Campus in Lyon

The Region

Lyon belongs to the Rhône-Alpes region. Centered in the natural river valley of the Saone and Rhone, the Rhône-Alpes region stretches across a vast territory 200 km long from north to south and nearly 180 km from east to west. With the Alps to the east and the Massif Central to the west, the region is noted for the diversity of its landscapes: plains, plateaus, medium and high altitude mountains.
The Rhône-Alpes region has a population of approximately 5 million people (9.5% of the French population). It is one of France's most industrialized regions and is home to some 50 world leaders in various economic sectors. Lyon is the driving force behind a dense and balanced network of average-sized towns (Grenoble, Chambery, Saint-Etienne, Annecy…) which are developing close ties to enable the entire Rhône-Alpes region to position itself among Europe's most influential regions.

The City : Lyon

Lyon is the capital of the Rhône-Alpes region and the third largest town in France. It is located in the south of France and near a large range of vacation spots. Its geographical position between Northern and Southern Europe, strengthened by its significant infrastructure and communication facilities, make it the second most important economic region of France.

It counts renowned and dynamic industries, such as health, human and veterinary medicine, motor vehicles, nuclear and new energy technologies, services, tourism and leisure equipment, micro and nanotechnologies.
Half way between the sea and the mountains, the city is characterized by duality. The two hills overlooking the city: Fourviere and Croix-Rousses and the two rivers, the Rhône and Saône.
Lyon is divided into 9 districts called "arrondissements".

The climate in the Lyon region is temperate and sunny. The average annual temperature is 11.3°C (52.3°F), with average annual sunshine of 2006 hours.

Both a European metropolis and capital of the Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon covers 4787 hectares (11,830 acres). It is France's second largest metropolitan area with 1.2 million inhabitants on 55,000 hectares (135,900 acres). It attracts large numbers of visitors every year for both pleasure and business tourism. With its ideal location between North and South Europe, the Lyon region has always been a major crossroads and relay point for exchange of all kinds. This position is confirmed still today in many sectors.

Environment

The City of Lyon is graced with three large city parks: Tête d'Or Park, with 105 hectares (262 acres) designed in the English garden style, includes a lake of 16 hectares (40 acres) created from a tributary of the Rhône, as well as a zoo and botanical garden. The entrance is free.
Park des Hauteurs stretches across the west hill of the city and the Confluence Park in Gerland, the newest park which will include redevelopment of the Rhône riverbanks. Neighborhood gardens and squares are integrated in every district to enhance smaller spaces and contribute the quality of life in the area.