Lyon is a city that rewards curiosity: its winding streets, Renaissance architecture, and world-renowned gastronomic scene make it a perfect place for diverse tours. Whether you prefer pedaling along the Rhône, exploring medieval towns, or learning about the city’s silk and food traditions, Lyon offers experiences that blend history, culture, and cuisine. We particularly love the Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting for its ease and flavor-packed stops, and the Private Secret Food Tours for a personalized culinary journey. These tours showcase Lyon’s lively streets and mouthwatering offerings with expert guides, making them ideal for curious travelers.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of Lyon tours designed to suit different interests and schedules. From electric bike rides exploring the city’s highlights and scenic river routes to guided walking tours revealing Lyon’s secret passageways and historical sites, each experience offers a unique way to see and taste Lyon. Wine lovers will enjoy the Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting and the Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town excursions—perfect for a day outside the city. And for a different perspective, river cruises like the Segway Tour along Rhône and Saône rivers bring Lyon’s sights to life from its lively waterfronts.
1. Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting with a Local Guide
At number 1, this electric bike tour offers a fantastic blend of sightseeing and culinary discovery. Over approximately four hours, you’ll pedal through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, along the Rhône River, and visit key sites like Place Bellecour, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and Roman theaters. The journey is made easy with e-bikes, which are perfect for tackling Lyon’s hills—making the experience accessible for most fitness levels. The tour includes stops at a local restaurant for regional specialties such as cheeses and cured meats, giving you a taste of Lyon’s culinary fame. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace that allows ample time for photos and conversation. This tour is especially suited for those who want to combine outdoor activity with foodie delights. The upgrade to visit Fourvière adds a panoramic view and a sense of the city’s soul.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a comprehensive, fun way to see Lyon’s sights while sampling its flavors.
2. 1 or 2-Hour Pedicab Tour of Lyon
For a quick, eco-friendly look at Lyon’s main sights, this pedicab tour is perfect. Ranging from one to two hours, it’s an engaging alternative to buses, allowing you to relax and enjoy unobstructed views of Old Lyon, the Italian Courtyards, and the Presqu’île. The bike taxi can easily navigate through traffic and narrow alleyways, making it a stress-free way to cover ground. It’s a great choice for families or travelers with limited time who want to get the highlights without walking miles. Reviewers love the personable guides and the flexibility to hop on or off, especially if the weather turns. One tip: bring a camera—this tour showcases many photogenic spots.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, memorable overview, especially if you prefer a relaxed, intimate experience.
3. From Lyon: Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting Tour
This wine tour takes you into the scenic heart of Southern Beaujolais, just outside Lyon. Over about four hours, you’ll visit a family-owned winery, learn about local winemaking traditions, and taste several regional wines. The tour also includes a stroll through the medieval streets of Oingt, one of France’s most beautiful villages, with its charming stones and panoramic views. The focus on authentic, small-scale wine producers makes this experience stand out—guests highlight the opportunity to meet passionate winemakers and taste their creations. The tour is well-priced at $116 per person, offering good value considering the quality and intimacy. It’s suited for wine lovers happy to spend part of their day exploring picturesque villages and savoring glasses of Beaujolais.
Bottom Line: A top pick for aficionados seeking a genuine, immersive wine tasting experience with cultural charm.
4. Lyon’s History and Must-Sees with a Local! (English Walking Tour)
At number 4, this walking tour offers an intimate glimpse into Lyon’s stories and secrets. Led by Quentin—an enthusiastic local—this 1 hour 45-minute stroll covers the cathedral, Old Town, and hidden passageways known as Traboules. Quentin’s personal insights and storytelling make history come alive, especially with anecdotes about Lyon’s Roman roots and WWII stories. It’s extremely affordable at just $4.64, making it a great option for travelers on a budget or those who want a taste of local life. The small group ensures personalized attention. Guests admire the insider tips and the chance to explore Lyon like a friend showing off their city.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly introduction perfect for those who want a quick yet meaningful culture.
5. Lyon: Segway Tour Along Rhône and Saône River
Number 5 offers a fun, modern way to see Lyon on a Segway. Lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour follows both the Rhône and Saône rivers, passing through lively waterfront neighborhoods and the grand Place Bellecour. The Segway training session ensures everyone feels comfortable before heading out, making it suitable for first-timers. The highlight is gliding past medieval streets and Renaissance monuments, seeing how the city’s past and present blend along the water. With 154 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it’s praised for its friendliness and ease. This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick, active overview with a hint of adventure.
Bottom Line: An engaging, easy-to-do tour ideal for those who enjoy a bit of tech and fun while sightseeing.
6. Lyon: Guided City Bike Tour
This guided bike tour covers Lyon from north to south over three hours. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive, active look at the city’s main landmarks. Pass through historic neighborhoods, parks, and riverside paths while your local guide shares insights into Lyon’s past and present. Reviewers appreciate the attentive guides and the well-paced ride that includes lesser-known spots alongside major sights. It’s best suited for those comfortable biking for a few hours and interested in a detailed, full-circle city experience. The tour’s balance of story and scenery makes it a great choice for curious explorers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a thorough, energetic tour with local insights.
7. Storytelling Tour of Croix-Rousse in French
Number 7 features a storytelling tour, led by a professional actor, that dives into Croix-Rousse’s silk history. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll wander through traboules and learn about the silk weavers’ revolt, all narrated with theatrical flair. This tour is not just educational; it’s lively and immersive, making history engaging for all ages. The guide’s background in acting adds a storytelling dimension that keeps the tour lively. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy storytelling and want to see Lyon’s silk legacy through a theatrical lens. The small group and theatrical presentation make it a memorable cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and culture lovers who appreciate a theatrical storytelling approach.
8. Lyon: Guided Food Tour with Tastings
Number 8 is a food-focused experience that explores Lyon’s culinary scene over three hours. With multiple tastings and visits to local neighborhoods, it offers a delicious introduction to Lyonnaise specialties. The tour combines walking with stops at famous spots, sharing stories about Lyon’s nickname as “the capital of French gastronomy.” Reviewers highlight the variety of tastings and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s suited for foodies or anyone looking to combine cultural sights with bites of local flavor. The tour’s balance of food and city sights makes it a tasty way to spend an afternoon.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers wanting a comprehensive culinary experience with local charm.
9. Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Lyon
Number 9 offers a personalized, private culinary journey, perfect for food connoisseurs. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll visit markets, historic streets, and renowned shops, sampling charcuterie, cheeses, pralines, and more. The guide shares stories about Lyon’s gastronomic traditions and the women behind its famous cuisine. The private format means flexibility and tailored experiences—ideal for couples or small groups seeking intimacy. Guests rave about the passion and knowledge of the guide, and the extensive tastings. While the price is higher, this tour provides a deep dive into Lyon’s culinary soul, making it a premium experience.
Bottom Line: For serious foodies wanting an exclusive, in-depth culinary tour, this is hard to beat.
10. 3h – Electric Bike Tour of Lyon with a Local Guide
Number 10 features a three-hour electric bike that covers Lyon’s major sights efficiently. Led by a local guide, you’ll see the city center, the Fresque des Lyonnais mural, and the confluence area with panoramic views. The e-bikes make hilly parts manageable, and reviews note the friendly guides and the good pace. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a thorough overview without too much exertion, especially those who prefer guided commentary. The tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Lyon’s neighborhoods and landmarks, with stops that allow for photos and questions.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a detailed, comfortable ride with local insights.
11. Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (8.15-hour Small Group Tour)
Number 11 is an all-day small-group tour into Beaujolais and Pérouges. It’s a scenic journey through France’s prettiest wine region, including visits to a family winery for tastings of 4-5 wines and a guided tour of the medieval hilltop town of Pérouges. Guests love the chance to meet local winemakers and explore charming villages built from golden stones. The tour balances wine tasting with cultural exploration, offering a true taste of French rural life. It’s best suited for those who enjoy wine and history, with enough time to relax and soak in the views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers wanting an in-depth, scenic day with personalized touches.
12. Lyon: Parc Tête d’Or eBike Tour
Number 12 is an e-bike tour focusing on Lyon’s most famous park—Parc Tête d’Or. Over two hours, you’ll explore the park’s botanical gardens, lake, and zoo, all with a local guide. It’s a gentle option for those who want to enjoy Lyon’s green spaces and main attractions without a strenuous ride. Reviewers emphasize the friendly guides and the scenic, relaxed pace. This tour is particularly good for families or travelers with limited time who want to enjoy Lyon’s outdoors and highlight spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for park lovers and those seeking a leisurely, scenic ride.
13. From Lyon: Beaujolais Wine Route Half-Day Tour
Number 13 offers a half-day wine tour, focusing on the beauty of Beaujolais and its wines. It includes visits to local wineries, tastings of different varieties, and insights into the region’s viticulture. For those short on time but eager to experience Beaujolais, this tour hits the highlights with a relaxed pace, making it a good option for a morning or afternoon out of Lyon.
Bottom Line: A compact but rich experience perfect for wine enthusiasts with limited time.
14. From Lyon: Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings
Finally, number 14 is a full afternoon exploring the Beaujolais wine region. It combines scenic drives, visits to local wineries, and tastings of several regional wines. This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Beaujolais’s landscape and vinicultural traditions, with opportunities to meet winemakers and sample their best. It’s ideal for those who want a leisurely, immersive experience and are interested in the region’s wine culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Beaujolais’s viticulture.
How to Choose the Perfect Lyon Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interest and activity level. If you love combining sightseeing with food, the Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting offers a balanced experience. For a quick snapshot of Lyon’s main sights, the pedicab or Segway tours are ideal. Wine enthusiasts should look at the Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting or the full-day Beaujolais & Pérouges. Budget travelers might prefer the history walking tour, while families or outdoor lovers will enjoy the Parc Tête d’Or eBike.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular experiences like private tours or full-day adventures, and spring and early fall usually provide the best weather. Tailor your choice to your interests and energy level, and Lyon will reward you with authentic sights, flavors, and stories.
To sum it up, Lyon’s variety of tours guarantees you’ll find one that fits your style—whether you want to pedal, walk, sip, or sail through this lively city. Dive in early and enjoy a memorable journey through France’s gastronomic capital.