Economy in Lyon

Travelers visiting Lyon for the very first time may be surprised by the hectic rhythm of every day life à la lyonnaise – in fact, what other mark could better represent a city breathing business and commerce? Moreover, this breath with arms wide opened seems deep and efficient enough to give Lyon the status of the second city in France in terms of economy. Locals’ affinity for business is far from being a caprice of nowadays generations, but it’s an ancient feature which improved along time and founded a tradition when it comes to business. In the past, the city of Lyon has well known how to play its cards, that is it got all the advantages provided by an ideal geographic situation sprinkled with lots of rivers. Dynamic and leading the hierarchy of European urban centers, Lyon was the first town in changing currency and the very first in opening a bank in France.

Lyon – Cost of Living

Tourists visiting Lyon can take the pleasure of a wonderful stay without actually spending large amounts of money, at least, less money if in a classic tourist resort.    Enjoy a wide array of urban entertainment, exquisite food and appropriate accommodations at best rates à la française.

Lyon is the legendary city of French cuisine, therefore eating, in fact savoring local dishes it’s a must of any exhaustive tourist approach to the city. Moreover, count on using your credit card the worry-free way! First of all, if in a restaurant, hearty breakfasts within anyone’s reach are the best choice, given restaurants’ common tendency of asking higher prices for dinner menus than for breakfast courses. In groceries, buying bread, cheese, pâté or sausages it’s nothing else but a yummy bargain: French snack-bars are given the best world wide reputation. As for having a drink in a café, the shrewd visitor can easily seize the price difference when enjoying his drink sitting at a bar or just standing up. But you will surely spend less money on drinks if buying them in the bookshop-like stores.

Event listing

There are plenty of cultural events in Lyon, especially during summer, and not few are those of international acclaim. In fact, Lyon is quite well-known for its two international biennials dedicated to contemporary art and dance.

Events

A city filled with life every day of the year; for residents and tourists alike, Lyon seizes the spirit of goodwill through a mosaic of celebrations, be they historical, religious, cultural, sport-related or gastronomical. The sacred and the profane go hand in hand in the Lyonnais festivities in a variety of ever-captivating approaches.

The Festival of Lights (Festival des Lumières) is the popular historic celebration of the 8th of December; linked to the rebuilding of the old Chapelle de Fourvière bell tower 150 years ago, the city transforms, making of this an occasion for artistic representations, lights shows and sharing feelings. On the historic celebration of the 14th of July, pyrotechnics are launched from the Fourvière basilica, somehow illustrating the cheerfulness resounding in the hearts of all French. Lighting engineers, plastic artists, landscapers, video makers, designers and architects, all those who bring these festivities to life, attract about 4 million visitors every year.