Lyon tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Lyon: 1) "Old Town" of Lyon - Express Walking Tour 2) Full Day - Annecy, Old town and Lake Cruise in the French Alps 3) Lyon, a silky city 4) Northern Rhone Valley Wine Tour - Half Day 5) Food Tour in La Croix Rousse

Lyon, France, is a city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. Here are some must-do things while visiting Lyon: Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): Wander through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, the city's historic center. Explore the traboules, hidden passageways that crisscross through buildings, and marvel at the well-preserved Renaissance architecture. Don't miss the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the charming Place du Change. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Perched atop the Fourvière Hill, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers panoramic views of Lyon and the surrounding area. Explore the stunning interior of the basilica, adorned with intricate mosaics and stained glass windows, and stroll through the adjacent esplanade and gardens. Discover the Presqu'île: Lyon's Presqu'île, or peninsula, is situated between the Rhône and Saône rivers and is home to many of the city's landmarks, shops, and restaurants. Explore the bustling streets, visit the Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in Europe, and admire the architecture of the Opéra de Lyon and Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Indulge in Lyonnais Cuisine: Lyon is renowned for its culinary scene, particularly its traditional Lyonnais cuisine. Sample local specialties such as coq au vin, quenelles, andouillette sausage, and the famous Lyonnais salad. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at a traditional bouchon, a cozy eatery serving hearty, home-style dishes. Take a Walk Along the Quais de Saône and Rhône: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the banks of the Saône and Rhône rivers. The quays offer scenic views of the city's landmarks, bridges, and historic buildings, as well as green spaces and outdoor cafes where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts: Housed in a former Benedictine abbey, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is one of France's largest fine arts museums outside of Paris. Explore its extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning from antiquity to the 20th century, including works by artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, and Monet. Discover the Traboules: Lyon is famous for its traboules, secret passageways that date back to the Renaissance era. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to discover these hidden gems, which connect streets, courtyards, and buildings, offering a glimpse into Lyon's unique architectural heritage. Experience the Les Halles de Lyon - Paul Bocuse: Indulge your senses at Les Halles de Lyon - Paul Bocuse, a covered market named after the legendary French chef. Browse stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and gourmet specialties, and enjoy tastings of local delicacies. Attend a Festival or Event: Lyon hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and film to gastronomy and light displays. Don't miss the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) in December, when the city is illuminated with stunning light installations and performances. These are just a few of the must-do things in Lyon, but the city offers much more to explore and experience. Whether you're interested in history, culture, gastronomy, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant city, Lyon has something for everyone.

The cost of a private tour in Lyon can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Lyon typically ranges from around $250 - $1200. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Lyon, each highly rated with many five star reviews! 1) Wine full day Tour in the Northern Rhône Valley 2) Let's "traboule" in the Vieux-Lyon 3) Highlights of Lyon Half Day tour 4) Lyon: WWII and the Resistance 5) A Perfect First Discovery of Lyon - express Tour

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Lyon from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Lyon and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Lyon. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has several local guides in Lyon who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Lyon is centrally located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, making it an excellent base for day trips to nearby cities, towns, and natural attractions. Here are some popular day trip destinations from Lyon: Perouges: Just a short drive from Lyon, Perouges is a beautifully preserved medieval town that feels like stepping back in time. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the half-timbered houses, and visit attractions such as the Maison du Princes and the Church of St. James. Don't miss trying the local specialty, Galette de Perouges, a delicious pastry filled with sugar and butter. Annecy: Known as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Annecy, about 2 hours from Lyon by train or car. Explore the charming Old Town with its colorful houses, visit the Palais de l'Isle, a former prison turned museum, and take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. Vienne: Situated along the Rhône River, Vienne is a historic city with Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Temple of Augustus and Livia, the Roman Theater, and the Gothic-style Cathedral of St. Maurice. Vienne is also known for its jazz festival, held annually in July. Beaujolais Wine Region: Lyon is surrounded by vineyards, and the Beaujolais wine region is just a short drive away. Explore charming villages like Villefranche-sur-Saône, Oingt, and Bagnols, and visit wineries to taste the region's famous Beaujolais wines, including Beaujolais Nouveau. Grenoble: Located at the foot of the French Alps, Grenoble is a dynamic city known for its scientific research, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Ride the iconic cable car up to the Bastille fortress for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, explore the Museum of Grenoble, and stroll through the lively streets of the Old Town. Cluny Abbey: History buffs will enjoy a visit to Cluny Abbey, once the largest church in Christendom. Located about 1.5 hours from Lyon by car, Cluny Abbey was a center of religious and cultural influence in medieval Europe. Explore the ruins of the abbey complex and visit the nearby medieval town of Cluny. Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park: Nature lovers can escape the city and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park, located about 2 hours from Lyon by car. Hike through forests, gorges, and volcanic peaks, and admire stunning views of the Ardèche countryside. These are just a few of the many day trip options from Lyon, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences. Whether you're interested in history, culture, wine tasting, or outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone within easy reach of Lyon.

The number of days needed to tour Lyon depends on your interests, pace of travel, and the depth of exploration you desire. Lyon is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent culinary scene, so you could easily spend several days exploring its many attractions. Here are some considerations for planning your visit: Short Visit (1-2 Days): If you're short on time, you can still experience many of Lyon's highlights in a day or two. Focus on exploring the Old Town (Vieux Lyon), including landmarks such as the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and traboules (hidden passageways). Take a stroll along the riverside, visit one or two museums such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts or the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, and indulge in some Lyonnais cuisine at a traditional bouchon. Standard Visit (3-4 Days): With three to four days, you can delve deeper into Lyon's attractions and immerse yourself in its culture. In addition to exploring the Old Town, consider visiting the Presqu'île district for shopping and dining, taking a leisurely walk along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and exploring neighborhoods such as Croix-Rousse or Guillotière. You'll also have time to take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Perouges, Annecy, or the Beaujolais wine region. Extended Visit (5 Days or More): If you have five days or more, you can explore Lyon at a more leisurely pace and experience its many facets. In addition to visiting the main attractions, you can delve deeper into Lyon's culinary scene by taking a cooking class or food tour, attending a cultural event or festival, and exploring the city's green spaces such as Parc de la Tête d'Or or Parc de Fourvière. You'll also have time to venture further afield on day trips to destinations such as Grenoble, Vienne, or the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park. Ultimately, the duration of your visit to Lyon will depend on your interests and how much time you have available. Whether you're planning a short city break or a more extended stay, Lyon offers a wealth of attractions and experiences to suit every traveler.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Lyon from the US can vary widely depending on various factors such as the time of year you travel, your choice of accommodation, dining preferences, activities, and transportation options. Here's a general breakdown of potential expenses: Flight: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Lyon will likely be a significant portion of your expenses. Prices can vary greatly depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, departure city, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1500 or more per person for economy class tickets. Accommodation: Accommodation costs will depend on the type of lodging you choose, ranging from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $300 or more per night for a hotel room, depending on the location and quality of the accommodation. Food and Dining: Dining expenses will vary based on your preferences and dining habits. Eating at restaurants in tourist areas may be more expensive than dining at local cafes or markets. On average, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 or more per person per day on food and dining. Transportation: Once in Lyon, you'll need to budget for transportation within the city, such as public transit, taxis, or rental cars if you plan to explore independently. Budget around $10 to $20 per day for transportation costs, depending on your activities and itinerary. Activities and Entertainment: Budget additional funds for activities, museum entrance fees, and other entertainment options. Prices can vary widely depending on the activities you choose to participate in. Overall, a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Lyon from the US could range from $2000 to $4000 or more per person, excluding flights, depending on your travel style and preferences. It's essential to create a detailed budget based on your specific itinerary and preferences to get a more accurate estimate of your trip costs. Additionally, consider looking for deals and discounts on flights, accommodation, and activities to help lower your expenses.

When choosing where to stay in Lyon, it's important to consider your preferences, budget, and the areas of the city you plan to explore. Lyon offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some popular neighborhoods to consider for your stay: Presqu'île: The Presqu'île is the heart of Lyon, situated between the Rhône and Saône rivers. It's a bustling area with a mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions. Staying in the Presqu'île puts you within walking distance of many of Lyon's main sights, including Place Bellecour, the Opéra de Lyon, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): Vieux Lyon is the historic district of Lyon, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and charming atmosphere. Staying in Vieux Lyon allows you to immerse yourself in the city's history and explore attractions such as the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and traboules (hidden passageways). Croix-Rousse: Croix-Rousse is a bohemian neighborhood located on a hill overlooking the city center. It has a lively arts scene, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Staying in Croix-Rousse offers a more local experience and puts you close to attractions such as the Maison des Canuts (Silk Workers House) and the Croix-Rousse Market. Part-Dieu: Part-Dieu is a modern business district located to the east of the city center. It's home to Lyon's main train station (Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu), as well as shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels. Staying in Part-Dieu provides convenient access to transportation and is ideal for travelers arriving by train or those looking for modern amenities. La Confluence: La Confluence is a revitalized waterfront district located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. It's known for its contemporary architecture, cultural institutions, and urban redevelopment projects. Staying in La Confluence offers a unique blend of modernity and history, with easy access to attractions such as the Musée des Confluences and the Confluence Shopping Center. Ultimately, the best place to stay in Lyon depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're looking for. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Vieux Lyon, the bustling atmosphere of the Presqu'île, or the artistic vibe of Croix-Rousse, Lyon offers accommodation options to suit every traveler.

The best time to visit Lyon depends on your preferences for weather, events, and crowds. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and what they offer: Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Lyon, as the city starts to bloom with flowers, and temperatures begin to warm up. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 65°F (18°C). Spring is ideal for exploring Lyon's outdoor attractions, such as parks, gardens, and riverside promenades. It's also a great time to visit before the peak tourist season begins, so you can avoid large crowds. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Lyon, with long sunny days and warm temperatures. Average temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 80°F (27°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer is when Lyon comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and events, including the Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières) in December. However, be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds during this time. Fall (September to November): Fall is a beautiful time to visit Lyon, as the leaves change color and the temperatures start to cool down. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) to 65°F (18°C). Fall is also harvest season in the surrounding wine regions, making it a great time to visit vineyards and sample Beaujolais wines. Additionally, Lyon hosts various cultural events and festivals in the fall, such as the Lyon Biennial of Contemporary Art. Winter (December to February): Winter is the coldest and quietest time of year in Lyon, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F (2°C) to 45°F (7°C). While the weather may be chilly, Lyon's festive atmosphere during the holiday season makes it a magical time to visit. The city is adorned with Christmas lights and decorations, and you can enjoy seasonal activities such as ice skating, shopping at Christmas markets, and indulging in traditional French holiday treats. Overall, the best time to visit Lyon depends on your preferences for weather, events, and crowds. Whether you prefer the mild temperatures and blooming flowers of spring, the lively festivals and outdoor activities of summer, the colorful foliage and wine tasting of fall, or the festive atmosphere of winter, Lyon offers something for every season.