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accommodation in lyon france

Five Beautifully Historic Hotels in Lyon, France

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With such a rich and lively history, Lyon is a great place to find unique and charming hotels that date back as far as the 15th century. While walking the roads throughout the day in search of old Renaissance buildings adds adventure, spending the night in one is an entirely different experience. If you’ve ever wanted to sleep in a historic hotel, Lyon is the place to do it, and this list will help you find the perfect stay.

Cour des Loges

This luxurious boutique five-star hotel sits in the heart of Old Lyon and comprises four restored Renaissance buildings. Along with feeling like you’ve stepped back in time, you’ll also find gourmet dining such as the Michelin-starred Les Loges, a glass-roofed courtyard, and beautiful hanging gardens. Many of the city’s top landmarks are located just footsteps away, including the Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts.

For a day of bliss, the hotel also offers the Pure Altitude Spa and wellness center, which features Turkish baths, a fitness area, and a relaxation room that’s located on a veranda with views of the hanging gardens. You’ll also find a heated indoor swimming pool, lounge, and a magnificent wine cellar.

Hotel le Collège

Also located in the heart of Old Lyon within walking distance of the city’s famous attractions, this hotel was created from a restored art-deco building with a fantastic school theme. It offers an informal and friendly atmosphere like that of a bed and breakfast.

You’ll find authentic vintage furniture, minimalist all-white rooms, flat-screen TVs and all the beauty that comes from three years of research and restoration. The hotel also offers a collection of fine wines, champagnes, and local finger food.

Maison d’Anthouard

This luxurious and charming boutique hotel is located on a quiet tree-lined avenue on the outskirts of Lyon and was formerly a mansion built in the 18th century. The hotel also offers a selection of fine wines, champagnes, and cocktails. It also boasts a fabulous garden.

The hotel is approximately seven kilometers from Lyon’s famous landmarks, including the Roman theatre of Fourvière and the basilica of Saint-Martin d’Ainay.

Villa Florentine

Built in the 16th century, this unique hotel and former convent offers a true glimpse into the Renaissance past in the heart of Lyon’s old town. Aside from such a magnificent history, Villa Florentine also offers world-class hospitality, panoramic views of the city, a gourmet restaurant, and a beautiful pool.

Chateau De Bagnols

Once a 13th-century castle, this exquisite hotel will transport you through the history of France. Restored to its original beauty, Chateau De Bagnols features antique furniture, specially commissioned decorative items, antique beds, and period velvets that give guests a unique experience of countryside living in France.

While there are many gorgeous hotels in Lyon, very few come close to the history of these five mentioned above. This is one of very few cities in the world that offer luxurious accommodations in Renaissance-era buildings, so if you’ve come all this way and value this sort of experience, make sure you take advantage of it.

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This article was written as part of the hipmunk #citylove project. As a occasional paid writer for hipmunk, I’ve written about various cities such as Vancouver, Hong Kong and Lyon.