Lyon offers visitors an endless area of historic sites and charming city squares, especially in the old city (Vieux Lyon) which is listed in its entirety as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Renaissance-era mansions are commonplace, as the booming 15^th-century silk market funded countless building projects. Visit Fourvière Hill for panoramic views of the city along with a chance to explore the Basilica and two ancient Roman theatres.

Basilique de Notre-Dame-de-Fourvière
Perched on Fourvière Hill, this cathedral looms over the city of Lyon. It was privately financed and built in the late 19^th century in response to France’s recent invasion and defeat at the hands of the Prussians. The intensely ornate, faux-Byzantine basilica with its mosaics, marble and gold announced the Catholic Church’s longstanding wealth and perseverance despite its waning support. The church is visible from virtually every vantage point in Lyon; likewise, a commanding view of the city is available from the basilica observatory accessed via a 287-step staircase.

Cathédrale St-Jean
Decidedly less opulent than the Fourvière Basilica, the Cathédrale St-Jean reserves the bulk of historic importance. Begun in the 12^th century, the cathedral replaced a previously ruined church from the 6^th century and took three centuries to finish. The façade itself is somewhat modest, especially as it sits in the shadow of the distantly looming Fourvière Basilica although there are several notable features inside. One of the most novel attractions in the cathedral is an astronomical clock from the 14^th century. Also of note is a set of stained glass windows in the choir that date to the 13^th century. Phone: +33 4 7892 8229.

Hôtel Bullioud
Most notable about this Renaissance-era mansion is its architect, Philibert Delorme. One of France’s first and finest proponents of Classical architecture, Delorme’s legacy spans many churches across the French countryside. The mansion is infused with iconic imagery that hints at ancient temples. Be sure to climb the spiral staircase from the gallery to the terrace where you can view the pillars that support the entire structure.

Jardin Archéologique
The archaeological garden is an important excavation site that was discovered during the post-revolution demolition of local apartment buildings. Subsequently, the ruins of two churches (one built on top of another) were unearthed. The single-greatest remnant from these churches is a relatively well-preserved archway that has been incorporated into the garden décor. Jardin Archéologique is found along Rue de la Bombarde.

Maison du Crible
This historic mansion dates to the 1600s, making it one of Lyon’s oldest. The house’s greatest asset is its fine courtyard and lovely gardens. Maison du Crible’s original owner was an affluent tax collector, and the soaring, pink tower that leers over the gardens was a clear indicator of his wealth and prestige.

Place Bellecour
One of France’s largest city squares, Place Bellecour is the voguish centrepiece of Lyon. Several classical structures were built along the square’s fringes in the early 19^th century. The square is situated equidistant between the Rhône and Saône rivers, and its most prominent asset in the park is an imposing, bronze statue of Louis XIV poised confidently on horseback. The tower near the post office dates to the 1600s.

Place des Terreaux
Named after the earth (terre) that was used to fill the ancient Roman canal that formerly cut through here, the Place des Terreaux was the ominous staging ground of the guillotine executions during the French Revolution. Predating the revolution, the Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) is also located here. This structure was originally constructed in the 1500s, and then rebuilt in Baroque style after a fire at the end of the 1600s. Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi designed the series of 69 fountains that span the square.

Théâtres Romains
Nestled into the Fourvière Hillside, these two semicircular theatres are one of the most remarkable such collections of ruins in France. They are brought into the spotlight every September when Lyon’s International Arts Festival is hosted here. Of the two structures, the Grand Theatre was built in 15 BC, accommodated 10,000 and is the oldest Roman theatre in the country. Its smaller counterpart, the Odéon, was designed especially for the arts, hosting poetry and music recitals.

Learn about the silk industry. Once Lyon’s primary industry, traditional silk weaving still takes place in the city. The Silk-Weavers’ House doubles as an interesting museum and an actual textile facility that continues to produce this traditional product. Phone: +33 4 7828 6204.

Plan a daytrip to Pérouges. Located just over 20 miles from Lyon, Pérouges is a medieval city that still boasts a wealth of ancient architecture including a fortified church. Portions of the city’s ramparts are still intact, and the 13th-century hostelry (ostellerie) is one of the primary attractions.

Ride the historic train. The Chemin de Fer du Vivarais (or the Vivarais Railway) is situated in the Doux Valley suburb. This historic railway dates to the late 19th century and continues to operate novelty tours that employ its period machinery. Particularly well-suited for families with children, the return trip lasts 2 hours.

Sample local wines. The Beaujolais wine region is located in Lyon’s hinterland, and visitors here have an excellent opportunity to try some of the world’s best-regarded wine straight from the vintners. The heart of the wine producing region is less than 20 miles outside of Lyon in Hameau en Beaujolais.

Take a walking tour of the city. The old city (Vieux Lyon) is perhaps best seen on foot. Lyon’s Tourist Office organises walking tours of various length (and in various languages) throughout the year. Tours can be tailored to focus on the arts, on history or on a particular period in the city’s development. Phone: +33 4 7277 6969.

View the Grottos of Balme. Situated outside of Lyon between Lagnieu and Crémieu, the Grottes de la Balme is a collection of historic caves. Also on site are several natural attractions including a waterfall and a picturesque lake.

Visit the Basillique de Notre Dame. This church on Fourvière Hill was built on the site of Lyon’s first Roman outpost. The church employs an unusual blend of architectural styles that set it apart from other religious structure in the city. Free guided tours are available in the afternoon during the main tourist season.