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The second-largest French city is known for its Ligue 1 football team, cinema, and gastronomy. Lyon is also the capital of the Rhone department and the Rhones-Alpes region as well as the site of the UNESCO World Heritage. Founded as a Roman colony in 43 BC on Fourviere hill by Julius Caesar’s lieutenant the city was initially christened Lugdunum which means ‘hill of lights’. The city of Lyon is well-connected with trains, trams, buses and funicular lines. But we suggest walking right up to the summit of the Fourviere hill – you can also take the funicular there – and treat your sight to the visual splendor proffered by Romanic ruins and the Basilique which is a spitting image of the Eiffel Tower. Also beware while crossing streets: cars and buses go in opposite directions on the same street. To the uninitiated this could be a sure-shot way of getting into an accident. So jay-walking is definitely out. Accommodation-wise Lyon won’t disappoint. But if you are looking specifically for a luxury Five Star Hotels steeped in history do check for availability at the Château de Bagnols, essentially a castle of the 13th century. Redolent with alluring antiquity and period furnishings, the Château de Bagnols is pretty close to some Burgundian vineyards. Take a walk around vineyards and enjoy the fragrance, colors, and headiness of being in wine country! As such, Lyon is a great place to simply walk around in. Just get away from your hotel and go for a walk visually soaking in the lovely architecture, parks, and boutiques. Just walking up and down the river Saone is a pleasurable exercise in itself. Along the Saone you will come across Cathédrale St. Jean, a shining example of French architecture at its Gothic best. Constructed over two centuries (from the 12th to the 14th), you will get to see displays representing the transition from Roman to Gothic architectural styles. The cathedral also houses the famed 16th century astronomical clock which is a special treat to watch during noon. Also not to be missed are the relics of the two Roman theatres atop Fourviere hill, the larger of which happens to be the oldest theatre in France and built over the 17th to the 15th centuries B.C. Having had a fill of history, you can now do some shopping in the main commercial hub of the city. For gifts and candies Lyon boasts a display that is truly mind-boggling. There are stores in Vieux Lyon where you can find lovely wooden toys that you can take back home to your kids. If you are looking to enhance your wardrobe with some great-looking shoes we recommend you try the shoe boutique near the Saone banks called ‘Bonnie and Clyde’. The shop, by the way, has nothing to do with those nefarious American cowboys. Lyon is also famous for its traditional silks, cloths, and carpets. Shops like L'Atelier de Soierie on Rue Romarin and the tissue museum prove especially useful for votaries f such products. There’s more, much more to Lyon. Why not find out for yourself? About the Author Mike Greaves is a self-made entrepreneur, a well known travel consultant and internet marketer. Over the years he has traveled across the world and has numerous writings credited to his name in many renowned publications. His areas of writing include travel experiences including reviews of Luxury beach Resorts , Luxury Spas and Beach Resorts .
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