I can't wait to tell you about this amazing little city. Or, can I? I'm almost having second thoughts about sharing, because this is one of my ultra special places. I wouldn't mind keeping it as a best kept secret, but sharing is caring. So here goes...here's why Lyon left me captivated.
I'm generally not the kind of person who is caught by surprise. I plan out everything and never really enter a situation (or a destination) without a plan. That's why my visit to Lyon will always be so special. I showed up unplanned, last minute, without any idea of what to expect. And oh, was I pleasantly surprised!
I'm going to get right into it to say that Lyon is easily in my top 3 list of Favourite European Cities. So there, I said it - and that says a lot. Paris isn't on that list, so yes, I liked Lyon more than Paris. What I will also say is that Lyon is not a glitzy, glamorous city. So if that's what you're looking for, this is not what's offered here. Lyon came across as that quietly sweet, yet meekly confident person who went to Harvard, holds a 6 figure job, but never once flaunts it. As you interact with the city though, you can't help but notice its understated sophistication which screams at you oh, so quietly. You slowly realize, this place is one of a kind! I love that Lyon felt laid-back, bite-sized (an interesting pun which you'll see the relevance of later), welcoming, and unintimidating, all without the "hype". At the same time, it was subtly charming and elegant. Perhaps what made me love Lyon at first, was that it took me away from Geneva. Not that I didn't like the Swiss city, but based on how stressed prices there were making me, and how preppy it felt - I welcomed the difference. Lyon felt homey, livable, authentic, more down-to-earth. While spending a few days in Geneva, Lyon ended up being a quick day trip. Travelling by bus from Geneva, we got to Lyon in about 3 hours, for approximately €40 round trip.
Remember what I said about that unassuming person who went to Harvard? What I soon discovered, is that similarly, Lyon has its fair share of bragging rights. It is actually the culinary capital of France. Lyon has more restaurants per head than perhaps any other European city. Most importantly, it is a foodie's delight, laced with 20 Michelin-Starred restaurants. It's also the birthplace of cinema and has been ranked the best place to live in France. Lyon has its own Notre Dame church (Notre-Dame de Fourvière) and a stunning riverside postcard scenery with pastel hued buildings. What topped things off for me was the cost-effectiveness of food. Now listen up, in Geneva I paid €20 for an individual plain pizza. In Lyon, I had one of the most attentive, tasteful and relaxing, 3 course dining experiences for only €16.50. This was just an ordinary restaurant that we stumbled upon. Yet, the quality of service and the fact that we were invited to linger and dine unrushed for 3 hours if we wanted to, was just something special! It was almost as if dining was seen as a way of life in Lyon, a highly prioritized and undisturbed ritual.
So what did I do in Lyon? In my 5-ish hours there, here's what I packed in and appreciated.
That Amazing Dining Experience: France is associated with good food. Lyon is a prime place for that good food. I had a Lyonaisse Salad for my starter, followed by another local specialty, Quenelle. This is a sausage-shaped mousse dumpling, containing either fish or meat. The dumpling is soaked in a rich creamy sauce called Nantua, which is a mixture of bechamel and crayfish butter. Quite satisfying! For dessert, I had the most delicious crêpe of my life -- filled with a Lyonaisse candy called, Praline Rose de Lyon. Guys! Believe me! It was all pleasantly amazing! Our bistro was small, cozy and hospitable. The presentation and service definitely left us satisfied. We spent most of our time there, and I don't regret it one bit!
2. The Riverside View: the scenery reminded me very much of Prague, the Czech Republic's capital, which is often celebrated for its architectural beauty. You'll definitely want to take a few photos here to capture the peaceful, post card scenery.
3. The Churches: we weren't looking out for them, but we stumbled across beautiful cathedrals. Be sure to take a few minutes to inhale their intricacy and beauty, both inside and out.
4. The Lookout: on the way to the Notre Dame, is a little park/panoramic view where one can rest the feet, have a snack, savour the cityscape and snap a few pics. So stop and smell the roses (there were no roses, but you get the idea) !
5. The Notre Dame: unfortunately, as we had to rush to catch our bus back to Geneva, we didn't end up seeing the Notre Dame up close. We had to settle for a distant view and postcard images. If you have more time on your hands, which I'm sure you will, do the trek and enjoy this attraction.
Aside from these 5 aspects I experienced, Lyon has quite a bit to offer in terms of shopping opportunities. There's a shopping street close to the main bus station where lovers of fashion and fine labels can pick up a treat or two. Cafes and bakeries, hidden in narrow, unassuming alleys are littered around the city. I also found getting around to be super easy. The city seemed quite small and we got everywhere on foot. This means we got to discover little nooks and crannies, which was quite exhilarating. Of course, if your budget allows, pamper your taste buds to a Michelin-Starred meal.
Takeaways from Lyon, France
I left Lyon with more than just photos, souvenirs or memories, I left with quite a few life lessons. I learned that sometimes simplicity is the most stunning form of excellence - one's strengths do not always have to be flaunted. They will be discovered effortlessly when they need to, and by whom they need to. I also learned the importance of truly slowing down and enjoying a meal/life/the present/good company. I've never sat for so long just to eat and connect, without rushing to or thinking about the next thing. There was something about Lyon's atmosphere that made this type of mindfulness easy. I also admired the hospitality of the restaurant staff, I hope to serve others that well. Merci Lyon, c'etait magnifique (do your thing, my rusty college level French! I promise I didn't use Google Translate for that 🤪)!