Visit Lyon & the Rhone Valley: A Foodie’s Paradise with Superb Wines and Rich Heritage
An Overlooked Treasure in France's Rhône Valley
Why settle for the ordinary when you can lose yourself in a city that transforms every visit into a story worth telling? Nestled between two rivers, Lyon is a city where history, culture, and beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience. Its cobblestone streets echo with tales of the past, while Renaissance architecture stands as a proud testament to its heritage. Museums and galleries reveal treasures that captivate art and history lovers, while the city’s culinary scene—rooted in bustling markets and world-renowned restaurants—offers a true taste of French gastronomy. As night falls, Lyon comes alive with chic wine bars, lively music venues, and streets illuminated by its unique charm. Beyond the city, the Rhône Valley invites wine lovers to explore its prestigious vineyards, and outdoor enthusiasts can find tranquility in its parks, gardens, and the scenic Beaujolais countryside. Whether savoring gourmet offerings, exploring historic neighborhoods, or wandering through idyllic landscapes, every moment in Lyon feels like a masterpiece. A city for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, it promises countless ways to ignite your passions and inspire wonder.
18
Michelin starred restaurants
4
neighborhoods in UNESCO sites
2,000+
Years of history
1
Unique valley
Meet Lyon
Despite its wealth of treasures—world-class wines, exquisite gastronomy, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes—Lyon often flies under the radar. Many travelers pass it by, drawn instead to the allure of Paris or the charm of Provence. But therein lies its magic: Lyon, the culinary capital of France, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those who seek something truly unique. From exploring the many things to do in Lyon, including its vibrant bouchons, historic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene, to savoring the renowned wines of the Rhône Valley just beyond the city, this region offers an experience unlike any other. Ready to uncover the magic of Lyon and the Rhône Valley as only a select few ever do?
The Capital of French Gastronomy
Acclaimed as the true capital of French gastronomy, Lyon and the Rhône Valley offer an unparalleled paradise for foodies and gourmets alike. From charming old-world brasseries to the iconic Lyon bouchons, these small, traditional restaurants embody the city’s rich culinary heritage, serving hearty classics like quenelles de brochet, andouillette, and the beloved mâchon lyonnais in warm, convivial settings. The region also boasts an impressive constellation of Michelin-starred restaurants, including the legendary Auberge du Pont de Collonges, where Paul Bocuse revolutionized French cuisine, and cutting-edge establishments like Takao Takano and Le Neuvième Art, which showcase contemporary culinary innovation.
For those eager to immerse themselves in Lyon’s gastronomic excellence, a visit to the Halles Paul Bocuse, the city’s temple of gastronomy, is a must. Here, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, praline-studded pastries, and handcrafted chocolates beckon, perfectly paired with Rhône Valley wines. Meanwhile, vibrant open-air markets like Marché Saint-Antoine celebrate seasonal produce, from tender white asparagus in spring to earthy wild mushrooms in autumn, offering a true taste of the region’s bounty. Our bespoke food tours invite you to explore these culinary treasures in unmatched luxury. Picture yourself indulging in private tastings of Saint-Marcellin cheese paired with prestigious Côte-Rôtie wines, or enjoying a Michelin-starred meal crafted just for you in a historic château overlooking rolling vineyards. Dive into the artistry of Lyon’s culinary traditions with exclusive cooking classes led by renowned chefs, where you’ll learn to create iconic dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Every detail, from truffles to charcuterie, tells a story of passion and excellence.
Nature, Wellness, and Outdoor Adventures in Lyon
Lyon and its surroundings offer a seamless blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and tranquil escapes, catering perfectly to discerning travelers seeking a balance of activity and relaxation. At the heart of the city lies the Parc de la Tête d’Or, a verdant sanctuary with botanical gardens, a serene lake, and shaded paths ideal for leisurely strolls or peaceful moments. For those who crave adventure, the nearby Parc naturel régional du Pilat presents picturesque hiking and cycling trails that meander through forests and vineyards, unveiling breathtaking views of the Rhône Valley.
The region also invites exploration by bike along the Rhône and Saône rivers, where scenic routes lead through charming countryside and vibrant urban landscapes. Beyond the city, the golden-stone villages of Beaujolais and the serene Dombes region, with its shimmering ponds and abundant birdlife, offer idyllic escapes into nature. Wellness enthusiasts will find solace in nearby thermal towns like Aix-les-Bains and Évian-les-Bains, renowned for their rejuvenating spa experiences and luxurious retreats. Whether you’re savoring panoramic vistas, unwinding in a thermal spa, or cycling along tranquil riverside paths, Lyon’s unique harmony of natural splendor and refined experiences promises to inspire and rejuvenate, offering moments of serene indulgence amid the beauty of France.
Lyon’s Rich Culture and Historic Treasures
With over 2,000 years of history, Lyon stands as a living testament to the passage of time and the layers of French heritage. Known as Lugdunum during the Gallo-Roman era, it was the capital of Roman Gaul, and remnants of this ancient prominence remain visible today, most notably in the Roman theater and odeon on Fourvière Hill. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, Lyon’s historical core spans four distinct neighborhoods, each showcasing a unique facet of its rich past.
The Vieux Lyon district is one of Europe’s largest Renaissance quarters, with cobblestone streets and striking architecture that transport visitors back in time. Fourvière Hill, Lyon’s birthplace, boasts ancient Roman ruins and offers breathtaking views of the city. The Presqu’île, nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, displays elegant classical and Haussmannian architecture, while the Croix-Rousse reflects the city’s legacy as a silk-weaving capital, with its steep streets and traboules, the hidden passageways that tell the story of its artisans.
Lyon’s history continues to shine through landmarks like the Place des Terreaux, a masterpiece of 17th-century classicism, and the Hôtel-Dieu, once a center for medical innovation. In the modern era, the city embraced transformation, with Haussmannian boulevards and the visionary designs of Tony Garnier redefining its urban landscape. Every corner of Lyon tells a story, from its Roman origins to its enduring influence on French culture. Whether wandering the ancient streets of Vieux Lyon, exploring the Roman ruins on Fourvière Hill, or immersing yourself in the charm of the Presqu’île, Lyon offers an unparalleled journey through history and heritage.
Rhône Valley: From Beaujolais to Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The Rhône Valley, just beyond Lyon, is a region of breathtaking beauty and rich heritage that captivates visitors with its terraced vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages built from pierres dorées—golden stones that glow in the sunlight. Known as a wine lover’s paradise, the Rhône Valley offers a dazzling diversity of styles and flavors, each deeply rooted in centuries of tradition and terroir. Begin your journey in the Beaujolais countryside, where rolling hills and picturesque villages create an idyllic backdrop for tasting vibrant, fruit-forward wines. This region’s unique approach to winemaking, including carbonic maceration techniques, yields 10 distinct crus, each with its own character and story.
Head south to the Northern Rhône, home to robust and elegant reds crafted from the noble Syrah grape. Prestigious appellations like Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage showcase the region’s mastery of winemaking, with aromas of blackberries, violets, and age-worthy complexity. For lovers of aromatic whites, the steep terraces of Condrieu offer exquisite Viognier wines with apricot and honey notes. Further south, the Southern Rhône unveils the iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape, celebrated for its rich blends of up to 13 grape varieties. Here, ancient vines flourish under the Mediterranean sun, creating wines of unparalleled depth and power. Beyond its world-class wines, the Rhône Valley beckons adventurers to explore the Parc naturel régional du Pilat, where hiking and cycling trails weave through forests and vineyards, offering sweeping vistas. Nature enthusiasts will also find solace in the Dombes region, a haven of shimmering ponds and abundant birdlife. Whether you’re savoring Rhône Valley vintages, cycling along scenic trails, or wandering through vineyard landscapes, this enchanting region blends natural beauty and cultural richness in perfect harmony.
Lyon: A Hub of Art, Fashion and Innovation
Lyon is a city where creativity and tradition seamlessly intertwine, showcasing a rich artistic legacy alongside cutting-edge innovation. Once celebrated as the silk-weaving capital of Europe, the Croix-Rousse district remains at the heart of this heritage. Here, hidden traboules—historical passageways once used to transport luxurious silks—lead to artisanal workshops where the ancient craft continues to thrive. Visitors can explore these studios to witness the meticulous artistry behind handmade silk scarves and textiles.
Lyon’s influence extends far beyond its borders, especially in the world of haute couture. The city’s historic silk production played a pivotal role in shaping Parisian fashion, with its luxurious fabrics adorning the collections of top designers. Even today, contemporary designers draw inspiration from Lyon’s silk-making traditions, incorporating its timeless elegance into modern creations. The city’s vibrant art scene is equally impressive. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of France’s most renowned art museums, houses a vast collection of Renaissance masterpieces, Impressionist works, and contemporary pieces.
Meanwhile, the Musée des Confluences, with its futuristic design, offers a unique perspective on art, science, and anthropology, reflecting Lyon’s innovative spirit. For those seeking to immerse themselves in local creativity, the Marché de la Création provides the perfect opportunity to discover artisans crafting ceramics, bespoke jewelry, and decorative textiles. This bustling market is a treasure trove for visitors looking to take home a unique piece of Lyon’s artistry. Each December, Lyon transforms into a luminous canvas during the Fête des Lumières, a globally renowned light festival. This spectacular event sees the city illuminated by artistic light installations, celebrating innovation and creativity while paying homage to its historical traditions.
Whatever draws you to this vibrant region, we’ll design exclusive, personalized tours that reflect your passions and tastes. From hidden gems to world-class experiences, you’ll explore Lyon and the Rhône Valley like an insider, guided by the expertise of locals and surrounded by the finest the region has to offer.
