Often overlooked as a European city break destination, Lyon has much to offer city-breakers in search of fine French cuisine, washed down by fine wine and cuploads of culture. With a cheap flight on Easyjet from Stansted or a slightly more expensive BA flight from Heathrow, Lyon is only 1 hr 20 mins from London (plus a 30-40 minute taxi ride to the heart of the city). Having now travelled to Lyon several times on business (with ample time to explore the numerous attractions it offers) I would certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a city break in France. Two thousand years of history have left their mark on the cityscape. Lyon's rich heritage resources reflect the different eras and tell the story of the city. Lyon's listing by UNESCO as a World Heritage site gives recognition to the historic centre of Lyon - a territory of 500 hectares where the entire history of the city can be seen, from the founding of the Roman city of Lugdunum onwards.With two famous rivers - the Rhone and Saone - meandering through the heart of the old city, Lyon has plentiful riverside walks with a dramatic backdrop of impressive old mansions dominated by the imposing Cathedral of St-Jean.A weekend in Lyon would just about do it justice, but 3 nights would be perfect. I'd even be tempted to visit again in January - it is not often that you get the chance to sip a glass of red wine and nibble on Lyon's much-loved saucisson whilst sat in a t-shirt in warm winter sunshine! Only in France....
