The Eiffel Tower is a Parisian icon that offers breathtaking views of the city. Built in 1889, it was once the tallest structure in the world. Visitors can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the top of the tower.
The Louvre Museum is one of the world's largest museums, housing thousands of works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa painting. Its history dates back to the 12th century when it was a fortress. The museum is a testament to the art, culture, and history of France.
The Palace of Versailles is a stunning royal residence in the suburbs of Paris that once served as the center of political power in France. Built in the 17th century, it offers a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyles led by French royalty.
Old Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets. Visitors can explore the traboules, secret passageways used by the city's silk workers in the 19th century.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a beautiful 19th-century church located on a hilltop overlooking the city. Visitors can take in stunning views of Lyon from the basilica's terrace.
The Musée des Confluences is a science and anthropology museum located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its striking modern architecture is a must-see, and its exhibits cover everything from prehistoric times to modern technology.
The Parc de la Tête d'Or is a massive urban park with beautiful gardens, lakes, and a large zoo. Visitors can rent a boat to paddle around the lake or enjoy a picnic under the shade of trees.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is one of France's best art museums, housing works from ancient times to the modern era. The building itself is a stunning architectural marvel, and visitors can easily spend an entire day taking in its many exhibits.
The Saint-Jean Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Old Lyon. Its intricate stained-glass windows and stunning architecture make it one of the city's top tourist destinations.
The Parc des Hauteurs is a beautiful park located on a hill overlooking the city. It offers stunning views of Lyon and is a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Travelers can easily navigate Paris and Lyon using public transportation, such as buses, metro, or trams. They can buy a Paris Visite pass, which allows unlimited travel for a specified number of days, and a Lyon City Card, which provides free transportation and discounted admission to museums and attractions. Taxis and rental cars are also available but can be expensive.
Travel time between Paris and Lyon is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes by high-speed train, with tickets costing between €20 and €70.
Travelers with more time may consider taking a day trip to nearby cities like Marseille or Bordeaux. Alternatively, those with less time can skip a few of the attractions listed and spend more time exploring each location in depth. Additionally, booking tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum can save time and avoid long lines.
Paris has two airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). CDG is located 16 miles northeast of Paris and offers connections to major cities around the world. ORY is located 8 miles south of Paris and serves mainly European destinations. Lyon has one airport, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), located 14 miles east of the city center. It offers connections to major European and North African cities.