What’s the best way to experience Old Lyon?

There are plenty of ways to experience Old Lyon. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<ul><li><a href="/tours/Lyon/Lyon-Highlights-and-Secrets-Tour/d829-134166P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Lyon/City-Walking-Tour-Lyon/d829-168746P2" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Highlights and Hidden Gems of Lyon Guided Walking Tour (English)</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Lyon/Lyon-Food-Tour-Do-Eat-Better-Experience/d829-188552P4" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Food Tour in Lyon – A Full Taste of France by Do Eat Better</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Lyon/Lyon-Food-Tour-Old-Town-4h/d829-6778P7" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Lyon/Food-Tour-in-the-Alternative-District-of-Terreaux/d829-6778P10" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Afternoon Old Town Food tour</a></li></ul>

How much does it cost to visit Old Lyon in 2026?

While it’s free to explore Old Lyon, many travelers opt to visit the historic center with a guide to learn more about Lyon’s history, architecture, and foodie culture. Walking tours of Lyon start at US$6 per person, hop-on hop-off bus tours start at US$30, and pedicab tours start at US$36.

What is Old Lyon, and why is it famous?

Old Lyon—or Vieux Lyon—is the city’s historic quarter, stretching along the west bank of the River Saône at the foot of Fourvière hill. It’s known for its Renaissance architecture, pastel-painted buildings and narrow cobbled lanes, as well as its characteristic traboule (hidden passageways) and traditional bouchon restaurants.

What are the must-see sights in Vieux Lyon?

The main attraction of Old Lyon is wandering through its maze of cobbled lanes and Renaissance-era traboules, but the historic quarter also has several notable landmarks. Admire Cathédrale Saint-Jean with its famous astronomical clock, peek inside Saint-Georges church, and visit the popular Cinema and Miniature Museum and Gadagne Puppetry Museum.

How much time do you need to explore Old Lyon?

Most walking tours and food-tasting tours of Old Lyon take about 2–3 hours, which is plenty of time to explore the picturesque historic quarter. However, you could easily spend an entire day: visit the museums, ride the funicular up to Fourvière hill, then grab dinner at a traditional bouchon restaurant.

What are the traboules in Old Lyon, and can you visit them?

A trademark feature of the UNESCO-listed city and a popular theme of Old Lyon walking tours, the traboules are secret alleyways and covered passageways that connect streets or buildings together. They are found in Croix-Rousse and the Presqu’ile, but the oldest—dating from the Renaissance era—are dotted throughout Old Lyon.

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) Tours and Tickets

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Lyon: Hidden Traboules and Old Town Walking Tour

Discover the Lyon most visitors miss: walk through secret passageways between historic buildings, admire Renaissance architecture, and uncover the stories behind the city’s most famous landmarks. Join me for a small-group walking tour of Lyon’s historic Old Town, Vieux Lyon, and the elegant squares of the Presqu’île. We’ll explore the famous traboules, narrow passageways that lead through buildings and courtyards, including some that many visitors walk straight past. Along the way, we’ll see Saint-Jean Cathedral and admire the beautiful architecture that makes Lyon so special. You’ll discover how Lyon became a major centre of the silk industry, hear about the silk workers who shaped the city, and learn about Lyon during the Second World War, including the French Resistance. And what would a visit to Lyon be without talking about food? I’ll introduce you to traditional local specialities, my favorite bakeries and food addresses to try during your stay. Come discover Lyon with us!

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Lyon: Hidden Traboules and Old Town Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Lyon reveals itself to those who take the time DE browse it. During this 2-hour guided walking tour DE DE LA QUEBEC, let yourself be taken to discover its treasures, between heritage, anecdotes and art DE vivre. Your promenade DE begins on the banks of the Saône, in the heart of Old Lyon, where the famous traboules, these secret passages typically Lyonnais, hide. Your Guide, passionate and accessible, will introduce you to DE city’s history through local anecdotes and histories, for a visit that is both informative and full of life. The route will then take you back to the Peninsula, the real nerve centre DE the city. You will admire its magnificent squares, its elegant facades and its emblematic buildings: the Place des Jacobins, the Inn-Dieu or the vast Place Bellecour.

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Walk from Old Lyon to the Peninsula with a Guide - French

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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.

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Lyon Walking Tour Explore Top Sights and Hidden Gems

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular

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.

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Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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1 or 2-Hour Pedicab tour of Lyon

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Highlights and Hidden Gems of Lyon Guided Walking Tour (English)

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Lyon Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Audio Commentary

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Delve into Lyon's rich culinary and cultural heritage on this delightful pastry tour. Visit 4 renowned bakeries and pâtisseries to sample iconic treats like pink pralines brioche, all while wandering through the historic streets of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about Lyon’s silk-making history and discover hidden traboules, the city's secret passageways that tell tales of craftsmanship and resistance. This tour is perfect for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts eager for an authentic experience. - Taste a variety of local specialties at six unique bakeries - Explore the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon, rich in Renaissance history - Discover Lyon’s hidden traboules, once vital for silk workers - Ideal for food lovers and culture seekers in a relaxed walking pace Please note: Tastings are provided by independent local bakeries and food vendors, and Best Tours cannot guarantee the absence of allergens or be held liable for allergic reactions or dietary-related issues.

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Lyon: Pastry Tour through Old Town and Hidden Traboules

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Discover the essence of Lyon on this immersive walking tour showcasing iconic landmarks. Starting at Fourvière Hill, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic city views. The journey continues downhill through the ancient ruins of Lugdunum, exploring well-preserved Roman theaters and odeons. As you enter Old Town (Vieux Lyon), wander narrow cobbled streets and visit the majestic Saint-Jean Cathedral. Unique traboules, the city's secret passageways, reveal hidden historical insights. Led by an expert guide, gain local knowledge and personalized attention throughout this enriching experience. - Tour duration: 3 hours with a maximum of 25 participants - Visit Fourvière Basilica and Roman ruins of Lugdunum - Explore the charming streets of Vieux Lyon and Saint-Jean Cathedral - Discover Lyon's secret traboules for a unique perspective

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Lyon Highlights with a Local Fourviere and Old Town Walking Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Old Lyon, one of the most historic areas of Lyon, has plenty of stories to be shared. Travel back in time to the Renaissance period, where preparations are in full swing for the imminent arrival of King Henry II. Follow the adventures of Catherine, a female printer/publisher, and her battle to save the family printing business. The stories are guaranteed to give you the shivers! This tour is only available in French.

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Story tour of Old Lyon for children

1 hour 15 minutesFree Cancellation

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4h Complete Lyon Experience: E-Bike, Food Tasting & Old Town Walk

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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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.

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Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Pedal your way through Lyon on an exciting electric bike tour that covers the city from South to North. Start in the charming Vieux-Lyon, then ride along the Saône River, through historic spots like the Croix-Rousse tunnel, and discover highlights such as Tête d’Or Park, Place Bellecour, and the modern Confluence district. With an electric boost to ease your ride, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and learn about Lyon’s fascinating history.

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The Grand Bike Tour of Lyon - 3h

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2h - Electric Bike Tour of Lyon with a Local Guide

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Lyon City Tour with Local Guide Explore Hidden Gems

Discover the charm of Lyon with a local touch on this interactive city tour led by Canadian guide Ryan. Join a 2-hour tour to see Lyon's top 10 sites. Learn about Lyon's rich history from Roman times to its role in WWII, making it perfect for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Navigate the city's picturesque streets, secret traboules, and vibrant squares while also getting insider tips on local restaurants (called "bouchons" by locals). - 2-hour tour (max 18 guests) featuring 10 city highlights - Explore famous landmarks like the traboule Renaissance passages, Vieux (Old) Lyon, and Place Bellecour - Learn about Lyon's famous "bouchon" restaurants with lots of recommendations provided by your local guide(s) - Suitable for all ages and physical abilities

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Lyon City Tour with Local Guide Explore Hidden Gems

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Explore the atmospheric Old Town of Lyon like a local with your foodie guide and a small group of budding gastronomes. Visit at least four different restaurants, bakeries, and artisan shops around Lyon, and indulge in Lyonnaise specialties such as pike quenelle (fish mousse) with rice, local charcuterie, and pink praline brioche, accompanied by regional wines including at least one alcoholic drink for guests over 18.

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Lyon Small-Group Food Tour with Wine & Full Meal by Do Eat Better

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Uncover the Magic of Lyon with Your Personal Audio Guide Tired of feeling touristy — but still want to experience Lyon? With 100 captivating audio stories straight to your phone, this self-guided audio tour is your key to discovering Lyon’s most iconic landmarks such as the ancient Fourvière, as well as hidden gems. Weave through the historic Vieux Lyon (Old Town), and the bustling The Presqu'ile district while this flexible walking tour lets you explore at your own pace — no groups, no schedules. Get a personal guide in your pocket at a fraction of traditional tour prices: ✅ No app download — works directly from your browser ✅ Start anytime, anywhere ✅ Explore top sights & hidden gems ✅ Enjoy full flexibility with pause and resume features ✅ Vivid storytelling with soundscapes and voice narration ✅ Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families After booking, just submit the last 5 digits of your phone number in the “promo code” field at App.trales.io to activate your access.

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Self-Guided Tours in Lyon with 100 Captivating Audio Stories

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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.

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The Grand eBike Tour of Lyon - 3h

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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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.

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Gourmet tour of Presqu’île & Vieux Lyon 4 hours - meal included

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Big Traboules in Little Lyon Private Walking Tour

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Meet and talk with local artisans as you sample their cuisine on this afternoon food tour that offers access to people and places only locals know. Savor local specialties at four separate tasting stops as you stroll among the murals and alleyways of Old Town, Lyon’s UNESCO district. Potential bites on the menu include cheese, cold cuts, brioche, chocolates, wine, and artisanal ice cream in the warmer months.

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Afternoon Old Town Food tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Experience the magnificence of Lyon at your own pace with our immersive audio tour, allowing you the freedom to wander through centuries of history without being confined to rigid group schedules. As our carefully researched narrative reveals Lyon's secret past beyond the typical tourist tales. Benefit from an authentic experience that lets you linger at the sights that captivate you most, skip those that don't, and pause for that perfect café moment whenever your senses desire. Our expertly crafted narration features a warm, engaging voice that brings Lyon's rich tapestry to life with vivid storytelling that keeps you captivated throughout your journey. Unlike traditional guided tours where you're just one in a crowd, this personalized experience allows you to immerse yourself completely in the atmosphere of each location, transforming an ordinary visit into an extraordinary adventure through one of France's most enchanting cities.

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Lyon Self Guided Audio Experience

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Explore Vieux Lyon the fun way: by Segway. Riding a self-balancing electric scooter behind a guide, you’ll glide around the old town streets with ease, sidling past monuments like Lyon Cathedral, and then heading into Bellecour Square and through the Tete d’Or Park. Anecdotes and stories about all the Lyon attractions are part of the fun. The tour is conducted in both French and English simultaneously to accommodate more travelers.

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Segway Tour by ComhiC - Tête d'Or Park - 2h

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Lyon, contrary to what one thinks, is not made only of light ... I invite you to come wander in the dark legends of the city in order to meet its specters, because Lyon does not reveal itself easily to travelers .... From Vieux-Lyon to the Presqu'île, we will stroll through the dark streets in search of symbols and ancient rituals which, perhaps, still influence the inhabitants. From the evil spirits of St. George, to the lycanthropes and tough assassins of Lyon, the city drags a reputation as a demonic city. NOTE: The tour is open to children, the speech can be adapted to the type of audience. However, it is the responsibility of parents to judge the sensitivity of their children. WARNING!! This tour is offered in French, but if you wish to have it in English write to me before booking. Thanks!

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Dark Lyon

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

Ben_F, Oct 2026

Nathan obviously loves...

Nathan obviously loves his hometown and taught us so much about its history. Vieux Lyon is a special place and he clearly loves to share it with his guests. The food and drink were all amazing, and seeing it on foot is the only way to do it.

Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

Elisha_v, Oct 2026

Highly recommend this tour

This food tour was fantastic. We sampled fantastic food, had a great traditional meal, enjoyed some good local wine and learned a lot about the history of Lyon with an amazing guide. I highly recommend this tour.

The Grand Bike Tour of Lyon - 3h

Millie_L, Oct 2026

The ride was beautiful,...

The ride was beautiful, the scenery is beautiful. Not a difficult ride. I wish there was a little more history of Lyon. We saw these walled fortress but the host didn’t know anything about it. Riding is still a great way to explore. A more knowledgeable guide would have been much more meaningful.

Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular

David_W, Oct 2026

Wonderful Lyon morning

Excellent, funny, interesting guide who knew the city well. He told the history and some culture in a great way.

Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (small group) including Funicular

Rebecca_A, Oct 2026

Toni is a fantastic tour...

Toni is a fantastic tour guide. The tour was very good and we learned a lot about the history and habits of the city. I would recommend this tour to anyone. There were about 10 of us and Toni made sure that everyone got to ask questions and talk with him between stops.

Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

Richard_B, Oct 2026

Fantastic Way to Experience the Foods of Lyon

What a great experience! Our guide, Shirine, was both knowledgeable about Lyon and its food scene. She was delightful to spend 4 hours with. One of the best food tours we have been on in large part because of Shirine. Needless to say this tour is highly recommended.

2h - Electric Bike Tour of Lyon with a Local Guide

Carolyn_R, Oct 2026

Zoom around Lyon

Zoey was an amazing tour guide. E-bikes were great & easy to operate as I’ve never ridden one before. The traffic is busy & you need to be cautious of other bikers , scooters & pedestrians. If you haven’t ridden a bike in 20 years it may not be the right fit for you. This was a great way to get some perspective of the city. Zoey kept us safe & gave clear directions & animated knowledge of the history of Lyon.