Wells World Travelers: Fourvière Tour With Alexis

We had a great day today exploring the city of Lyon with our friend Alexis who grew up here. Started our day with fresh croissants, beignets, and a chocolate and cream stuffed pastry that was like a toaster streudel only a billion times tastier, lol. Then we walked through Old Lyon to St. Paul Square to the funicular tram that took us to the top of the hill quickly, which was a good thing because I am not good at climbing stairs. Europeans love acting like sardines in a can in trains and will just keep stuffing themselves in until the doors won't close. Good thing everyone seemed to be wearing deodorant this morning becase it was standing room only with arms stretched above to hold on.

We got to go inside the Basilica and see all the beautiful stained glass windows and architecture. Was a beautiful and peaceful place. Outside we had gorgeous views of all of Lyon. We were excited to see the Roman ruins and amphitheater but found they have set them up for concerts this summer so our views were limited.

After, we took the longest shortcut down the mountain while seeing places that Alexis used to go and hang out with his friends while at high school nearby. It was so cool to get the inside scoop and have places with gorgeous views all to ourselves. We found all these cool traboules which are passageways used by silk workers and also to help hide Jews from the Nazi's during WWII. Some of them are so cool inside.

We enjoyed some ice cream from Alexis' favorite joint and it was so yummy. Flavors are subtle but flavorful at the same time. Next he took us on an adventure up to the top of the other hill. It was by stairs which I struggle with but was able to make slow and steady progress, even if I sounded like a wheezing banchee (stupid vocal cord). At the top we said goodbye to our amazing tour guide, provided his payment in American candies, and made our way back down to our apartment.

We stopped along the way at a fromagerie, charcuterie, and patisserie to pick up assorted cheeses, salami, prosciutto, and baguettes for our own french meal at home. Was delicious to explore how different the cheeses are here than at home since none of the cheese is pasturized.

We had a great day, ended up doing over 8 miles of walking, and ready for a good nights rest.