a few of the best snack shops are available in this area.
- Music of Fine Arts of Lyon - The Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon is located in Place des Terreaux and is almost 5000 years old. The collections here are one of the rarest, including the Statue of Athena and sculptor of Odalisque. The museum organises several exhibitions and cultural events for audience members, keeping them engaged and enthralled.
Important things to remember for a trip to Lyon
- Lyon has fairly extreme weather in both summer and winters. Precipitation is usually high during the rainy season. So keep an umbrella during those months.
Take a boat trip to the Saône. There is a beautiful confluence of rivers and buildings there.
- Try to book a table in advance at restaurants.
Lyon Airport
Lyon has two airports - Lyon Saint-Exupéry International Airport (LYS) and Lyon-Bron Business Airport (LYN). All IndiGo flights to Lyon head to the following airports-
- Lyon Saint-Exupéry International Airport (LYS), also known as Lyon Satolas Airport, is located 20 km southeast of Lyon city centre. It has two terminals, T1 and T2. Regular train shuttles and trams are available, connecting this to the city centre.
- Lyon-Bron Business Airport (LYN) iis situated in Bron. It has two Terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It is closer to the city area and is accessible by shuttles and taxis.
Lyon visa requirements
A Schengen visa is required to visit Lyon as it is part of the EU. These documents are required to apply for a Schengen visa/Lyon visa.
- A passport.
- Your recent passport-size photographs.
- A return ticket. It should show the date of departure.
- Evidence of hotel bookings.
- Travel insurance. That would help to cover medical expenses.
- Testimony for financial support.
- A detailed itinerary. It should show the duration of your stay in the city.