Lyon: Segway Tour Along Rhône and Saône River

Taking in Lyon’s gorgeous scenery and historic charm from a Segway is a fantastic way to see the city quickly and comfortably. While we haven’t personally tested this tour, it has garnered rave reviews and scores a solid 4.8 out of 5 from over 140 travelers. This experience promises a lively blend of sightseeing, easy riding, and guided storytelling—all packed into a 1.5-hour adventure.

What we love about this tour: First, the friendly guides like Ines and Romane who make safety and fun a top priority. Second, the stunning views along the riverside embankments and historic districts that make every photo worthwhile. Third, the opportunity to cover multiple neighborhoods—medieval Vieux-Lyon, the bustling Place Bellecour, and the Renaissance architecture—all in one short spin.

A potential consideration is that this tour requires a minimum weight of 100 pounds and is not suitable for pregnant women or those with inner ear issues. Also, it involves riding a Segway, so if you’re nervous about technology or balance, a bit of practice is needed. The tour suits travelers who enjoy light adventure, want an efficient overview of Lyon’s highlights, and appreciate the combination of guided storytelling with active exploration.

In short, if you’re after a memorable, fun way to see Lyon’s key sights without walking for hours, this could be your best bet. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or anyone curious about trying a Segway for the first time—especially if you want an insider’s glimpse into Lyon’s streets and stories.

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Key Points

Comfortable and fun: A 15-minute training ensures everyone feels ready before hitting the streets.
Beautiful scenery: Ride along the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying gardens, embankments, and city views.
Expert guides: Guides like Tatiana, Cecile, and Matthew are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and safety-conscious approach.
Richly informative: Tour guides share interesting tidbits about Lyon’s landmarks, history, and hidden gems.
Flexible experience: Duration is 1.5 hours, and the small group size keeps things intimate and personalized.
Value for money: Includes helmets, raincoats if needed, and a photo service—adding to the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Best of Lyon on a Segway: A Deep Dive

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The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Ride

The tour begins in Old Lyon, a perfect starting point steeped in history. You’ll receive a 15-minute briefing and training session—a step that many reviewers found both fun and reassuring. Guides like Romaine and Cecile are often highlighted for their enthusiasm and patience, making even first-time Segway riders feel at ease.

Once confident, you’ll set off to explore some of Lyon’s most iconic sights. Starting at Place Bellecour, one of Europe’s largest open squares, you’ll see the grand statue of Louis XIV and the bustling activity all around. Reviewing comments, travelers mention how riding through such a famous square offers a thrill combined with a sense of connection to Lyon’s regal past.

From there, your route takes you along the embankments of the Rhône River, which stretch about 5 kilometers of pedestrian-friendly gardens and paths. As we read in reviews, visitors appreciated how smoothly the Segway handled the terrain—many noted that riding along the riverbanks felt peaceful and scenic, ideal for photos and relaxing moments.

Crossing to the Saône River, you’ll move into Lyon’s medieval and Renaissance districts. Here, your guide will point out notable sights like the Opera House, Bartholdi Fountain, and the famous Fresque des Lyonnais. According to review snippets, guides like Tatiana provide insightful commentary, adding layers of meaning to these landmarks beyond their appearance.

Highlights: Landmarks and Local Secrets

Place Bellecour is a highlight—its massive size and central location make it a natural starting point. Reviewers often mention how it’s a fitting showcase of Lyon’s regal history and lively atmosphere. You’ll also pass by monuments like the statue of Louis XIV, which adds a regal air to the cityscape.

Riding along the riverside gardens, you’ll enjoy a scenic, pedestrian-friendly stretch that many find relaxing. The gardens, stretching for five kilometers, are perfect for photos and give you a sense of Lyon’s dedication to urban green spaces.

Downtown, the Opera House and the Fresque des Lyonnais offer a mix of culture and street art. The guide’s commentary often includes stories behind these landmarks, enriching your understanding of Lyon’s artistic and cultural layers.

Crossing the Saône River, you’ll come into the medieval district of Vieux-Lyon with its cobbled streets, Renaissance facades, and hidden courtyards. Many reviewers highlight how riding a Segway through these narrow lanes makes for a fun, swift overview of Lyon’s historic heart.

The Experience: Guides, Safety, and Photo Opportunities

Reviewers consistently mention guides like Romaine and Tatiana for their warmth, knowledge, and attentiveness. They often take time to take photos of guests on their Segways, helping you capture memories of this unique experience. The tour includes helmets and raincoats if needed, emphasizing safety and comfort.

The group size is limited to 10 participants, which enhances the personalized feel and allows guides to give individual tips. Several reviewers comment on how much they appreciated the patience and enthusiasm of their guides, especially when navigating traffic or tricky turns.

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Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and Restrictions

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, with start times available throughout the day—check availability to find a slot that suits you. The price includes a training session, helmet, and guide, which many consider good value given the scope of sights covered.

To participate, you need to be at least 14 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. The activity is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with vertigo or inner ear issues. Casual, flat shoes are best—think sneakers or comfortable walking shoes.

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The Reviews Speak Volumes

From families to solo travelers, most agree this tour made Lyon feel more accessible and fun. One reviewer said, “Riding a Segway is easier than riding a bike,” which is reassuring for first-timers. Many mentioned that guides like Matthew and Cecile went out of their way to ensure safety while making the experience enjoyable.

Another traveler noted, “This tour provided a different way to see the city, and it was a lot of fun.” Several reviewers appreciated the combination of sightseeing and storytelling, making it more than just a ride.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers eager for a lighthearted adventure that covers a lot of ground quickly. It’s great for those who want an easy ride with guided insights into Lyon’s history and landmarks. Families with teenagers over 14, friends, or couples looking for a fun activity will find it particularly appealing.

If you’re interested in a unique perspective on Lyon’s riverside parks and historic streets without long walks, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and fun. However, if you prefer a more in-depth exploration or dislike riding technology, other options might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

This Segway tour along the Rhône and Saône rivers offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and guided storytelling that’s hard to beat in such a short time. The manageable pace, friendly guides, and variety of sights make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those looking for a fresh way to explore Lyon.

The fact that it’s highly rated and praised for its safety, organization, and the enjoyment of participants signals that you’re in good hands. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, this tour ensures you’ll leave with memorable photos and a good overview of Lyon’s most iconic areas.

In summary, if you’re after an accessible, engaging, and scenic introduction to Lyon that feels both fun and informative, this Segway tour ticks all the boxes. Perfect for those who want to see a lot without tiring out, it offers an experience that’s as enjoyable as it is practical.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. The tour begins with a 15-minute training session to ensure everyone feels comfortable before heading out, making it suitable for first-time Segway riders.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers a 1.5-hour guided Segway tour, helmets (mandatory), raincoats if needed, and a guide who shares interesting insights about Lyon.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes. Participants must be at least 14 years old. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

What are the weight restrictions?
Participants should weigh between 100 and 260 pounds (45-118 kg). This ensures safety and proper Segway handling.

Can I book for more than 8 people?
Yes, up to 30 Segways can be reserved, but it’s best to inquire ahead if you’re planning a larger group.

Is the tour accessible in bad weather?
Raincoats are provided if needed, but extremely poor weather may cause cancellations or rescheduling—check with the provider.

Is it safe to ride a Segway in Lyon’s busy streets?
Guides are experienced and attentive to safety, and the tour includes traffic and pedestrian navigation, ensuring a secure experience.

Will I get photos?
Guides often take photos of participants on the Segway to keep as souvenirs, enhancing the overall experience.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
Yes. Pregnant travelers are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

This Lyon Segway tour is a lively, engaging way to see the city’s highlights with expert guidance, scenic routes, and a touch of adventure. If you want a memorable, fun, and efficient introduction to Lyon, it’s a fantastic pick.