A Guide to Lyon in a Day
As a solo traveler, Lyon immediately struck me as the French version of Paris, if that makes any sense. It has all the character and beauty of Paris without the urban chaos, which, admittedly, is part of what makes Paris special. But Lyon? Lyon is an entirely different experience. It’s calmer yet stylish, steeped in history, and filled with charm. It’s definitely worth a stop, and in my case, it felt like an ideal getaway from the fast pace of London.
The city has an impressive history, stretching back to Roman times, when it was founded as Lugdunum in 43 BC. But what makes Lyon really fascinating to me is how that history is layered into its streets. Walking through Vieux Lyon, the old town, you can’t help but feel like you’re stepping through time. The secret "traboules," hidden passageways between buildings, invite you to explore the city in a way that's truly unique. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in history—both literally and figuratively. Lyon is also home to what I believe is the most beautiful basilica in France—Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, it feels like a beacon, drawing you in. Inside, it’s even more breathtaking, with stunning mosaics and a serenity that makes you want to linger.
Where to stay: Hôtel Mercure Lyon
Situated right in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to shopping and sightseeing, and if you're coming in by train like I did, it's just a short taxi ride to Lyon Part-Dieu station. I appreciated the peace and quiet the hotel provided. From the fourth floor upwards, there’s even a view of the Rhône down the street, which adds to the charm. My room was clean and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. If you’re used to larger spaces, the standard European-sized rooms might feel a bit small, but they’re efficient and well-designed. I stayed in a privilege room, which was more spacious and included a coffee machine—a nice touch for someone like me who needs his caffeine fix in the morning. The hotel also made efforts toward environmental sustainability, which I really appreciated. Instead of plastic water bottles, they provided refillable glass bottles for use in the bedrooms, something I think more hotels should adopt. Little things like that make a difference, and it’s clear the hotel is conscious of its environmental footprint.
Other amenities, such as a small refrigerator in the room and sufficient outlets for charging electronics, were helpful. I was able to keep my devices charged and organized, which is always a relief when you’re traveling solo and need to stay connected. One of the highlights of my stay was the friendly and helpful hotel staff. As an American traveler, it was a bonus that many of them spoke English, making communication smooth and easy. They were always happy to offer recommendations or help with directions, which added to the welcoming vibe of the place.
The lobby, restaurant, and bar area were all very nice and inviting. In the mornings, I took full advantage of the breakfast offerings. The selection was solid, with both hot and cold options, as well as juices, coffees, and teas. It wasn’t an extravagant spread, but it was more than enough to get me started for the day.
Dining Experience: Le Boeuf D'Argen
Le Bœuf d'Argent is one of those places that surprises you in the best way possible. Michelin star or not, this restaurant can hold its own against any high-end spot. As a solo traveler, I appreciated the warm, welcoming vibe—it’s a small, family-run place where they clearly take pride in the experience they offer.
The menu was simple yet thoughtful, and every dish was packed with flavor. The portion sizes were perfect, leaving me satisfied without feeling stuffed. The staff went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right, and their attention to detail really made the experience feel special.
The best part? Meeting Chef Pisacane at the end of the meal. You could feel the passion and care he puts into his work. It was a master chef-level experience without the fuss, just genuine, heartfelt cooking.
