Lyon Highlights with a Local Fourviere and Old Town Walking Tour
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3h
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About this experience
Discover the essence of Lyon on this immersive walking tour showcasing iconic landmarks. Starting at Fourvière Hill, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic city views. The journey continues downhill through the ancient ruins of Lugdunum, exploring well-preserved Roman theaters and odeons. As you enter Old Town (Vieux Lyon), wander narrow cobbled streets and visit the majestic Saint-Jean Cathedral. Unique traboules, the city's secret passageways, reveal hidden historical insights. Led by an expert guide, gain local knowledge and personalized attention throughout this enriching experience.
- Tour duration: 3 hours with a maximum of 25 participants
- Visit Fourvière Basilica and Roman ruins of Lugdunum
- Explore the charming streets of Vieux Lyon and Saint-Jean Cathedral
- Discover Lyon's secret traboules for a unique perspective
Available options
Lyon Highlights with a Local Fourviere and Old Town Walking Tour
What's included
Tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
They will admire the richly decorated interior, with its mosaics, stained-glass windows, and ornate chapels. Your guide will share the fascinating history of the basilica and its importance to the people of Lyon, as well as stories and legends linked to the hill of Fourvière. Guests will also have time to take photos and soak in the atmosphere of this unique site overlooking the city
2
From the hill of Fourvière, travelers will enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Lyon. The city unfolds below, with the Rhône and Saône rivers winding through the skyline, the red rooftops of Old Lyon, and the Presqu’île stretching between the two rivers. On clear days, the guide will point out key landmarks and, weather permitting, even the Alps on the horizon. This is a perfect moment for photos and for understanding Lyon’s geography from above.
3
Stop 3
Travelers will step back in time to ancient Lugdunum, the Roman capital of Gaul. They will explore the remains of the large and small theaters, learning how these impressive structures were used for performances, political events, and public gatherings nearly 2,000 years ago. Your guide will explain daily life in Roman Lyon and how the city developed from this historic hilltop, while guests enjoy the open-air setting and views over the city below.
4
Along the Montée du Gourguillon, travelers will walk one of the oldest streets in Lyon, following a steep, atmospheric path that once connected Roman Lugdunum to the medieval city below. Lined with historic houses and quiet corners, this descent from Fourvière offers a sense of traveling through time, with your guide sharing stories about pilgrims, merchants, and daily life through the centuries as you make your way toward Old Lyon
5
Stop 5
In Vieux Lyon, travelers will stroll through one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts, walking along cobblestone streets lined with colorful façades, hidden courtyards, and elegant townhouses. They will discover lively squares, historic churches, and traditional architecture while learning about Lyon’s role as a major commercial and cultural center during the Renaissance. The visit offers a mix of history, atmosphere, and everyday local life in this UNESCO-listed neighborhood
6
Stop 6
While exploring Lyon, travelers will discover the famous traboules: hidden passageways that run through buildings and courtyards, connecting one street to another. These unique corridors reveal a more secret side of the city and offer insight into Lyon’s Renaissance architecture and daily life in the past. Your guide will explain how they were used over the centuries
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
You'll see your guide waiting next to the Pope John Paul II statue, in front of the basilica Notre Dame de Fourviere
About Lyon
Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is a vibrant blend of Roman history, Renaissance architecture, and modern innovation. Known for its gastronomy, silk weaving heritage, and UNESCO-listed historic sites, Lyon offers a rich cultural experience with a lively atmosphere and stunning landscapes.
Top Attractions
Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
Vieux Lyon is a UNESCO-listed Renaissance district with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming courtyards. It's one of the most picturesque areas in Lyon and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, €5-€10 for museum entries
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
This stunning basilica sits atop Fourvière Hill and offers panoramic views of Lyon. The basilica is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture and a symbol of the city.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for the crypt and treasury
Lyon Museum of Fine Arts
One of the oldest and most prestigious museums in France, the Lyon Museum of Fine Arts houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Museum
2-3 hours
€10 (free on the first Sunday of the month)
Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
This renowned food market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and gourmet products. It's a great place to sample Lyon's culinary delights.
Food Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary by stall
Parc de la Tête d'Or
This vast urban park is a green oasis in the heart of Lyon, featuring a lake, botanical gardens, a zoo, and plenty of space for picnics and relaxation.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (€5 for boat rental)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Quiche Lyonnaise
A savory tart made with eggs, cream, and lardons (small strips of pork), often served with a side of green salad.
Main Dish
Contains pork and dairy
Salade Lyonnaise
A traditional Lyon salad made with frisée lettuce, croutons, lardons, a poached egg, and a Dijon vinaigrette.
Salad
Contains pork and eggs
Coq au Vin
A classic French dish of chicken braised in red wine, typically with bacon, mushrooms, and onions.
Main Dish
Contains pork and dairy
Cervelle de Canut
A traditional Lyon cheese spread made with fresh cheese, garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in Les Monts du Lyonnais
Cycling along the Rhône and Saône rivers
Rock climbing and via ferrata in the nearby mountains
Picnicking in Parc de la Tête d'Or
Boat tours on the Rhône and Saône rivers
Enjoying a leisurely meal at a bouchon
Exploring the historic sites of Vieux Lyon
Visiting the Lyon Museum of Fine Arts
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Lyon, with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city comes alive with outdoor events, cultural activities, and vibrant nightlife.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Italian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lyon is generally a safe city for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Getting there
By air
- Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Lyon Part-Dieu, Lyon Perrache
By bus
Lyon Perrache Bus Station, Lyon Part-Dieu Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Lyon Metro consists of four lines (A, B, C, D) and is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It connects major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: G7, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
Presqu'île
Croix-Rousse
Confluence
Day trips
Beaujolais Wine Region
30 km from Lyon • Half day to full day
The Beaujolais region is famous for its red wines and picturesque vineyards. It's a great destination for wine tastings, scenic drives, and exploring charming villages.
Pérouges
20 km from Lyon • Half day
Pérouges is a beautifully preserved medieval village with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and a rich history. It's a great destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Annecy
100 km from Lyon • Full day
Annecy is a picturesque lakeside town in the French Alps, known for its stunning lake, historic old town, and beautiful gardens. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and scenic views.
Festivals
Festival of Lights • Early December
Lyon Biennial of Contemporary Art • September to December (every two years)
Lyon Jazz Festival • June to July
Pro tips
- Visit the Traboules of Vieux Lyon, hidden passageways used by silk merchants in the past, which can still be explored today.
- Try local specialties like quiche Lyonnaise, salade Lyonnaise, and coq au vin, and sample the city's renowned wines and cheeses.
- Explore the historic sites and attractions of Vieux Lyon, including the Saint-Jean Cathedral, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Roman Theatre of Fourvière.
- Take a day trip to the Beaujolais wine region, known for its red wines and picturesque vineyards, or visit the charming medieval village of Pérouges.
- Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon, one of the city's most renowned cultural institutions, or visit the Gadagne Museums for a fascinating look at Lyon's history and the history of puppetry.
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