Explore Lyon with the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour for Just $29

The Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour offers a straightforward way to see the highlights of Lyon, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. Priced at $29 per person, this tour provides 1 to 2 days of flexible sightseeing from an open-top double-decker bus. With 9 stops along the route, it covers key attractions like Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, and Place Bellecour.

This tour appeals to visitors seeking a relaxed, informative way to explore Lyon’s diverse neighborhoods, especially those short on time. It offers the chance to hop on and off as often as desired, making it ideal for those wanting to customize their experience. However, it’s important to note that the tour relies on an audioguide delivered via a smartphone app, and single-use earphones are not included. Still, the $29 price point and flexible schedule make it a compelling choice for many travelers.

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Key Points

Affordable price of $29 for 1-day or 2-day access to Lyon’s main sights.
Flexible hop-on hop-off system with 9 stops across the city.
Open-top double-decker buses provide great views and photo opportunities.
Audio commentary accessible via free app REWIND, using your own headphones.
Stops include key landmarks like Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, and Confluence Museum.
Wheelchair accessibility ensures broader access, but single-use earphones are not included.

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The Tour Starts at Place Bellecour

The main departure point is 15 Place Bellecour, in the heart of Lyon. From here, the bus takes you past major squares such as Place des Terreaux and the Palais de Justice. The route then continues to Vieux Lyon, offering a scenic glimpse of the historic district, and finally to attractions like the Musée des Confluences and the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière.

The starting times vary depending on the day, with multiple departures throughout the day. Notably, there are no buses between 12:00 and 14:00, so planning around this gap is recommended if you want continuous sightseeing. The return point is back at Place Bellecour, completing the city circuit.

Discover Lyon’s Top Landmarks from the Open-top Bus

The main stops include Place Bellecour, where the tour begins, and Place des Terreaux, known for its fountain and vibrant atmosphere. At Fresque des Lyonnais, travelers experience Lyon’s famous Painted Wall, a large mural depicting local personalities.

A highlight is the Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, perched atop the Fourvière Hill, offering panoramic views of Lyon. The bus route also covers Vieux Lyon, the city’s medieval district filled with cobbled streets, Renaissance architecture, and charming cafes. The Musée des Confluences introduces visitors to natural history and anthropology, while the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière showcases Roman-era ruins.

How the Audio Guide Enriches the Experience

The tour uses a free multilingual app REWIND to deliver audio commentary, which is accessible via personal headphones. Although reviews indicate some occasional glitches in the audio, the narration provides interesting facts and context about Lyon’s landmarks and neighborhoods.

Tour guides are not physically present, but the audio commentary effectively explains the significance of each stop, helping visitors understand Lyon’s history, culture, and architecture. The app also supplies a free map of Lyon, supporting self-guided exploration after the bus tour.

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Practical Details for Guests

Starting at 15 Place Bellecour, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors. It’s advisable to download the REWIND app before the tour and bring your own headphones, as single-use earphones are not provided.

The tour duration is flexible: a 1-day ticket covers all stops, but for $5 more, a 2-day pass allows exploring at a leisurely pace over two consecutive days. This option gives more time to visit attractions like Fourvière or Vieux Lyon without rushing.

Visitors should be aware that no food, drinks, or bikes are permitted on the bus, and smoking or alcohol are strictly prohibited. Departure times are generally between 10:00 and 18:00, with the exact schedule varying by day.

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Reviews Highlight the Quality and Challenges

The 4.2/5 rating from over 1,480 reviews reflects broad satisfaction. Many appreciate the great views from the open-top bus and knowledgeable commentary. The guides’ professionalism and interesting route earn consistent praise.

Common suggestions for improvement include better signage at the start of the route and more frequent buses, as some reviews mention long waits between departures or audio glitches. Still, the overall experience remains positive, especially for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Lyon.

Comparing to Other Lyon Tours

This hop-on hop-off bus stands out for its affordability and convenience, offering a straightforward way to navigate Lyon’s major sights. Unlike walking tours or private guides, it provides a self-paced experience, ideal for travelers balancing sightseeing with other activities.

Similar experiences include walking tours of Traboules or food-focused evening tours, but this bus offers a broader city overview in a quick, comfortable format. It’s a good choice for those who prefer sightseeing from a higher vantage point and easy access to main attractions.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you want to see Lyon’s key landmarks without the hassle of navigating public transport or walking long distances, this hop-on hop-off bus offers excellent value. The $29 price makes it accessible, and the flexibility of 1 or 2 days lets you customize your schedule.

However, travelers seeking more detailed stories or closer interactions with guides might prefer walking tours or private guides. Also, those planning to visit only a few sites may find the bus route too broad or time-consuming.

Final Thoughts on the Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

This tour combines affordability, flexibility, and broad coverage of Lyon’s most famous sights, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The open-top buses provide excellent photo opportunities, and the audioguide adds informative context.

While some reviews mention audio issues and bus frequency concerns, these do not significantly detract from the overall value. The modern app and easy meeting point at Place Bellecour** make it simple to start exploring immediately.

The Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour offers a practical, cost-effective way to get an overview of Lyon that can be enjoyed at your own pace. It’s an easy choice for anyone wanting to see major sights comfortably and learn more about the city’s history and culture.

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Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy the ticket on the day of the tour?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase on-site or online, with options for 1-day or 2-day passes.

Is there wheelchair access on the buses?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for the audio guide?
Bring your own headphones and ensure your smartphone is charged to listen via the free REWIND app.

What are the departure times from Place Bellecour?
Typical departure times are 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, and 18:00. Note there are no departures between 12:00 and 14:00.

How many stops does the route include?
The route features 9 stops covering central and historic areas of Lyon.

Can I hop on and off multiple times?
Yes, with your ticket, you can hop on and off as many times as you like during the valid period.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the open-top buses and lively commentary make it suitable for families, but strollers should be manageable on the bus.

Are food and drinks allowed on the bus?
No, food and drinks are not permitted on the bus to maintain cleanliness.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes access to the hop-on hop-off bus, the audio commentary app, and a free map of Lyon.

What if I experience issues with the audio guide?
Some reviews mention audio glitches, so having your own headphones and patience is advisable. The app is free and easy to use.