Lyon is a city where history, art, and culinary excellence meet at every corner. From sunsets over the Saône to the aroma of freshly baked baguettes wafting through cobblestone streets, this UNESCO-listed gem offers an authentic French experience that feels both grand and personal.
Discovering Lyon’s Rich History
Travelling from Mont St. Michel by Rail Europe, I was greeted by rolling farms and villages bathed in sunset light. Lyon welcomed me with colour and character — a city that seems to glow from within.
That first evening’s sunset was unforgettable: a sky painted pink and gold, fading into the soft blue hour as the city lights came alive.
Day 1 – Exploring Lyon’s Markets
Start your visit with breakfast at a local café — fresh baguettes and coffee are a must. Then head to the markets for a true taste of Lyon’s local life.
- Morning Market: Browse colourful stalls of fruit, cheese, and charcuterie near your hotel.
- Farmers’ Market on the Island: Discover artisanal products and chat with producers.
- Old Lyon Antique Market: Wander through lanes lined with vintage treasures and local artists.
Markets here do more than sell food — they bring people together, weaving Lyon’s neighbourhoods into one vibrant community.
Exploring Lyon’s History by Boat
📍 Quai des Célestins, Lyon
Take a Lyon Boat Tour to see the city from a fresh perspective. We chose the historic route, which glides past grand homes and landmarks along the Saône. Our local guide filled the journey with stories of former residents and riverside life.
The one-hour cruise was the perfect way to cool off on a warm afternoon — and to photograph Lyon’s skyline from the water.
Where to Stay: Greet Hotel Lyon Centre
📍 80 Cours de Verdun Perrache, Lyon
The Greet Hotel beautifully balances comfort, style, and sustainability. Friendly staff, eco-friendly design, and a location steps from Brasserie Georges (the oldest brasserie in Lyon and one of Europe’s largest) make it a fantastic base for exploration.
Day 2 – Walking the Old City Centre
Lyon’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living museum. Follow the quays of the River Saône, lined with restaurants serving Beaujolais wines and regional specialties. Narrow streets wind between medieval buildings, each corner revealing a new story.
Walking is the best way to see it all — look up to spot intricate balconies and Renaissance arches that define Lyon’s character.
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
📍 Place Saint-Jean, Lyon
Known as the “Primatial Church of the Gauls,” this cathedral dates from the 12th century and blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its 650-year-old astronomical clock still works flawlessly — a must-see masterpiece of craftsmanship and history.
Farewell Lyon: A City That Stole My Heart
Before departing, pick up a Lyon City Card for easy access to museums, public transport, and guided tours. Each visit unlocks another layer of this city — its gastronomy, its architecture, its soul. Leaving Lyon felt like saying goodbye to an old friend I can’t wait to see again.
Why I Love Lyon
Lyon surprised me with its quiet elegance. While Paris dazzles and Nice relaxes, Lyon inspires. What I love most is its balance — old and new, urban and green, refined yet real. Locals take time to chat over coffee or linger at the market; they embody the art of living well.
As a photographer, I was captivated by how the light moves across the Saône and by the textures of the old stone buildings. Every corner offered a new frame to capture — and a story to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Lyon
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) bring mild weather, colourful markets, and fewer crowds. Summer is vibrant but warm.
Two full days cover the main highlights, but three to four let you enjoy museums and neighbourhood walks at a relaxed pace.
Taste quenelles de brochet, coq au vin, and anything from a traditional bouchon. Pair with Beaujolais wine or a Rhone Valley red.
Public transport is excellent — use the Lyon City Card for unlimited access to the metro, trams, and buses. Walking is ideal in the Old Town.
Its culinary heritage — the city of Paul Bocuse — and its blend of Roman ruins, Renaissance lanes, and modern innovation give Lyon its distinct soul.
Travel Credit
This visit was made possible in collaboration with Lyon Tourisme, Rail Europe, and Air France, whose support helped showcase the city’s authentic flavour and culture.
All opinions and photography are my own.
About the Author
Roland Bast is a Canadian travel photographer and visual storyteller based in Ottawa. A member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada), he specializes in capturing the emotion, culture, and beauty of destinations through authentic storytelling and original photography.
Written and photographed by Roland Bast.
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