Things to do in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
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Region of France

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

 Prefecture: Lyon

About the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region

Between the volcanoes of Auvergne and the highest peaks of the Alps, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a life-size playground, arguably the most complete region in France for lovers of outdoor activities. Mont Blanc, the roof of Europe, dominates Chamonix, the world capital of mountaineering, while the Chaîne des Puys, listed by UNESCO, unfolds its dormant volcanoes at the heart of the Massif Central.

In winter, the world-renowned resorts — Courchevel, Val-d'Isère, Alpe d'Huez, Les Deux Alpes — offer an exceptional ski area. In summer, it's time for hiking, mountain biking, paragliding and white-water sports. Lake Annecy, one of the purest in Europe, and the Ardèche Gorges, with the famous Pont d'Arc, are paradises for swimming, kayaking and canoeing.

Lyon, world capital of gastronomy, charms with its Renaissance Old Lyon listed by UNESCO, its traboules, its bouchons and its Festival of Lights. The vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and Beaujolais, the spa towns such as Vichy and the characterful villages of Auvergne complete a rich and contrasting region.

Between mountains, volcanoes, lakes, vineyards and heritage, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes promises dynamic and spectacular stays in every season. Skiing, hiking, spa, gastronomy and wide open spaces make it an ideal destination for a weekend or active holidays, to be enjoyed in winter as much as in summer.

To make the most of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, choose the mountains and skiing in winter, the lakes, hiking and white-water sports in summer, without forgetting Lyon's gastronomy and wine tourism. Skiing in Chamonix or Courchevel, swimming in Lake Annecy, canoeing down the Ardèche Gorges, climbing the Puy de Dôme and discovering Lyon's bouchons are among the must-dos. What to do in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in winter and summer? The region offers one of the finest ranges of outdoor activities in France. Ideal for a ski weekend, active holidays or a city break in Lyon, it appeals to athletes, families and gourmets in every season.
Departments Ain (01)Allier (03)Ardèche (07)Cantal (15)Drôme (26)Isère (38)Loire (42)Haute-Loire (43)Puy-de-Dôme (63)Rhône (69)Savoie (73)Haute-Savoie (74)
Population
8 204 948
Area
70 795 km²
Density
116 hab/km²
Departments
12
Towns
4 021
Prefecture
Lyon
Community score
94

In pictures

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Photos: travellers & Wikimedia Commons.

Latest community reviews

Oliver M.Discoverer
United Kingdom
2 months ago

A beautiful place I highly recommend. I visited the natural park in Lyon. The atmosphere is calm and very pleasant. The old streets are full of character. An experience I would absolutely repeat.

James B.Discoverer
United Kingdom
2 months ago

I had an exceptional time here. I visited the riverside quays in Lyon. Prices stay reasonable for the quality on offer. The welcome is warm and authentic. I will definitely come back.

Sophie M.Discoverer
France
2 months ago

Un séjour très agréable et parfaitement réussi. J’ai visité le bord de l’eau à Lyon. Une superbe découverte que je n’oublierai pas. La gastronomie locale est un vrai point fort du séjour. Je reviendrai sans hésiter lors de mes prochaines vacances.

Paul N.Discoverer
France
3 months ago

Un véritable coup de cœur. J’ai visité le quartier touristique à Lyon. Les prix restent raisonnables pour la qualité offerte. Il y a beaucoup de choses à découvrir à pied. Le patrimoine culturel est impressionnant et riche.

Matthew G.Discoverer
United States
4 months ago

A real favourite of mine. I visited the touristy district in Lyon. The scenery is beautiful and well maintained. The atmosphere is calm and very pleasant. A place worth discovering without hesitation.

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