We're staying in Lyon for 3 nights after a Rhone River cruise. Are there destinations within an hour of Lyon, and tour operators or drivers that anyone knows of? We'll probably have lots to see and do in Lyon, but the cruise is also stopping in Lyon for a day before we disembark.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
I wouldn't lock in any plan, since you will find a lot to see in Lyon. Trains From Lyon Perrache station toward Macon stop within an one hour at some towns of the Beajolais region, such as Romaneche Thorins. That's the only destination Rick mentions witin an hour of Lyon. Or, to get a little closer to the mountains, you could take a direct train or bus to lakeside Annecy (both reflected on train schedules, 2 - 2.5 hours each way, no need to reserve ahead). Trains also run to [Beaune[(http://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/video/tv-show/burgundy-profoundly-french) in under 2 hours, where you can get a small-town vibe, taste wine, and see the famous Medieval hospital museum, Hospice de Beaune.