Lyon is a city that offers much more than just its well-known gastronomy and historic streets. Its location along the Rhône and Saône rivers makes it an ideal spot for cruise and boat tour experiences. Whether you want to quietly admire the city’s modern Confluence district, take control as captain yourself, or explore Lyon’s UNESCO-listed Old Town from the water, there are options to suit every style.
Personally, I love the boat rental without a license because it combines the freedom of sailing with the simplicity of no prior experience required. You can glide past landmarks like the Confluence neighborhood or the Old Town with just a few easy instructions—plus, it’s environmentally friendly and offers a chance for some family fun. For a more active approach, the self-driven cruise from Confluence to Barbe Island lets you captain your own boat and enjoy Lyon’s scenic river landscape at your own pace. If you’re interested in combining sightseeing with cultural exploration, the Old Town private walking tour with a scenic cruise offers a well-rounded day filled with iconic sights and insider stories.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of boat experiences in Lyon, from self-navigated rentals to guided tours:
- Lyon: Boat Rental without a License — a 1.5-hour adventure for groups up to 10, perfect for a relaxed exploration (details here).
- Lyon: from Confluence to Barbe Island by free license boat — a 3-hour trip where you take the wheel yourself, ideal for those seeking independence (details here).
- Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise Tickets — a comprehensive 3-hour experience combining guided walking and a scenic river cruise with commentary (details here).
1. Lyon: Boat Rental without a License
At number one, this boat rental without a license offers a laid-back way to see Lyon from the water. For just $129 per group of up to 10 people, you get 1.5 hours of freedom to explore Lyon’s rivers without needing any previous sailing experience. The boat itself is modern, environmentally friendly, and easy to operate—no license required, just a bit of confidence to steer it.
This tour is perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family who want a relaxed, hands-on experience. You’ll start at 1 Pl. de la Capitainerie and cruise along the Saône and Rhône rivers, passing through vibrant parts of the city like the Confluence district, known for its cutting-edge architecture. The route includes scenic views of Lyon’s modern skyline, historic bridges, and the lively riverbank areas. The included tourist map helps you identify landmarks and enrich your experience. Many reviewers mention how surprising it is how simple it is to handle the boat, making it accessible even for first-timers.
Bottom Line: If you want a memorable, flexible, and fun way to explore Lyon from the water without the hassle of licensing, this rental is a fantastic choice.
2. Lyon: from Confluence to Barbe Island by free license boat
For around $199, this self-driven boat tour lets you captain your own boat through Lyon’s scenic waterways for about three hours. It’s a rare opportunity to be both the navigator and the explorer, with the chance to create your own route along the rivers.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to enjoy Lyon at your own pace. You start at the Confluence district—where modern architecture and the historic Rhône meet—and head toward Barbe Island, a peaceful spot perfect for a break or some scenic photos. The trip offers incredible views of Lyon’s landscape, especially because it takes you through a UNESCO World Heritage area. The experience is ideal for confident boaters who want independence and picturesque surroundings without the crowd.
Reviewers mention the thrill of being in control, and many say it’s an “incredible experience” that’s far from busy tourist boats. It’s suited for those with some confidence navigating on open water but still seeking a manageable, enjoyable adventure.
Bottom Line: This is a great option if you want to steer your own vessel and experience Lyon’s natural beauty without the fuss of a guided tour.
3. Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise Tickets
At number three, this guided tour combo provides a full introduction to Lyon’s historic heart. For $231 per person, you’ll start with a 1.5-hour private walking tour of Vieux Lyon led by a guide who shares fascinating stories and highlights the city’s most iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of St John and the Hôtel de Ville.
Following the walking exploration, you’ll hop on a scenic Saône river cruise that lasts about an hour. The cruise offers an easy way to relax while enjoying panoramic views and informative commentary. This combination is especially good if you want an immersive experience of Lyon’s cultural and historical highlights in one day.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention from the private guide and the chance to see more sites than on a standard walking tour. The cruise portion adds a scenic and restful element, making it a balanced and rich experience for visitors interested in art, architecture, and history.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a comprehensive, guided experience with both land and water elements, this tour provides excellent value for the depth of exploration and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Lyon Boat Tour
Picking the best boat experience depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. If you’re looking for a relaxed, self-guided adventure, the boat rental without a license offers flexibility and fun. For those who want to take control and enjoy Lyon’s waters without guides, the self-driven cruise is perfect.
If you prefer an in-depth cultural experience, combining guided tours on land with a scenic cruise, the Old Town guided tour is hard to beat. Consider your time, budget, and whether you want to be in charge or prefer a guided experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure the best dates. Think about what kind of experience matches your travel style—whether it’s the independence of steering your boat or the comfort of a guided tour—and enjoy Lyon from the water.
Lyon’s waterways open a fresh perspective on the city’s beauty. Whether you choose a simple rental, a self-navigated cruise, or a guided combo tour, each offers a unique way to experience Lyon’s vibrant riverside scenery. With a variety of options, there’s no reason not to hop aboard and see Lyon from a new angle.