Lyon is located in east-central France, in the Rhône-Alpes region, situated between Paris and Marseille.
Two major rivers of France, The Saône and The Rhône, join in Lyon. Across the The Saône is a magnificent bridge.
The city is known for its historical and architectural landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most interesting buildings is Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, located high up on the hill, overlooking the city. The Fourvière is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who, as legend has it, saved the city of Lyon from the bubonic plague that was sweeping Europe in 1643.
There are also other great buildings of interest. Here is a church from the Eastern Orthodox tradition.
Lyon’s other claim to fame is that cinéma was invented in the city, by brothers Auguste and Louis Lumière.
A recurrent symbol throughout the city is the lion, from which the city draws its name. Lions can be found on street corners, as statues outside buildings, on shop fronts and even serving as water fountains.
Many stores also adopt the symbol of the city.
The city is larger, and comprises nine arrondissements (neighborhoods). Around the center there is the main shopping area.
Although there are access routes of cars, many people walk or cycle. As with many major cities, there is a cycle hire scheme in operation.
Located in this region there is an eye-pleasing carousel and a water feature.
Lyon boasts many interesting eating and drinking places. For example, this charming traditional French cafe (where various wines are sold as well as coffee, at almost any time of the day or night.)
Lyon has developed a reputation as the capital of gastronomy in France. To check this reputation out fully, this roving Digital Journal reporter decided to stop off at Le Bistrot de Lyon.
Food wise, the restaurant was very good for meat dishes (especially duck or chicken), and anything with cheese. The range was very limited for vegetarians. The vegetarian special was mashed potato, carrot and fennel. However, the interior was splendid, with many interesting objects and paintings affixed to the walls.
Even the washrooms were interesting in relation to the design.
There is plenty of local wine to choose from. Lyon has two fine wine regions to select from: the Beaujolais to the North, and the Côtes du Rhône to the South.
If you are visiting France and wish to take in a city, Paris will always remain the main draw, However, if you can stay for longer or have cause to visit a different region, then Lyon is an interesting city to visit. Full of history, with rich offerings of food choices, and a good offering of cultural pursuits.
