France is a top destination for British tourists and its proximity to the UK means that it’s a fantastic option for a quick weekend away.
But where’s the country’s best destination for a walkable city break?
A study by French newspaper Le Parisien found that Lyon was France’s most walkable city and the easiest to explore on foot.
The third biggest city in France, Lyon is often considered the country’s gastronomic capital and its Old Town is one of France’s prettiest.
British tourists can get a direct flight to Lyon which takes under two hours or it takes just under five hours on the train using the Eurostar and changing in Paris. Skyscanner has a range of flight options or British tourists can plan a train or flight route on Omio.
What to do in Lyon
If you’ve got limited time, the majority of Lyon’s top attractions are located in Vieux Lyon. Admire the architecture in the city’s cathedral or discover its curious traboules.
The Traboules are secret covered passageways through Lyon’s Old Town so keep your eyes peeled as you explore.
The city’s top-rated attraction on Tripadvisor is the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere, which sits on a hill overlooking the old town.
The Basilique is incredibly beautiful but tourists will also have fantastic views from the top and there’s also a cafe.
If you have slightly more time, check out the city’s Parc de la Tete d’Or which is home to turtles.
What to eat in Lyon
Lyon is often described as the gastronomic capital of France so after all that walking, make sure to factor in time to experience some of its culinary delights.
Lyon’s foodie culture is heavily centred around bouchons, which are restaurants serving traditional cuisine. Some of the dishes, such as pork tripe sausage, aren’t for the faint-hearted.
But lentils with vegetables and sausages and le poulet celestine, a chicken dish with mushrooms and tomatoes, are very popular.
Where to stay in Lyon
If you want to be in the most walkable part of town, opt to stay in the old town. However, hotels on the other side of the river are generally a cheaper option if you’re on a budget.
