Lyon: the Great Bike Tour From North to South

Lyon’s bike tour promises an exhilarating journey through the city’s historic heart. Crossing the Saône River, riders explore the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon, marveling at its medieval and Renaissance architecture. They’ll pedal along the riverbanks, taking in stunning vistas of the converging Saône and Rhône. Traversing the city, participants discover Lyon’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, all from the unique perspective of two wheels. Whether a seasoned cyclist or a curious newcomer, this immersive 3-hour experience offers a chance to uncover the vibrant character that defines this captivating French locale.

Key Points

1. The guided bike/e-bike tour explores Lyon’s city center, showcasing the picturesque peninsula between the Saône and Rhône rivers.
2. Participants marvel at Renaissance monuments and the historic Vieux Lyon district, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval and Renaissance architecture.
3. The tour allows cyclists to cross the Saône River, offering panoramic views of the riverbanks and historic bridges connecting the two sides of the city.
4. Cyclists discover the charming medieval quarter of Vieux Lyon, exploring hidden traboules, or secret passageways, and encountering artisan workshops and family-run eateries.
5. The tour provides a comprehensive experience of Lyon’s diverse architectural styles, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning natural landscape along the converging Saône and Rhône rivers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The guided bike or e-bike tour takes participants through Lyon’s city center, showcasing the picturesque peninsula between the Saône and Rhône rivers, Renaissance monuments, and the historic Vieux Lyon district.

Over the course of 3 hours, the group, limited to 10 participants, will explore Lyon from north to south. A local guide leads the way, providing insights and historical context along the route.

Riders receive a 15-minute training session and are equipped with a bike or e-bike, helmet, and rain cape.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those under 5’1′ tall. E-bikes are restricted to participants 14 and older.

Cycling Through the City

Participants set out on their bikes or e-bikes, eager to explore Lyon’s vibrant streets and iconic landmarks.

The tour guide leads the way, navigating the group through the city’s bustling center, offering insights into the local history and architecture along the journey.

As they ride, the group admires the stunning views of the Saône and Rhône rivers, as well as the city’s centuries-old Renaissance monuments.

Cycling across the Saône River, they enter the charming Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its narrow alleys and traditional buildings.

The tour allows participants to experience Lyon’s unique character and rich cultural heritage from a unique perspective – on two wheels.

Admiring the Peninsula

As the group cycles along the riverbanks, they’re treated to stunning vistas of the Peninsula, the narrow strip of land nestled between the converging Saône and Rhône rivers. This unique geographical feature offers a picturesque panorama of Renaissance architecture, charming bridges, and verdant parks.

The guide points out the Palais de Justice, an impressive 19th-century courthouse, and the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched atop a hill overlooking the city.

Crossing the Saône, the cyclists then enter the historic Vieux Lyon district, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings. This section of the tour showcases Lyon’s rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the riverside landscape.

Exploring Renaissance Monuments

Riders marvel at the impressive Renaissance monuments that dot the landscape as they cycle through the historic city center. Prominent landmarks, such as the Palais de Justice and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviège, showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage from the 15th and 16th centuries.

The ornate facades and intricate details of these buildings captivate the cyclists, transporting them back in time. They pause to admire the Palais de Justice’s imposing stone structure and the Basilica’s striking white limestone exterior.

As they continue their journey, the riders are treated to a visual feast of Renaissance splendor, a testament to Lyon’s enduring cultural legacy.

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Crossing the Saône River

After marveling at the impressive Renaissance monuments, the tour moves on as the cyclists cross the Saône River, entering the historic district of Vieux Lyon on the opposite bank. This crossing offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing participants to admire the architectural wonders from a different angle.

Crossing the Saône River	Description
Panoramic Views	Admire the picturesque riverbanks and historic buildings lining the shores.
Architectural Marvels	Witness the stunning bridges that connect the two sides of the river.
Sense of History	Feel the weight of centuries as you traverse this vital waterway.
Transition to Vieux Lyon	Prepare to explore the charming medieval quarter on the opposite side.

As the bikes glide across the Saône, the group eagerly anticipates the discovery of Vieux Lyon’s hidden gems.

Discovering Vieux Lyon

Crossing the river, cyclists now find themselves immersed in the charming medieval quarter of Vieux Lyon, where they’ll discover a trove of historical gems.

The cobblestone streets wind through a network of traboules, or hidden passageways, that once allowed residents to move discreetly between buildings.

Towering Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance-era mansions line the streets, showcasing the city’s storied past.

Cyclists will explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched atop a hill and offering panoramic views of Lyon.

In the lively squares, they’ll spot artisan workshops and family-run eateries, capturing the authentic essence of this well-preserved historic district.

Traversing the City

As the bike tour continues southward, cyclists wind through the bustling streets of Lyon, taking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

They navigate past towering buildings and lively public squares, marveling at the diverse architectural styles that line their route.

The group crosses the Saône River, entering the historic Vieux Lyon district. Here, they find themselves surrounded by the city’s Renaissance-era structures, including the grand Cathedral Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the charming narrow alleys that lead to hidden courtyards.

The tour guide points out the unique traboules, or secret passageways, that were once used by residents to move discreetly through the neighborhood.

As they continue southward, cyclists are treated to panoramic views of the cityscape, with the Rhône River and the Fourvière Hill in the distance.

Tour Information and Logistics

The tour starts at the ComhiC shop, where participants gather and receive a 15-minute training session on operating the bikes or e-bikes.

Helmets and rain capes are provided for the group’s comfort and safety.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and is offered in French and English.

During the 3-hour tour, riders will explore Lyon from north to south, admiring the city’s Renaissance monuments and the picturesque peninsula between the Saône and Rhône rivers.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those under 5’1′ in height. E-bikes are also not recommended for children below 14 years old.

Guests are responsible for their own food, drinks, and transportation to and from the meeting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead?

Guests can bring their own bikes, but the tour operator may not be able to provide support or assistance if there are any issues. It’s best to check with the operator before the tour to confirm their policy on personal bikes.

How Difficult Is the Terrain for the Tour?

The terrain for the tour is generally flat and suitable for most skill levels. The route takes cyclists along bike-friendly paths and roads, allowing them to enjoy the city’s sights without facing major hills or challenging terrain.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are age restrictions for participants – the tour isn’t suitable for children under 14 years old. E-bikes also can’t be used by children below 14. Pregnant women and those under 5 ft 1 in (155 cm) are also not recommended for the tour.

What Should I Bring With Me for the Tour?

Participants should bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and any personal items they may need during the 3-hour tour. The tour provider will supply the bike, helmet, and rain cape, so no additional gear is required.

Is the Tour Cancelled in Case of Rain?

The tour is not cancelled in case of rain. The tour includes a rain cape to protect participants from inclement weather, allowing the tour to proceed as scheduled regardless of rain.

Recap

The Lyon bike tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Cyclists cross the Saône River, explore the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon, and admire stunning vistas of the converging waterways and landmarks.

This 3-hour journey on two wheels provides participants with an opportunity to discover Lyon’s unique character and charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: