Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Cruise

Lyon’s storied past comes alive on this guided sightseeing cruise along the Saône River. Guests can enjoy over 2,000 years of history, marveling at the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon and its stunning Renaissance architecture. With live commentary in English and French, this intimate tour offers an accessible way to uncover the city’s enchanting heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the cruise’s affordable pricing and small-group setting promise an unforgettable experience. But the true highlight? Witnessing how the past and present converge on the gentle waters of the Saône.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Lyon.

Key Points

• A one-hour guided cruise along the Saone River showcasing over 2,000 years of Lyon’s captivating history and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Small group tours (up to 9 participants) with live commentary available in English and French for an immersive and personalized experience.
• Explore the well-preserved Renaissance architecture and landmarks in the Vieux Lyon district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Affordable pricing starting from $16.79 per person, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Wheelchair accessible to ensure inclusivity, and overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlighting informative commentary, comfortable transportation, and attentive service.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Cruise

This guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River offers a wonderful opportunity to discover over 2,000 years of Lyon’s history.

The one-hour tour provides an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vieux Lyon and showcasing the city’s bold architecture at the confluence of the Saone and Rhone rivers.

Led by knowledgeable live guides in English and French, the small group cruise (limited to 9 participants) promises an intimate and informative journey.

With prices starting at $16.79 per person, this wheelchair-accessible cruise is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Guests can expect an engaging and memorable experience exploring Lyon’s rich past.

Duration and Capacity

The guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River lasts for 1 hour, providing visitors with an immersive experience to explore Lyon’s 2,000-year history.

The small group is limited to just 9 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized tour. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to all.

A live tour guide is available in both English and French, sharing fascinating insights and anecdotes about the city’s significant landmarks and events.

With prices starting from $16.79 per person, this excursion is both affordable and likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.

Languages and Accessibility

Although the guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors, the tour also provides live commentary in both English and French.

This ensures the experience is accessible and engaging for a wide range of participants. Whether you’re an English or French speaker, you’ll be able to fully learn about the rich history and sights of Lyon as the knowledgeable guide brings the city to life.

The small group size of no more than 9 people also allows for a more personalized and intimate tour experience.

Historical Highlights

Journeying through over 2,000 years of Lyon’s captivating history, the guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River immerses participants in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site attractions.

Highlights include:

• Admiring the Renaissance buildings of the Vieux Lyon district
• Observing the bold architectural confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers
• Learning about significant events that have shaped Lyon’s vibrant past, from the Roman era to the Middle Ages
• Discovering the city’s unique role in the French Resistance during World War II
• Exploring Lyon’s reputation as a renowned culinary capital of France.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Lyon’s UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating blend of Renaissance architecture and historic significance.

Visitors can admire the iconic buildings of Vieux Lyon, the city’s well-preserved historic district. This area showcases remarkable examples of 15th and 16th-century architecture, including the Saint-Jean Cathedral and the Palais de Roanne.

As part of the guided sightseeing cruise, guests will learn about the events and influences that have shaped Lyon’s rich heritage over the centuries.

From the vantage point of the Saone River, travelers can observe the bold and innovative architecture at the confluence of the Rhône and Saone rivers, a testament to Lyon’s architectural evolution.

Architectural Marvels

The guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River offers travelers a unique vantage point to admire Lyon’s architectural marvels.

As the boat glides through the water, passengers can observe the bold, Renaissance-era structures that line the riverbanks. These include:

• The iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, with its striking white facade and neo-Byzantine design.

• The Renaissance-era buildings of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture.

• The impressive confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, marked by bold, modern bridges and structures.

• The striking Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital turned luxury hotel, boasting a remarkable Baroque façade.

• Numerous historic landmarks that have witnessed and shaped Lyon’s vibrant history over the past two millennia.

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can reserve the guided sightseeing cruise in Lyon without making an upfront payment. The reservation offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To check availability, visitors can review the starting times of the tour.

Booking	Cancellation	Availability
Reserve now, pay later	Free cancellation up to 24 hours	Check starting times
No upfront payment required	Full refund upon cancellation	Review tour schedule
Secure your spot in advance	Flexible booking policy	Find suitable departure

The cruise along the Saône River provides an excellent opportunity to explore Lyon’s rich history and UNESCO-protected landmarks.

Customer Feedback

According to the available reviews, customers have overwhelmingly positive feedback about the guided sightseeing cruise in Lyon.

Ratings show the tour excelled across various aspects, including:

• Informative commentary from the guide: 4.4/5
• Comfortable transportation: 4.6/5
• Attentive service: 4.5/5
• Seamless organization: 4.6/5

Reviewers consistently praise the cruise’s ability to bring Lyon’s rich history to life through the knowledgeable guide’s narrative.

Many highlight the scenic route, allowing them to admire the city’s UNESCO-listed landmarks and distinctive architecture along the Saône River.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Snacks and Drinks Are Available on the Cruise?

The sightseeing cruise doesn’t provide any snacks or drinks onboard. Passengers are welcome to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during the 1-hour journey. Food and beverages can be purchased at the meeting point prior to departure.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way?

Passengers can stop for photos at various scenic points along the cruise route. The live guide provides commentary and allows ample time for participants to capture the historic landmarks and picturesque river views during the journey.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the sightseeing cruise offers discounted tickets for seniors and students. Passengers 65 and older, as well as students with valid ID, can save up to 20% off the standard adult price.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Beverages?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted on the sightseeing cruise. Guests can purchase refreshments on board. Bringing your own snacks or beverages is not allowed as per the cruise operator’s policies.

Is an Audio Guide Available in Additional Languages?

According to the information provided, an audio guide is not mentioned as an option. The tour is led by a live guide available in English and French, but there’s no indication of additional language options for an audio guide.

Recap

The guided sightseeing cruise along the Saone River in Lyon provides a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guests can enjoy scenic views and live commentary in English and French, all at an affordable price point. This intimate tour is an accessible and engaging way to experience the architectural wonders and enchanting past of this remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: