If you want to fall in love with Lyon, Anna’s little studio apartment tucked in the hillside of Croix Paquet is perfect. It has the “old world” charm of a hillside village, with many quaint cafes (I recommend Le Perko, just down the hill) and wine bars filled with people on a summer’s evening. Yet you are minutes away from vibrant city life: Hotel de Ville, Rue de La République, the Metro, and several cultural sites, from the grand Opera House and Fine Arts Museum to dozens of small avant garde theatres in the neighborhood. The apartment is a good basic studio, with a comfortable bed, a clean bathroom, and two big windows overlooking a quiet courtyard. It was an excellent place place to “crash” after a long day of sightseeing — even on a hot summer day there was a lovely evening breeze. It is up a rather steep hill (or major staircase from Metro), which could be a challenge for someone with a disability — or too much luggage! — but for the adventurous tourist, it’s worth the climb for the neighborhood, the view, the quiet parks, the charming shops, and friendly people.
Anna was always available by phone and kindly answered all questions (in excellent English.) Her flexibility in check-in/check out was greatly appreciated.