Straddling the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône in the Rhône-Alpes region of France, the city of Lyon has long been an important destination thanks to its location between Paris and Marseille, a fact reflected in its illustrious history and heritage. Despite its size (Lyon is the third-largest city in France behind Paris and Marseille), much of the city is a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site, and boasts innumerable cultural sights — from ancient cathedrals to fascinating Roman-age heritage spots.
And yet, history and heritage aren’t the only things on offer in France’s so-called culinary capital. In 1935, celebrated food critic Curnonsky heralded Lyon as the ‘world capital of gastronomy’ on account of its simple, quality cuisine; and it seems he wasn’t wrong. Over a quarter of a century on, the city is still considered the gastronomic core of the European continent, trumping even Paris in terms of sheer palatability.
For those visiting Lyon for the first, second or sixth time, the progressive nature of the city means there are always new things to see and exciting new dishes to savor — however whistle-stop your tour may prove to be.
