Lyon Travel Guide
Travel guide to Lyon, France with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Lyon sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Lyon Overview
The city of Lyon is located in the eastern central area of France, with a large metropolitan population it is second only to Paris in number, with around 1.8 million people.
Originating in Roman times the city has a long history, helped by it being at the centre of the main communication routes through France, both the Rhone and the Saone meet here and the surrounding hills of the Fourviere and Croix-Rousse make the city a natural gateway.
Culturally Lyon has been a major force, being an early supporter of printing books for example way back in the 16th century. On a more modern note the city was also home to the Lumiere brothers, the inventors of cinema in 1898. Food and drink also played a big part in both the cultural and commercial aspects of the city, with the wine regions of Beaujolais and Cotes du Rhone close by.
The modern city of Lyon does not forget this wonderful history, ensuring it is not forgotten by providing many galleries and museums for people to visit, as well as maintaining many beautiful buildings from the past. It has not stood still though, investing in its future with many colleges and universities as well as many new buildings to house the growing economy of the city.
Top Lyon Attractions
In addition to the amazing architecture found in this beautiful city there are many museums here, around 30 in total. The Textile Museum for example is of great significance here as textiles have been a big part of the city's history for many years. Located in the 17th century Villeroy Mansion it covers in great detail the use and importance of textiles here and further afield.
Shopping in Lyon
Shoppers will find lots to please them in Lyon. The area of Presqu'ile houses the major department stores along with a wide variety of independent shops. The Rue Victor Hugo and Rue de la Republique are the main streets for shopping in the area. For those seeking the more exclusive shops and boutiques the lovely old buildings around Rue Gasparin, Rue Emile Zola and Rue President Herriot are the ultimate destination, with all the very finest brands available here.
Lyon Sporting Events
For the visitor and resident alike Lyon offers a range of sports, from testing golf courses to exhilarating horse riding and all manner of other sports and activities. Watchers of sport can visit the high flying football team who are a top side in the French football league. European football is also a regular event here, as Lyon tend to be involved most years.
