Lyon may be France’s second city, but it’s undoubtedly the first when it comes to food. With fantastic markets and restaurants ranging from Michelin-starred establishments to cosy bouchons (Lyonnais bistros), Lyon is the undisputed foodie capital of France. The food-focused experiences combine with vibrant culture and a prosperous university, while the city’s well-preserved Renaissance architecture reveals 2,000 years worth of fascinating history. Outside the city, cycle through the vineyards of Beaujolais and discover for yourself that while these wines are dismissed by many, the ten Beaujolais Cru Domaines are a serious step up from the Beaujolais of your imagination.

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France testimonials

10 reviews
4.7 / 5
"The Concierge were responsive and helpful on the couple of occasions we contacted them, and the hotels were great. Our favourite was Hôtel Version Maquis Santa Manza, Bonifacio - the buggy ride to the secluded beach was amazing! We really enjoyed the 4x4 tour of the Agriates desert too, and the guide was very good."
P - UK
Published on 29th September 2025
"Izzy delivered on all our expectations. Her care and attention to detail were outstanding, and her knowledge of the country and its regions was incredibly helpful. Our Concierge was super responsive to all of our requests and queries. The whole trip was superb, and we were never disappointed. The quality and professionalism of Izzy and the whole team never failed to impress. We are incredibly grateful to Original Travel for giving us such a wonderful time. Thank you."
C - UK
Published on 2nd September 2025
"Izzy has arranged a few European trips for us and she is fabulous. We have high expectations and were very happy with our trip. Our tour guide for three days was outstanding and the restaurant recommendations were exactly as we hoped. We do a lot of travel and this trip is at or near the top."
D - USA
Published on 16th May 2025

Located within the gastronomic heartland of France, Lyon has no shortage of gourmet spots to choose from, including an impressive 20 Michelin-starred restaurants. Defined by its quality and simplicity, Lyonnaise cuisine is both undeniably French and wonderfully distinct. Feast on rosette lyonnaise (cured saucisson), coq au vin and quenelle (creamed fish or meat) washed down with the finest Beaujolais wine. Some of the city’s historical stand-outs include Cathédrale St-Jean-Baptiste, Lyon’s Romanesque-style cathedral, and Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, a stunning example of French ecclesiastical architecture.


Vieux Lyon – the city’s largest Renaissance district and a UNESCO World Heritage site – is home to well-preserved Renaissance-era mansions intersected by traboules (covered alleyways denoted by subtle plaques on discreet doorways dotted around town). The atmospheric Croix-Rousse area of the city is particularly delightful and away from the city itself, you can explore charming medieval villages such as Pérouges, Oingt or Vienne with its Roman remains.

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