Afternoon Old Town Food tour

A delightful way to explore Lyon’s Old Town is through the Afternoon Old Town Food Tour offered by Lyon ORIGINAL Tours. Priced at $86.89 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour provides an engaging mix of food tasting, cultural sights, and insider access that makes it stand out. Starting at 3 Pl. du Change and concluding near 66 Rue Saint-Jean, the tour is best suited for those wanting a taste of Lyon’s culinary and historical charm in a compact, well-organized experience. With a consistent rating of 5.0 based on 283 reviews, it’s clear that many find this tour both satisfying and worth booking in advance—usually about 37 days ahead.

This tour is especially appealing for food lovers eager to learn about Lyon’s signature products and for those interested in discovering hidden passages and iconic landmarks. The tour’s unique emphasis on local artisans, authentic tastings, and famous traboules ensures an immersive experience. However, travelers should be prepared for some walking and standing and keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Key Points

• Includes four tastings of cheese, cold cuts, brioche, chocolates, wine, and artisanal ice cream in warmer months.
• Visits iconic Lyon landmarks such as Saint Jean Cathedral and famous traboules—secret passageways of the city.
• Led by knowledgeable guides who share both culinary insights and local history.
• Small group size (max 12 participants) ensures a personal and engaging experience.
• Accessible for most travelers, with near public transportation at the meeting point.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility.

Exploring Lyon’s Old Town: The Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins promptly at 3:00 pm at 3 Pl. du Change. It takes approximately three hours, during which the guide leads guests through Lyon’s historic streets, alleys, and murals. The route covers essential sights like Saint Jean Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure, and the renowned traboules—hidden passageways that reveal Lyon’s architectural secrets. The tour concludes near 66 Rue Saint-Jean, making it easy to continue exploring or head to dinner afterward.

The mobile ticket feature makes check-in straightforward, and the group remains intimate, with a maximum of 12 travelers, which allows for personalized attention and lively interactions.

Discovering Lyon’s Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Passages

The itinerary centers around key historical sites and local treasures. Starting at the Saint Jean Cathedral, visitors admire its impressive Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The guide shares interesting facts about this landmark, setting the tone for the tour.

Next, the tour explores famous traboules, including one of the most renowned passages, which are alleyways historically used by silk workers and now part of Lyon’s unique charm. These secret corridors offer a glimpse into Lyon’s architectural past and provide a sense of discovery.

The tour emphasizes local artisans and producers, where guests get to meet and sample products directly from creators. These stops feature cheese shops, charcuterie, and other specialty stores, with four tasting breaks designed to showcase Lyon’s culinary specialties. The tasting stops may include praline brioche, artisanal chocolates, and wine—especially in the warmer months when ice cream is added to the mix.

Culinary Highlights: Tasting Lyon’s Best in Small Bites

The experience includes four tasting breaks, carefully curated to introduce visitors to Lyon’s signature flavors. Guests can expect cheese, cold cuts, and praline brioche, which highlight Lyonnais pastry traditions.

The wine tasting offers an authentic appreciation of regional wines, while artisanal chocolates and ice creams add sweet notes to the journey. The ice cream tasting, in particular, often surprises with delicious and unexpected flavors, making it a favorite among past participants.

Each tasting stop is led by passionate local producers, providing insights into the craftsmanship behind each product. The guide’s explanations help guests understand what makes Lyon’s cuisine so distinctive, enriching the tasting experience.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Passionate

Guests frequently praise the guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to communicate both culinary and historical stories. Many reviews mention guides like Luce and Nathalie, who go beyond just describing food—they share local history, interesting anecdotes, and practical tips.

The guides often engage with the group, offering personalized insights into Lyon’s architecture and culture, making the experience more than just a tasting. They also help visitors navigate the streets, keep the pace comfortable, and ensure the stops are enjoyable.

The Route: From Cathedral to Secret Passages

The tour’s route showcases Lyon’s architectural beauty and historic sites. After visiting Saint Jean Cathedral and exploring its surroundings, the group makes their way to famous traboules—the city’s secret passageways. The famous traboule included in the tour is known for its fascinating history and unique design, offering a glimpse into Lyon’s past.

Throughout the walk, the guide points out murals, alleyways, and hidden streets, enriching the experience with background stories. The small group format allows for easy interaction and plenty of time for questions.

Food and Drink: Authentic Tastes at Top Local Spots

The four tasting stops are carefully selected to reflect Lyon’s culinary heritage. Guests sample local signature products from trusted artisans, ensuring quality and authenticity. The stops include cheese shops and charcuterie stores, where the cold cuts and cheeses are fresh and flavorful.

In addition, the brioche and pralines highlight Lyon’s pastry craftsmanship, while regional wines complement the savory bites. The ice cream in warmer months provides a refreshing finish, with flavors that often surprise and delight.

Accessibility and Practical Details for Visitors

The meeting point at 3 Pl. du Change is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from different parts of Lyon. The tour involves walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, participants should plan to meet at the designated location. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including children aged 13 to 18 when accompanied by an adult.

The max group size of 12 ensures a cozy environment, perfect for engaging conversations and personalized attention. Travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility in planning.

The Unique Appeal of the Lyon Old Town Food Tour

This tour combines culinary delights with cultural discovery, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience of Lyon. The small group setting, local guide expertise, and authentic tastings create a memorable outing.

Many reviews highlight the generous tastings, knowledgeable guides, and the exclusive access to local artisans. The route’s focus on hidden passages and historic sites adds a layer of exploration that extends beyond just eating.

While the tour does not include hotel transportation, its central meeting point, short duration, and value for money make it a popular choice. It’s clear that guests often leave feeling more connected to Lyon’s food scene and history.

Lyon’s Culinary and Cultural Experience in a Nutshell

The Afternoon Old Town Food Tour offers a comprehensive taste of Lyon’s gastronomy and heritage in a compact, engaging package. It’s especially suited for visitors eager to sample signature products, explore hidden city passages, and listen to passionate guides sharing stories and local tips.

The four tastings and visits to famous landmarks provide a balanced blend of food, culture, and history, all within a friendly, small-group atmosphere. While it’s a short tour, the depth of experience and quality of access make it a highly recommended option for those interested in Lyon’s best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour features four tasting breaks with snacks and alcoholic beverages, as well as visits to Saint Jean Cathedral and famous traboules. The guide leads you through Lyon’s Old Town, sharing history and local stories.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 3:00 pm, with the route covering key landmarks and culinary stops.

Is this tour accessible for children?
Yes, children aged 13 to 18 can participate when accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are advised.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 3 Pl. du Change and ends near 66 Rue Saint-Jean, both locations in Lyon’s Old Town, conveniently near public transportation.

This Afternoon Old Town Food Tour combines delicious tasting experiences with the chance to discover Lyon’s historic sites and secret passages, all led by passionate local guides. It stands out as a well-rounded, intimate way to taste and explore Lyon in just three hours.