Walkable city in France is 'perfect' for sightseeing and less crowded than Paris

When , Lyon is often overlooked by its more famous neighbour, .

However, according to research by the French newspaper Le Parisien, the underdog destination has a surprising reputation as the most walkable city in .

And it's for good reason. So much so that the city might even deserve the much-coveted title of "15-minute city" because its focal points of interest lie within a 15-minute' walk of each other.

With its compact layout and , Lyon offers a more relaxed and enjoyable walking experience than Paris's bustling and crowded avenues.

In autumn, the cool climate (highs of 10C, lows of 4C) is perfect for strolls through the city's charming neighbourhoods without the intense heat of summer or the biting cold of winter.

With its rich Roman history and captivating architecture, tourists will never run out of sights to see in Lyon. The city is beautifully situated at the junction of two rivers, the Rhône and Saône, and lies northwest of the French Alps.

There's a unique contrast in that Lyon pulsates with youthful energy thanks to its university population.

Thanks to its younger crowd, the urban destination has been described as "more welcoming and less stressed" than Paris, but there's no shortage of classic French culture to soak up.

Tripadvisor reviews rave about Lyon's walking tours, which reveal hidden gastronomic delights, showcase the old town's culinary highlights, offer local speciality tastings, and provide insights into the city's rich history and culture.

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, Vieux Lyon's charming cobbled streets beckon. According to one Tripadvisor user, the Colline de Fourvière is hailed as the "perfect spot" for breathtaking views over Lyon.

They shared their experience: "If you want a stroll, we took the old tramway walkway - near the Basilica - and walked to the Lyonesse Cemetery. The tombs and headstones vary hugely, and wandering the alleys is fascinating. We returned the same way. We stopped for French onion soup in La Salle a Manger next to the Basilica and the service was delightful. It gave us the fuel for the walk down!"

Those planning a trip in December will find festive markets that run from November 22 to December 24. is an annual Christmas market that offers fun for the whole family with much more than just seasonal vendors available.

Additionally, the Festival of Lights takes place in early December when the city comes alive with incredible light installations and projections.

All airlines have their own hand luggage allowance rules, and these vary depending on which airline you are flying with. Most airlines allow one piece of hand luggage for free - but the measurements and weight of this ranges widely from one airline to another. Some airlines allow passengers a second larger piece of hand luggage - but this often comes with a price tag.

Ryanair hand luggage allowance

All Ryanair fares include one small personal bag which can be brought onboard, such as a handbag or laptop bag. This must measure no more than 40 x 20 x 25cm and must fit under the seat in front.

If , passengers can purchase Priority and two cabin bags. This allows you to carry a small personal bag (40x20x25cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you and a 10kg bag (55x40x20cm) onboard, to be stored in the overhead locker. It also allows you to board the plane first using the Priority Boarding queue at the gate.

British Airways hand luggage allowance

All British Airways tickets are entitled to one handbag measuring up to 40 x 30 x 15cm and weighing up to 23kg. This must be placed under the seat in front. They can also take a cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25cm, however on buys flights this may need to go into the hold (though you will not be charged in this event).

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easyJet hand luggage allowance

All easyJet passengers can bring one small under-seat cabin bag per person on board for free. It can be a maximum size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (including any handles and wheels) and must be kept under the seat in front of you. The bag can weigh no more than 15kg.

If you'd also like to bring a large cabin bag on board measuring up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, including any handles and wheels, you have the option to book a large cabin bag for your flight. Every customer who books a large cabin bag can also enjoy the benefit of Speedy Boarding.

easyJet Plus members and those who have a FLEXI fare can also bring a large cabin bag on board.

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Jet2 hand luggage allowance

Jet2 customers can bring one piece of hand luggage free of charge, as long as it weighs no more than 10kg and is no larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, including any wheels and handles.

Passengers can also bring a small, personal item on board (such as a handbag, laptop bag or airport purchase), as long as it is placed underneath the seat in front.

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TUI hand luggage allowance

The maximum dimensions for a piece of hand luggage on TUI Airways flights are 55 x 40 x 20 cm, and it can weigh up to 10 kg. You must be able to lift your hand luggage into the overhead storage compartments yourself.

In addition to your hand luggage, you can bring a small personal item that can fit under the seat in front of you. This could be a handbag, laptop bag, or purse.

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Reaching the city is as easy as navigating it. Britons can catch a direct flight to Lyon from most major airports, including London Gatwick, which currently offers the cheapest flights via Wizz Air, according to .

are incredibly affordable in November, . In December, prices start from £31 on selected dates, though weekend flights are much higher, peaking at £124.

According to , for a weekend in late December, just in time to catch the Christmas market.