Solo Adventure in Lyon: A Journey of Culture and Cuisine

Lyon Through a Different Lens

Today was a day of delightful contrasts, a blend of cinematic wonder and historical immersion that only a city like Lyon could offer. It's amazing how much you can discover when you allow yourself to wander without a rigid plan, just a simple itinerary and a thirst for exploration. I started my day ready to discover more about this beautiful city, knowing that Fatoumata and the kids would love to hear all about it when I get back to Montreal.



I began my morning with a hearty breakfast at Petit Ogre. The reviews I had read spoke of a chef with an inventive mind, and they were spot on. The meal was a delightful explosion of flavors, a perfect start to a day of exploration. The staff was so friendly, and the chef even took the time to come out and chat with me, sharing his passion for cooking. It reminded me of the warmth and conviviality of Malian hospitality.



With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I made my way to the Musée Cinéma et Miniature. I had read about it, but nothing prepared me for the sheer artistry and detail on display. The museum is housed in a beautiful old building in Vieux Lyon, which added to the charm. The museum is divided into two distinct sections: one dedicated to cinematic arts and the other to miniatures. It's amazing to see props and costumes from famous movies, like the mask from The Mask and items from Mrs. Doubtfire! I even saw a short documentary explaining how they filmed a scene from Jurassic Park. It was fascinating to see the behind-the-scenes magic that brings these stories to life.




Explore the unique blend of cinema and miniatures at Musée Cinéma et Miniature in Lyon, a must-visit cultural attraction for all art and film lovers.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

What truly captivated me, however, was the miniature section. The level of detail in these tiny worlds was simply astounding. Each miniature scene was a work of art, a testament to the patience and skill of the artists. From bustling city streets to cozy interiors, every detail was perfect. I found myself completely lost in these tiny worlds, marveling at the craftsmanship and the stories they told. I know Aminata would have been thrilled to see the miniature dolls and Ibrahim would have been amazed by the Batman room. It was a reminder that art comes in many forms, and sometimes the smallest creations can have the biggest impact. Even though some areas were marked as unsuitable for children, I think my kids would have enjoyed it as much as I did.



After immersing myself in the world of cinema and miniatures, I decided to explore La Croix-Rousse. This historic district is known as the the hill that works, in contrast to Fourvière, the hill that prays. It was once the heart of Lyon's silk industry, and its narrow streets and traboules (covered passageways) are a testament to its rich history. As I wandered through the neighborhood, I could almost hear the clatter of looms and the voices of the canuts (silk workers) who once lived and worked here. I learned that silk weaving in Lyon started in the 15th century, and by the 19th century, La Croix-Rousse was the center of the industry. The buildings were designed with high ceilings and large windows to accommodate the looms and provide ample light.




Explore the artistic heart of Lyon at La Croix-Rousse, where history, culture, and gastronomy come together in a vibrant neighborhood.



I visited Atelier de Soierie - BROCHIER SOIERIES, a silk workshop that has been in operation for generations. It was fascinating to see the artisans at work, creating beautiful silk scarves and fabrics using traditional techniques. The history of silk weaving in Lyon is deeply intertwined with the history of the city itself. In the 19th century, the silk workers, known as canuts, staged revolts against poor working conditions, marking the beginning of the labor movement in France. The Croix-Rousse became the heart of the silk industry because of its pure air and tall buildings that housed the silk workers' looms.




Explore the rich heritage of silk weaving at Atelier de Soierie - Brochier Soieries, a unique fusion of fashion and history in Lyon.



Walking through La Croix-Rousse, I felt a connection to the past, a sense of the lives and struggles of the people who had come before me. The traboules, in particular, were fascinating. These covered passageways were used by silk merchants to transport their goods, protected from the rain and prying eyes. They are a hidden network of tunnels and courtyards, a secret world beneath the streets of Lyon. It was amazing to imagine the silk merchants carrying their precious fabrics through these passages, their footsteps echoing through the centuries. The Croix-Rousse is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The area has a rich history that has left a unique heritage inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998. As a center of the silk industry, where the first French workers' revolts were born, Croix-Rousse has been deeply marked by its history.



Before heading back to the hotel, I stopped for lunch at L'Alsacien Lyon - Bar à Flammekueche -. I had heard great things about their flammekueche, a traditional Alsatian dish similar to a thin-crust pizza. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of walking. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. The staff made me feel right at home, and I enjoyed chatting with them about the history of the dish and the restaurant's connection to Alsace. The reviews I read beforehand were right on the money.




Experience authentic Alsatian cuisine at L'Alsacien Lyon - home of delicious Flammekueche and vibrant live music.



For dinner, I had made a reservation at Jérémy Galvan, a restaurant known for its innovative and creative cuisine. It was a culinary experience, a journey of flavors and textures that delighted the senses. The chef's passion for local ingredients and his commitment to sustainability were evident in every dish. The restaurant had a sophisticated atmosphere, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery. I am so glad I chose to come here, as the food was amazing. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with cinematic wonder and historical immersion.




Experience the pinnacle of French gastronomy at Jérémy Galvan, where exquisite flavors meet artistic presentation in a charming Lyon setting.



Tomorrow, I plan to visit Place Bellecour and the Opéra National de Lyon. I also hope to experience Lyon's nightlife at Azar Club. I am excited to see what other treasures Lyon has in store for me. I'm also aware that Global Industrie, an industrial trade fair, is occurring here in Lyon, but I think I'll stick to exploring the city's cultural side for now.



As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the unexpected, of allowing oneself to get lost in the moment and discover the hidden gems that lie just beneath the surface. Lyon has a way of surprising you, of revealing its beauty and history in unexpected ways. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this remarkable city and to share my experiences with you. I am also grateful for the technology that allows me to stay connected with Fatoumata and the kids, even when I am thousands of miles away. I know they are eager to hear about my adventures, and I can't wait to share my stories with them when I return to Montreal.