Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise Tickets

The Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise Tickets offers a well-rounded way to explore one of France’s most historic cities. Priced at $246.23 per person, this private experience combines a 3-hour guided walking tour through Lyon’s ancient streets with tickets for a 1-hour river cruise along the Saône. With a highly-rated guide, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and Hôtel de Ville, and enjoy panoramic views from the water. This tour suits those interested in history, architecture, and scenic city views, and it is available in multiple languages including English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian.

While the tour is praised for its comprehensive coverage and engaging guide, travelers should be aware that the cruise ticket does not include guide service on board, only an audio commentary. The total duration of approximately 3 hours makes it suitable for a morning or early afternoon outing, and groups are kept small for a personalized experience. The tour departs from a central Lyon location, and the group size is limited to 25 people, maintaining a comfortable pace and intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Private guided walking tour of Lyon’s Old Town lasts around 2 hours with a 5-Star licensed guide.
• Includes tickets for a 1-hour Saône river sightseeing cruise with commentary in multiple languages.
• Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint John, Hôtel de Ville, Vieux Lyon, and traboules.
• Tour starts at 24 Pl. des Terreaux and ends back at the same point.
• Group size is limited for a personalized experience, with pre-booked cruise tickets included.
• Cost is $246.23, booked on average 39 days in advance.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Lyon

The tour begins at 24 Pl. des Terreaux, in front of Chocolats Voisin Terreaux. It’s important to note that this is only a meeting point, and the staff there is not involved with the tour. The guide will meet the group directly at this location, which is near public transportation, making it easy to access the starting point. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, providing convenience for planning the rest of your day.

Exploring Lyon’s Old Town on Foot

The tour kicks off with a 2-hour walking route led by a professional private guide. Starting from Place des Terreaux, the guide highlights the city’s architectural styles, including Baroque, Rococo, and Classical influences seen at the Hôtel de Ville.

Next, the route takes you into Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts. Here, the focus is on historic buildings and charming streets, perfect for photography and soaking in Lyon’s ancient atmosphere. The guide narrates stories about ancient trade routes and the silk industry, which once made the city prosperous.

Then, you’ll stroll down Rue Saint-Jean, lined with shops, traditional bouchons, and traboules—secret passageways historically used by silk workers and during the French Resistance. The guide provides insights into Lyon’s cultural heritage and urban secrets, making this walking segment both educational and visually engaging.

Visiting Lyon’s Architectural Landmarks

A key stop is Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, an impressive structure blending Gothic and Romanesque styles. The cathedral’s façade and interior reflect Lyon’s architectural evolution and religious history. The guide points out notable features, adding depth to the visual experience.

Following this, you get a closer look at Hôtel de Ville, the city hall, showcasing its Baroque, Rococo, and Classical architecture. The guide explains the building’s significance in Lyon’s civic life and its artistic details, enriching your understanding of the city’s civic pride.

Scenic Saône River Sightseeing Cruise

After exploring on foot, the tour transitions to the bank of the Saône river, where you board the 1-hour sightseeing cruise. The tickets are pre-booked and include commentary in several languages such as French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese, providing a globally accessible experience.

On the water, you enjoy panoramic views of Lyon’s skyline, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière atop Fourvière Hill. Notable landmarks such as the Fresco “The Library of the City”, Fresque des Lyonnais, Les Subsistances, and the National School of Fine Arts glide past as the guide’s narration offers insight into Lyon’s cultural and artistic history.

The scenic cruise allows for a relaxed view of Lyon’s riverside architecture and urban landscape, highlighting sights that you might miss during the busy walking route. Since the cruise ticket does not include guide service, the audio commentary give you supplemental context. It’s a great way to appreciate the city from a different perspective without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This private tour is designed to be flexible, with the guide tailoring the pace to the group’s interests. The group size is limited to 25 people, ensuring a comfortable experience where questions are encouraged.

Travelers should bring warm, layered clothing, as it can be cooler on the river cruise. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard the boat, adding convenience for those wishing to stay refreshed during the cruise.

Booking is straightforward, with most reservations made about 39 days in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers and remains accessible, with confirmation sent immediately upon booking. The entire experience, combining guided walking and water sightseeing, offers a balanced introduction to Lyon’s historic and scenic highlights.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others in Lyon

The combination of a private walking tour with a river cruise makes this experience stand out. With a licensed guide providing personalized insights and pre-arranged cruise tickets, visitors enjoy an efficient way to see Lyon’s most iconic sites in a short timeframe.

Another advantage is the multilingual commentary on the cruise, making it accessible for international visitors. The small group size enhances interaction and ensures a more intimate experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a personalized approach to city sightseeing.

However, travelers should keep in mind that guide service does not extend onto the cruise, only the audio commentary is available during the water segment. This setup still offers outstanding value given the comprehensive coverage of both city and river sights.

Final Thoughts on the Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise

This private, well-organized tour provides a balanced view of Lyon’s history, architecture, and scenic beauty. The $246.23 price includes a professional private guide and pre-booked cruise tickets, making it a convenient and enriching choice for those wanting an in-depth exploration.

The combination of walking and water tours appeals especially to visitors interested in cultural heritage and city panoramas. While the cruise does not include guide service onboard, the audio commentary compensates by providing additional context.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and scenic lovers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Lyon in a manageable timeframe. The high rating and positive review underscore its quality and appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including 2 hours of walking and 1 hour of river cruise.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 24 Pl. des Terreaux, making it convenient for travelers to plan their day around.

Is the guide with the group during the cruise?
No, the guide does not accompany guests during the cruise, only the audio commentary is provided on board.

What should I wear for the river cruise?
It is advisable to bring warm, layered clothes, as it is cooler on the water.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but mobility should be considered for those with difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.