Staying in Jacques and Marie’s apartment in old Lyon was a fantastic experience. Being located within the UNESCO heritage listed district of Vieux Lyon provides an opportunity to experience modern life within a Renaissance(!) building environment. The heavy doors, worn stone stairs, and street front windows provide an atmospheric home away from home. The apartment is stylish and spacious, the bed very comfortable, and the kitchen well stocked with appliances.
Jacque and Marie provided a very warm reception and have provided an abundance of books and information about Lyon and its attractions. They helpfully booked our first night’s dinner at a nearby Bouchon, Les Retrouvailles which was a wonderful meal and a perfect introduction to the culinary splendour of this city. Other outstanding restaurants we enjoyed were; Bouchon Le Jura, and Le Canut et Les Gones, both easily accessible in other parts of the city. The old city is chock full of tourist Bouchons so be sure to ask Jacques and Marie where the locals go.
The streets and laneways of the old city are wonderful to wander through, while access to the rest of Lyon is quick and easy using the metro system or simply walking across the river into the centre of town. Some of the highlights of our visit included the Musée Miniature & Cinema, the museum of Gallo-roman civilization, the textile museum, shopping at the riverside street market day one and of course walking the amazing streets and eating the amazing food. Into museums? The Lyon City Card (transport and museums) is a no-brainer – fabulous help at the tourist office in Place Bellecour.