Top Lyon Sightseeing Tours in 2026

Take a walk through Lyon's history with a private guide, and discover the small French city as it was during Roman days. You'll learn about the city's architecture and culture through curiosity-packed commentary that's sure to keep your interest piqued as you explore. Stories of Lyon lions and secret city passageways are among the highlights.

Visit the streets of old Lyon by bicycle taxi and admire the historical monuments that abound. A fun alternative to being cooped up in a coach, the bike taxi offers an unobstructed view and an eco-friendly solution. Book a bike taxi for two adults and a child under six and, if you want a longer excursion, upgrade to also include the Presqu'île and the banks of the Rhône River.

Explore Lyon's profound World War II narrative, where every street and square whispers stories of courage and resistance. The city stands as a living monument to human dignity, transforming historical trauma into a powerful testament of hope. From the secret stairways of Cour des Voraces to the silent tributes like Le Veilleur de Pierre, Lyon reveals layers of heroism hidden within its urban landscape. Walk Rue Victor-Hugo and Place Bellecour, where ordinary citizens became extraordinary resistance fighters. Visit the CHRD Lyon to delve into the raw, unfiltered stories of those who defied Nazi occupation. Saint-Nizier Church and Hôtel de Ville bear witness to Lyon's unbreakable spirit, while murals and historic sites transform urban spaces into powerful historical narratives. Each location is a chapter in a remarkable story of human resilience where art, heritage, and imagination intersect to honor those who fought for freedom against overwhelming odds.

Finding your way in France’s third-largest city can be a challenge for first-time visitors to Lyon, and many of its historic landmarks and “traboules” (covered passageways) are easy to miss. This self-guided audio tour handles the navigation and provides historical context as you explore the Old Town and the Presqu'ile district. You set the pace, whether you want to whizz around the highlights or enjoy a leisurely weekend of sightseeing.

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.

Real Private Tour: This visit is 100% private – only you and your group, without strangers, rigid routes or imposed rhythms. Access to traboules normally closed to the public: Explore historic passageways in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse that are often closed to independent visitors, accompanied by a certified local guide. Living history: Discover the role of silk workers, the Canuts, and the French Resistance during World War II through the places that marked Lyon’s history. Flexible route: The tour suits your interests: architecture, medieval history, local life or UNESCO heritage. Local expert guide: Tour conducted by a licensed professional guide, specializing in private and cultural experiences in Lyon. With more than 500 traboules in the city, this tour selects some of the most emblematic and least known.

Explore France’s most picturesque wine region on an 8-hour tour from Leon. Complimentary transportation takes your small group of maximum eight people into the Golden Stones Country.  Meet the owner of a family winery and sample some of his best Beaujolais wines. Continue with a guided tour of medieval Pérouges, followed by free time to explore independently. Finally, relax on your way back to the city.

Travelers that want to avoid a crowded tour bus—but see more than with a typical walking tour—shouldn't miss this comfortable, pedicab tour in Lyon. As you cruise through the heart of the city, see top attractions, from bustling Place Bellecour to the historic Theatre des Celestins and Cathedral Saint Jean Baptiste. Along the way, learn about Lyon's history from your guide, and see some of the city's ancient hillside passageways, called traboules.

Come discover the hidden gems, good wines and back roads of Beaujolais with us onboard our Vintage Land Rovers. During this exclusive experience with a passionate local insider, you’ll visit 2 wineries usually closed to the rest, each offering a unique story and exceptional wines. One stop includes a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, where you'll gain insight into the daily life and passion of dedicated winemakers. Additional cultural and historical stops await, tailored to your interests; like a charming chapel deeply tied to the local terroir or a privately owned medieval château open just for us. This tour is customizable to suit your preferences, so let us know what you're looking for. Then sit back, relax, and let us take you to the very best places of Northern Beaujolais!

Meet a Lyon local for a private walking tour that’s like having a friend—rather than a professional guide—to show you around the city. It’s a new concept in travel, and everything from the pre-tour phone consultation to the walking tour itself is completely tailored to you. Whether you’re exploring neighborhood life or looking for Lyon’s most authentic flavors, it’s a personalized alternative to an off-the-shelf itinerary.

Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Lyon on this private walking tour. Discover the cultural, historical, and architectural highlights that afford the city its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Wander through Old Lyon and uncover its hidden passageways, marvel at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and peek behind the curtain of the city’s puppet shows with a visit to the Guignol Puppet Museum.

Maximize your time in the vibrant Lyon with a Lyon City Card, which includes admission to a wide range of the city’s most popular museums as well as transportation, puppet shows, and more. Select from either a 1-, 2- 3-day or 4 day pass and receive a free brochure and map-guide to the city when you collect your card.

Explore the rich Jewish history of Lyon on this engaging 3-hour tour. Starting at Place Bellecour, delve into the community's presence since the Middle Ages, including their struggles and triumphs in commerce and culture. Visit key sites like Rue Grolée, home to 19th-century Jewish entrepreneurs, and see the iconic Synagogue du Quai Tilsitt, a symbol of resilience. Hear stories of faith and solidarity, and choose to reflect further at the Prison of Montluc or the Museum of the Resistance. This tour provides deep insights into the Jewish heritage of Lyon, revealing tales of courage and community amidst historical challenges. - Discover Lyon's Jewish history from the Middle Ages to modern times. - Visit significant sites like Place Bellecour and Rue Grolée. - Learn about the role of the Synagogue du Quai Tilsitt as a refuge during the war. - Option to visit the Prison of Montluc or the Museum of the Resistance at tour's end. *Please note that the synagogue will be seen from outside

Uncover the essence of the Côtes du Rhône in just half a day. Onboard our vintage Range Rover, you'll be guided by a knowledgeable local insider. You can chose to be picked up in Lyon or to meet directly in Vienne or Valence. Start at one or two family-run estates in the Côte-Rôtie appellation, where you'll savor wines directly from the barrel and learn about the intricate art of blending that defines these renowned wines. The tour takes a serene turn as you visit a hidden 300-year-old chapel nestled in the woodlands, offering a unique glimpse into the region's history. Finally, explore a quaint village with an intriguing backstory linked to Rhône Valley legends, enriching your appreciation for this remarkable area.

Take off from Lyon and make your way to the beautiful southern Beaujolais region. First, journey into a vaulted cellar for an introduction to wine tasting with two distinct wines and a local pastry. Then, pass by the 12th-century village, Oingt, to see its medieval monuments, and end your tour at a winemaker’s estate with more tastings.

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.

We will start by discovering the emblematic places of Poitiers, passing in front of the church of Sainte Radegonde and its mysterious princess, the place Leclerc or the Saint-Pierre Cathedral. I will then guide you through the secret streets of Poitiers where you will discover unsuspected private mansions, but also alleys full of history. This active walk will be enhanced with explanations on the exceptional urban planning of the city, but also with little-known anecdotes. Together, we will slip into the mazes of history and above all, the mystery that surrounds the walls of our beautiful city.

Discover Lyon’s famed gastronomy with this private half-day culinary walking tour. Follow your guide to explore different neighborhoods and taste cheese, chocolate, and wine. Learn about the city’s culinary history including its bouchons (small, traditional restaurants). Visit Halles Paul Bocuse and taste several local specialties at one gourmet market.

Lyon is the southern gateway to the Burgundy wine region, but with hundreds of wineries to choose from and limited public transport options, having your own wheels is a big asset. On this private morning or afternoon tour, get to know the Mâconnais wine region in a vintage Land Rover; visit up to four different wineries hand-picked by a local guide; and taste the region’s famous Chardonnay and other wines.

Enjoy a private, fully personalized sightseeing ride from Lyon to the beautifully preserved medieval village of Pérouges. Travel in comfort with an English-speaking Welcome Driver who adapts the experience to your pace, allowing you to choose how long to explore and where to stop for photos. Your friendly local driver shares insights, stories, and recommendations along the scenic countryside journey while ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. Arrive just outside Pérouges’ fortified walls and step into a charming world of cobbled streets, stone houses, and timeless architecture. Explore artisan shops, admire historic facades, or relax in the village’s peaceful central square at your leisure. With convenient door-to-door service and no need to worry about transport or parking, this private day trip offers a relaxed and seamless way to discover one of France’s most photogenic villages before returning comfortably to Lyon.

From the basilica Notre Dame de Fourviere to the Roman monuments, discover the ancient Capital of Gaul. Walk down the hill with your private guide from Lyon Private Tours to explore the old town, a Renaissance district where the traboules, the secret passageways of the city, are opening up before us. Fourviere is the historical hill of Lyon, where everything started. From the Notre Dame de Fourviere basilica to the Roman monuments, discover the ancient capital of Gaul with your guide. Under the Roman stones are hidden so many fascinating stories. Then we’ll climb down the hill to discover the old town, Le Vieux-Lyon, the Renaissance district and the traboules, the secret passageways cutting through the buildings and the courtyards.

Devote some time to silk in Lyon with a private tour that puts the spotlight on the city’s historic silk-making heritage. With your own personal guide, you’ll meet the Lyon artisans in their ateliers to learn about their work. A weaving demonstration on Jacquard loom and a silkworm exhibition (May to November only) are among the highlights.

Embark on a history-filled walking tour of the Old Town led by a Private Guide and receive tickets for a scenic river cruise! Explore Lyon on foot and on water and see the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Hôtel de Ville and other highlights. HIGHLIGHTS: • Discover the highlights of Lyon’s Old Town with a 5-Star Private Guide • Marvel at Cathedral of St John, Hôtel de Ville, and other iconic landmarks • Immerse yourself in the history and cultural heritage of Lyon • Relax on a Saone river sightseeing cruise with commentary • See 3x more sites than on a regular walking tour without cruise tickets On this private walking tour of Lyon’s Old Town you will discover the city’s iconic landmarks, learn about ancient trade routes and silk industry, and receive tickets for a 1-hour river sightseeing cruise!