Lyon simply a brilliant place

Lyon known for it’s roman architecture, silk industry and the good food was interesting to visit. I could have easily spend a few days more in Lyon. Especially because on my last day I was mainly occupied with retrieving my train ticket without my credit card.

Cool & Bed was the backpackers I stayed at during the three days I was in Lyon.The hostel has a lot to offer. There is a kitchen, which you can use and breakfast is included in the room price as well. The buffet is small but it was enough for me. Furthermore there is a common area with a bar, tv and computer. I slept in the 6 beds dormitory and was lucky that my roommates where quiet so I could get a good nights sleep. The only downside was that it is located a bit outside of town near the metro station Valmy.

On Wednesday I set off to do the route a good friend that is from Lyon had recommended me. Unfortunately the weather was not very nice at all. It was cold and grey overcast all day long. Nevertheless I did the tour that starts at Bellecourt and goes up along the Rue de la Republic, which is one of the shopping streets. I was there early in the morning so all the shops where closed. I took a left after the Mango shop and came to the beautiful Théâtre dés Celestins building. From there my walk continued along the river Saône through fresh vegs and fruit stalls. The fifth stop marks the wall paintings on the building near place St-Vincent. The painting is massive and covers the while facade on the rear of the building. It is very detailled and you can take some time to enjoy all the little stories. To get to the Basilique Notre-Dame Fourvière I walked through Vieux Lyon along rue Saint Jean and up the hill. From the hill I am sure there is a georgeous view over the city but it was so foggy I could not see much. As the funiculaire was closed I walked back down and over the bridge to place Bellecour where my walk had started.

In the evening I went out with a couple of old friends. As they are locals we met at a great place called Le Broc Café just of Rue de la Republic. Had a few beers, some pizza and good fun there.

On my last day in Lyon I spent most of my time at the train station to get my train ticket. I was very lucky that the guy at the counter made it possible for me to print the ticket without showing my credit card. They where clearly not allowed to do this but anyway it worked in my favour and I haven’t had to pay again for the same ticket. The train journey from Lyon to Turin was scenic at first when we passed parts of the alps. As it got dark later I started writing this blog entry and watched the funny movie Despicable Me.

Stay tuned to read what’s happening next on my adventure from London to Singapore by train.