Lyon’s historical tours offer the perfect introduction to France’s gastronomic capital. The standout option is the 2-hour Vieux Lyon walking tour, featuring the magnificent St. Jean Baptiste Basilica – it’s informative and hits all the must-see spots in the old town. We love the intimate Jewish heritage tour for its off-the-beaten-path approach and excellent coverage of the Great Synagogue area. For photographers and curious travelers, the Croix-Rousse district walks reveal the famous traboules (hidden passageways) that helped shape Lyon’s silk-weaving history. The UNESCO-listed old town tours are consistently well-organized, with guides who know their stuff and share fascinating local insights. Let’s explore Lyon’s best historical tours in detail…
Key Points
- The Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Tour is a highly-rated 2-hour tour covering key sites like the St. Jean Baptiste Basilica and historic traboules.
- The Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour highlights the Great Synagogue, medieval Jewish quarter, and Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, led by a 5-star history expert.
- The Lyon City Historic Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour explores the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse district, showcasing hidden traboules, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Fresque des Lyonnais mural.
- The Photographic and Historical Workshop of Old Lyon combines historical exploration with photography skills, focusing on hidden passageways, charming squares, and iconic landmarks.
- Lyon’s tours offer a range of experiences, including Segway and private walking tours, catering to various group sizes and preferences, with multilingual guides and flexible itineraries.
Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English)
For those seeking an immersive introduction to the rich history and cultural heritage of Lyon, the Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English) offers an engaging and informative experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 775 reviews, this 2-hour walking tour takes visitors through the ancient Vieux Lyon district, showcasing key sites like the St. Jean Baptiste Basilica, silk factories, and historic traboules.
Led by knowledgeable guides like the renowned Paul, the tour provides insights into Lyon’s past and present, with recommendations for dining, coffee, and museums.
Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour’s accessibility and 99% traveler recommendation make it a must-do activity to get acquainted with the city’s charm.
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Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour
Exploring Lyon’s rich Jewish heritage and historical landmarks, the Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour offers an immersive experience tailored to visitors.
Priced at $196.58 per person, the 2-hour private walking tour guides participants through significant sites like the Great Synagogue, the medieval Jewish quarter, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
Led by a 5-star history expert, the tour delves into the community’s history from Roman times to the modern era, including insights into the French Revolution, World War II, and the Holocaust.
With a flexible itinerary and multilingual guides, the tour provides a personalized exploration of Lyon’s Jewish legacy.
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Lyon City Historic Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour (English)
Discover Lyon’s storied past and architectural gems on the Lyon City Historic Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour (English).
This 2-hour tour covers the city’s key landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon and the Croix-Rousse district renowned for its silk history.
Along the way, you’ll explore hidden traboules, marvel at the Roman Amphitheatre, and admire the Fresque des Lyonnais mural.
Led by engaging and knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into Lyon’s rich culture and cuisine.
With a maximum group size of 18, the experience offers a personalized and immersive introduction to this French city.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some stairs.
Priced at SEK 59.01 per person, it’s a must for travelers seeking a comprehensive Lyon experience.
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Photographic and Historical Workshop of Old Lyon
The Photographic and Historical Workshop of Old Lyon offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the captivating history and architectural wonders of this UNESCO-listed neighborhood.
Led by knowledgeable guides, participants embark on a 2-hour small-group tour, exploring the hidden passageways, charming squares, and iconic landmarks of this well-preserved medieval quarter.
Along the way, guests learn about the area’s rich past while honing their photography skills, capturing the stunning facades, intricate details, and lively atmosphere of Old Lyon.
This immersive experience provides a comprehensive understanding of the district’s cultural significance and a chance to document its timeless beauty through the lens.
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Segway Tour by ComhiC – 1h30 Historic
Participants can embark on a captivating 1-hour 30-minute Segway tour through the historic heart of Lyon, led by the experienced team at ComhiC.
The tour starts and ends at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, providing convenient access. Included are a helmet, hairnet, and rain cape if needed.
The tour is open to those 14 years and older weighing at least 45 kg, with a maximum group size of 8 for comfort and safety.
Luggage storage is available, and protection gear can be requested.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 20 reviews, this Segway tour offers an engaging and informative way to explore Lyon’s rich history.
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Lyon Old Town Highlights and History Private Walking Tour
For those captivated by the Segway tour’s exploration of Lyon’s historic heart, the Lyon Old Town Highlights and History Private Walking Tour offers a complementary perspective.
This 2-hour private walking excursion takes visitors on a journey through one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts, Vieux Lyon. Along the way, guests will discover hidden passages, admire iconic landmarks, and learn about the city’s rich past from a knowledgeable guide.
Priced from $177.55 per person, the tour provides a personalized experience with a small group size and insider tips on the best dining and attractions.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment required, it’s an excellent choice for experiencing Lyon’s captivating history.
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Historical and Naughty Tour of Lyon
This 5-star rated historical and naughty tour of Lyon takes participants on a captivating journey through the city’s past.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour departs from the Place des Terreaux, identifiable by the guide’s badge Cybèle.
Covering highlights of Lyon’s history in an informative yet cheeky manner, the tour ends at the Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon.
Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the tour accommodates up to 20 travelers starting at 5:00 PM.
Priced at $18.31 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, making it an accessible and flexible historical experience.
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Personalized Discovery of Historic Lyon
Enjoy the captivating history of Lyon with a personalized discovery tour. Priced from $96.94 per group of up to 2 people, this private tour offers a unique chance to explore the city’s historic landmarks.
Led by an experienced and passionate guide, the tour provides a personalized experience, allowing you to discover Lyon at your own pace. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan your trip with confidence.
The tour starts and ends at the central Place Bellecour, conveniently located near public transportation. While not wheelchair accessible, infants can join the tour, sitting on laps.
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Historical and Naughty Tour of Lyon in English
Offered in French, the Historical and Naughty Tour of Lyon guides visitors through the city’s sensual past, recounting notorious debaucheries and medical recommendations from the 16th and 19th centuries.
Costing from $21.14 per person, the 1.5-hour tour explores the courtyards of historical buildings and shares anecdotes about famous figures like Casanova.
Led by a professional actor-guide, the tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those under 18 due to its explicit content.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on 20 reviews, the tour receives mixed feedback, with some finding it engaging and humorous while others feel it lacks depth and excitement.
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Lyon: Historic Landmarks Segway Tour
Gliding effortlessly through Lyon’s historic heart, the Lyon: Historic Landmarks Segway Tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the city’s renowned landmarks and architectural gems.
Priced at $51.79 per person, the 1.5-hour tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.
Guests begin at the expansive Bellecour Square before riding along the Rhône’s banks and exploring the city center, including the famous Fresque des Lyonnais mural.
With an English-speaking guide, complimentary safety gear, and free cancellation, this Segway experience offers an engaging and hassle-free way to discover Lyon’s rich history and stunning vistas.
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Lyon: Private Historic Guided Walking Tour
The Lyon: Private Historic Guided Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and architectural marvels.
Priced from $469.25 per group, this 2-hour tour allows up to 20 participants to enjoy Lyon’s rich history.
Key highlights include the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Lyon Cathedral, and the Maison du Chamarrier.
Guests will also enjoy panoramic views from Le Parc des Hauteurs and discover secret gardens.
With the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a personalized experience led by a live guide in English or French.
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Lyon: Private Exclusive History Tour With a Local Expert
For travelers seeking a more exclusive and in-depth exploration of Lyon’s rich history, the Lyon: Private Exclusive History Tour With a Local Expert provides an immersive experience.
This 2-hour private tour, priced at $633.06 for up to 4 participants, offers a customized journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral.
Accompanied by a multilingual local expert, you will uncover Lyon’s evolution from a Roman settlement to its Renaissance and industrial eras.
The tour features a tailored itinerary and flexible pacing, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.
Comfortable shoes, water, and a charged smartphone are recommended. Entry tickets aren’t included, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility limitations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Historical Tours?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for historical tours. Visitors should dress in layers and wear sturdy walking shoes to fully enjoy the experience and navigate any uneven terrain or cobblestone streets. Light jackets or umbrellas may also be useful in unpredictable weather conditions.
Are the Tours Accessible for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
Many historical tours are wheelchair-accessible, with guides who can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. Visitors should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure the tour aligns with their needs and abilities.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Specific Interests or Requirements?
Yes, many historical tour providers offer customized tours that cater to specific interests or requirements. Customers can work with the tour operators to design a personalized experience that fits their needs and preferences.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Guided Tours?
Group sizes for the guided tours typically range from 2 to 15 people, allowing for a more personalized experience. Some tour operators may accommodate larger groups upon request, so it’s best to inquire about specific group size preferences when booking.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Rates Available for the Tours?
Many tour companies offer discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Some providers also have special rates for families or a combination of tours. It’s best to check with each company directly to inquire about any available discounts or promotions.
The Sum Up
Lyon offers a wealth of historical tours to suit diverse interests. From walking tours of the historic Vieux Lyon and Jewish Quarter to segway and guided tours, visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive experience, Lyon’s wide selection of historical tours provides ample opportunities to uncover the city’s captivating past.