Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town 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 rich Jewish heritage of Lyon on this comprehensive tour that delves into the history, culture, and contributions of the Jewish community in the city. See the Great Synagogue and immerse yourself in Jewish stories.
Available in
English and French
German, Spanish and Italian Languages
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Experience the Jewish side of Lyon with a 5-Star History Expert-Guide
- See the Great Synagogue of Lyon and learn about its historical significance
- Discover the remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter in Vieux district
- Learn about World War II, the Holocaust and Jewish Resistance
- Enjoy a Jewish walking tour tailored to your pace and interests
The history of Jewish people in Lyon can be traced back to year 39, when it was still known as a Roman city of Lugdunum. This private tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and the enduring contributions of its Jewish community.
Available options
2H:Jewish HistoryTour GR,SP,IT
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the Jewish side of Lyon's Old Town. See the Great Synagogue, <br/>,: Jewish Street and other highlights of the former Jewish Quarter.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - FRLY016
2H:Jewish History Tour EN,FR
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the Jewish side of Lyon's Old Town. See the Great Synagogue, <br/>,: Jewish Street and other highlights of the former Jewish Quarter. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - FRLY016
What's included
Private Walking Tour of Lyon’s Old Town and former Jewish Quarter
Sightseeing around the Great Synagogue and Jewish sites
Recommendations on the best things to do in Lyon
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
Interesting facts about the Jewish history of Lyon
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide in front of Chocolats Voisin Terreaux, 24 Pl. des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France. Please do not enter the store, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
2
A 2-hour walking tour of Lyon’s Old Town and its Jewish sites. Begin your tour at Place des Terreaux and Hôtel de Ville, where you'll learn about the history of Jews during the French Revolution and the contributions of prominent Jewish figures to the city's political and social life
3
Hear fascinating stories about the Jewish people who lived at Rue Lanterne, and stroll through the historic Old Town (Vieux Lyon) to discover the remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter. One of the highlights is Rue Juiverie ("Jewish Street."), where many Jewish families once lived and worked.
4
Stop 4
Stop by the Traboules, hidden passageways that were used by Resistance fighters during World War II, and learn about the oppression of Jewish people in France during the Nazi occupation
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Pass the Cathedral of John the Baptist and hear historical facts about the expulsions and exoduses of Jews during the Middle Ages
6
Your walking tour will end in front of the Great Synagogue, built in 1864, but the guide will also tell you about other Jewish sites in Lyon, such as the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Jewish Community Center and the planned Holocaust memorial that will commemorate the city’s lost Jewish community.
What's not included
Entry to the Great Synagogue(See only Outside)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather.
For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly.
We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of Chocolats Voisin Terreaux, 24 Pl. des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France. Please do not enter the store, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
Important notes
Information for the customer (Know before you go)
- Check your email the day before the tour for important information.
- It is a walking tour, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather.
- For the best experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly.
- We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
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
