Lyon & The Rhône – Gourmet Cruise Escape

After Paris, France's second-largest city is surprisingly under-appreciated. Despite the fact that Lyon is not frequently included on tourist itineraries, those who take the time to explore the city will find a wealth of cultural treasures. Lyon has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its ancient Roman history. The city has the oldest ancient ruins in France, as well as medieval quarters and fine Renaissance houses. Along the Rhône and Saône Rivers, the atmospheric neighborhoods of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) reflect the city's rich heritage. The Presqu'ile exemplifies 19th-century elegance, while the Quartier Saint-Jean and Colline Croix-Rousse districts have an enchanting character. The best places to visit in Lyon for a taste of the city's old-world charm are these captivating historic quarters. Those who come to sample the famous cuisine are the happiest of all visitors. The celebrated Michelin-starred Auberge du Pont de Collonges, 10 kilometers from Lyon, was helmed for decades by legendary French chef Paul Bocuse and is still a top gourmand holiday destination. Bouchons, small cozy bistros that serve traditional local specialties, serve authentic Lyonnais gastronomy all over Lyon. Capital: Lyon International Airport: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) Population: 1,719,000 Currency: the Euro Time: GMT+1 Driving side: Right Main Electricity: 230 V Official Language: French Religion: Roman Catholic

Lyon's impressive cultural heritage is exemplified by the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which is regarded as France's second best fine arts museum after the Louvre. The atmospheric Quartier Saint-Jean of Lyon is the place to discover the old-world charm of Vieux Lyon. Lyon is built on the site of the ancient Roman city of Lugdunum, which was founded in 43 BC and served as the capital of Gaul. This historic neighborhood, built on the slopes of the Croix-Rousse hillside, was an important weaving center in the early nineteenth century. Lyon's Presqu'ile District is a sliver of land within the river that resembles an island.