Introduction to Lyon

Whether you're high atop Fourvière Hill, meandering in Vieux Lyon, or climbing the slopes of the Croix-Rousse, you'll witness Lyon's intriguing history over the last 2,000 years. At the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the city mixes its heritage with contemporary architecture, evident in the Cité Internationale. Long known for its silk industry, old weavers' workshops lie next to boutiques that sell modern-day silk creations. Taste why this city has long been the culinary capital of France at Les Halles de Lyon—Paul Bocuse marketplace.

Things to Do

Wander the narrow, cobblestone lanes of Vieux Lyon that date from the Middle Ages, and search for traboules -- corridors that connect two streets through a building or courtyard. Learn about the history of Lyon, especially its beloved Guignol puppet, at the Musée Gadagne. In the Fourvière neighborhood, visit the two Roman theaters, remnants of the ancient Roman city of Lugdunum. The spectacular Festival of Lights in December showcases light shows by professional artists from around the world.

Shopping

For boutiques and art galleries, shop in Vieux Lyon and the area around rue de la République. In the 18th century, Lyon was renowned throughout Europe for its silk industry and today, you can get your own silk scarves at the Hermès boutique, or choose from a treasure of touchable textiles at Le Comptoir des Couleurs. To bring home something with history, head for antiques shops concentrated around rue Auguste-Comte near place Bellecour.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Grab the weekly guide Lyon-Poche at a newsstand for a list of events and venues around town. The Opéra de Lyon presents opera, concerts and ballets in a modernized version of the 19th-century opera house. Dance the night away at popular Le First Tendency, a disco housed in the old Les Brotteaux train station. Wind down your evening in a cozy wine bar, such as La Cave des Voyageurs, and sample the best from Burgundy, Beaujolais and the Rhône valley.

Restaurants and Dining

Lyon is France's gastronomic capital, and chef Paul Bocuse its longtime star. Just outside of town, his L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges is the focus of many a foodie's pilgrimage. Local specialties are plentiful, and vary from the creamy cervelle de canut (fromage blanc with herbs) to salade Lyonnaise with greens, soft-boiled eggs, bacon cubes and croutons. Whether you dine with famous chefs or in modest bouchons such as La Meunière, you'll have a meal to remember.