Lyon, as France’s third-largest city, is a dynamic metropolis in the heart of Europe. Thanks to its cultural heritage and incomparable art and history, it has become an ideal destination whether you are looking for a holiday or planning a business trip. Lyon used to be the capital of the Gauls during Roman times. Since then, it has remained a vibrant and busy city all the while retaining its unique and authentic charm.

Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers, and chief-town and administrative centre of the Rhône county and Rhone-Alpes region, Lyon flourished nestled in the heart of its surrounding three hills. An urban setting in a rural and green environment, it is a really pleasant city to visit and live in. Lyon is split into 9 'arrondissements': each one of them is marked by its very own piece of history. A cosmopolitan city, Lyon is known for its young and vibrant population, thanks to the many schools and universities scattered throughout the city.

A two-day break 

Two days is just enough time to discover the wonderful history and patrimony of Lyon. The first day could be dedicated to discovering the Fourvière and Saint-Just areas, with their beautiful archaeological park and its roman baths (all very close to the Campanile Lyon Centre hotel). In the evening go to a 'Bouchon' (cork), a typical Lyon restaurant. At night-time, the ultra-sophisticated streetlights, a Lyonnaise specialty, have been carefully placed around various monuments and allow visitors to discover a completely different side to the city. The last day could be dedicated to discovering the architectural treasures of the Renaissance area.

A week-long stay 

With a whole week it is easier to discover Lyon's multiple charming facettes. The Musée des Tissus et Arts Décoratifs welcomes tourists and locals alike who are keen to discover the wonders woven by the silk workers. The Musée des Beaux-arts de Lyon is home to one of the biggest French paintings collection. For nature lovers, you can take a stroll along the banks of the Rhône and experience the poetic atmosphere of the river. Take full advantage of this magical part of the city stay a few nights at the Campanile Lyon Centre - Berges du Rhône hotel. 

A family holiday 

According to French statistics, 1 Lyonnais out of 4 is less than 6 years old. The city has therefore adapted its infrastructures and activities to its young population. In April 2012, a new centre opened its doors. This centre has 1800m² of dedicated play areas for children.The zoo in the Parc de la tête d’or allows children to go behind the scenes and find out how the zoo works.

Transport
Owing to its central position both within France and Europe, you can reach Lyon easily. It is accessible via motorways (A6, A7, A40 and A47) from cities such as Paris, Grenoble or Toulouse. The TGV will get you from Paris to Lyon-Part-Dieu in just two hours (close to the Campanile Part Dieu hotel). Lyon Saint Exupéry airport provides links to Paris and towns in the region.
The public transport system in Lyon is the best one outside of Paris, and is eco-friendly. Choose from the metro, the tram or the trolleybus to get around. There is also a bicycle-hire system.

Gastronomy
The city has produced some of France’s finest chefs, such as Paul Bocuse, Philippe Gauvreau and Nicolas Lebec. It also has twenty or so certified ‘authentic’ restaurants, called ‘bouchons’, where you can try a Lyonnaise salad, tablier du sapeur (a Lyon specialty made with tripe), or a plate of rosette and andouillette (two types of sausage particular to Lyon). 

Events
There are events happening all year round in Lyon. On 8 December, the city puts on its brightest clothes and lights thousands of candles for the fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights). In the summer, there is the Nuits de Fourvière festival showcasing music, dance and theatre, the ‘Quais du Polar’ festival for detective fiction, and the Salsa festival.

Interesting fact
The Croix-Rousse hill, which is one of the hills surrounding the city, is particular known for its history with traditional silk work. This is where the Canuts revolt began in 1831. The area remains under the influence of this working-class tradition and the "Canuts Republic» lives on through passionates who still elect their very own president.

Useful links
La Ville de Lyon
Office du Tourisme
Aéroports de Lyon
Transports en commun (TCL)
Vélo’v
Info Trafic