Lyon

Unique to Vieux Lyon and the Croix-Rousse are covered passageways known as traboules: secret conduits originally used by silk-weavers to bring their goods quickly from workshops on the Croix-Rousse hill to the textile merchants below. During World War II, when Lyon was a stronghold of resistance, local people escaped Gestapo raids through the traboules. 

Built in the early 19th century, the Passage Thiaffait is a restored traboule that houses a hub of workshops and studios creating fashion, design and jewellery, perfectly complementing the fine stores of the Presqu'île.

Check out Les Halles Paul Bocuse, Lyon’s famed indoor food market, selling gourmet produce. Lyon’s reputation as the gastronomic capital of France stems from the presence of some of France's finest chefs in the city and local area, and the nearby famous wine-growing regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhone.

One place to visit is the cathedral dedicated to St John in the old town. Built between the late 11th and early 16th centuries this medieval cathedral boasts a 14th century astronomical clock and stained glass. Among a wide choice of museums and galleries, the Musée Lumière tells the story of how the Lumière brothers pioneered cinema in Lyon in 1895. The famous puppet, Guignol, originated in Lyon, and there are regular performances that appeal to adults as well as children. Lyon is also the French capital of "trompe l'œil" walls, many of which can be seen around the city. A more recent addition is the architecturally striking Musee des Confluences, a science centre and anthropology museum.