Top Rhône-Alpes Historical Tours

Most travelers think they’ve seen Lyon after walking through Vieux Lyon or tasting a bouchon meal. But what if I told you that the true charm of the city hides behind quiet courtyards, secret passages, and stories whispered through its cobblestone streets? Lyon reveals itself slowly and only to those who know where to look. Without a local guide, it’s easy to miss the city’s heartbeat. You might admire the Renaissance façades but overlook the hidden traboules. Lyon isn’t just about what you see, it’s about what you feel, and exploring alone means missing the warmth and rhythm of its everyday life. That’s why this Walking Tour in Lyon makes all the difference. Your local guide adapts to your curiosity, leading you through iconic sights and secret corners only locals know. Together, you’ll uncover Lyon’s beauty, history, the one most travelers never find.

Lyon’s old town is riddled with secret passageways and history. This immersive, guided walking tour begins at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and takes you through the traboules (covered passageways used by silk workers to transport fabrics), to present-day silk workshops, and the Museum of Cinema and Miniatures, before finishing up at the Grand Hotel Dieu, formerly the city hospital, now a luxury hotel and shopping complex.

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.

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.

Lyon flies more under the tourist radar than it should—with UNESCO sites aplenty, 2,000 years of visible architecture, and some of the country’s best foodie experiences, the city’s one world-class adventure. You’ll learn about and see all the best spots on this walking tour, your local guide leading the way from the neighborhood of Croix-Rousse to the famous Vieux Lyon.

This small-group e-bike tour shows you the best of Lyon and lets you cover more ground in less time than walking would. Hop on your bike and cruise past the old city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the famous Fresque des Lyonnais (a celebrated mural), the gardens of the Musée des Confluences, the Saône river, and more. Your local guide has tales to entertain and educate you as you pedal.

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.

A truly private tour : This experience is 100% private: only you and your group — no strangers, no fixed routes, no imposed pace. Access to non-public traboules : Explore historic traboules that are normally closed to the general public, in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, thanks to a licensed and authorized local guide. Living history, not tourist storytelling : Discover the key role of the silk workers (Canuts) and the French Resistance during World War II, through the secret passageways that shaped Lyon’s history. A flexible itinerary, tailored to you : The walk adapts to your interests: architecture, medieval history, local life, or UNESCO World Heritage. Led by a local expert : Your tour is guided by a licensed professional guide, specialized in private and cultural tours in Lyon. Carefully selected traboules : With over 500 traboules across the city, this tour focuses on the most meaningful and historically rich ones — many outside conventional tourist routes

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

Lyon is known for its historic neighborhoods and award-winning gastronomy—this tour covers both in a single morning. Explore the atmospheric squares and traboules (covered passageways) of Old Lyon and the Peninsula with a Local Guide. Along the way, make photo stops at Lyon’s most memorable monuments and enjoy gourmet food-tasting breaks at five local establishments. Visit foodie spots that only locals know about, and sample a variety of delicious regional specialties.

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.

The Best Way to Discover Annecy: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a lakeside coffee or a museum visit and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups.The "Complete City" Package Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems and beautiful spots revealed along the way. Audio & Text: Listen to our audio guide or read the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations.What you will visit: Pont des Amours, Jardins de l’Europe, Panorama du lac, Hôtel de Ville d’Annecy, Église Saint-François de Sales, Le Palais de I’Île, Église Notre Dame de Liesse, Old Town Hall, Old Town, Annecy Cathedral, and Ponts Morens.

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.

Annecy, nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, invites you to discover its treasures in one day. Walk the charming medieval streets, admire the island's famous Palace, and stroll along the picturesque canals. Don't miss Lake Annecy, famous for its purity, and the gardens of Europe for a break from nature. With a 2 km route, this itinerary immerses you in the history and beauty of this Alpine city, perfect for lovers of culture and breathtaking scenery. - Explore 20 must-see sites in Annecy in one day - Admire Lake Annecy, one of the purest in Europe - Enjoy a 2 km walking route through the historic center - Ideal for lovers of culture and nature

Discover Lyon like never before on an electric bike tour that combines effortless exploration with stunning sights. Glide through must-see spots like Vieux Lyon, the Saône quays, and the breathtaking Parc de la Tête d’Or, all led by a passionate local guide sharing the city’s rich history. From the historic Croix-Rousse Tunnel to the contemporary Confluence district, this tour uniquely showcases Lyon’s charm.

Experience both the well-known landmarks and hidden corners of Lyon on this private walking tour led by a local host. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire so we can match you with a guide who tailors the day to your pace and interests. From secret traboules in Vieux Lyon to hillside gardens, riverside quays, and street art in Croix-Rousse, your experience will be as layered and personal as the city itself. Private, fully personalized walking tour of Lyon Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the day to your interests Wander traboules and Renaissance courtyards in Vieux Lyon Discover quiet gardens, murals, and riverfront hideaways Flexible pace guided by a local who adjusts in real time

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 such as locally made cheeses and cured meats.

Discover the rich history and unique charm of Lyon on a walking tour through the elegant Presqu’île district and the historic streets of Vieux Lyon. Known as the gastronomic capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage city, Lyon offers visitors a fascinating blend of Roman origins, Renaissance architecture, and vibrant local culture. Your experience begins at the iconic Place Bellecour, one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe and the symbolic heart of the city. Surrounded by elegant buildings and lively streets, this historic square provides the perfect introduction to Lyon’s past and present. From here, your guide will introduce the city’s fascinating story, from its beginnings as a Roman settlement to its development as one of Europe’s most important commercial hubs.

A Savoyard experience with a cocktail in summer or Grolle in winter. Discover the points of interest, local sights and the most beautiful spots for great Instagram photos... and don’t forget to capture your best pose! Then enjoy an interactive and exciting wine tasting, where you will discover the aromas, flavors and textures of prestigious regional cuvées, perfectly paired with local cheeses and cold cuts. This guided tasting will help you identify the notes and differences between the different wines, while learning and enjoying local cheeses and their traditional methods of making. It’s a true French aperitif — where flavors, exchanges and conviviality meet over local wines, cheeses and cold cuts. An experience not to be missed.

Traboules are a unique feature of the city of Lyon. Since when, how and why do they exist? We will plunge together into the atmosphere of different eras, passing through about twenty typical traboules. During a trip, we will discuss various aspects and anecdotes of the city's history. Discovery, thrill and passion guaranteed!

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.

Not everyone will find it—but on this tour, you just did. Welcome to Chamonix, your alpine escape cradled by the towering French Alps. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll wander through cobbled streets, pause at hidden chapels, and take in sweeping views that most visitors miss. With Mont Blanc as your backdrop, you’ll uncover local legends, stories of mountaineering triumphs, and secret corners only the locals whisper about. No crowded buses, no fixed schedules—just you, the fresh mountain air, and a personal guide in your ear bringing Chamonix’s magic to life, one step at a time.

From antiquity to contemporary, experience the Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the world-class collection from ancient Egypt to paintings by Monet and Picasso. Step inside the Saint-Pierre Palace and see artistic expression from ancient Greece, including the Kore sculpture. Listen to an audio guide as you uncover ancient Egyptian death rituals and see a funerary mask and coffin. Take a snap of ‘The Flight into Egypt’ painting by Nicolas Poussin, and admire the Renaissance collection of ceramics. Afterwards, enjoy an audio tour of the top sights of Lyon. While you explore the Capital of Lights, hear stories about Saint Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, Place des Terreaux and more. Photography credits to: Blandine Soulage