Lyon & Rhône, Central France

The Rhône department, home to the vibrant city of Lyon, offers incredible wedding venues for a destination wedding in Central France. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon combines historic charm with a dynamic cultural scene, creating a perfect blend of elegance, innovation and culture.

Lyon itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring a Renaissance old town, Roman amphitheaters, and picturesque riverbanks along the Rhône and Saône. Imagine wandering through the city’s cobblestone streets or near the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, where you can take in panoramic views of Lyon below.

For an authentic taste of the city, our recommendation is to venture in Lyon’s famous bouchons—charming, traditional restaurants—. Known for their warm, convivial atmosphere, these restaurants serve up hearty local dishes like coq au vin, quenelles, and andouillette, offering a genuine taste of Lyon’s rich culinary heritage.

Beyond Lyon, the Rhône department offers tranquil countryside dotted with vineyards, quaint villages, and scenic river valleys. Just a short drive away, the world-renowned Beaujolais wine region awaits, with its rolling hills and lush vineyards, creating an idyllic backdrop for a wedding. Guests can enjoy wine tastings and experience the unique flavors of the region.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rhône offers many hiking and cycling trails, especially in the Monts du Lyonnais, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

With excellent accessibility, Lyon is served by an international airport and high-speed trains connecting it to Paris in under two hours. This makes the Rhône department easily reachable for guests coming from abroad.

Airports: Lyon-Saint Exupéry, Geneva (nearby)

Train stations: Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache stations link to major cities via the TGV (high-speed train) and local routes.

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Photos kindly provided by Big Dodzy, Free Nomad, Jens Freudenau, and Lucas Gallone on Unsplash.