Car Hire Lyon Bron Shell

Guide

Lyon is one of France's oldest and largest cities. The city has a rich architectural and cultural history as it was one of the first to be founded under the nation. The ancient French city expanded centuries ago as a regional centre for silk traders, who built luxurious Renaissance-style buildings which can still be seen in the city today. Lyon is now a popular hub for industry, housing the headquarters for Interpol.

To see the sites of Lyon and it's beautiful surrounding countryside and small villages we advise travellers to opt for car hire. It's the easiest way of getting around, as once you're out of Lyon public transport is limited. Taxi's are far to expensive to pay someone to drive you around for the day. The roads are easy and well signposted, so even the least confident of drivers will enjoy the experience of a hire car.

In the city's old town, situated below the hill of Fourviere, visitors can stroll along winding ancient streets including rue St-Jean, a larger street which is closed off to motorists and offers a walking market. Another site located in the older part of town is the Cathedrale St-Jean, and past the Renaissance cathedral are two Roman theatres which have been excavated and restored.

For fun activities with children or for those that enjoy the outdoors invest in a hire car and drive up D383 towards the river and visit Parc de la Tete d'Or. Located in the northern region of the city, the park boasts several ponds, rose gardens, botanical gardens, a modest zoo, as well as equipment for small children to play with.

Lyon is also a great base from which to enjoy day trips to surrounding areas in the countryside. The Monts du Lyonnais, a short drive southwest of the city, is a beautiful range of mountains with rich forests and cherry orchards. The range also offers a few scattered villages that are usually free from the crowds of the city.