Set between the winding Rhône and Saône Rivers in Rhône-Alpes, marvellous Lyon has evolved from the Roman capital of Gaul to become a lively food and arts destination with a buzzy medieval heart. A plethora of accommodation options await both business and leisure travellers, ranging from cheerful heritage B&Bs to sumptuous former convents with Michelin-starred eateries. Our list of the best places to stay in Lyon is a wonderful starting point for planning your trip!
Strolls through the cobbled streets of Lyon’s Old Town, on the Saône’s western bank, are a must. This is a fascinating neighbourhood, brimming with cafés, bars and eateries. Foodies will also adore the restaurants dotted along the 19th-century boulevards of central Lyon, the popular wholesale market, and the riverside food markets where locals gather to taste and haggle over fresh seasonal produce. To savour traditional stews and sausages, pick a perch at a ‘bouchon’ — the city’s classic twist on the pub and bistro — and tuck in.
For a sense of the city’s history, look to the Gallo-Roman Museum and visit Lyon’s ancient theatres. The Musée des Beaux-Arts houses a terrific collection, whilst the Musée Lumière, the Musée des Confluences and the WWII Museum are also particular stand-outs. As with many French cities, the best places to stay in Lyon fill up fast during the summer months and the school holidays, so book your holiday well in advance.
