Lyon Old Town Highlights and History Private Walking 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 highlights, history and timeless beauty of Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts. Explore the Old Town and see the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, La Longue Traboule, Fresque des Lyonnais, Town Hall, and more.
Available in
English and French
German, Spanish and Italian Languages
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Explore Lyon's Old Town and its World Heritage Sites with a 5-Star Private Guide
- Marvel at the medieval Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
- Discover the secret passageways of La Longue Traboule
- Learn about the famous people featured on Fresque des Lyonnais
- See Hôtel de Ville, Opéra National, famous bouchons and hidden gems
Explore the cobblestone streets, hidden passageways, and stunning architecture of Lyon’s Old Town! This private tour brings the city’s past to life through stories about its foundation by the Romans in 43 B.C., the medieval silk trade, the French Revolution, the resistance during the Nazi occupation, and more.
Available options
2H Old Town Tour ENG, FRE
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the history and highlights of Vieux Lyon. See the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, La Longue Traboule,<br/>,: Fresque des Lyonnais, Town Hall, and more.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - FRLY012
2H Old Town Tour GE,IT SP
Duration: 2 hours: Discover the history and highlights of Vieux Lyon. See the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, La Longue Traboule<br/>,: Fresque des Lyonnais, Town Hall, and more.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - FRLY012
What's included
Recommendations of the best restaurants, cafes and pubs
Private Walking Tour of Lyon 's Old Town Highlights
Historical facts, cultural anecdotes and funny legends
Insider tips on the best things to do in Lyon
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide in front of DECOPLUS PARQUET LYON TILSITT, 1 Quai Tilsitt, 69002 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 with a Professional Private Guide. Vieux is known as one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your tour at Ponte Bonaparte, which offers beautiful views of the Saône river and the Fourvière Hill, dominated by the landmark Basilica of Notre Dame.
3
Take a closer look at the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, built on the ruins of a 6th century church.
4
Discover the hidden passageways of La Longue Traboule and find out how they were used in the Middle Ages by the silk workers and by the Resistance fighters during World War II.
5
Stroll down Rue Saint-Jean, the main street of Vieux Lyon, lined with charming shops, traditional bouchons (restaurants), and Renaissance-style buildings. Discover the faces and stories of famous people of Lyon depicted on Fresque des Lyonnais and the Fresco "The library of the city".
6
Admire the beautiful Bartholdi Fountain and Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) in Place des Terreaux.
7
End the tour in front of the magnificent Opera House and get personalised recommendations on the best things to do in Lyon.
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 clearly hear the commentary.
We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of DECOPLUS PARQUET LYON TILSITT, 1 Quai Tilsitt, 69002 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 clearly hear the commentary.
- 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
