Why visit
Lyon is France's gastronomic capital. Bouchons for traditional food, Vieux Lyon's Renaissance old town, and traboules (hidden passageways) used by silk weavers.
France at a glance
Country center
46.0°, 2.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
551,695 km²
213,011 mi²
Country population
64.8 million
117/km²
Subregion
Western Europe
Currency
Euro (€)
EUR
Dial
+33
Language
French
Demonym
French
Internet
.fr
UN
Member state
ISO code
FR / FRA
Where in the world
46.0° · 2.0°
France
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Did you know
- Lyon is considered France's gastronomic capital; the "bouchon" bistro tradition is unique to the city.
- Traboules (covered passageways between buildings) were used by silk workers; some date from the 4th century and are still public.
- Lyon is the birthplace of cinema: the Lumière brothers filmed the first-ever movie here in 1895.
- France is the most-visited country in the world: around 90 million tourists annually.
- The Eiffel Tower was meant to be temporary: built for the 1889 World's Fair and only kept because it made a good radio antenna.
Bordering France
Traveler notes
- Paul Bocuse's restaurant still operates
- Les Halles Paul Bocuse market
- Day-trip to Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône
Plan checks
- Build a three-day plan before extending. Most travel cities are easy to undersell to yourself.
- Check seasonal timing: high season can triple costs on some coastal destinations.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Lyon
What currency is used in Lyon?
Lyon uses the Euro (€), ISO code EUR.
What languages are spoken in France?
The primary language is French.
What is the international calling code for France?
The calling code is +33.
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