When to Visit - Arts and Events

Lyon's renowned Festival of Lights takes place on December 8th: citizens light candles and their local government arranges a sparkling show, illuminating notable buildings in gorgeous colours.

Conventions and artistic festivals are held throughout the year, and Lyon's many fine streetscapes, theatres, cinemas and museums mean that a visitor need never be short of diversion.


Lyon Dining

All around the city are regions rich in tasty ingredients. Fruits and vegetables come from the market gardens of the fertile Rhone and Saone valleys, dairy products and meats from Charolais and Bresse, game from the hills, and fish from rivers and lakes.

Two millennia of inventiveness and wealth have helped the Lyonnais turn these into a famous cuisine. Noted dishes include "Cervelle de Canuts" (soft cheese with herbs), "bugnes" beignets (fritters), Lyonnais salad, and "tablier de sapeur" tripes. Lyonnais food is served at both prestigious establishments and traditional local restaurants known as "bouchons".


Lyon Tipping Advice

Although a service charge is incorporated in hotel bills it is customary to tip chambermaids per night and porters by the bag. A service charge is included on restaurant bills, but it is usual to tip according to the level of service given.