Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon’s old town is one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe. Wandering through its traboules — secret passageways connecting courtyards and streets — feels like stepping back in time. The city’s harmonious blend of eras continues across the Presqu’île, where 19th-century buildings host chic boutiques, museums, and cafés that buzz with local life.

But Lyon’s true soul lies in its gastronomy. Often called the culinary capital of France, it is home to legendary chef Paul Bocuse and a thriving network of bouchons — traditional Lyonnais eateries serving timeless dishes like quenelles, andouillette, (a rustic sausage made with pork and spices), pied de porc (braised pig’s trotters), salade de chèvre chaud (warm goat cheese salad), and creamy Saint-Marcellin cheese — all paired with a glass of Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wine.
For food lovers, a visit to the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a must, where local artisans showcase the very best of French produce, wine, and cheese.

Beyond its culinary fame, Lyon is a dynamic cultural hub. From the annual Fête des Lumières that transforms the city into an illuminated wonderland, to its thriving arts scene and riverside festivals, Lyon offers endless ways to experience the French art de vivre.