If there is a city definitely not lacking in markets, it is greater Lyon, which boasts not less than 300. A record for French cities! Each district has its own market, a place that recalls the village places where one can find fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, flowers, wine or clothing. And then there are thematic markets, such as the booksellers' market on the banks of the Saône, market for plants at la Création. Places for meetings and conviviality, the markets are also a slice of life where one as easily finds Lyons' middle class as one finds students and families from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

A small selection of markets that absolutely must be experienced:

Villefranche sur Saône, the capital of Beaujolais situated at the entrance to the vineyards, became famous after the decline of Beaujeu in the 15th century. Narrow around the Notre Dame des Marais collegiate, it looks as if it is moving away from the Saône to stretch out on both sides of the RN6 . Let yourself be seduced by its main street (known as rue nat') which will reveal a whole range of secrets to you: private mansions with their spiral staircases, galleries, carved reliefs and blazons. Step through the doors of the Musée de la Conscription or the brand new temple dedicated to pictorial art: the Musée Dini. A stroll that is incomplete without a small detour at the Marché Couvert, a gathering place for the region's tradesmen, craftsmen and peasants to display their products.

Office de Tourisme de Villefranche
Maison du Tourisme
96 rue de la Sous Préfecture
69400 Villefranche sur Saône
Tel: + 33 (0)474 07 27 40
Fax: + 33 (0) 474 07 27 47
www.beaujolais.net