HOTEL DU THEATRE, Lyon

The hotel sits on Place des Célestins, a lively square in Lyon's 2nd arrondissement, just a 4-minute walk from Rue de la République - the city's main shopping artery. The Bellecour metro station (lines A and D) is 350 metres away, providing easy access to Part-Dieu and Perrache stations. Vélo'V bike hire is available directly in front of the hotel. Many of Lyon's top attractions, including the old town (Vieux Lyon), the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Opera House, are within a 10-15 minute walk. The area is pedestrian-friendly with numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars surrounding the square.

Rooms are spread across the second to fourth floors of a historic building without a lift - expect a climb with luggage. Each room has a private bathroom with a shower or bath, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. All rooms include soundproof walls, heating, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A few rooms offer twin beds on request. Superior rooms or those facing the square provide a pleasant view of the theatre. There is no air conditioning; portable fans are supplied during warmer months. Cots (€10/night) and extra beds (€25/night) are available. Some rooms are compact, while others are more spacious; the reception can advise on room size.

The breakfast offering is a straightforward continental set: fresh bread and pastries from the neighbouring bakery, butter, jam, orange or apple juice, and coffee or tea from a machine. It is served in a room with a view of the theatre square. The hotel does not have a restaurant or bar, but the surrounding area overflows with dining options - from traditional Lyonnais bouchons to international cuisine - all within a short walk. For those who prefer a light start, the breakfast is sufficient; others may opt to explore nearby cafés for a heartier meal.

The hotel provides free WiFi throughout, free luggage storage (ideal for early arrivals or late departures), and daily housekeeping. Laundry services are available for an additional charge. The reception is open from 7:15 to 23:00 and staff speak French, English, and Spanish, offering tourist advice and maps. Baby cots and extra beds can be added. Pets are allowed with applicable fees. Safety features include CCTV, smoke alarms, and fire extinguishers. Parking is not on-site but a public underground car park (Parking des Célestins) is a one-minute walk away, costing €2.80/hour. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the garage. The hotel is in a low-emission zone; a Crit'Air sticker is required for driving into central Lyon.