Where to Eat and Stay in Lyon

Fine-dining spots, bustling markets, and atmospheric Bouchons (traditional Lyonnaise restaurants) all play a role here. After a hearty meal, you’ll need a comfy place to rest. Boutique hideaways, trendy apartments, and luxurious hotels are peppered throughout the city, so you’ll easily be able to pick out a place to stay that meets your needs.

To help you make the most of your time in Lyon, we’ve selected some of the best places to eat, drink, and stay. Make sure you reserve your room and tables early – these picks are bound to be popular.

Where to Eat in Lyon

Daniel et Denise

You can't go to Lyon without paying a Bouchon a visit. These restaurants are native to this city and serve up traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. One of the best is Daniel et Denise along Rue de Créqui. Settle down at a table bedecked in a red and white checkered tablecloth, and flick through the meat-heavy menu that includes pot-roasted calf kidneys, sautéed brains, and tête de veau – calf's head.

Le Bouchon des Filles

The next Bouchon to dine out at is – as the name suggests - owned and run by women. Dishes here tend to be on the lighter side than the hearty ones you’ll find elsewhere, which is ideal if you want to sample the local cuisine and still save room for dessert. Enjoy the warm, cozy atmosphere as you tuck into fish quenelle and delicious lentil salad.

Le Kitchen Café

You’ll find one of Lyon’s most sought-after restaurants in the university district. Le Kitchen Café’s most popular seats are the two at the kitchen bar, where you can watch your meal being prepared before your eyes. As well as serving seasonal breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this has the city’s only ‘dessert bar.’ Make sure you try the marble cake.

Le Trois Dômes

This fine-dining spot, in the heart of the antiques district near to Place Bellecour, might not be much to look at from the outside.

However, rest assured that Le Trois Dômes is all about what’s on the inside. Take the lift to the eighth floor, and you’ll be greeted with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy succulent seafood, such as lobster tenderloin and pike quenelle, with views over the Rhône and city beyond. On a clear day, you can see right across to Mont Blanc.

Le Halles Paul Bocuse

Dive headfirst into culinary heaven at Lyon’s famous indoor food market, named after one of the city’s most famous chefs. Le Halles Paul Bocuse first opened its doors in 1971 and has been delighting foodies ever since. More than 50 vendors are spread across three floors, including butchers, bakers, and fishmongers. Flit between traders peddling lip-smacking praline brioche and fresh shrimp, and send your taste buds into overdrive.

Where to Stay in Lyon

Villa Florentine

For five-star luxury and panoramic views to match, look no further than Villa Florentine on Fourvière Hill. The architecture of this former convent was inspired by the Italian Renaissance, while the ochre, peach, and caramel facades are reminiscent of Florence.

You can experience peace and tranquility here, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Head to the spa and heated outdoor pool to relax and take in the views of Lyon. Make sure you visit Les Terrasses de Lyon during your stay, the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, where unique cooking techniques transform local ingredients. In the summer, enjoy meals on the terrace that looks out across the rooftops.

Hotel le Royal

The impressive five-star Hotel le Royal boasts a central location in Place Bellecour, right in the heart of Lyon. You can roll straight out of bed and head out to discover the city’s top attractions within moments.

The building, which was designed by French architect Pierre Perrin, dates back to 1895 when it was originally called the Grand Hôtel Bellecour. Inside, you’ll find elegant and classic decor, combining both traditional and modern elements, along with an inviting vibe that ensures you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. The rooms, which have hosted the likes of The Beatles, enjoy views across Place Bellecour, and the Rhône and Saône rivers.

In the morning, enjoy a continental or American breakfast in the Côté Cuisine. Next door in L’Insitut, inspired by Lyonnais chef Paul Bocuse, you’ll find contemporary cuisine made with fresh local produce from the Halles de Lyon food market.

Cour des Loges

Book into Cour des Loges for a quiet five-star retreat in the heart of Lyon’s old town, nestled between medieval and Renaissance architecture.

Cathédrale St-Jean-Baptiste is within walking distance, as are many of the city’s museums. The decor is almost theatrical with hand-painted murals and silk tapestries. Sink into one of the heavenly beds or relax in the spa, where you’ll find a hot tub, sauna, steam room, and indoor pool. The interior courtyard, with its sky-high glass roof, is the most beautiful space to enjoy a peaceful breakfast. In the evening, the Renaissance-style space morphs into a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Villa Maia

Situated above the city on Fourvière Hill, Villa Maia is just around the corner from the ancient Roman theater. From here, it takes only a few minutes to drive downhill to the UNESCO-listed old town. After a day of exploring, you can take the weight off your feet in the spa. Enjoy the heated indoor pool, hot tub, and steam room before heading to Tetedoie, the award-winning onsite restaurant.

Where are your favorite places to stay and eat in Lyon? Let us know your recommendations on Twitter.

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