Bouchon Lyonnais, a traditional French restaurant in Lyon
Bouchon Lyonnais, a traditional French restaurant in Lyon

The Best of Lyon City Tour, Lyon

Overview

If you don’t have much time to visit Lyon, this tour was made for you! In just a few hours, you can squeeze in much of what the city has to offer. Enjoy discovering all that made Lyon known throughout the centuries, including its architecture, 2,000 years of history, silk factories, and gastronomy. From one point to the next, you'll discover cultural highlights, dynamic art, and food following pure Lyon tradition.

Just like an authentic Lyonnais, you'll start at Bellecour Square, the heart of Lyon's river peninsula where the locals gather. From the square, which offers an amazing view of the Fourviere Basilica, head toward the Old Town by crossing the Bonaparte Bridge. Then, thanks to the legendary “ficelle,” the famous cable car, you'll reach the top of the hill with ease, admiring the unusual architecture of the basilica and appreciating the fantastic overview of the city.

Next, continue to the Old Town, stopping in St John’s Square, the oldest square in Lyon. Here you'll find a historic neighborhood full of Renaissance architecture. Your guide will show you the courtyards via the famous “traboules," covered passageways through medieval structures.

As you walk, you'll make a few tasty stops, because you can't really visit Lyon without talking about its food! Enjoy several tastings of local specialties, proving the city's international reputation of delicious Lyonnaise gastronomy. As you taste, discover traditional recipes and gourmet secrets.

Finally, you'll visit a silk workshop, where the artisans still weave silk the conventional way and perpetuate centuries-old traditions.

Discover more unique experiences in Lyon.

Itineraries with The Best of Lyon City Tour

Rhône Valley Family Tour: Lyon to Marseille - 12 Days

This self-drive 12-day itinerary highlights the best of the Rhône Valley, from north to south. Perfect for the whole family, you'll start in food forward Lyon, then work your way through the colorful countryside of Provence and down to Marseille on the Mediterranean coast. Along the way, you'll taste full-bodied wines, marvel at ancient Roman ingenuity, and enjoy the majestic beauty that is southern France.