Lyon has long been known as a centre for food in France and attracts thousands of people every year to its restaurants which have many Michelin stars between them. And, of course, you are not short of wine to consume either, with Beaujolais, Shiraz and Syrah grape wines all in full production in the surrounding Rhone area.

It's not all about eating though. Lyon's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its tight winding lanes and streets, and much of the city dates back to its Roman roots with a mix of both southern and northern European architecture.

The impressive Notre Dame de Fouviere stands out on the skyline, as well as the huge St Jean Cathedral. Look out for the city hall or Hotel de Ville dating back to 1646 with its unique frescoes and sumptuous interior. And the city is also packed with museums, including the excellent Musee des Beaux Arts and the Musee Lumiere with its history of French cinema.

Also look out for walks and boats tours along the Saone or Rhone rivers. The waterfront is being steadily brought to life with redevelopment and is really opening up this city to the water.

Shopping is very good, especially for foodie treats, and once you have enjoyed your day, spend the night tapping your toe in a knowing style to the many jazz bands that play in the city's nightclubs.

Car hire is easy to organise before you travel to Lyon. We recommend pre-booking online which will save you money on walk up rates. You can pick your vehicle up at Lyon Airport (LYS) or from a number of downtown locations. Be aware that the streets of Lyon are usually very busy so we recommend parking up and exploring the central area on foot.

The wine areas of the Rhone and Saone valleys, the two rivers that run through Lyon, make for great days out wandering the local roads and soaking up the scenery. Head out to Hameau where you can sample Beaujolais and take a tour around the vineyards, before maybe buying a few bottles to take back home as a treat.

And while it is usually stored in a cool wine cellar, the same temperatures can be found in the Grottos of Balme. With its lake, waterfalls and caves, these are some of France's most famous caves and are visited by thousands every year.

Perouges is a short drive away and well worth the journey. It's a medieval city and in excellent condition with its ramparts, church and many houses, some dating back to the 13th century.

And let's not forget the western Alps. You can reach the French Alps within two hours from Lyon - excellent for walking in summer and winter sports in the colder months.