Les Halles de Lyon is a large indoor market that offers a wide array of food and drink. You can find everything from fresh produce to baked goods, seafood, cheese, wine, and the famous Lyonnaise sausage. The market is named after Paul Bocuse, the legendary chef who has put Lyon on the culinary map. You can wander around, sample some delicacies, and take some food home.
Old Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most charming districts in the city. It's famous for its Renaissance-era buildings, narrow streets, and hidden passageways. You can find many restaurants, bakeries, and cafes in this area, serving classic Lyonnaise dishes such as quenelles, gratin dauphinois, and tarte aux pralines. Make sure to try the local wines, such as Beaujolais, Côtes du Rhône, and Condrieu.
Les Bouchons Lyonnais are traditional bistros that offer a cozy and convivial atmosphere, as well as hearty and rustic cuisine. They specialize in pork-based dishes such as andouillette, pork belly, and tripe, as well as offal, soups, and stews. Don't expect fancy decorations or haute cuisine here, but rather a true taste of Lyon's culinary heritage. Some of the best bouchons in Lyon include Chez Hugon, Café Comptoir Abel, and Le Bouchon des Filles.
The La Part-Dieu Food Market is one of the newer and hipper food markets that have recently opened in Lyon. It offers a mix of local and international cuisine, with vendors selling everything from tacos and shawarma to poke bowls and sushi. You can also find gourmet products such as truffles, foie gras, and macarons. The market has a modern and lively atmosphere and is ideal for grabbing a quick and tasty bite.
Les Caves des Cordeliers is a wine bar and cellar that dates back to the 14th century. It used to be a monastery that produced wine for the local population, and now it's a popular spot for wine tastings and pairings. You can discover the wines of the Rhône Valley and Beaujolais, as well as other French and European regions, and learn about the history and culture of winemaking in Lyon. The atmosphere is relaxed and elegant, with vaulted ceilings and stone walls.
The best way to get around Lyon is on foot, as most of the major attractions are located in the city center and are easily accessible. However, if you need to use public transportation, you can take the metro, the bus, or the tram. A single ticket costs around $2 and is valid for one hour. You can also buy a one-day or three-day pass, which costs $6 and $16 respectively, and offers unlimited rides.
If you have more time, you can visit some of the other food markets in Lyon, such as the Croix-Rousse Market, the Saint-Antoine Market, or the Guillotière Market. You can also take a cooking class or a wine tour, or explore the city's museums and parks. If you have less time, you can skip some of the food markets and focus on the bouchons and wine bars. You can also combine some of the locations and make your own itinerary based on your interests and preferences.
Lyon has one main airport, Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS), which is located 25 km east of the city center. It is well-connected to major European cities, such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Barcelona, as well as some Asian and African destinations. You can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center, which takes around 30-40 minutes and costs around $50.