Lyon: The silk capital

Lyon is a beautiful city located in east-central France. It is known for its rich history, distinct architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. Lyon is also famous for its UNESCO-listed old town and it is home to many museums, parks, and cultural sites, making it a popular destination. Lyon is the third largest city in France and the world’s “silk capital” with a history dating back more than 2,000 years.

Here are some top things to see and do in Lyon:

1. Old Town (Vieux Lyon): Explore the picturesque cobblestone streets of the old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the beautiful Renaissance buildings, traboules (hidden passageways), and historic landmarks like the Cathedral Saint-Jean-Baptiste.

2. Fourvière Hill: Climb up to Fourvière Hill to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Also, visit the Roman amphitheater and archaeological site on the hill.

3. Presqu’île: Walk around the Presqu’île, the peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, and explore the vibrant shopping streets, restaurants, and cafés. Don’t miss Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in Europe.

4. Traboules: Discover Lyon’s unique hidden passageways, known as traboules, which were used by silk workers in the past. Explore these secret passages that connect different streets and courtyards.

5. Musée des Beaux-Arts: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, one of the largest art museums in France, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

6. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: Indulge in Lyon’s renowned culinary scene at Les Halles de Lyon, a covered food market named after the famous chef Paul Bocuse. Sample local specialties like saucisson, cheese, and fresh produce.

7. Parc de la Tête d’Or: Relax in the sprawling Parc de la Tête d’Or, the largest urban park in France, featuring a botanical garden, a lake, a zoo, and plenty of green spaces for picnics and leisurely walks.

8. Croix-Rousse: Explore the Croix-Rousse district, known for its history as a center of silk production. Visit the Maison des Canuts to learn about Lyon’s silk-weaving heritage and stroll through the vibrant streets lined with boutiques and cafés.

And don’t forget to explore the French Alps from Lyon by helicopter. Renting a helicopter allows you to witness stunning aerial views of the snow-capped peaks, picturesque alpine villages, and pristine lakes. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to access remote and hard-to-reach areas for a unique adventure. Whether you’re seeking to ski on world-class slopes, hike amidst the natural beauty, or simply marvel at the grandeur of the Alps from above, a helicopter tour from Lyon can enhance your visit to this magnificent region.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Lyon. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Lyon has something to offer for every visitor.