La Fourvière Funicular

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière towers high above Lyon and watches over the city like a silent sentinel. But how do you get up there? That’s where the fun really begins. The La Fourvière funicular, one of the oldest funiculars still in operation in the world, takes passengers from the heart of the old town directly to the top of the famous “hill that prays.”

This charming little funicular was built in 1862 and defied gravity long before cable cars were cool. The ride takes just over a minute, but in that time you are not only transported up a steep incline, but also straight into Lyon’s history. If you pay attention, you will be able to see some Roman remains as you cross the tunnel.

In the past, this funicular was not only used for sightseeing, but was also a lifeline for the locals. In its heyday, five different funicular lines crossed the city, running up and down like a rollercoaster in slow motion for daily commuters. Today there are only two left, and the line to Fourvière is the most famous. The original carriages were a far cry from today’s modern versions (think wooden benches, open windows and a healthy dose of squeaky mechanics).

This trip is also associated with a delicious secret: the world-famous praluline (a brioche studded with pink pralines) from Pralus. The locals swear that it tastes even better at the top of the Fourvière, perhaps because you have “earned" it after the 90-second climb.

Next time you’re in Lyon, skip the stairs and head into history instead. Just don’t blink, or you might miss it.