Fodor's Expert Review Boscolo Hôtel & Spa

One of Lyon's historic hotels, this grand dame has been brought entirely up-to-date without losing a whit of her former glory, and is now elegantly sheathed in shades of pearly white with miles of gold and silver and pretty pale green and mauve accents. The creamy white-carpeted guestrooms are more spacious too, as the hotel sacrificed 20 rooms in the renovations. Facing the Rhône River near the Bellecour district, guests benefit from stellar river views and a central location close to shopping, sights, dining, and transport. The spa boasts a pool (which can be privatized), sauna, steam room, and a full list of spa treatments. There's also a drop-dead gorgeous Italian restaurant and bar.