Gay Lyon – The Nomadic Boys

Gay Lyon - The Nomadic Boys

The hottest men of France are officially from Lyon!

According to me, of course. Well obviously, I’m biased – this is Seby’s home ground, the city he was born and raised.

As well as the abundance of smokin’ hot French lovers, Lyon is also the foodie capital of France with a really pretty UNESCO listed Old Town (Vieux Lyon). Lyon has been a flourishing trading city since the Romans thanks to its strategic location at the confluence between two major rivers – the Rhône and Saône. The heart of city lies right at this point, an island-like peninsula called the Presqu’île…which is also where the bulk of the city’s gay scene can be found.

The southern section of the Presqu’île is the actual confluence point between the two rivers and is more residential. The northern side of the Presqu’île has a more commercial feel and has the main gay bars and clubs of Lyon, particularly between the two streets called: Place des Terreaux and Cordeliers. The Presqu’île is our favourite part of the city. Not only do the best gay parties happen right here, it’s also an exciting place to get lost in during the day, with cute narrow cobblestone streets, Renaissance-era mansions to awe at, hidden courtyards to explore and an abundance of excellent restaurants (called “bouchons”) everywhere!

Following our many trips to France’s gastronomical capital, we’ve put together our gay travel guide to Lyon featuring the best gay hotels to stay, the best bars, clubs, events, things to do, and many more practical tips for LGBTQ travellers.

Is Lyon safe for gay travellers?

Absolutely! France ranks as one of the gayest countries in the world. The French are famous for their “laissez-faire” attitude towards our LGBTQ community, namely, not interfering in matters that may seem too personal, and respecting the privacy of others.

All locals we met in Lyon did not bat an eyelid whenever they saw us holding hands or displaying other PDAs, particularly in the touristic areas – the Presqu’île and Vieux Lyon. To add to that, Lyon has a large student population with people from all over the world, which gives it an air of tolerance, open-mindedness and diversity.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at the Nomadic Boys

Gay Lyon Travel Resources

Gay Lyon, France – The Nomadic Boys

Gay Lyon, France - The Nomadic Boys

We love Lyon because it has a mix of everything. As well as a fun gay scene, it is also famous for being the foodie capital of France and for having many UNESCO listed buildings.

The majority of the gay nightlife of Lyon is located in the Presqu’île. This is the area where the two rivers, the Rhône and Saône meet, forming an island-like peninsula. The southern section of the Presqu’île is the confluence point of the 2 rivers, and is more residential. The northern end of the Presqu’île is where the majority of the gay scene is, particularly between Place des Terreaux and Cordeliers. In this area, it is not uncommon to see same sex couples walking the streets holding hands.

Following our many trips to France’s gastronomical capital, we’ve put together our gay guide to Lyon including the best bars, clubs, cruising clubs, saunas, events and places to stay.

Gay Bars in Lyon

Regardless of the season, the gay bars of Lyon are always a lot of fun, particularly as there is a large student population in the city. In the summer, the gay crowds spill into the streets outside. In the winter months, it’s super cozy with everyone buried inside the bars, clutching a cup of mulled wine. These are some of our favourite gay bars in Lyon:

La Ruche: one of the staple gay bars of Lyon. We love coming here for a few drinks to start the night, especially in the terrace area. La Ruche is located at 22 rue Gentil, 69002 and is open everyday from 5pm to late.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at The Nomadic Boys

Southeastern France Gay Travel Resources

 

Lyon’s Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière – Keep Calm and Wander

Lyon's Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière - Keep Calm and Wander

If Rio de Janeiro has the statue of Christ the Redeemer looking after the city, Lyon has Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Yes, it’s not a statue with open arms but a basilica sitting on top of a mountain. You can’t miss it – and every local knows where it is. It may look far when you’re on the plains but it’s worth a visit – even if you’re not religious.

The Basilica’s Fame. When Black Death swept Europe in the 17th middle of century, Lyon was saved from it. The locals built this church to honour the Virgin Mary to whom they believe safeguarded the city from the deadly plague.

Day of Immaculate Conception. Every year, On December 8, the city has the “Festival of Lights.” This is the night when locals light a candle for the Virgin Mary who is also attributed for saving Lyon during the Prussian Invasion (1870) and the cholera epidemic (1832).

By Alain – Full Story at Keep Calm and Wander

Lyon Gay Travel Resources

Lyon’s Coolest Mural – Keep Calm and Wander

Lyon's Coolest Mural - Keep Calm and Wander

From afar, this building looks like an ordinary building with people hanging out on their balconies. But, viola, as you go nearer, you’ll realize that this building is coated with mural paintings of famous people from Lyon. They look real at first glance. These people, I was told, are coming from all walks of life, experts in their own chosen endeavours.

Yes, they’re well-known personalities who hail from and make Lyon proud. There are journalists, chefs, artists, actors, professors, sportsmen, historians, poets, architects, botanists, scientists, and many more.

By Alain – Full Story at Keep Calm and Wander

Lyon Gay Travel Resources