Lyon City Tour with Local Guide Explore Hidden Gems

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon

  Following introductions, bilingual guide Ryan will explain the rich history of this medieval square and its imposing 12th century cathedral. A mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, head inside the cathedral with explanations of how architects designed such an imposing structure almost 1000 years ago. Brief stop to see France’s oldest and best-preserved medieval clock; tracking time, Catholic holidays, and the stars.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 2
  Traboules du Vieux Lyon

  Ryan will take you through Lyon's most famous "traboules." There are 200 such medieval passageways in Lyon. Used during the Renaissance to safely travel between buildings and avoid the crowded streets, they were later used by silk traders and (finally) the French resistance.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 3
  Vieux Lyon

  Explore one of Europe's largest Renassaince districts (second only to Venise). Your local guide will explain "Old Lyon's" rich history, stunning architecture, and silk trade. We will also provide some out-of-the-way restaurant recommendations.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 4

  WWII history: learn about how the French resistance used Lyon's "traboule" tunnels to meet and exchange secret messages. Your local guide will also detail the sordid trail of Klaus Barbie, also known as gestapo's "butcher of Lyon." Brief explanation of how Barbie arrested French resistance hero, Jean Moulin.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 5

  Explore Lyon's chic 2nd district and the Rue Mercière's many "bouchon" restaurants. Your local guide will explain Lyon's rich culinary history, including a biography of renowned chef Paul Bocuse. Enjoy many "locals-only" restaurant recommendations along the way.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6
  La Place des Jacobins

  Brief passage through one of Lyon's most beautiful squares. Explanation of its late 19th century fountain, complete with statues of Lyon's four most famous artists/artisans.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 7

  Brief passage to cross Lyon's high street.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 8
  Grand Hotel Dieu

  Visit one of Lyon's most important and recognisable landmarks. Walk through the secret corridors of this former medieval hospital, now a 5-star hotel and shopping centre. Your local guide will recount the history and restoration of this landmark, while providing some recommendations on where to eat and drink.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 9
  Place Bellecour

  During your final stop, learn all about Lyon's largest pedestrian square. Brief explanation of King Louis XIV's links to Lyon and the troubled history of his statue. Your local guide will again provide some restaurant and shopping recommendations before taking a final group photo (sent to everyone after the tour).

  10 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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