Lyon is a city in France that is located in the historical region of Rhône-Alpes, near the junction of the Saône and Rhône rivers. The charm of its architecture and the many options to explore the surrounding countryside make it one of the most visited cities in the country. If you feel like going there, we tell you what to see in Lyon.
What to see in Lyon during your vacation?
If you want to tour a country and discover it in depth, there are several options for getting around, but none can be compared to renting a car. You will be able to visit as many cities and green spaces as you wish, and you won't have to worry about time or waiting. Take control of your vacation!
To make it as easy as possible for you, OK Mobility has multiple vehicle pick-up points, so you can coordinate it with your flight. Nice is the closest city, but you can also start your journey in Italy and change country. Once in France, here's what you have to see in and around Lyon!
Old town of Lyon
Start your tour in the old part of the city, known as Vieux Lyon. This picturesque medieval quarter is divided into three parts: Saint-Georges, Saint-Jean and Saint-Paul, and their beauty is such that they have been declared a World Heritage Site. Strolling through its streets will transport you to the past, with its colorful facades and hidden courtyards. Do not miss the churches of Saint-Georges and Saint-Paul.
Gallo-Roman Theater
Lyon was the capital of Gaul and some monuments from that era still remain, dating back more than 2,000 years. They include the Roman Theater, which today is used for cultural acts; the Odeon, which was built in 100 A.D., or the Roman Baths, among others. To learn more about this era, visit the Lugdunum Roman Archaeological Museum.
Bellecour Square and cathedrals
There are many interesting proposals among the sights to see in Lyon. There are the cathedrals, with the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, built between 1180 and 1480 on the banks of the Saône River, or the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, built at the end of the 19th century in a combination of Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine styles. Before leaving the city, take the opportunity to discover the more than 150 murals on the facades and stroll through the largest pedestrian square in Europe, with more than 62,000 m², Bellecour.
Beaujolais vineyards
The Beaujolais vineyards lie to the north of Lyon and are internationally famous. Along with Champagne, it is the only region in France where the grapes must be harvested by hand. Its vine-covered slopes and its forests are very attractive, especially in the autumn months. If you enjoy cycling as well as wine, there are several routes to explore in this area. And as for the most interesting sights, do not miss the castle of Montmelas, the Château de Corcelles and Javernand or Villefranche-sur-Saône.
Annecy
Annecy is an alpine village that captivates from the first minute. Its historic center has many medieval houses on cobblestone streets that are crossed by several canals. There is also a lake with turquoise waters that can be visited by boat. Also of note are the Palais de l'Isle and the Château d'Annecy.
Grenoble
Grenoble is another interesting place to see in the surrounding area of Lyon. Although it is completely surrounded by mountains because it is also in the Alps, it is one of the flattest cities you can find in the country. You should visit the Bastille, the Jardin de Ville, the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Paul Mistral Park.
Massif des Bauges Regional Natural Park
If you are passionate about nature, don't miss out on the fascinating park Massif des Bauges which you can reach in an hour and a half by car. The landscapes of this mountainous massif are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, and there are countless hiking trails, which is why it has become one of the most popular parks in this region.
Geneva
If you are not satisfied with the places to see in and around Lyon, and want to go a little further, we suggest you to cross the border to Switzerland to visit Geneva. It is the second largest city in the country and boasts the largest lake in western Europe. In the midst of by the Swiss Alps, it is an important financial center, but it also has sights like the Saint Pierre cathedral, the La Grange park, the Botanical and English gardens or the Place des Nations.
There are many possibilities when you have a rental car on your vacation. Dare to explore this region and be fascinated by the spectacular mountain scenery. Rent your car in Lyon or in Nice.
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