When it comes to the most populous cities in France, Paris is undoubtedly at the top of the list. It’s known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and world-renowned cuisine. However, there’s another city in France that often gets overlooked – Lyon.
The Basics: Population and Size
As of 2021, Paris has a population of approximately 2.15 million people within its city limits. In contrast, Lyon has a population of around 500,000 people within its city limits. So in terms of population, Paris is certainly bigger than Lyon.
However, when it comes to size, the story is a bit different. Paris covers an area of around 105 square kilometers while Lyon covers an area of approximately 47 square kilometers. This means that while Paris may have more people living within its borders than Lyon does, Lyon is actually physically smaller than Paris.
History and Culture
Paris is known worldwide for its cultural significance and historical landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. It’s also home to world-class museums like The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
Lyon may not have as many iconic landmarks as Paris does but it has a rich history and culture all its own. Founded by the Romans in 43 BC, Lyon was once an important center of trade and industry in France. Today it boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town filled with stunning architecture from various eras.
Cuisine
When it comes to cuisine, both cities are famous for their culinary offerings.
- Paris is renowned for its haute cuisine which includes dishes like escargots de Bourgogne (snails), foie gras (goose liver), and coq au vin (chicken in wine sauce).
- Lyon, on the other hand, is known for its hearty bistro fare such as quenelles (dumplings), andouillette (sausage), and tablier de sapeur (breaded tripe).
While both cities have their own unique culinary traditions, Lyon has been dubbed the gastronomic capital of France, with more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country.
Conclusion
So, is Lyon bigger than Paris The answer depends on how you define “bigger.”
If you’re talking about population, then no – Paris is much larger than Lyon. However, if you’re considering physical size, then Lyon is actually smaller than Paris.
Ultimately, both cities have their own unique offerings that make them worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in history and culture or just looking for a delicious meal, Paris and Lyon are both great options to explore.