Villefranche-sur-Saône,
Villefranche-sur-Saône is a charming town located in the Rhône department of eastern France. Renowned for its picturesque old town with narrow cobblestone streets and colorful medieval buildings, Villefranche-sur-Saône offers a delightful ambiance for visitors to explore. The town's central square, Place des Arts, hosts a vibrant market where locals and tourists alike gather to shop for fresh produce and regional specialties.
Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, Villefranche-sur-Saône is a wonderful base for exploring the Beaujolais wine region.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
- "Non (No)" - No
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Old Town
morning:Start the day with a visit to the historical Notre-Dame des Marais Church, then stroll through the picturesque Rue Nationale. Don't miss out on the charming local patisserie for a delightful morning treat.
afternoon:Discover the rich history of Villefranche by visiting the Musee Paul Dini, followed by a leisurely lunch at the renowned Le Petit Glouton. Indulge in delightful French cuisine.
evening:Experience a delightful evening at Les Frères Berthom. This lively pub offers a wide selection of craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere.
Wine Tasting and Gastronomy
morning:Embark on a wine tasting tour at the prestigious Chateau de Montmelas and savor the finest regional wines. Pair the experience with a traditional French breakfast at Le Comptoir D'Annie.
afternoon:Delve into the world of fine cuisine with a visit to Le Juliénas, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a gastronomic delight. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at this renowned establishment.
evening:Sample the local nightlife at Le 121, a chic wine bar with a cozy ambiance, perfect for an evening of relaxed socializing.
Riverside Relaxation
morning:Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the Saône River, taking in the serene surroundings and historic bridges. Savor a delightful breakfast at Café du Marché, known for its charming riverside views.
afternoon:Explore the eclectic shops and boutiques along Quai Victor Augagneur, then enjoy a delightful lunch at La Rotonde, a charming restaurant offering fantastic river views.
evening:Head to Quai Armand Barbès for a relaxed evening by the river. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and scenic views at La Cale 2 Créateurs.
Cultural Immersion and Local Delights
morning:Experience the local culture with a visit to Musée Paul Dini to explore contemporary art exhibitions, then stop by the vibrant Villefranche-sur-Saône Market to savor fresh local produce and specialties.
afternoon:Indulge in a delicious lunch at Bistro Pizay, known for its delectable regional cuisine. Afterward, explore the charming streets of L'Avenue Anatole France for unique shopping finds.
evening:Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Le Gibus, a popular spot for music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a fun-filled evening with friends.
Villefranche-sur-Saône Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Quenelle
A light and airy dumpling made with creamed fish or meat, often served with a creamy sauce. Try it at Le Nord, a renowned local restaurant known for its excellent quenelles.
Must-Try!
Saucisson beaujolais
This is a dry-cured sausage made with pork and flavored with red wine, a specialty of the Beaujolais region. Look for it at local charcuteries or Marché Couvert, the covered market in the heart of Villefranche-sur-Saône.
Tablier de sapeur
Breaded and fried tripe, a symbol of Lyonnais gastronomy. Chez Les Gones is a great spot to savor this unique dish.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Marché Couvert
An indoor market offering a wide array of fresh produce, cheese, meats, and regional specialties. It’s an ideal place to experience the local food culture and discover authentic street food bites like hot paninis and grilled sausages.
Things to do in Villefranche-sur-Saône
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Villefranche-sur-Saône
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!