Lyon Through the Ages: History, Cinema, and Cafés Private Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the city on a private tour made just for you. Embark on the “Lyon Through the Ages: History, Cinema, and Cafés” walking tour for a journey through Lyon’s rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural scenes. Begin at the Musée d’Histoire de Lyon, where you’ll gain insights into the city’s past. Stroll through the enchanting streets of Vieux Lyon, admiring Renaissance architecture and secretive traboules. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of film and miniatures at the Musée Cinéma et Miniature. Visit the iconic Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste to appreciate its gothic splendor. Conclude your exploration with a relaxing stop at Le Coin Vert, where the ambiance of Lyon comes alive. This tour offers a unique blend of historical discovery and leisure, perfect for those looking to experience Lyon’s essence in one day.
Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.
Available options
German guided tour
Lyon Through the Ages: History, Cinema, and Cafés
Italian guided tour
Portuguese guided tour
What's included
Professional local tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your tour at the Museum of the History of Lyon (MHL), housed in the Gadagne Museums complex, which delves into the rich history of Lyon from its Roman roots to the present day. Discover artifacts, multimedia exhibits, and more.
2
Stop 2
Continue to Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance neighborhoods and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through narrow passageways (traboules), explore charming courtyards, and admire the well-preserved architecture.
3
Visit the Museum of Cinema and Miniature, known for its extensive collection of movie props, models, and special effects exhibits. It also showcases incredibly detailed miniature scenes of everyday life.
4
Explore the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a stunning example of Gothic architecture located in the heart of Vieux Lyon. Known for its magnificent stained glass windows and astronomical clock.
5
Conclude your tour at Le Coin Vert, a quaint café situated in a picturesque corner of Lyon, perfect for relaxing and reflecting on your journey through the city’s historical sites. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a light meal in this charming setting.
What's not included
Musée d'Histoire de Lyon Admission Fees - 8€
Musée Cinéma et Miniature Admission Fees - 17 €
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
EN
IT
FR
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet at the entrance to Musée d'histoire de Lyon - Gadagne.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
