France's second largest city, founded 2000 years ago by the Romans at the point where the Rhône meets the Saône. Take in the view from the terrace of Notre Dame Basilica, then walk through the centuries from the two Roman theatres of Fouviere to the Renaissance old town with its Mediterranean colours, the 18th century boulevards to the 19th century silk weavers' district.

Don't miss the hidden courtyards and passageways - traboules - of the Old Town; the fountains of the Place des Terreaux; and the painted trompe l'oeil walls. Then sample some of the best gastronomic restaurants in France.