France's second-most important city after Paris is surprisingly undiscovered. Although Lyon doesn't often make it onto tourist itineraries, many cultural treasures await those who take the time to explore the city. With a history dating back to ancient Roman times, Lyon has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The city boasts France's oldest ancient ruins, medieval quarters, and fine Renaissance houses. The atmospheric neighbourhoods found along the Rhône and Saône Rivers reflect the city's rich heritage.

Here are deVere France’s top places to visit in Lyon.

 

Musée des Beaux Arts

The impressive cultural heritage of Lyon is evidenced in this Musée des Beaux-Arts, considered the next-best fine arts museum in France after the Louvre. The Musée des Beaux Arts has one of Europe's largest collections of artwork, including antiquities, paintings, sculpture, and decorative art-from ancient Egypt to the present day. The museum also has an excellent collection of Impressionist paintings and modern art.

 

Colline de la Croix-Rousse

Built on the slopes of the Croix-Rousse hillside, this historic neighbourhood was an important centre of weaving in the early 19th-century.
Due to the high gradient of the streets, there are many charming curves and staircases.

The most unique aspect of the neighbourhood is its collection of "traboules," covered passageways that function as public hallways through the quarters of private houses. These special alleyways were used by silk workers to transport their fabrics. Wander around the neighbourhood to discover the architectural curiosities of the winding streets and hidden traboules.

 

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere

In a majestic location on the Fourviere Hill, the Basilique Notre-Dame rises to a height of 130 meters above the Saone River. The Basilica is accessible by funiculars running up the hill.

This stunning church was built after the Franco-Prussian War when the people of Lyon had vowed to create a Marian sanctuary if their city was spared. The construction took place from 1872 to 1884.

The Basilica is a blend of Gothic and Byzantine styles with a richly decorated interior. Spend time in the sanctuary to admire the sumptuous mosaics and paintings. After touring the interior, climb the northeast tower to take in the sensational views of Lyon's cityscape and surrounding areas.

Also, the Esplanade de Fourvière, on the left side of the Basilica, provides a sensational panoramic outlook onto the city of Lyon. The views extend to the Croix-Rousse and the Terreaux districts, the Quartier Saint-Jean further down the hill, and the Place Bellecour on the right.

 

Parc de la Tête d'Or

Covering 117 hectares, this expansive green space is the largest park in France. The Parc de la Tête d'Or lies on the left bank of the Rhône River, right in the center of the city.

The park has a zoo, botanical garden, and rose-garden. At the Petit Lac (Small Lake), families can rent mini boats to sail around the serene waters. Other highlights are the kids' pony rides and the old-fashioned choo-choo train.

 

Now you know the top places to visit in Lyon, how about planning your retirement here? Speak to the retirement experts at deVere France today.