Back to the Gastronomic Capital: My Return to Lyon, France

#mytraveldiary Lyon is a city that stays with you—a place where every cobblestone, every bouchon, and every sunset over the Saône calls you back. My return solo trip was a deeper dive into its culinary secrets, hidden traboules, and the vibrant life along its two rivers. It felt like coming home to an old friend, but with new stories to uncover. My Solo Itinerary (Encore Edition): · Morning – Traboules & Silk History: I skipped the main attractions and delved deeper into the traboules of Croix-Rousse—hidden passageways used by silk workers centuries ago. This time, I joined a guided tour to hear forgotten stories of the canuts (silk weavers) and their rebellions. Followed by a strong coffee at a local bistro overlooking the Saône. · Afternoon – Food Markets & Chocolate Dreams: Revisited the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, but instead of just gazing, I joined a cooking workshop to learn how to make a classic Lyonnais salad. Later, I discovered Voisin, a historic chocolate shop, for their famous coussins de Lyon (almond-and-chocolate pillows). · Evening – Sunset on Fourvière & Authentic Bouchons: Took the funicular up to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for golden-hour views—even more magical without the midday crowds. For dinner, I ventured beyond the tourist spots to a small, family-run bouchon in Croix-Rousse for andouillette and a glass of Côtes du Rhône. Why Lyon is Even Better the Second Time: · Beyond the Bouchons: I explored the Confluence district, a modern architectural marvel, and visited the Lumière Museum to pay homage to the birth of cinema. · Seasonal Magic: I returned in December—sipped hot wine at the Christmas markets, ice-skated at Place Carnot, and felt the city sparkle under festive lights. · Local Connections: Recognized by the cheesemonger at Les Halles, welcomed back with a smile and a taste of Saint-Marcellin. Lyon rewards those who return. It’s a city of layers—each visit reveals another flavor, another hidden passage, another reason to linger. --- Hashtags: #backtolyon #solotravelfrance #lyonagain #gastronomiccapital #hiddenpassages