lyon self guided tour

Nomadic Adventures – captured with brush and pen

Our self-guided Walking Tour of Lyon

A Brief History of Lyon

Lyon was founded by the Romans in 43BC, and become the capital of Gaul and one of the most important cities of the Roman empire. Later it became famous as the capital of the French silk weaving industry, and there are hundreds of hidden passageways, called Traboules, that weave through Lyon’s old town area. These were used by the weavers to transport their products from one part of town to the other without having to brave the weather.

Today, Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. Yes it has lots of Michelin starred restaurants, but it’s better known for the traditional bistrots that offer traditional dishes and local specialties at budget-friendly prices. They’re best known for their three-course set lunch specials.

What to See in Lyon

The central area of Lyon is between the river Rhône and the river Saône, and consists of the 1st, 2nd, and 4th arrondissements. We stayed in the 1st and it was teeming with life and places to eat. The rest of this promontory features lots of square plazas surrounded by majestic renaissance apartment buildings, there also a mix of broad pedestrian shopping streets and narrow lanes connecting these squares.

The Place Bellecour

The Place Bellecour, is the third biggest square in France, and is the central hub for this area’s pedestrianized shopping streets. We wandered up Rue de la République which leads towards the Hotel de Ville and Opera Nouvel towards the area we were staying in the 1st arrondissement.

From Place Bellecour head to the northwest corner and walk west across the Pond Bonaparte bridge to reach the other side of the river Saône. Continue straight on for about 100 meters and you’ll reach the Funicular railway. Take line F2 to Fourvière.

La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Notre Dame de Fourvière is the highest vantage point in this part of the city, and is home to the 19th century basilica which is a stark example of neo-Byzantine architecture. If you’ve been to Paris before, you’ll recognize the style as similar to the Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre.

It’s an impressive building, full of intricate mosaics and colorful stained-glass windows, but what grabbed our attention was the view of Lyon spread out before us.

It was exceptionally chilly up there because of the winds, but the walk up the 800 steps and slopes to reach here warmed us up. Needless to say, the walk back down was a lot more fun.

Between the Basilica and the Saône is the old town quarter known as  Vieux Lyon . This was the area I’d wanted to stay in, but was glad we only visited here. It was interesting to walk around, and there were plenty of businesses down the narrow cobbled stone streets and clustered around the tiny squares, but it was pretty devoid of life and energy in February.

I’m sure during the summer it is teeming with tourist, but it was off-season so it was like a ghost town during our exploration of the traboules. These passageways date back to the 4th century and weave through buildings, courtyards, and up and down steps and stairways. They were used by the silk workers to carry heavy loads of textiles from their workshops in the Croix-Rousse area, to the merchants located at the foot of the hill so that they didn’t get wet or dirty being carried through the streets.

Maybe this area livens up at night, but we didn’t stick around to see.

Fresque des Lyonnais

Located in the 1st arrondissement on the banks of the Saône near Pont de la Feuillée is an intricate Trompe L’Oeil. We’ve encountered a few of these during our trip around France, but this was by far the most impressive.

The longer we looked at it, the more details we spotted. Just imagine the labor of love this project must have been.

Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Chef Paul is one of the reasons that Lyon is dubbed France’s capital of gastronomy.

Being die-hard foodies we just had to pay a visit to this market. Reviews online harp on about how expensive it is, even for everyday items, but if you’re into food markets then pay a visit to this one—nobody is saying you have to buy anything.

After wandering around the well organized aisles of this covered market, looking and smelling the delicious cheeses and marveling at the freshness of the seafood, and the high prices of the busy restaurants, we were happy to find Toke, an understated little place for a snack lunch.

They had a great selection of vegetarian pasties, that looked like oversized empanadas, and are cooked to order.

We chose a trio of the coconut milk hummus, carrot, and caramelized onion, the Jerusalem artichoke, black mushroom, blue cheese, and garlic confit, and the spinach, ricotta cheese and fresh berry goat cheese. all of them were tasty, but the mushroom and blue cheese was such a mouth-watering combination, that we ordered two more.

Washed down with a refreshing glass of the award winning Belgium style wheat beer, Mandrin blonde. I’m more of a wine girl, but was a thirst-quenching beverage.

We were transfixed by the local Lyon speciality, praline (header image), but not inquisitive enough to try it.

Preferring instead a tangy goat cheese covered in edible flowers.

Bridges of Lyon

The city straddles two rivers, so there’s no shortage of bridges, and here’s a couple of my faves.

After spending all day exploring, we headed back to our neighbourhood for a relax and a rest in our little apartment before staying local for a night out.

Lyon is a fabulous walking city. It reminds me of Paris. The architecture, the river, the bridge, the French! all combining together to make a visit a memorable experience. We had three nights here, and we could have stayed longer. We only scratched the surface of Lyon, but we saw enough to know we’ll be back.

Lyon City Greeter

If you don’t want to go on a self-guided walking tour of the city, you should take a look at the Greeters France website . They offer volunteers to welcome you to Lyon for free, who’ll take you on a 2-3 hour walk of the city, and show you their favourite sights. Simply fill out a form on their website, and let them know what kind of things you’re interested in, and they’ll partner you up with a volunteer who’ll contact you via email to arrange the day and time for your tour.

We were going to use the Lyon Greeter service, but ended up exploring on our own. But if you’re short on time, it’s a great option to see some highlights and get an inside track on where to eat and drink.

Read about our 2020 Workaway and Travel Adventures:

• French Train Strikes won’t stop us in our tracks
• Toodling around Toulouse
• Exploring the Castle at La Couvertoirade
• Meandering around Montpellier
• Our Workaway at an 18th Century Flour Mill
• Chilling in Clermont Ferrand
• Our Workaway at an 18th Century Chateau
• Lingering in Lyon’s 1st Arrondissement
• Our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Lyon
• Making the most of Montparnasse Paris
• Our Workaway at a La Rochelle BnB
• Our Workaway at Ile D’Aix
• Video: Our Workaway adventure through France
• Our Memorable Food and Wine Adventures in France
• …. the rest of our trip TBD because of the virus – but planning Bordeaux, Lille, Bruges, Antwerp, and Amsterdam

Author: Roving Jay

58 thoughts on “ our self-guided walking tour of lyon ”.

Haven’t been to Lyon but would have this summer. Food and Lyon’s hospitality is what I look forward to experiencing. I have added another attraction from your blog to my list – the mural of Paul Bocuse! I did not know of this mural until now. Thank you so much for this self-guided blog on Lyon which I am sure to use on my visit.

Lyon is defiantly a foodie heaven. We loved this market, and the diverse selection of restaurants from around the globe … oh and the cheese!

I have never visited Lyon but your description definitely makes me want to go! I love anywhere that the focus is on delicious food & reading this has left my mouth watering, especially seeing the photos of the delicious pasties…Yum!

I loved that they were baked to order, and that there was such a diverse selection of fillings available.

Ah, you had me at Lyon! This has been on my list for years, and think it will finally be my destination for 2021! As a foodie and lover of all things French, I think I’ll love it. The vegetarian pasties and edible flower goat cheese looks and sounds delicious. I love how you have described old town. I have pinned this for future planning.

I was surprised by the wide range of goat cheese flavors — ranging from pungent and strong with overtones of sour, to creamy and mild, and all stages in between.

I would love to spend a few days exploring the hidden passageways through Lyon’s old town area. I would find it hard to walk past an old book shop without spending a couple of hours looking around.

I’d much rather wander the back streets and alleyways of a city than stick to its main boulevards. I think you get a better sense for the heart and soul of a city that way.

I love reading about your French trips and this one looks a lot of fun. I would like to try it if only for the Praline buns or the goats cheese with flowers! It seems like a city that easy to navigate but with plenty to see and do. Thanks for sharing.

I really want to visit Lyon, we spend a lot of time in the Alsace and I just want to see more of France as soon as things are back to normal. Also, that goat cheese looks incredible Jay, how was it? Hopefully as good as it tastes! Stay safe 🙂

I always love reading about your travels in France, it always makes me want to go on an adventure 🙂 And that goat cheese, oh my!

I fell in love with France .. utterly and completely.

Well, I can totally belive you, cuz I am kind off falling in love with your version of France that you are telling 🙂

We’ll definitely be back. There’s so much more to explore.

I love walking tours and therefore exploring Lyon while walking must be very interesting. And as Lyon is good for foodies, then I would love this place more. Mural of Paul Bocuse in Lyon near the market which is named after him is really beautiful and I would love to explore this gastronomy paradise. Even the bridges of Lyon are very photogenic.

Yes there’s Lyon has lots of charm, and you certainly won’t go hungry!

I’ve only been to Lyon once, and it was more like a stopover before heading down to Nice. I had no idea Lyon was the gastronomic capital of France. I’m a big foodie, so I’m putting Lyon on my list over places I have to go and eat haha. Thanks for sharing!

There’s so many fab places to visit isn’t there? Nice was on our list, but we had to leave the country and cut our trip short. But we’ll make it there on the next trip .. and Marseilles.

This is a very interesting and thorough review of this gorgeous place! I especially loved reading about the history of Lyon and learned some things I didn’t know previously. The images are really great and paint a lovely picture of this fantastic destination! Thanks so much for sharing!

You’re welcome Michelle .. I loved sharing this blog post because it brought back some lovely memories. And that’s the beauty of being a blogger, you get to experience places multiple times. Once for real, and then each time you write about them.

Lyon sounds like the perfect destination, with not too many tourists. I usually like to do a walking tour when arriving at a new destination just so I can get a bit of the history before venturing out on my own, so I would definitely book one, and the food! What can get better than mushroom and goat cheese! I definitely need to add Lyon to my list of places to visit (and eat).

Walking around a new city is the best way to experience it – so I guess that makes me an ardent slow traveller.

Lyon is in my future travel list and your blog post has given me a lot of ideas of what to do there. I would love to explore the traboules of Lyon’s vieux quartier. It looks like a city with a lot to see. I am sure it was worth walking 800 steps and slopes to reach Notre Dame de Fourvière. Thanks for sharing! 🙂

It was well worth the hike up the hill for the view and the cathedral.

We were only there a few days… but loved it, and on the first day were already planning our return trip.

The 19th century neo-Byzantine architecture will be my biggest draw to visit Lyon. As a former architect, I will spend hours marvelling at the delicate design of Notre Dame de Fourvière. The bonus will be the view of the city. Realising that Lyon is just about 6 hours on a road trip makes it all tantalising. Bookmarked for later.

The architecture was beautiful, and reminded us so much of Paris. If you’d dropped us into this town, without telling us where it was. I would have guessed, Paris.

Sounds like my kind of walking tour – lots of food and lots of visual stimulation for photos. That goat cheese with edible flowers is so pretty!

Even in the biggest of cities I much prefer to explore them on foot. You get to see so much more this way.

I’ll be honest, I would go just for those pastries! What beauty!! I could picture myself in Lyon as I was reading it. Love your writing and photography. Thank you for sharing!

Thanks Courtney … yes we had our fare share of pastries in France, I love the red berry creme patisserie tart.

My boyfriend is from the south of France and I would LOVE to travel to Lyon with him. Sorry to hear Vieux Lyon was basically a ghost town! I am so happy to see that they served vegetarian options, as when I last when to France I mostly ate baguette to avoid any meat.

I’d love to see Vieux Lyon when it’s busy, but it was still a great place to walk around when it was so deserted.

I have never visited Lyon, however now I feel I’ve traveled with you! What a beautiful place. So glad yo see they have veggie options as i always end up eating chips to avoid meat. The murals on the walls are awesome too! I have added this to my bucket list and can’t wait to visit!

In some of the places we visited in France it was difficult to find vegetarian options, but Lyon was fabulous for choice if you don’t eat meat.

I have never visited Lyon, but loved reading your post. Lyon looks so beautiful with cobbled stoned streets and I always prefer walking tours to know the city better. The views from La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière looks amazing. The food and Goat cheese in edible flowers looks yummy.

I was really impressed with how much milder the goat cheese was here in France. I’m sure there are some pungent versions, but all the one’s we had were mellow and creamy.

Such a lovely tour of Lyon through your eyes. I find a lot of similarity with Paris yet it has it’s own charm which is so different again. Seeing the bridges makes me want to go now. If only we could. One thing that I love about Europe, having traveled to many countries, is the wide variety of cheese that we keep gorging on. It would be great to try out the goat cheese with the edible flowers. Looks enticing.

As long as there’s a cheese option on the menu, I’m happy! France is perfect for that.

Hi Jay .. I have never been to France and hence to Lyon , though I have heard about the mention and that it is famous for the culinary delights. reading your post I could understand what food is so much emphasised out here. The murals on the wall and the vibes of the places are so visible. Have never tried goat cheese with edible flowers, this is the first time I heard of edible flowers.

Nearly every city we visited in France had stunning wall murals. Seems to be a thing here. Just wish there had been more street art.

Ooh, Lyon has been on my bucket list for ages! Two friends lived there for a while and were always going on about how great the food is. I’ll definitely be making a visit to Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse – that “fresh berry goat cheese” you mentioned sounds to die for. So does the goat cheese covered in edible flowers. Okay, maybe I just really like goat cheese!

I’d go back in a heartbeat. It really is a foodie heaven. So many places in France only have local cuisine, which is a lot of meat, but Lyon offers so much more.

I haven’t been to Lyon yet, but I feelI I have to add it on my bucket list after reading your article. The city looks really beautiful, like that Trompe L’Oeil near Pont de la Feuillée – fantastic! Not to mention that food sounds great too 🙂

The food was fantastic, we were so lucky where we stayed, there was such a diverse range of cuisines.

I have spent a few weekends in Lyon as it was only 90 minutes away from where my hubby and I lived in France, we just to make pilgrimages to go to the Ikea which is in Lyon’s surroundings. The best thing to do in Lyon is walk and eat and that’s what I did!

Ah .. the pilgrimages to Ikea! I know those well. Our local Ikea in Turkey is in Izmir .. so it’s an overnight trip to go and have a walk around the shop. They have a delivery centre near us in Bodrum, but it’s only small. But I love me a bit of Ikea!!

Wow! This is the 2nd time that I read about french empanadas today and I am really curious about that. Would love to them in the future. Looks really delicious.

Great when you’re looking for vegetarian options. We went back for seconds. 🙂

This looks like such a lovely city. I love the Trompe L’Oeil too! Wow! I can only imagine how long that took to create. I like your suggestion about the “Greeters” tours. We took a walking tour with Munich Greeters in Germany and had the treat of having a retired university professor take us around the city for 8 HOURS! He was amazing! He allowed us to buy him lunch but otherwise wouldn’t accept any payment. I highly recommend the “Greeters” organization.

That’s great to hear about your positive experience with the Greeters. I think it’s a fantastic idea, and would love to make the most of them on future trips.

Those look amazing, the combination of Black mushroom and Garlic makes them yummy and mouth watering – I really can’t wait to pack my suitcase again. Food when traveling always tastes a lot better. I want to eat my way around the world.

Well there’s plenty of choice in Lyon … you would certainly be able to taste lots of different global cuisines there.

I’ve never been to Lyon, but would love to visit someday! I’m all for self-guided walking tours and budget-friendly food! I’d love to check out the market–those vegetarian pasties sound amazing!

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Beautiful Self-Guided Walking Tours of Lyon

In explore france , lyon.

Spending some time in the beautiful city of Lyon, France and want a fun and free way to discover your new city? Why not try a walking tour ? Lodgis has made a list of beautiful walking tours in Lyon to help you learn more about the wonderful city and all that Lyon has to offer, and by the end, you’ll feel just like a local!  

1. Lyon Introduction Walk

2. lyon museum walk, 3. lyon architecture walk, 4. walking tour of old lyon, 5. kids entertainment walking tour of lyon, related posts, the best bars in bordeaux, best bars in toulouse, beautiful self guided walking tours of bordeaux.

LYON 100% ENGLISH

Lyon’s Self-guided Walking Tours

Walking and guided tour of lyon by yourself it’s possible .

Weither you are a resident in Lyon or a tourist, it’s possible to have a Lyon walking tour by yourself. How can you do it without spending all your money ? If you really want to know this beautiful city of Lyon, you can take a look at the website Rewindstories.com. Rewind offers self-guided walking tours at a very abordable price.

In the meantime, in this article, we inform you of two places to bring your family urgently. The taste of French cuisine, specialties from Lyon such as quenelles will never hold any secrets for them. Then, discover the « Parc de la tête d’or », a very wonderful park where you can see savan’s animals and do some bike in family.

The « quartier Saint Jean », the Lyon culinary specialities district

The place to be in order to taste lyon’s food specialities is the old Lyon area, especially Saint Jean, localised in the 5th district. Easy to access with public transit like subway D, get off at the stop called Vieux Lyon.

The Saint Jean’s street is the main road of Saint-Jean’s area. It’s time to choice one of these little charming restaurants for savor a very good plate of « saucisson brioché » and a « Lyon’s salade» bacon and poached eggs. Enjoy to admire the architectury from gallo roman’s time of this ancient city nevertheless modern.

Get some happy time in family at the « Parc de la tête d’Or »

There are plenty of activities and many things to do at this large wooded park of 105 hectares. The park’s lake is equipped with pedal boats for a ride on the water. You can also rent 4-seater bicycle carts to explore the entire park. Many games such as slides and swings are installed. A zoo of exotic animals is open to the public and a rose garden, splendid in summer, makes it possible to take superb photos.

You can also admire the grandiose sculptures of French artists in front of the lake. Several picnic spots are available as well as wide green meadows for readers. And if you’re still bored, go and take a walk along the Rhône. You’ll find a big path along the river for long walks.

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Self Guided Tours in Lyon

It's very easy to spend weeks in Lyon without being bored. Here, you can find some self guided tours on Google maps that show you some of the nicest places in Lyon. Feel free to share!

View our Self Guided Tour »

Self Guided Walking Tours of Lyon

If you don't feel like joining a free walking tour, you can use this map to guide yourself around Lyon. I've put my favorite spots on it.

See our Lyon Self Guided Tour

Lyon Self Guided Tours

To do this self guided tour, just keep this page open and follow the point of interest on my custom google map. You'll get to see the most interesting things in Lyon!

Browse the Self Guided Tours

Self Guided Tours in Lyon: we know the best places in Lyon.

Check out these maps if you feel like exploring Lyon by yourself. You can find some of the highlights of the city in these maps and walk yourself around. If you feel like getting a great introduction to the city, you can decide to join one of our Free Tours as well. We love you to explain you everything about the city.

Self Guided Tour of Lyon

On this map you can find all the Highlights of Lyon. Here you find the museums, passageways, squares and views. If you want a more personal introduction to Lyon, join one of our Tours!

Check out some reviews of Free Tour Lyon...

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I have been getting great reviews on TripAdvisor. Check for yourself by clicking on the TripAdvisor widget here. If you liked the free walking tour of Lyon, please leave a review!

THE 10 BEST Lyon Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours & rentals in lyon.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Escape Game in Vieux-Lyon

2. Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The alchemist

3. Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

4. Children's escape game in the city of Lyon Marsupilami

5. Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The Walter case

6. Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

7. Urban Escape Game for EVG EVJF in Lyon

8. Children's escape game in the city of Lyon - Peter Pan

9. Lyon Self-Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

10. Discover the secrets of Lyon while playing! Escape room

11. Urban escape game in Lyon - Crazytopia

12. Discover Lyon while escaping the zombies! Escape room

13. Urban escape game in Lyon - Red Nights

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Discover Saint-Etienne by playing! Escape game - The alchemist

Hameau Duboeuf, 1st theme park on Vine and Wine in Europe

Beaujolais Segway Tour with Wine Tasting

Grenoble Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

Grenoble Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

Outdoor Escape Game | The Treasure of India

Discover Grenoble while playing! Escape game - The alchemist

Gourmet walk in the gardens of Château Champ-Renard

Explore Paris' Culture - Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours

2 Days Foodie Weekend with a Private Sommelier

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Chambery

9 Days Private Motorcycle Raid Excursion in Morocco

• Luggage Storage Central Station in Lyon
• Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The alchemist
• Children's escape game in the city of Lyon Marsupilami
• Urban Escape Game for EVG EVJF in Lyon
• Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The Walter case
• Lyon Bike Tour
• Lyon Segway Tour by ComhiC
• Driver vtc Lyon
• Cars & Coffee

THE 10 BEST Lyon Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours & rentals in lyon.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Escape Game in Vieux-Lyon

2. Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The alchemist

3. Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

4. Children's escape game in the city of Lyon Marsupilami

5. Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The Walter case

6. Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

7. Urban Escape Game for EVG EVJF in Lyon

8. Children's escape game in the city of Lyon - Peter Pan

9. Lyon Self-Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

10. Discover the secrets of Lyon while playing! Escape room

11. Urban escape game in Lyon - Crazytopia

12. Discover Lyon while escaping the zombies! Escape room

13. Urban escape game in Lyon - Red Nights

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Discover Saint-Etienne by playing! Escape game - The alchemist

Hameau Duboeuf, 1st theme park on Vine and Wine in Europe

Beaujolais Segway Tour with Wine Tasting

Grenoble Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

Grenoble Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

Outdoor Escape Game | The Treasure of India

Discover Grenoble while playing! Escape game - The alchemist

Gourmet walk in the gardens of Château Champ-Renard

Explore Paris' Culture - Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours

2 Days Foodie Weekend with a Private Sommelier

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Chambery

9 Days Private Motorcycle Raid Excursion in Morocco

• Luggage Storage Central Station in Lyon
• Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The alchemist
• Children's escape game in the city of Lyon Marsupilami
• Urban Escape Game for EVG EVJF in Lyon
• Discover Lyon while playing! Escape game - The Walter case
• Lyon Bike Tour
• Lyon Segway Tour by ComhiC
• Driver vtc Lyon
• Cars & Coffee

Old Lyon town: a tour of the famous “traboules” and the elegant Renaissance courtyards

Self-guided tour of Old Lyon town and its mysterious traboules

We have prepared for you below an itinerary for visiting the famous traboules and Renaissance courtyards that you can do alone in 1h30 to 2h, alone, as a couple, with your family or in a group.

“Traboules” definition: the old French word “traboules” refers to secret passages between streets, through Renaissance houses and courtyards.

Would you prefer a guided tour?

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The Old Lyon town, from the 4th century to today

At the end of the Gallo-Roman period, in the 4th century, Lugdunum at the top of the hill of Fourvière was abandoned, its inhabitants settled on the banks of the Saône and the bishopric of Saint-Jean was the new center of Lyon. An episcopal complex develops around, its chamarriers hold the keys of its doors which they close every night. Comes the 16th century, the golden age of Lyon. Drawing what is now called “Old Lyon” town. These are the Italian wars, the arrival of the Renaissance in France, Lyon is the gateway. Large European fairs four times a year, Lombard, Flemish and Champagne merchants. Seventy banks. The population doubled, reaching 20,000 souls, hence this tight habitat like a surprise bread. The wars of religion tumble, Catholics and Protestants kill each other, everything is swept away in twenty years.

In 1998, the whole of the Vieux Lyon district was listed by UNESCO as an International Heritage Site. Old Lyon town is now well restored, in Florentine ocher tones. Its cobbled streets, traboules and courtyards restored to their former glory, with architectural gems from the early Renaissance. We feel here in Italy.

Your tour on the map

Saint-Jean Cathedral

Departing from Saint-Jean Square, you can spend time in the cathedral at the heart of Old Lyon. Its astronomical clock is one of the oldest in Europe (1383, at least) and will give you the exact time until 2019… Why? We would be happy to explain it to you during one of our guided tours. It chimes several times a day with a procession of characters. The ENS Lyon has devoted a very detailed scientific page to it.

This cathedral was actually a primatial church, as the head of the French church was long the Archbishop of Lyon, the Primate of the Gauls. Religious power counted here. Archaeological excavations have uncovered the traces of three attached religious buildings dating back in part to the 4th century. Adjacent to the cathedral and housing its treasure is what is probably the oldest building in the neighborhood (partly from the 11th century), the Manécanterie.

If you stay at the Youth Hostel above Saint-Jean, you will have the chance to admire the light on this cathedral. It is sublime at sunrise. As at sunset. This sunset that gives a warm light inside through the 12 meters in diameter stained glass of its West Rose.

The Saint-Jean Square, which has (finally) been cleared of cars, has a beautiful fountain in its center where you can find interesting photo subjects. It is also an alternative to the Louis XIV statue in Bellecour Square for some appointments.

The neighborhood has a history of over a thousand years. It almost disappeared after the Second World War when a Lyon mayor wanted to establish marinas on the banks of the Saône. Fortunately, resident associations relayed by Malraux were able to stop it. The site is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as you will see during your visit, attracts many tourists and visitors… including you, we hope, because it is a magnificent neighborhood where you can feel what Lyon was like during the medieval fairs.

Take the Saint-Jean Street.

Maison du Chamarier

Access: 37 rue Saint-Jean

Next stop on the right is a sublime courtyard that has just been restored. It is the “Maison du Chamarier” where a famous pastry shop is located on the corner of the street. Spend some time in this courtyard, soak up its beauty. Imagine yourself in the 17th century when Madame de Sévigné used to come here.

The well is said to have been designed by Philibert Delorme, who had just returned from Italy at the age of twenty-six. We’ll see Philibert again later. This well is ideal for a selfie or group photo.

Maison des Avocats (Lawyers house)

Access: 6 Rue de la Bombarde

In front of you, at the end of a square named Place de la Basoche, a Tuscan-style gallery connects several buildings. The restoration of the Order of Lawyers has given it beautiful colors. The part of the building facing Saint-Jean Street was built in the first half of the 14th century. It was then the “Ostel de la Croys” inn, frequented in particular by jurists. They still occupy the building today with their training center. From 1406 to 2002, the Confrérie de la Basoche was located here.

In the Middle Ages, this confraternity brought together jurists, defended their interests, and organized their training, in which theater played an important role. In the farces and sotties that they publicly performed behind masks, the satire of the powerful and customs, anticlericalism, and a certain materialism played an important role, so much so that they were banned in 1540. The confraternity frequented this island until the end of the twentieth century.

The Miniature and Cinema Museum

The building houses the Miniature and Cinema Museum (entrance on Saint-Jean Street), which notably contains the Alien Queen created by James Cameron. 6.50 meters tall, 500 kg of metal and latex.

Around the Maison des Avocats

A little above, at 14 Rue de la Bombarde, a plaque with a fire lighter that ignites a… bombard.

At 58 Rue Saint-Jean, with a bit of luck, the courtyard behind the creperie “Au Petit Glouton” will be open. It has a very pretty well adjacent to the room and kitchen of the creperie, open to this very lively courtyard.

Don’t miss out on the medieval shop Mandragore at 52, located at the end of a dead-end traboule. This shop offers everything from gauntlets to chainmail to all kinds of period clothing, velvet and long dresses.

The Long Traboule

Now, to give credit where credit is due, at 54, one of the highlights of organized visits to Old Lyon, “THE traboule”, the longest of them all, Guinness-worthy without delay: the Long Traboule. It crosses four buildings and four courtyards. Be careful, during rush hour, due to the crowds, it can get congested (in the feminine form). Some beautiful passages that deserve a little photo.

We come out onto Rue du Boeuf.

That’s the miracle of the traboules. We turn right and walk along art and craft shops, the four-star La Tour Rose, where Molière played. We arrive at Place Neuve Saint-Jean, saturated with restaurant terraces. At the corner of the square and Rue du Boeuf, notice the wooden statue of an ox on the corner of the wall. You will see the same thing later at Place de la Baleine. We take this opportunity to recommend Thierry’s tour of Old Lyon in his travel journal, where he speaks and photographs his hometown and all these streets very well.

Maison du Crible, Tour Rose, rue du Bœuf

Access: 16 rue du Bœuf

There is a very pretty courtyard with a sumptuous rose tower, with an emotional cylinder shape. It has four floors and is pierced with beautiful openings. It was built in the 16th century. Doesn’t it look a little like the pink and round tower of Part-Dieu (Tour de la Part-Dieu) that the Lyonnais nickname “the pencil”? Admire the beautiful doors.

Place Neuve Saint-Jean, Palais de Justice

Come back to Place Neuve Saint-Jean. In the middle, there is a remarkable open courtyard with visible stairs. It looks like Rear Window by Hitchcock.

At the corner, there is the Palais de Justice bakery. There is often a line. It offers one of Lyon’s specialties, praline brioches. Be careful not to break your teeth!

The huge building opposite the bakery is the former courthouse. The Lyonnais call it “Les 24 colonnes” because of the Corinthian columns that decorate its facade facing the Saône. They correspond to the hours of the day. It was designed by Bathard, whose son designed the halles de Paris. In the building that preceded this one, hundreds of people were tried during the Terror, then guillotined in Place des Terreaux. The Court of Appeal and the Assize Court of the Rhône still sit here. The palace has its own prison for long trials. Maurras was tried there in 1945 and Klaus Barbie in 1987.

Traboule rue Saint-Jean to rue des Trois-Maries

Continue north on rue Saint-Jean, in descending order of street numbers. At 27 rue Saint-Jean, there is a new traboule entrance.

We come out at 6 rue des Trois Maries after two ochre courtyards and Italian galleries. A boomerang-shaped street with a visible curve. One of the most characteristic of the Vieux Lyon. You feel like you’re in the 16th century. Turn left towards Place de la Baleine. Beautiful cobblestones.

Place de la Baleine

At the corner of the very pretty Place de la Baleine and the street of the same name, we find the carved panel mentioned earlier representing a whale. It can be nice to have a drink on the terrace here in the summer, in the coolness. In the winter, there are often fire breathers. Imagine yourself here, in the Middle Ages, during one of the four major annual fairs that allowed Lyon to enter a new economic expansion, confirmed at the Renaissance by the installation of Florentine bankers who arrived in the wake of Catherine de’ Medici. They built many of the beautiful hotels that still exist today.

Traboule from Place du Gouvernement to Quai Romain Rolland

Access: 2, Place du Gouvernement

Continue down Rue Saint-Jean until you reach Place du Gouvernement. At number 2, a traboule begins with stairs leading to a beautiful courtyard. It is located above what was once the stables of the Hôtel de Saint-Christophe.

Beautiful building. It may seem almost too much due to the recent rehabilitation, but it should probably be imagined as such at its construction in the 15th century.

If you continue through the traboule, you will end up at 10 Quai Romain Rolland.

Let’s return to Rue Saint-Jean.

Gadagne Hotel and Museums

Access: 1, Place du Petit Collège

The Gadagne merchant-bankers were immensely wealthy. Simon fled Florence for Turin and then Lyon upon the return of Cosimo de’ Medici. His son, Thomas I, also succeeded in business and integrated into Lyon’s political life. His nephew, Thomas II, inherited from him, became even richer, and was elected échevin in 1537. The following year, he rented this private mansion built by the Pierrevive brothers, merchants from Piedmont. His sons Guillaume and Thomas III became its owners between 1545 and 1581. Rivals, the brothers lived at opposite ends of the hotel, where they nonetheless jointly organized sumptuous parties. In the 18th century, the building became a housing complex and was purchased by the city in 1902 and classified as a historic monument in 1920. It then housed the city’s historical museum. It was completely renovated from 1998 to 2008. The result is stunningly beautiful. The vast courtyard alone is a jewel. It contains two museums and elevated gardens.

Museum of the History of Lyon

Thirty rooms retrace the history of Lyon from Antiquity.

Its remarkable documentation center is accessible by appointment. It notably preserves manuscripts of Guignol plays (Guignol is a major puppet in the French repertoire of puppet shows).

Museum of Puppetry Arts

Organized around Guignol, it exhibits puppets in nine rooms. Paul Fournel photo Sophie Bassouls Paul Fournel © Sophie Bassouls/P.O.L

Regarding this, read our joint portrait of Laurent Mouguet, the father of Guignol theater, and Paul Fournel, the author of “Faire Guignol”.

High garden of Gadagne museum, a romantic place

Accessible without museum tickets, take the elevator to the 4th floor. You find yourself in the sky. Small terrace tables. Silence. A lawn and roses. One of the most romantic places in Lyon. You can have a drink, eat a light meal.

Place du Change, Soufflot’s spirit

Arriving at Place du Change. This is where you changed your currency before leaving the Kingdom of France. This square is often very lively with live performances. It is one of the entry points to Saint-Jean.

Temple of Change, by Soufflot

The Temple of Change, revamped by Soufflot in 1748, a famous architect, has been a Protestant place of worship since 1803. Soufflot, inspired by Andrea Palladio, who himself was inspired by the facades of Roman temples, gave it a remarkable facade, which is classified. Two clocks crown it, according to Soufflot’s wish, who had imagined an “ideal” clock marking days, months, and years. In 1999, for the turn of the millennium, his wish was fulfilled on the left of the building, in place of a clock that disappeared during the Revolution.

Maison Thomassin, place du Change

Another beautiful facade is the Gothic one of Maison Thomassin, built in 1493, which preserves a painted ceiling from the first house built in 1298 on its first floor.

Go up Rue de la Loge to the right of the Palais du Change, and at the top, take Rue de la Juiverie.

Rue Juiverie

Before entering the street, you can climb the first steps of Montée du Change to discover the Renaissance staircase of Maison Henri IV.

Almost all the facades on the street are interesting: mullioned windows, true or fake gargoyles added by the inhabitants. Several theater troop workshops.

A clock restorer at No. 20, L’Horloger de Saint-Paul, as in Bertrand Tavernier’s film, shot in this neighborhood. A beautiful sculpture workshop at No. 15.

La Galerie Philibert Delorme

Finally, at n°8 Rue Juiverie, one of the MUST-SEE places on our visit: the Galerie Philibert Delorme. A plaque in the courtyard explains its construction by the young architect returning from Italy in the early 16th century. A marvel of lightness and symbolism that unites two houses.

Place Saint-Paul

We arrive at Place Saint-Paul, the center of this neighborhood which, along with Saint-Georges and Saint-Jean, makes up Old Lyon. We continue to the beautifully restored Saint-Paul church, inside and out. It is adjacent to a quiet square, away from the tourist bustle of Saint-Jean, Place Gerson, with a cafe-theater characteristic of Old Lyon town and the spirit of cafe-theaters at their start in the 1970s on the slopes of Croix-Rousse.

Following your tour

You can leisurely retrace your steps to the cathedral, enjoying the pleasure of discovering what you may have missed.

You can also continue with a visit to the painted walls (this tour will soon on line), taking the Saint Vincent footbridge towards the Lyonnais fresco. This itinerary will bring you back to Place du Change, towards the wall of the Cour des Loges.

Do you want a guide in Old Lyon town?

Have a good tour in Old Lyon town!

Guided tour of Lyon

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Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

Description

about 1.5 - 2 hours, however, there is no time limit

French, English, Italian, German

Starting location

Go to "Map of Lyon Old Town" and start the game immediately.

• Solve interesting puzzles, have fun and learn new things about Lyon
• Discover the Cathédrale Saint Jean-Baptiste, La fresque des Lyonnais, L’Hôtel de ville and many more exciting sights in the neighbourhood
• Explore the city and find hidden gems at your own pace
• Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt
• Suitable for families and groups of friends, school classes, as well as team and company outings
• One ticket is required per person.
• Each person needs a smartphone with an active internet connection.
• The minimum group size is 2 people.
• Recommended minimum age for children is about 10 years.
• More than 20 people? For example, if you are 23 people, please select the option “25 people (maximum)”.
• More than 50 people? Please request a quote here .

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What you can expect

You’ll explore the city on foot and get points for solving different types of tasks. Follow a scavenger hunt team on their tour through the city in our trailer and learn more.

Solve puzzles

Solve tasks and puzzles that can only be solved on site. Games, fun and tricky tasks await you!

Exciting photo tasks await you that demand a whole lot of creativity. Fun guaranteed!

Get to know the city

Discover the best sights of the city. Find hidden places, statues and much more.

Explorial - The perfect team experience

Whether with family, friends or with the company: our trails are a fun team experience for small and larger groups.

Any questions about this trail?

We have summarized the most frequently asked questions for you here. 

Yes, this is a self-guided walking tour with a mobile app. The game is started and played directly on the smartphone. There is no guide on site.

Explorial is a mixture of  sightseeing , a  scavenger hunt  and an  escape game .

The game is not limited in time. You can explore the city at your own pace and take breaks.

The whole game lasts on average about 1-2 hours.

More questions?

You can find more information  here .

Otherwise, you can  contact us .

Nearby trails

Explorial trails are available in many other cities! How about, for example…

Geneva (International District)

Geneva (City Center)

Lausanne (Ouchy District)

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Lyon WWII & Resistance

During the Second World War, Lyon played a key role in the liberation of France from the Nazis. Rewind back in time to when Lyon became a hotbed of Resistance against the enemy. Your only guide for 1 hour? Your smartphone! - Relive the terrible history of the French resistance from 1940 to 1944 - Discover the bravery of the key figures and heroes of the French resistance: Moulin, Leynaud, and many others! - Start the tour whenever you want and visit at your own pace: stop for a café or lunch and resume the tour when you're ready

Full description

Follow the footsteps of great men who made the history of the Resistance in France! At the end of 1942, Lyon became the Capital of the Resistance. The Terreaux district and the slopes of the Croix Rousse were then used as a hiding place for the heroes of the Resistance, and for all those who played a role in the clandestine struggle. Your only guide for 1 hour? Your smartphone! The stories, produced by professional guides and actors, will automatically trigger as you walk from the Rewind app. An innovative guided tour experience to start whenever you want, alone or with others! The result? A fun and authentic experience with that Rewind spirit and twist!

• Lyon WWII & Resistance, 1h audioguided walking tour

Non included

• Transportation
• Personal expenses

Good to know

- An internet connection is required for the duration of the tour - Follow the tour from your smartphone on the Rewind app. - For a better experience, it is recommended to bring headphones. If not, the sound will come out of the smartphone's speakers - The tour launches at the starting point - and won’t start from anywhere else. - You can activate pause at any time and resume the tour whenever you want. - This tour is available in English and French - Depending on your pace, the visit can take between 60 and 90 minutes

Meeting point

17 Rue du Bât d'Argent, 69001 Lyon, near Hôtel de Ville - Louis Pradel metro

What to bring? - A smartphone fully charged with the Rewind application installed on it - An internet connection - Your headphones (recommended)

Why choose Rewind?

• Customizable tours, to be done in complete freedom
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Great info, presented well. loved being led around the old city center and discovering actual locations involved in the Fren h resistance.

Excellent tour. Well paced and informative. Would recommend this as a quick way to get a feel for the role that Lyon played during WW2.

Please Re-walk the trail and update the descriptions of the buildings and their locations.

Some directions were confusing. I never saw the Creamery (?) or the “charming cafe” (?). Maybe some updates are needed.

Great tour, but issues with the app slowed us down and were a little frustrating. Better instructions are required when you use the app for the first time.

Very informative and taking in very interesting places along the way!

Geolocation for auto-start works well. More audio material, esp between the key spots (ie continuous audio) would be great.

An easy way to explore back streets, learn their stories… and end up more informed than most who live here!

some routes didn't marry up with directions, some areas were not accessible. not the tour, but Lyon should do more to keep this history intact.

Très agréable !!!! Merci André

Incredibly informative, it felt like you were truly walking in the footsteps of the resistance.

France and England didn't delare war, France and Great Britain did. please correct this appalling mistake! Many Scots,Welsh and Northern Irish people died in this conflict and you have just cancelled them from history.

sympa, instructif mais quelques couacs quant à la géo-localisation et déclenchement de 2 commentaires au même moment

Très beau parcours instructif !

Génial ! Ne pas hésiter à faire ce parcours

Une excellente initiative pour mieux connaître l’histoire de ces nombreux héros. Très émouvant aussi de se rendre sur les lieux mêmes où ils ont tant fait pour libérer nos pays Merci

un peu perdu au début par le manque d'information... Une fois qu'on a compris qu'on est en total autonomie c'est une visite très agréable avec la découverte de lieux insoupçonnés

intéressant. découverte d endroit dont j ignorai l existence

Too much information

Informative and well organized tour! Great way to see the physical locations of the Lyon resistance.

Très bien fait mais un peu difficile à démarrer par les multiples applications à télécharger

Parcours parfait, extrêmement intéressant, très bien indiqué, vraiment très bien fait. Merci pour ce moment d’histoire précis.

super façon de découvrir ma ville d'origine et sont histoir merci !

Très intéressant et ludique À refaire…

Interesting but yet difficult to use

magnifique temoignage qui rend hommage aux gommes et aux lieux qui ont lutte et construit notre avenir. merci.

Good tour, but please make it downloadable beforehand over wifi for those of us who don’t have cell data.

Excellent tour. Very interesting and I learned so much.

Très enrichissant

App is awful and drains battery

Magnifique moment de mémoires et de respects.

Good tour, but some crucial figures of the Resistance are missing such as Lucie and Raymond Aubrac.

We loved it although my husbands did not work on his phone so we listened to it on mine only.

très sympa!

parcours agréable facile à suivre. récit historique clair et concis.

tres instructif et la visite passe trop rapidemznt ! une version un plus longue aurait ete la biznvenue. sinon super zt avec lappli cela fonctionnz bizn.

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