Skip to main content
Independent Paris planning guides
  • Experiences
  • Neighborhoods
  • Itineraries
  • Plan Your Trip
  • Stories
Paris Top TenResearch-led travel planningBest of Paris
  • Experiences
  • Neighborhoods
  • Itineraries
  • Plan Your Trip
  • Stories
  • Landmarks
    • Eiffel Tower
    • The Louvre
    • Place Vendôme
    • Cathedrale Notre Dame
    • Pont Neuf
    • Sainte Chapelle
    • Place de La Bastille
  • Neighborhoods
    • Musée d’Orsay
    • Musée de l’Orangerie
    • Versailles Tours from Paris
    • Cities Near Paris to Visit
  • Restaurants
    • Restaurants with a View of the Eiffel Tower
    • Rooftop Bars
    • Hotel Bars
    • Best Macarons
  • Shopping
    • Vintage Shops
    • Secondhand & Vintage Shops
    • Shopping Streets
    • Avenue des Champs Elysées: Exploring Paris’s Iconic Boulevard
  • Things to Do
    • 40 Things to do in Paris
    • Things to do Near the Eiffel Tower
    • Best Cabarets in Paris
    • Top 10 Art Museums in Paris
  • Where to Stay
    • St. Germain
    • Near the Bastille
    • Hotels Near Arc de Triomphe
    • Near Champs Elysées in Paris
    • Hotels for Families
Start PlanningRead the blog

Planning Your Culinary Adventure: A Guide to Paris and Lyon from California

By Paris Top Ten February 11, 2026 (Updated June 29, 2026)

February 11, 2026 by Paris Top Ten

Hey there, fellow foodies! 🌍✈️ So, I’m gearing up for my first trip to France this October and I can hardly contain my excitement!

After spending hours drooling over pictures of croissants and cheese plates, I’ve decided to dedicate 8 or 9 days to exploring Paris and Lyon. Worth mentioning, I’m all about the food experience (hello, Les Halles Bocuse!) rather than the art scene (sorry, Musée d’Orsay, maybe next time!).

Serving of quiche lorraine on a plate with a salad and a glass of beer
Maria Sbytova / Adobe Stock

Now, here’s where I need your advice. I can fly directly from California to Paris, which sounds great, but then comes the big question: should I head straight to Lyon or spend a few days soaking up the Parisian vibes first?

On one hand, checking out Paris first would let me dive into its bustling cafés and delectable pastries before hopping down to Lyon for the last couple of days. However, the idea of wrapping up my trip in Paris feels like it could make returning to the City of Lights for my flight a bit tricky and stressful. I don’t want to be scrambling like a headless chicken on my last day! 🐔💨

Two people having coffee and croissants at Parisian a café table
Song_about_summer / Adobe Stock

Alternatively, there’s the idea of starting in Paris for a few days, taking the train to Lyon for two days of culinary bliss, and then coming back to Paris for some final exploring. Hmm, it’s like having your cake and eating it too, right? 🍰 But I need to figure out the logistics.

Speaking of logistics, let’s talk trains! I’ve been researching the trip from Paris to Lyon, and it’s about a 2-hour train ride, which isn’t too shabby.

My concern is, how far in advance should I snag those train tickets? I’ve heard prices can vary, and I’d hate to miss out on a good deal.

But I’m also nervous about buying tickets too early. What if my flight gets delayed or rescheduled? I’d be stuck with a ticket that is as useless as a soggy baguette. 🥖

Let’s not forget I need to get to Gare de Lyon first! Is it easy to navigate the Paris metro? Any tips from seasoned travelers would be more than appreciated!

So, fellow adventurers — should I dive into Paris first or head straight to Lyon? How do you think I should play it for the ultimate foodie adventure? Let’s chat in the comments! 🍷🍽️ Bon voyage!

Find Things to Do in Paris

Find Accommodation

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Recent Posts

  • Promenade Plantée Walk: Paris’ Unique Elevated Garden Adventure
  • Do US Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Paris? Essential Rules to Know
  • Mont St Michel Day Trip: Ultimate Paris Escape with Must-See Tips
  • How to Plan a Luxury Trip to Paris: Unforgettable Experiences and Insider Tips
  • Paris Fashion Week Travel Guide: Ultimate Insider Tips and Hotspots

Find your Paris adventure

Paris Top Ten

Independent Paris planning guides, practical comparisons, and transparent booking resources operated by Black Bear Media.

[email protected]+33 1 84 88 60 60

Explore

  • Archive
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • About

Plan

  • One-day Paris itinerary
  • Restaurant guide
  • Museum passes & tickets
  • Neighborhood guide

Connect

  • About Paris Top Ten
  • Editorial methodology
  • Corrections policy
  • Latest guides
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

© 2026 Paris Top Ten. All rights reserved.

Privacy PolicyAffiliate Disclosure