Lyon City Tour with Local Guide Explore Hidden Gems
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1h
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About this experience
Discover the charm of Lyon with a local touch on this interactive city tour led by Canadian guide Ryan. Join a 1.5-hour tour to see 5 must-visit sites. Learn about Lyon's rich history from Roman times to its role in WWII, making it perfect for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Navigate the city's picturesque streets, secret traboules, and vibrant squares while also getting insider tips on local restaurants (called "bouchons" by locals).
- 1.5-hour tour (max 18 guests) featuring 5 highlights
- Explore famous landmarks like the traboule Renaissance passages, Vieux (Old) Lyon, and Place Bellecour
- Learn about Lyon's famous "bouchon" restaurants with lots of recommendations provided by your local guide(s)
- Suitable for all ages and physical abilities
Available options
Lyon City Tour with Local Guide Explore Hidden Gems
What's included
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Following introductions, bilingual guide Ryan will explain the rich history of this medieval square and its imposing 12th century cathedral. A mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, head inside the cathedral with explanations of how architects designed such an imposing structure almost 1000 years ago. Brief stop to see France’s oldest and best-preserved medieval clock; tracking time, Catholic holidays, and the stars.
2
Stop 2
Ryan will take you through Lyon's most famous "traboules." There are 200 such medieval passageways in Lyon. Used during the Renaissance to safely travel between buildings and avoid the crowded streets, they were later used by silk traders and (finally) the French resistance.
3
Stop 3
Explore one of Europe's largest Renassaince districts (second only to Venise). Your local guide will explain "Old Lyon's" rich history, stunning architecture, and silk trade. We will also provide some out-of-the-way restaurant recommendations.
4
WWII history: learn about how the French resistance used Lyon's "traboule" tunnels to meet and exchange secret messages. Your local guide will also detail the sordid trail of Klaus Barbie, also known as gestapo's "butcher of Lyon." Brief explanation of how Barbie arrested French resistance hero, Jean Moulin.
5
Explore Lyon's chic 2nd district and the Rue Mercière's many "bouchon" restaurants. Your local guide will explain Lyon's rich culinary history, including a biography of renowned chef Paul Bocuse. Enjoy many "locals-only" restaurant recommendations along the way.
6
Brief passage through one of Lyon's most beautiful squares. Explanation of its late 19th century fountain, complete with statues of Lyon's four most famous artists/artisans.
7
Brief passage to cross Lyon's high street.
8
Visit one of Lyon's most important and recognisable landmarks. Walk through the secret corridors of this former medieval hospital, now a 5-star hotel and shopping centre. Your local guide will recount the history and restoration of this landmark, while providing some recommendations on where to eat and drink.
9
Stop 9
During your final stop, learn all about Lyon's largest pedestrian square. Brief explanation of King Louis XIV's links to Lyon and the troubled history of his statue. Your local guide will again provide some restaurant and shopping recommendations before taking a final group photo (sent to everyone after the tour).
What's not included
Bottled water
Meals
Public transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the main red doors of St Jean cathedral, in Old Lyon's St. Jean Square (metro "Vieux Lyon"). Your guide will be wearing either a red beret or red baseball cap.
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.
$15
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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