Lyon Under The Revolution with an Actor-Led Fun Guided Tour

Lyon , France

Lyon Under The Revolution with an Actor-Led Fun Guided Tour

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About this experience

Discover the history of the Seige of Lyon in 1793 on a unique theatrical stroll through the city's historic streets with a professional actor-guide, and learn of this bloody episode as he brings to life the mathematician André-Marie Ampère, whose father was guillotined by the revolutionaries.

Available options

Tour in English

What's included

Experience a gripping tale of revolution, loss, and resilience brought vividly to life.

Discover how Ampère’s personal tragedy shaped his legacy amid the city’s turmoil.

Walk Lyon’s historic streets as André-Marie Ampère reveals the 1793 siege’s brutal truth.

Enjoy a fully guided walking tour with a professional actor-guide

Feel the tension and heartbreak of a city caught in the throes of revolution.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your journey will begin at Place Bellecour, where André-Marie Ampère will inform you of the terrible sentence decreed by the National Convention of Paris: "Lyon made war on liberty, Lyon exists no more. The name of Lyon will be erased from the list of cities of the Republic." And this destruction will commence at Place Bellecour, renamed "Place de la Fédération."

How did we arrive at such a situation? By stopping in front of the Saint-Nizier church, Ampère will explain to you the complex situation of Lyon during the French Revolution. He will share his perspective on the fierce struggle between the Montagnards and the Girondins and on their fatal division, which led the National Convention of Paris to consider Lyon as a counter-revolutionary city. You will discover how Paris sent terrible emissaries against Lyon, Couthon and then Fouché, who repressed and massacred its population.

Imagine the sound of the guillotine tirelessly operated at Place des Terreaux, where many innocents, including Judge Ampère himself, will fall victim to the excesses of the revolutionary repression. On this square, you will retry the trial of the National Convention of Paris, where you will be led to distinguish on one side the historical truth and on the other, the passions that still surround this tragic episode in the history of the city of Lyon.

Finally, you will discover a gallery of colorful historical figures, starting with Marie-Joseph Chalier, Lyon's "exaggerated" revolutionary, who aspired to be "the Christ of the Revolution." His execution sparked the siege of Lyon by the troops of the National Convention. Ampère will thus lead you to discover the house of the "Grand Tambour," where Chalier lived. You will conclude your visit in the astonishing Chapel of Sainte-Croix where the mysterious Crypt of Brotteaux is located, an ossuary erected in homage to the innocent victims of Lyon.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance fees, this is an outdoor walking tour.

Hotel pick up/drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Place Bellecour, by the Louis XIV statue.

He will be in costume and will be wearing a badge around his neck on a black lanyard.

Important notes

Please note this tour requires a reasonable amount of walking. Please wear comfortable shoes!

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.