Hello. I am planning a late-August trip. Two weeks divided between London and France. We hope to avoid driving and make good travel (train/air) connections. Cooking/dining, visiting museums/historic areas and markets, and getting to know a neighborhood are some of the things we enjoy doing. I know Lyon is a foodie destination, which is great. But we are not on the hunt for Michelin-starred restaurants, we just want to enjoy local fare. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about what I’m sure are two worthy destinations!
Posted by
Normandie
368 posts
Lyon's not really a "foodie" destination, in my opinion.
Its self-proclaimed role as capital of French gastronomy is more hype than reality. Don't get me wrong: Lyon has many, many terrific restaurants and food markets; some of which very likely will amaze you if you get a chance to experience them. But it's like any large city in France: you can find good food and mediocre food. You can find fabulous food as well, if you're lucky.
Montpelier is much smaller than Lyon. Beyond food and restaurants,, Lyon has far more to offer in its museums, architecture, and history.
Both cities are worth a visit. But one -- Lyon -- is much larger, has a much longer and more interesting history, and has a far broader tableau of things to do and see; both within the métropole and beyond in its environs.
Posted by
Chicago
8815 posts
Both worth a visit but IMHO Lyon has more to offer. I loved the traboules and spent a day exploring a dozen or so of them. And the food is interesting.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10849 posts
An FYI, both cities are very hot at the end of August. Those living in the area get errands done before 10:30 (if possible) and then stay inside, with shutters keeping the sun out until late afternoon. To cope: we look for shade, either under trees, awnings, in shadows. I wear linen dresses and sandals until mid-September and always have a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen when out. Men do wear shorts. My husband always has a hat. I don't carry a water bottle; instead I stop in cafes and gelato shops.LOL Northern tourists love coming here and some even bake themselves on the beach. Enjoy, Both cities are great, just a bit hot at the end of August.
Posted by
Michigan
32 posts
We've visited both cities. Lyon was wonderful (we were there on a house exchange) but I'd say we enjoyed Montpellier more. Due to its smaller size, I think it would be easier to find (and walk to) good places to eat that serve residents more than tourists. You could take one of the food tours that would also help you identify some gems. We are heading back there in September to catch some of the guitar festival.