Things to Do in Lyon

Step into Lyon's rich history and culture on this immersive walking tour of Croix-Rousse and Vieux Lyon. 

With your engaging guide, Paul, you'll explore Place des Terreaux, where you’ll admire the impressive Hôtel de Ville, the Museum, and the famous Bartholdi Fountain. From there, we explore Croix-Rousse, once the bustling hub of Lyon’s silk industry.

As we navigate the Traboules—hidden passageways woven with stories of the past—you’ll gain insights into the lives of the silk workers. From the Roman Amphitheatre we'll enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

We then make our way down to Vieux Lyon, the city’s most renowned historic district. Along the way, we’ll stop by the Fresque des Lyonnais, an iconic mural celebrating Lyon’s famous figures, and stroll down Rue Juiverie to marvel at the architecture of the Gallerie Philibert Delorme. We conclude the tour in the lively heart of Vieux Lyon, perfectly timed to enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants.

Join me to uncover Lyon’s vibrant past and unique charm!

Good morning, I'm Bertrand — a proudly French actor and visual artist, born and raised in Lyon. I'm also a passionate professional guide, and I've designed this journey to dive into Lyon's rich history. Let me share with you the city's secrets and treasures, all seen through a playful French eye!

Let's meet !

Immerse yourself in my storytelling, as we explore Lyon’s Roman origins — a time when the city rose as a major cultural and financial center in Europe. Stroll through the medieval streets of the Old Town, and uncover the roots of Lyon’s prestigious silk tradition. From panoramic riverside views, you’ll hear WWII chronicles and step into the city’s famous secret passageways. The tour ends in the heart of Lyon, where culture, cuisine, and a touch of French humour will make you feel right at home.

• Meet me in front of Lyons Cathedral, welcome and introduction in front of the gothic wonder

• Roman history, when it all started !

• Place Saint-Jean and secret traboule : medieval stories from the covered passages

• Saint George Church : history of the silk production, major ancient district of the silk workers

• UNESCO Riverside and tales about Lyon during the French Revolution 

• Palace of Justice: World War II chronicles from the immense façade on the riverside

• Rue des Trois-Maries: architecture from the Renaissance and stunning "traboules"

• The Traboules of Old Lyon: Typical covered passages forming a maze through the Old Town

• Saint-Paul District: Charms of the medieval area and luxurious ancient buildings

• Fresque des Lyonnais : famous painted wall featuring the famous personalities from the city's history

• Place Sathonay : charming square with cafés and restaurants located near the Town Hall

Step into the heart of Lyon on a captivating walking tour that weaves together centuries of mystery, culture, and culinary delights. With your engaging guide, Paul, you'll explore Vieux Lyon— where every cobblestone and secret passageway tells its own story.

What to Expect:

  Insider Secrets: Meander through the traboules (hidden passageways) that only locals truly know.

 Cultural Tapestry: Delve into Lyon’s vibrant history—from the Renaissance splendor to its unique role in silk production.

  Historic Narratives: Hear gripping tales of bravery during World War II, including the complex legacy of the era marked by Klaus Barbie and the inspiring resistance efforts.

 Culinary Heritage: Explore the traditional world of Lyon’s famous bouchons and discover how culinary legends like Paul Bocuse have helped shape the city’s reputation.

  Modern Marvels: Visit Lyon’s bustling city center, to see architectural gems such as the Théâtre des Célestins and the historic Hôtel Dieu.

👋 Bonjour, I'm Quentin!
I’m a local guide passionate about sharing French culture and history.

        🌟 Visit what I consider the must-see sights of Lyon.

🤡 The most fun way to visit Lyon — for all ages!
💥 Experience the city like a local, with insider tips.
🌍 Meet new friends from around the world.

🌧️ If it rains, the tour will still go ahead, and I’ll bring some umbrellas for you.

        🤓 Come as a tourist, leave as a local!

🏺 Ancient Beginnings: Explore Lyon’s origins as Lugdunum, the vibrant capital of Roman Gaul.

🏰 Renaissance and Silk industry: Learn about the Italian influences on Lyon’s architecture and the silk industry.

🕵️ War and Resistance: Uncover Lyon’s role during the Nazi occupation. The arrest of the Resistance leader Jean Moulin and the trial of Klaus Barbie, the infamous Gestapo officer.

🍽️ Culinary Revolution: Discover how Lyon earned its reputation as the culinary capital of France.

🔍 Secret Pathways: Explore hidden passages used by silk workers and Resistance fighters during WWII.  

 🤴 Culture and art: Did you know that Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of Le Petit Prince, was from Lyon?

💁‍♂️ Join us and you’ll be able to tell your friends you really visited Lyon! 

On this private walking tour, you'll be able to decide what you want to visit in Lyon and have an English-speaking guide exclusively for you!

Free Walking Tour to explore the hidden places of Lyon !
Book on GuruWalk for this 2.5 hours “Essential” tour! Just come and enjoy! The peninsula, the old district, Croix-Rousse hill… Secret passages (Traboules), abandoned church, architecture, roman ruins, street art… Recommendations for the best bakery, museums, pubs, activities, restaurants and places to visit by yourself… On this Essential Free Walking tour, I’ll guide you around the best and my favorite places. I’ll give you an overview over all the aspects of Lyon… Are you ready to explore my Lyon ?

👋 Bonjour, I'm Quentin!
I’m a local guide passionate about sharing French culture and history.

        🌟 Explore the places that shaped Lyon’s soul

🤡 The most fun way to visit Lyon — for all ages!
💥 Experience the city like a local, with insider tips.
🌍 Meet new friends from around the world.

🌧️ If it rains, the tour will still go ahead, and I’ll bring some umbrellas for you.

🏔️ Enjoy stunning views as we go from the hilltop to the city center. We only go down but there are stairs, text me if you’re concerned!

        🤓 Come as a tourist, leave as a local!

 🔍 Secret Pathways once used by silk workers to transport fabrics to the city.
🎨 Le Mur des Canuts: Discover Europe’s largest mural. 

🍅 Market of Croix-Rousse: Explore the rich diversity of local products.

🏺 Fall of Lugdunum: Once a key city of the Roman Empire, learn about it's dramatic decline.
🕵️ Resistance: Learn about the dramatic story of the resistance leader Jean Moulin. 

👗Learn about the invention of the first automatic loom! 💥Leading to the revolts that inspired modern socialism.

🎭 A hub of creativity with street art, galleries, and theaters.

🧑‍🎨 Did you know the Bartholdi Fountain was meant to face the city hall? I’m not even talking about the one in Lyon…

😋 You will end the tour in the perfect spot to easily reach any place to eat.  

Good morning, I'm Bertrand — a proudly French actor and visual artist, born and raised in Lyon. I'm also a passionate professional guide, and I've designed this journey to dive into Lyon's rich culture. Let me share with you the city's secrets and treasures, all seen through a playful French eye!

Let's meet! Underground vibes, street art, radical stories — welcome to the hill that doesn’t follow the rules!

Immerse yourself in a playful journey through the chaos of French history — from Roman times to today — that has shaped Lyon’s landscape and spirit. As we explore the Croix-Rousse hillside, take in breathtaking panoramas, vibrant street art, and the essence of what Lyon is all about. Uncover the roots of its prestigious silk tradition and catch the lingering scent of ancient workers’ riots hidden in secret passageways. The tour ends at the top of the hill, in a food-lovers’ haven where culture, cuisine, and a touch of French humour will make you feel right at home.

• Meet me on Place Sathonay — a warm welcome and introduction right in the heart of Lyon

• Alternative Art — creativity in every corner

• Église du Bon Pasteur — everything went wrong in the construction of this massive abandonned church

• Panorama — everything went wrong in the construction of this massive church and the blocks around it

• Roman Amphitheater — uncover ancient legends of those who rioted against the imperial power

• Montée de la Grande Côte — hip zone in a medieval street filled with cafés and craft shops

• Street art ! — from the small details to the large painted stairs, from the local artists to the world famous ones.

• Tales of resistance — hidden covered passageways used by resistance fighters during WWII

• Cour des Voraces — bold architecture and the memory of fierce social struggles that shook 19th-century Europe.

• Esplanade de la Grande Côte — end your journey, perched above the City in a foodie area.

Welcome to the charms of Lyon, a place full of history, beauty and glamour. Let us guide you through its cobbled streets as we discover together the best-kept secrets of this historic gem.

 Our tours offer a unique experience, combining the cultural and architectural richness of Lyon with captivating tales that will transport you to bygone eras and the glamor of the gourmet capital of France. As passionate local guides, our goal is to immerse you in the authentic atmosphere of the city and show you hidden corners that only locals know about.

 We will start by exploring the famous Vieux Lyon; the historic heart of the city. Here, you'll marvel at the Renaissance architecture of its buildings, wander through its narrow traboules, secret passages through the inner courtyards, and discover the treasures of St-Jean Cathedral, an impressive Gothic gem.

 As we go along, I'll tell you fascinating stories about daily life in Lyon throughout the centuries, from Roman times to the Middle Ages and beyond. You will immerse yourself in local legends, meet the historical figures who left their mark on the city, and learn about the evolution of its culture and traditions.

 Come join us on this fascinating journey through Lyon. Let us show you the city from a local perspective and discover together the hidden treasures of this enchanting corner of France.

 Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

 * We have a personalized audio system so that each participant can fully enjoy the narration during the tour.