7 Best Sights in Lyon and the Alps, France

One of France's most extensive collections of decorative arts and the world's largest textile collection—spanning 4,500 years and comprising nearly 2 million pieces—has now added a shimmering €60 million addition by French architect Rudy Ricciotti, a third building to the museum's two 18th-century structures. The undulating glass and concrete tower combines light and transparency to convey the delicacy and movement of the historic fabrics that document Lyon's once-flourishing silk industry, from the Renaissance period to its 20th-century demise. Other highlights include Asian tapestries from as early as the 4th century, Turkish and Persian carpets from the 16th to the 18th centuries, and the sumptuous world-famous Lyon silks. Visitors can also enjoy a library, an auditorium, the Lacroix Laval garden, and a luminous rooftop restaurant.

Established in Stendhal's grandfather's house, this museum is a fascinating testament to the eminent author. It's one of three local landmarks where his legacy can be explored—the others being his birthplace and the Bibliothèque Municipale, which houses his manuscripts. The English-language "Stendhal Itinerary," offered by the Grenoble Chamber of Commerce, recaps all the major sites associated with him.

Part of the Grand Hôtel Dieu complex, Cité Internationale de Gastronomie celebrates Lyon's place as a major culinary destination through a series of temporary exhibitions that explore French food from a variety of creative angles. The recent exhibition "Banquet" immersed viewers into every aspect of a celebratory meal, from kitchen to table, using all five senses. The Miam Miam space for kids introduces little ones to the French secrets of cooking and eating well.

On the site where the Lumière brothers, Auguste and Louis, invented cinematography in their family home, this museum has daily showings of early film classics and contemporary movies as well as a permanent exhibit about the Lumières.

On the north side of the River Isère is Rue Maurice-Gignoux, lined with gardens, cafés, mansions, and a 17th-century convent that contains the Musée Dauphinois, detailing the history of mountaineering and skiing. The Premiers Alpins section explores the evolution of the Alps and its inhabitants.

Lyon's long history as a center for the silk industry is well charted at several Lyon arts centers, but this jewel of a museum, set inside the Grand Hôtel-Dieu complex, gives you a close look at the industry through the work of a single family. For 130 years, the Brochiers manufactured the finest silks, imported worldwide and favored by France's great couturiers, including Paul Poiret—the father of haute couture—Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Christian Lacroix, and many more. Many of these elegant creations are on exhibit here. You'll also see rare works on silk by the likes of artists Raoul Dufy, Miró, Calder, and Jean Cocteau. Afterward, stock up on chic silk scarves and accessories at the irresistible museum boutique.

These two museums are housed in the city's largest ensemble of Renaissance buildings, the Hôtel de Gadagne, built between the 14th and 16th century. The Musée d'Histoire de Lyon traces the city's history from its pre-Roman days onward, displaying sculpture, furniture, pottery, paintings, and engravings. The Musée des Marionnettes du Monde focuses on the history of puppets, beginning with Guignol and Madelon—Lyon's Punch and Judy—created by Laurent Mourguet in 1795. It includes two hanging gardens, a café, and a shop.