Why is Lyon a great place to study?

If you haven’t heard of the French city of Lyon, then you need to hear about it! Located just two hours away from Paris and close to the Swiss border, this fascinating city is practically overflowing with wonder. An epicentre of French history, cuisine, and wine, it’s the perfect place for students to improve their language skills whilst also embarking on a cultural adventure. As the third largest city in the country, it really does have something to keep everyone happy.  

So, why is it that we love Lyon so much? Here are just five reasons: 

1 Gastronomical capital of France 

We can’t talk about Lyon and not mention it’s reputation for fantastic food. With more restaurants per capita than other city in the country, tourists are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to eat. Known especially for their meat-based stews and homegrown produce, Lyon knows how to make your mouth water. 

And of course, you can wash it all down with an extra special glass of wine, thanks to the many nearby wineries, including Beaujolais, Burgundy and Condrieu. 

2 Plethora of art and music 

Lyon truly has something for everyone! Despite being known for great food and Roman ruins, this city also has a rich artistic culture, with more than 100 murals dotted throughout its streets, including the Fresque des Canuts and the Fresque des Lyonnais by the Saône river, which delights tourists and locals alike.  

But it doesn’t stop there. For something to appease the ears, Lyon also has a budding electronic music scene which forms the basis of its lively nightlife. In the summer, you can attend the Nuits de Fourvière festival, and watch elite musical talents from across the world perform. 

3 Birthplace of Cinema 

If you’re into film, then you need to head to the Institut Lumière in Lyon and discover how the iconic Lumière brothers changed the face of modern cinema forever. If you travel during October, you might also be able to attend the famous Lyon film festival! Is there anything more glamourous? 

4 Combination of old and new architecture 

Lyon’s architecture is a monumental homage to its long history, with the buildings transporting tourists through ages, from the fantastic Roman ruins in the form of the Fourvière amphitheatre (foreshadowing the city’s future role in the performing arts) to the gothic Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and the very modern Musée des Confluences of science and anthropology. Truly, a historian’s dream! 

5 Connections to the outdoors (and Paris!) 

Want to keep exploring? Lyon is surrounded by many national parks that offer escapism for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend their weekends hiking, canoeing, mountain biking and (in the winter) skiing. But if you wish to venture further, the city is only two hours from the French capital of Paris, where you can find some of the best and most fashionable shops around, as well as legendary museums and landmarks. 

Want to learn in Lyon? We can help – check out our website and discover our many courses and programmes and find out how Alpadia can help you achieve your goals.