Questions? (888) 651-9785(888) 651-9785
Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) Tours and Activities
_d829-30.jpg)
At the foot of Fourviére Hill, the historical streets of Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) offer a welcome change of pace from the modern city across the river. With elegant medieval churches, Renaissance-era monuments, and pastel-painted facades, this is Lyon’s most atmospheric district.
The Basics
There are many options for exploring Old Lyon, from walking tours and standard or electric bike tours to Segway jaunts and hop-on hop-off bus excursions. In addition to Old Lyon, city tours often visit neighborhoods such as La Croix-Rousse and the Presqu’île and ride the funicular up to the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière for impressive city views. Food tours explore Lyon’s gastronomic heritage at the famous Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market and restaurants around Old Lyon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Lyon is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors.
- The narrow lanes of Vieux Lyon are mostly pedestrianized and best explored on foot—wear comfortable shoes.
- The majority of cafés and restaurants can be found along Rue Tramassac, but the quayside bars and restaurants offer the best views at night.
How to Get There
Old Lyon stretches along the left bank of the Saône River, with Fourviére Hill rising to the west. It’s a short stroll across the bridge from Place Bellecour or Place des Jacobins, and the closest metro station is Vieux Lyon (line D). Funiculars for Fourvière Hill also run from this station.
When to Get There
Explore the streets of Old Lyon in the morning to avoid the crowds and take photos of the beautiful historical buildings, or visit in the evening to dine along the riverfront. The most spectacular time to visit Old Lyon is during the annual Festival of Lights in December, when dazzling light projections brighten up landmarks such as Saint John the Baptist Cathedral (Cathédrale-Saint-Jean-Baptiste, or Lyon Cathedral).
Architecture of Vieux Lyon
With buildings dating from as early as the 11th century, the streets of Vieux Lyon are bursting with architectural treasures. The star attraction is Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows and striking mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Nearby are the Maison du Crible mansion, with its much-photographed pink tower, and a number of historical traboules (narrow alleyways). In the northern Saint Paul quarter, the Gothic Maison du Consul and the grand Hotel Gadagne (now part of the Musées Gadagne) are notable highlights, while the Saint Georges quarter was Lyon’s original silk-weaving area and is home to the riverfront Church of Saint George (Église Saint-Georges).
Address: Rue Saint-Jean, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Admission: Free
31 Tours and Activities to Experience Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
Learn more
Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
Sort by:Featured

Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular
121
Discover Lyon’s highlights, and wend your way past major landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites alike, on this small-group walking tour. Meet your guide in the afternoon at the Bartholdi Fountain, and set off on foot. Over the course of several hours, you’ll learn all about the city’s history and gourmet traditions, will stroll through Vieux Lyon (its Old Town), will travel by funicular up Fourvière Hill, and more.
…More
From
US$39.65
From
US$39.65
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Lyon Big Traboules in Little City Stories from the Past Private Guided Tour
8
Were there any lions in Lyon? Why did they build so many secret passages and what kind of troubles happened in the "traboules"? Where did the kings keep their mistresses? Why is the city center sliding down the hill throughout centuries?
Join me to walk the streets that are as busy today as they were 500 years ago, see Lyon as it was at the era of Roman Empire, and hear more cool stories about this amazing city, its history, architecture and culture.
The departure time and place is flexible depending on your preferences.
…More
From
US$43.53
From
US$43.53
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Lyon Old Town Food & Wine Tasting Tour including a Bouchon Lyonnais
35
With its hidden “traboules” passageways, Old Lyon is a joy to wander on foot. Uncover its culinary secrets and access places only locals know on this small-group tour with a foodie guide. Dine at a typical “bouchon Lyonnais” restaurant, taste foods from brioche to pralines, and (naturally) sample plenty of local wine. Choose between morning and afternoon departures to suit your schedule.
…More
From
US$109.13
From
US$109.13
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting with a Local Guide
86
Take in the sights of Lyon with an electric bike tour, an easy way to get around, while you sample some of what makes this the culinary capital of France. After stops in Lyon's UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Place des Terreaux and La Croix-Rousse, riding along the picturesque Rhône River, pause at a restaurant to taste regional specialties like locally-made cheeses and cured meats. Upgrade to the 4-hour tour to include a stop at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière where you'll get wonderful views over Lyon. Tour group size is limited to 10 for more personalized attention from your guide.
…More
From
US$84.88
From
US$84.88
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch
55
Tour and taste your way around Lyon on this half-day Old Town food tour. Save hours researching where to find the best local food, and instead, have insider knowledge from your guide. Meet local producers, and learn about Lyon’s wonderful gastronomy scene. You won’t have to worry about translation problems—your guide translates for you, as you enjoy several tastings throughout the day.
…More
From
US$90.94
From
US$90.94
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Lyon Small-Group Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Local Guide
55
Glide around Lyon’s UNESCO-listed historic center on an easy-to-use electric bike with this 2-hour guided bike tour. Cruise along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, pedal around the lush Tête D’Or Park and zip through the dazzling Croix Rousse tunnel, with its unique sound and light show. Stop along the way to admire landmarks like Lyon Cathedral, stroll around bustling Bellecour square and discover little known monuments and local haunts.
…More
From
US$36.38
From
US$36.38
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option
194
Food is undoubtedly one of Lyon's most beloved traditions. Since 1935, the city has been considered the world capital of gastronomy. When Lyon's culinary traditions were being forged, the famous "Mères Lyonnaises" (Lyonnaise Mothers) managed to turn Lyon cuisine into an institution. Today, male chefs dominate the scene, like the famous Paul Bocuse, however it is the women who evolved the renowned cuisine. Many of the recipes around the city are unchanged from their humble beginnings, meaning you'll have the opportunity to taste the culture and history that has turned Lyon into the culinary hub it is today. We'll guide you through this gastronomic journey infused with passion, history, and exquisite French food and wine. Find out why eating and drinking are not just a pastime in Lyon, but a way of life.
…More
From
US$288.58
From
US$288.58
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

1 or 2-Hour Pedicab tour of Lyon
44
Health and safety commitments:
The tours have been suited to meet all of your requirements and provide you with a safe tour experience.
Once you are comfortably seated in the electric pedicab, begin a tour of Lyon with a local guide who is passionate about the city.
Learn about the history of Lyon from Roman times to the Renaissance and discover the city from another angle, in the heart of the historic districts.
Discover the old town of Lyon, "Vieux Lyon", part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.”
On an extended 2-hour tour, visit the area of "Presqu'île", which is at the heart of the city and continue along the banks of the Rhone to enjoy a panoramic view of the hills of Fourviere and Croix-Rousse.
Hear stories, historical facts, and anecdotes, as you explore some of the highlights of the city.
Up to 2 adults and one child under 6 years old. 1 or 2-hour guided tour.
…More
From
US$30.31
From
US$30.31
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Lyon City Historic Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour (English)
156
10:00 am/English | On this guided walking tour of the historic neighborhoods of Croix-Rousse and Vieux Lyon, you will learn a lot about the culture and history of Lyon. We start on Place des Terreauxwhere you'll see the impressive the Hôtel de Ville and Museum. The Bartholdi Fountain is another highlight. Then we walk through Croix-Rousse, where the silk workers used to work. It is filled with hidden passageways, the Traboules. We will talk about silk enjoy amazing views over the city. From the Roman Amphitheatre, we descend down towards Vieux Lyon, the most famous neighborhood of the city. We will see the Fresque des Lyonnais, an impressive wall painting and Rue Juiverie, with the amazing Gallerie Philibert Delorme. We'll finish in the busy part of Vieux Lyon, right in time for lunch!
Tips are greatly appreciated. Our guides spend many hours of personal time increasing their knowledge to provide you with the best experience possible.
Typical tip range has been e5-10 per person.
…More
From
US$3.72
From
US$3.72
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Lyon Old Town Private Food Tasting Tour with a Local Expert
2
Explore the photogenic scenery of Lyon’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, and discover some of this famously gastronomic city’s most delicious bites, during a private walking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and be sure to come hungry: your guide will lead you down traboules (narrow passageways) and to bouchons Lyonnais (traditional local bistros), and you’ll sample everything from brioche to pralines and beyond.
…More
From
US$181.88
Price varies by group size
From
US$181.88
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Excursion to the discovery of the wonders of Lyon
With friends, colleagues or family, the City of Lights will reveal all its secrets. Enjoy a unique experience with a Driver AND a Private Guide present only for you. This circuit is fully adaptable according to your desires.
…More
From
US$746.19
Price varies by group size
From
US$746.19
Price varies by group size

Lyon Quais Saint Antoine Private Gastronomic Food Tour
A propos des guides :
• We are graduates or current students at the Institut Paul Bocuse therefore fascinated by gastronomy ! We are happy to share our gastronomical knowledge and culture from the Institut.
• We all speak fluent French and English
Our tours:
• Private tours from 2 - 10 people
• 6 to 8 gastronomic stops
• Local wine, cheese, charcuterie, coffee, tart, preserves and more
Suggestions :
• Do not eat too much prior to tour as the tour offers numerous tasting stops
• Comfortable shoes and pants adapted to the visit as their is a few short walks from between each stop
…More
From
US$110.69
From
US$110.69

Relaxed photo shoot in historic Lyon
I shoot beautiful, relaxed images that will create memories to last a lifetime, I am a professional photographer based in Lyon, France. I have put measures in place to allow social distancing, i will be wearing a mask and sanitising.
…More
From
US$151.57
per group
From
US$151.57
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Gastronomic Lyon Adventure: Small-Group Tour With a Local
1
Explore Lyons' boutiques and food markets on this small group tour with a local guide. Along the way, sample the delicious cuisine the French are known for including pastries, charcuterie, cheese, and wine. You’ll also learn a bit about the city along the way and discover the city’s many “traboules” (secret passages) used by merchants to transport their goods.
…More
From
US$144.29
From
US$144.29

Lyon Highlights Day Tour with Local Silk Shop & Paul Bocuse Market
Day Tour of Lyon. See both Lyons famous hills in a day. English Guide.See the most interesting sights of Lyon's Old Town plus Croix Rousse.See the last Lyon Silk Shop producing in Lyon.
…More
From
US$120.04
From
US$120.04

Trek & Cook
This authentic walk allows travelers to discover Lyon through the theme of gastronomy and the city's culinary and cultural heritage. From the Halles Paul Bocuse in Lyon to the Saint Antoine market, we will taste and buy the products to compose together a typically Lyonnais meal, before going to the table!
…More
From
US$105.71
From
US$105.71

The perfect tour of World Heritage area in Lyon
Lyon, a big French charming city, let discover itself in half a day. We go throughout the city centre called Peninsula, between the Saone and Rhone rivers, then up to the top of Fourvière hill, where the view is memorable, and down to the Old Town (Vieux-Lyon) for a walking tour. It gives you good landmarks in town. A perfect delightful experience for the first time which allows you to get your way!
…More
From
US$303.14
per group
From
US$303.14
per group

Lyon City Private Guided Tour
I offer you to be your guide for a tour in Lyon.
During all day long i make you discover Lyon throught different points of interest (cultural, historical, architectural).
…More
From
US$545.64
per group
From
US$545.64
per group

Best of Lyon Private Tour
Travelers with limited time in Lyon often face a tough decision—go sightseeing, experience the famous cuisine, or learn about the city's silk production. With this guided, private half-day tour, you can do all this and more. Wander the cobblestoned streets of Old Lyon, see the city's historic passageways—known as traboules—savor the local cuisine, and wrap up your tour with a stop to learn about traditional silk making. All in just a few hours.
…More
From
US$472.89
per group
From
US$472.89
per group

Small Group Gourmet tour of Old Lyon and Les Halles Paul Bocuse covered market
Enjoy a gourmet tour of Lyon combining cultural and gourmet stops from the Old-Town to iconic Halles Paul Bocuse passing through the Peninsula. Accompanied by your friendly and passionate guide, you will learn all about the legendary lyonnaise gastronomy and the history of the city. Explore the different districts of Lyon and learn all about the little anecdotes around them while tasting all the amazing produces that made Lyon the Capital of Gastronomy. Your guide will take you to the iconic places of the city such as the Old Town, the Penin-sula and of course the famous Paul Bocuse covered market, in a fun and convivial atmosphere. Discover the gourmet who lives in you!
…More
From
US$83.67
From
US$83.67

Along Lyon, guided tour
1
Come and discover the history of Lyon from its birth to the first workers' revolts of the 19th century. 20 centuries of a rich and fascinating history, punctuated with anecdotes and little surprises from Lyon!
…More
From
US$23.04
From
US$23.04
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Au fil de Lyon, private day tour
1
In complete privacy, come and discover Lyon with a private guide, art historian and heritage restorer. Learn about Lyon from its birth to the first workers' revolts in
XIXth century. 20 centuries of a rich and fascinating history, punctuated by anecdotes and small
very Lyon surprises!
…More
From
US$109.13
From
US$109.13
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Lyon Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Audio Commentary
152
The perfect introduction to France’s history-filled city, this hop-on hop-off tour of Lyon makes stops at several attractions. Enrich your visit with audio commentary in multiple languages as you listen to anecdotes about the city, its people, and its heritage. Your pass is valid for the whole day, so you can get down—and back on—as many times as you’d like.
…More
From
US$25.46
From
US$25.46
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More

Lyon Panoramic City Tour in Minivan - Private Tour - Half Day
1
There is so much to see and do in the city of Lyon that your only problem will be finding enough time to see it all!
Choose to discover Lyon's quintessence with our private Panoramic Sightseeing Tour. With a local guide, visit Lyon's best monuments in minivan and learn everything about its fascinating history.
…More
From
US$151.57
Price varies by group size
From
US$151.57
Price varies by group size
Things to do near Lyon
- Things to do in Rhône-Alpes
- Things to do in Annecy
- Things to do in Geneva
- Things to do in Dijon
- Things to do in Montreux
- Things to do in Avignon
- Things to do in Nîmes
- Things to do in Arles
- Things to do in Turin
- Things to do in Montpellier
- Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
- Things to do in Marignane
- Things to do in Marseille
- Things to do in Burgundy
- Things to do in Lake Geneva