Our journey to Lyon was on time and uneventful, everything arrived as expected. After a quick tram ride into the city from the airport it was a short walk to our hotel with the bike case and duffle so not too painful. Our goal is always to have a short distance to go with the bike case as it’s big and heavy, so difficult for any mode of transportation other than walking. Thus our choices are limited and not necessarily a memorable location. The room was tiny so we spent the next day or so crawling over the case to get into bed. We were able to assemble the bike in the underground garage and it went smoothly. I am always a bit nervous that some vital part has been forgotten at home or damaged enroute.
Our first day was spent looking around the Fourvière area which is a large hill that looks over the city. There’s a famous basilica and a tower which is visible from everywhere in Lyon. We took the funicular up and down which is always fun. Also on this hill is the original Roman settlement, called Lugdunum, now ruins, which date from 43 BC. These ruins were excavated starting in the mid 1930’s, exposing 2 large theatres and other living quarters.
Below the hill is Vieux Lyon or Old Lyon with many buildings dating from the 15th century. It is full of narrow streets and alleys, mostly pedestrian only, full of quaint shops and restaurants/bouchons which serve Lyonnaise culinary specialties featuring: quenelles (fish dumpling in prawn sauce), sausages, duck, eggs, salads (with eggs) and sweet treats such as praline as well. We took a short guided tour which was very good and described more of the history of Lyon and also we were able to traverse through some “traboules” which are tunnel like shortcuts within buildings between streets for the locals to use. You can’t access them other than on a tour. We also went on a boat tour up and down the Saône for a different perspective on the city. Despite being so old it is a modern city with a lot of new areas being developed.
Lyon’s initial industry was built primarily around the silk trade (now it is noted for chemical industries). The silk is produced and manufactured locally and has been for hundreds of years. We visited a museum about the history of Lyon as well as the silk industry which was very informative. We did see several silk shops in the old town and the ties, scarves and clothing were beautiful.
We left Lyon on a beautiful morning for our first ride of the tour toward Macon. It was a perfect day for riding and 95% on separate cycle paths. The route we are following initially is the “Voie Bleue”. We followed the Saône River (pronounced Sone) for the entire way which meant for a very flat ride and was appreciated as it was a fair distance to go on the first day, almost 85 kms. However, it was enjoyable with many parks, water, toilets and services along the way. We were ready to be done by the end, our rear ends had had enough!
geeteetravels 
Looks like a wonderful start to your trip! I like the 95% dedicated bike lane, that’s my style. Have a great time and thanks for sharing!
Margo