Segway Grand Tour of Lyon – 2h

A 2-hour Segway Grand Tour of Lyon offers an engaging way to explore France’s vibrant city. Priced at $65.46 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to see Lyon’s most iconic sights with ease and fun. It covers a variety of landmarks along scenic riversides, historic squares, and lush parks, making it a dynamic introduction for first-time visitors or anyone short on time. The tour departs from 7 Quai Romain Rolland at 10:00 am and is limited to a small group of up to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

While the Segway experience itself is accessible to most and includes helmet and raincoat, it does require participants to be at least 14 years old and meet certain weight limits. The tour offers a great balance of guided commentary, sightseeing, and hands-on fun, though some reviews suggest that more historical facts could enhance the experience. This tour provides a lively way to get acquainted with Lyon’s highlights in just two hours.

Key Points

• Efficient city exploration in just 2 hours via easy-to-ride Segway
• Highlights include Vieux Lyon, Parc de la Tête d’Or, Place Bellecour, and scenic riverside paths
• Small-group setting with a maximum of six to ten people for personalized guidance
• Includes a local guide, helmet, and raincoat if needed; food and drinks are not included
• Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time in Lyon
• Participants must be aged 14+, weigh between 100 lbs and 260 lbs, and be able to stand for the duration

Exploring Lyon on a Segway: An Easy and Eco-Friendly Ride

The Segway Grand Tour of Lyon offers an easy, eco-friendly way to cover more ground than walking typically permits. The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a lively overview of the city’s most notable sights. Travelers are equipped with helmets and raincoats if the weather calls for it, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the ride.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing the guide to tailor commentary and attention to each participant. This tour is especially good for first-timers or visitors with limited time, as it packs in multiple key locations without feeling rushed.

From Vieux Lyon to the Rhône River Embankment

The tour begins in Vieux Lyon, the city’s historic Old Town. Here, the guide explores the old courthouse, famously nicknamed “the 24 columns”, and shares stories about its architecture. This area’s charm lies in its medieval streets and renaissance buildings, making it a captivating starting point.

Next, the group heads to Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe. Travelers get to see the statue of Louis XIV and hear about the fascinating legend associated with this central spot. The open space provides a great photo opportunity and a sense of Lyon’s vibrant city life.

Crossing the Rhône River, the group pauses at Berges du Rhône. Here, panoramic views of Fourvière hill and the former hospital are impressive. The guide leads travelers along the Rhône embankment, highlighting Lyon’s relationship with its rivers and providing a scenic backdrop for photos.

Discovering the Green Oasis of Parc de la Tête d’Or

A highlight of the tour is Parc de la Tête d’Or, covering 117 hectares of greenery in the heart of Lyon. The guide spends about 35 minutes here, allowing ample time to explore part of the lake, observe wildlife, and visit the tropical greenhouses.

This park is renowned for its lush landscapes and diverse plant life, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The green spaces and tranquil atmosphere offer a refreshing contrast to the busy city streets, and the greenhouses provide a glimpse into tropical flora—an unexpectedly tropical escape within Lyon.

Learning About Lyon’s Cultural Landmarks

The tour includes a brief stop at Opéra National de Lyon, affectionately called “the toaster” by locals. The guide shares the story behind this nickname and discusses the building’s importance in Lyon’s cultural scene.

The last stop is Place des Terreaux, an iconic square. Here, the guide explains the historical significance of the surrounding buildings and highlights the famous fountain created by Auguste Bartholdi, known for its artistic and historical value.

The Practicalities: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour starts and ends at the Gyro Events shop located at 7 Quai Romain Rolland. It begins promptly at 10:00 am, with the activity suited for most travelers who can stand for about two hours. The maximum group size is 10 people, which fosters a friendly, personalized environment.

Participants need to meet certain requirements: they must be at least 14 years old, weigh between 100 lbs and 260 lbs, and have the ability to stand comfortably for the duration. The tour is not accessible to pregnant women or those unable to stand for long periods.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers Segway rental, a local guide, helmet, and a raincoat if necessary. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers may want to plan for that separately. Since the tour is designed for an active, outdoor experience, it’s recommended to wear flat shoes and casual clothes.

Review Insights: What Travelers Appreciate and What Could Improve

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Lorraine, Roman, Melanie, and Joana, for their friendly and engaging attitude. The scenic views along the rivers and at Parc de la Tête d’Or receive particular acclaim, along with the opportunity to learn about Lyon’s history and legends.

Some reviewers note that additional historical commentary could enhance the experience, indicating that the guides already do a good job but could include more facts. The small group size and personalized guidance are consistently appreciated.

On the other hand, there is a notable negative review where miscommunication about the meeting point led to disappointment; however, this appears to be an isolated issue as the tour’s official meeting point is clearly specified.

Why This Tour Fits the Right Audience

This Segway tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Lyon or those looking for a quick, active overview of the city. It offers an interactive experience that combines scenic views, cultural insights, and light adventure. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable on their feet, and want a fun, eco-friendly way to see Lyon’s highlights.

While not suitable for pregnant women or those unable to stand long, the tour remains accessible to most others within the specified weight and age limits. It’s a valuable option for families, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a memorable introduction to Lyon.

Lyon’s Best Two Hours on a Segway: What You Can Expect

In just two hours, travelers cover a diverse selection of Lyon’s most vital sites, from historic squares to green parks and scenic riverbanks. The guided commentary adds depth to each stop, making the experience both fun and informative.

The small-group format ensures safety, comfort, and plenty of opportunities for questions and photos. The price point of $65.46 is reasonable for a guided activity that combines sightseeing with light adventure.

Despite some minor suggestions for more historical detail, the overall experience offers a joyful, practical, and informative way to begin exploring Lyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 14 and older can participate, provided they meet the weight requirements.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothes and flat shoes are recommended. The tour supplies helmets and raincoats if necessary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, near public transportation options.

What is included in the price?
The price includes Segway rental, a local guide, helmet, and raincoat if needed.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the tour and should be purchased separately.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable. Cancellations or changes are not permitted, but the tour will be canceled in case of bad weather.

Is the tour accessible to pregnant women?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women due to safety considerations.

How many people are in a group?
Groups are limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

What if I’ve never used a Segway before?
The guides are experienced in instructing first-timers and provide a brief test drive before heading out.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight professional, friendly, and engaging guides, eager to share stories and insights about Lyon.