Viator Rating : 5 (938 reviews)
Lyon
Lyon: Vieux Lyon Cultural Walking Tour
120
Overview
Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour invites everyone to uncover the mysteries, culture, and tasty treats of Lyon. Join the guide, Paul, to wander through Vieux Lyon, where old streets and secret paths whisper stories of the past.
During the tour, visitors can expect to uncover secrets as they go through hidden passageways, discover Lyon's rich history from the Renaissance to its silk-making past, and listen to real stories of bravery from World War II. They will also dive into Lyon's food scene, exploring traditional bouchons and the impact of chefs like Paul Bocuse. The tour also visits Lyon's busy city center, showcasing the Théâtre des Célestins and the Hôtel Dieu.
Key stops include the Lyon Cathedral & Astronomical Clock, the Traboules of Vieux Lyon, and the Miniature Museum Courtyard. La Tour Rose, a silk shop with a Jacquard loom, the Lyon Courthouse, the Opéra Nouvel & Place de la Comédie, and the Rue de la République are also on the route. This walking tour includes an expert guide and explores featured locations, offering a deep dive into Lyon’s culture. It excludes pick-up and breakfast to ensure travelers can fully customize their culinary experience with ease. 
Highlights
Discover Hidden Passageways: Explore the secret traboules (hidden passageways) of Vieux Lyon, known only to locals.
Uncover Lyon's History: Delve into Lyon’s vibrant past, from its Renaissance splendor to its silk-making heritage.
Hear Gripping Tales: Listen to stories of bravery during World War II and the city’s complex history.
Explore Culinary Heritage: Discover Lyon’s famous bouchons and the culinary legacy of chefs like Paul Bocuse.
Visit Architectural Gems: See landmarks like the Théâtre des Célestins and the historic Hôtel Dieu in Lyon’s city center.
Expert Local Guide: Enjoy a walking tour led by an engaging, knowledgeable guide who brings Lyon's history to life.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the informative and engaging tour guide.
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Many enjoyed discovering hidden passageways and historical facts.
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Visitors appreciated the tour's comprehensive coverage of Lyon's history and culture.
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Several reviewers highlighted the guide's passion for the city and its stories.
Some found the pace of the tour to be a bit fast.
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A few wished for more time at specific landmarks.
The Journey
Lyon Cathedral & Astronomical Clock
Visit the Primatial Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist (Lyon Cathedral), a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Marvel at its highlight, the astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century. This intricate mechanism not only tells the time but also displays the positions of the stars, the date, and religious festivals, offering a glimpse into medieval science and artistry. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history, horology, or religious art.
Traboules of Vieux Lyon
Explore the hidden passageways of Vieux Lyon, known as 'traboules.' These secret corridors, originally used by silk weavers to transport their goods, offer a unique glimpse into the city's past. Discovering these concealed pathways is like stepping back in time, revealing the architectural ingenuity and hidden stories of Lyon's historic district. Join a guided tour or venture out on your own to uncover these fascinating relics.
Miniature Museum Courtyard
The Miniature Museum (Musée Miniature et Cinéma) hosts incredibly detailed miniature scenes and movie props. Even if you don't enter the museum, take some time to explore the building's courtyard. It showcases a selection of miniatures that can be viewed for free. This unique art form provides an exceptional experience for all ages.
La Tour Rose
Admire La Tour Rose ('The Pink Tower'), an iconic Renaissance-era building in Vieux Lyon. Its distinctive pink facade and architectural details make it a standout landmark. Once part of a larger complex, La Tour Rose now stands as a symbol of Lyon's rich history. It's an excellent location for taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere of the old town.
Silk Shop & Jacquard Loom
Delve into Lyon's rich silk heritage at a local silk shop. Witness the fascinating life cycle of silkworms during the silk season and gain insight into silk production. Some shops feature a working model of the Jacquard loom, a revolutionary invention that automated the weaving of intricate silk patterns. This experience offers a unique appreciation for Lyon's historical significance in the textile industry.
Lyon Courthouse
Visit the Palais de Justice, Lyon's impressive courthouse. This grand building holds historical significance as the site of Klaus Barbie's trial, a pivotal moment in bringing a Nazi war criminal to justice. The architecture and the historical weight of the location combine to offer a profound and sobering experience.
Opéra Nouvel & Place de la Comédie
Marvel at the Opéra Nouvel, Lyon's Opera House, and its stunning façade. Then, venture beneath Place de la Comédie to discover modern art installations hidden beneath the square. This unexpected juxtaposition of classical architecture and contemporary art provides a unique cultural experience, showcasing Lyon's ability to blend its rich history with modern creativity.
Rue de la République
Stroll along Rue de la République, Lyon's main shopping street. This bustling thoroughfare offers a wide array of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. It's the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy, soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere, and people-watch.
Hôtel Dieu
Explore the transformed Hôtel Dieu, a former hospital that has been beautifully repurposed into a luxurious complex. Discover a shopping center, a high-end hotel, and a diverse food court, all within the walls of this historical landmark. The blending of historical architecture with modern amenities makes it a destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour explores the cultural and historical highlights of Vieux Lyon. The tour includes the guidance of an expert, ensuring an enriching exploration of the area. Please note that pick-up service and breakfast are not included.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour through historic cobblestone streets. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Tour offers an engaging and well-paced experience filled with rich historical insights and unique access to hidden traboules. Many praise the guide Paul's storytelling skills and the inclusion of diverse cultural angles, from Renaissance history to World War II resistance stories. Positive notes often highlight the small group size and thorough knowledge shared. Some travelers note the physical demands due to cobblestone streets and recommend comfortable shoes. A few mention limited accessibility for those with mobility restrictions, but overall, guests find the tour informative, immersive, and a worthwhile way to explore Lyon’s Old Town.
Frequently Asked Questions
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