first year away from france -- guide to lyon #1

In honor (I guess) to mark my first year away from France, I think I'll do a guide on Lyon. Just for fun and the fact that I miss Lyon so much. It's high time I go back. Of course, I only lived in Lyon for a year -- so if anyone would like to correct me, please do so!

Brief introduction of Lyon:

Lyon is located in the southeast of France, nested near the Alps and quite close to Switzerland and Italy. It is the capital of the Rhône-Alps Province. There's still a debate about whether or not it's the second or the third biggest city (rival with Marseille). However, because I'm biased, to me, Lyon is the second biggest city. It is known to be the gastronomic center of France as well as a historic center. Lyon is the birthplace of cinema. The weather in Lyon is also slightly different from other cities in France because of its proximity to the Alps.

Lyon can be separated into 10 sections:

1. Fourvière Hill
2. Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
3. Presqu'île (Almost Island)
4. Croix-Rousse
5. Confluence
6. Part-Dieu
7. Brotteaux
8. Guillotière
9. Etats-Unis
10. Vaise

There are a total of 9 arrondissement in Lyon.

Many of these sections are classified as a UNESCO world heritage site such as Vieux Lyon. History dates Lyon back to 12,000 BC, however, the Romans founded this city (called Lugdunum) in 43 BC. Indeed, when one visits Lyon, there are some Roman ruins there. In 27 AD, the city was promoted to the capital of the Gauls. It was returned to France later and the city started to flourish.

During the World War II, Lyon was an in-between city in the occupied zone and the free zone. The Resistance movement was strong and was strategic place for both the Germans and the French.

Today, Lyon is a place of vibrant culture with a unique blend of both the modern and the old. There are plenty of activities happening on both sides of the rivers and every year, flocks of international students come to Lyon to study. The official language is French, although many young people do know some English. Still, one should learn some French to impress!

GUIDE TO GETTING AROUND IN LYON.

To get around Lyon, there are many choices. Of course, walking is always an option, providing you're not tired. But here is a list of public transportation to get you to your destination.

1. Trams
2. Buses
3. Metros
4. Bikes
5. Taxis

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To ride the buses, trams, or metros, you need to buy a ticket. 
Generally, tickets are:
€1,60 for 75 mins. 
€2,60 for 2 hours
€4,90 for one day


10 tickets: €14,30
10 tickets for students: €12,50
Family members with 3 kids under 18 (10 tickets): €10


There are 4 metro lines (A-D) 

Line A is red: It goes from Perrache (in Presqu'île to Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie)
Line B is blue: It goes from Charpennes to Stade de Gerland
Line C is yellow: It goes from Hôtel de Ville to Cuire
Line D is green: It goes from Gare de Vaise to Gare de Vénissieux 


These are the easiest to use and transfer at any point


Trams: There are 4 tram lines (T1-T4) -- useful for suburbs and going to campuses

The little machine to insert your ticket, or if you have a card, simply use your card to touch the top

One of the trams

T1: Montrochet to IUT Feyssine
T2: Perrache to St. Priest Bel Air
T3: Gare de Part Dieu Villette to Meyzieu
T4: Jet d'Eau Mèndes to Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux


There are over 100 Bus lines to ride too!


Because I was a student in France, I had a carte Tecely. The card is €25,50 per month and it is unlimited ride trams, metros and buses. To apply for this, you have to be living in France, bring a photo, proof you're a student and living in Lyon. 

Bikes: Do ride bikes here -- except uphill of course. Biking is one of the best past times here and also a way to get places. Either rent bikes or if you have a card issued from Europe, you can rent a bike called Velo'v. To see a list of where all the bike stations are, click here. 


To ride for one day, it is €1, or 3 days, €3. 
After that, the first 30 mins are free and rates after that depend on whether or not you have a year's subscription or a short term rental. But they are cheap and fairly priced. HOWEVER, note that there is a €150 deposit -- so make sure you have enough money in your account!


Of course, there are always taxis, but they are fairly expensive and I would recommend not taking them. Besides, the best way to see a city is walking and taking public transportation. 


Both Perrache and Part Dieu are train stations. The Lyon airport is about 30 mins away from Part Dieu and accessible by either driving or taking the Rhone express. You can get on the Rhone express from Part Dieu. 


Tickets for Rhone Express:
THESE ARE PRICES LISTED IF YOU BUY ONLINE.
One way: 13 euros
2 way: 23 euros
12 -25 years old one way: 11 euros
12 -25 years old 2 way: 19 euros




Tune in tomorrow to read about what places to see! For guide #2, click here.