Fodor's Expert Review Villa Florentine

Perched high above the Vieille Ville (old city) atop the Fourvière Hill, this pristine hotel was once a 17th-century convent; glowing in its ocher-yellow exterior, it has vaulted ceilings, lovely terraces, and marvelous views, seen to best advantage from the Terrasses de Lyon restaurant. With a newly expanded glassed-in winter garden (every table now has a view over Lyon) and tomato-red salons, this excellent eatery offers an exciting nouvelle cuisine menu. Throughout, in time-warp fashion, 17th-century Italianate architectural details are contrasted with the latest in bright postmodern Italian furnishings. The clientele tends to be travelers seeking peace and quiet. Breakfast is extra.