Discover the captivating history and architectural wonders of Old Lyon through an immersive audio-guided tour. With 11 captivating stops, visitors can explore Renaissance-era facades, charming cobblestone streets, and the city’s unique traboules – covered passageways. The tour provides engaging narratives on Lyon’s rich cultural heritage, from its gastronomy to cinematic legacy. Available daily until June 2025, this UNESCO World Heritage experience promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of France’s most enchanting destinations. Delve deeper to uncover the stories that have shaped this timeless city.

Good To Know

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Good To Know

  • An audio-guided tour of Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing 11 stops exploring the city’s history, architecture, gastronomy, and cinema.
  • Tour available from December 3, 2020, to June 30, 2025, operating Monday to Sunday from 7 AM to 6 PM, with a meeting point at Fontaine Saint Jean.
  • Wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation, ensuring inclusive participation for a wide range of visitors.
  • Private tour format offers a personalized experience, with immediate confirmation and flexible booking options.
  • Highlights include exploring Renaissance-era facades, discovering cobbled streets and covered passageways, and learning about Lyon’s vibrant local culture and history.

Tour Overview

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Tour Overview

The audio-guided tour of Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features Renaissance-era façades, cobbled streets, and covered passageways.

It includes 11 different stops highlighting Lyon’s history, architecture, gastronomy, and cinema. Engaging stories about local culture, history, and Guignol, the famous puppet, provide an immersive experience.

The tour is available from 12/3/2020 to 6/30/2025, Monday to Sunday, from 7 AM to 6 PM. The meeting point is Fontaine Saint Jean, and the end point is quai Romain-Rolland, in front of Palais de Justice.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate as it’s near public transportation.

Tour Logistics

According to the details provided, the audio-guided tour of Old Lyon starts at Fontaine Saint Jean, 8 Pl. Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France, in front of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral.

The tour ends at quai Romain-Rolland, in front of Palais de Justice, 69005 Lyon, France.

The tour is available from December 3, 2020 to June 30, 2025, Monday to Sunday, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The tour is wheelchair accessible with stroller access and service animals allowed.

It’s near public transportation, so most travelers can participate.

This is a private tour, so only your group will be part of the experience.

Accessibility and Participation

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Accessibility and Participation

The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows stroller access, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. Service animals are also welcome. The tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for most travelers.

Accessibility Yes/No
Wheelchair Friendly Yes
Stroller Friendly Yes
Service Animals Allowed Yes
Near Public Transit Yes

The private tour ensures that only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience. The tour’s accessibility and inclusive participation make it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

Booking Information

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Booking Information

Typically, customers receive confirmation immediately after booking the audio-guided tour of Old Lyon. They can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the tour starts without any penalties.

The tour operator offers a reserve now and pay later option, giving customers more flexibility. Plus, the company guarantees the lowest price available. This ensures customers get the best value for their money.

While some past reviewers mentioned organizational issues, the majority of feedback about the audio tour has been positive, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5.

Booking this experience is straightforward, and customers can look forward to an informative and immersive exploration of the historic Old Lyon neighborhood.

Customer Reviews

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Customer Reviews

While the booking process for the audio-guided tour of Old Lyon seems straightforward, a closer look at customer reviews reveals a more nuanced picture.

The tour has received a total of 4 reviews with an overall rating of 4.0. Some customers praised the engaging stories and highlights of Lyon’s history, architecture, and culture.

However, others noted disappointing experiences due to unclear organization and lack of reception at the meeting point.

These reviews suggest that while the tour concept is promising, execution may vary, and travelers should manage their expectations accordingly.

Exploring Renaissance-era Facades

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Exploring Renaissance-era Facades

One of the highlights of the audio-guided tour of Old Lyon is the opportunity to explore the city’s stunning Renaissance-era façades.

These meticulously preserved architectural marvels offer a glimpse into Lyon’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can admire the intricate details, such as:

  • Ornate carvings and sculptures adorning the building exteriors
  • Beautifully crafted windows and balconies
  • Vibrant colors and patterns that add depth and character to the facades
  • Unique architectural styles that blend French and Italian influences

As you stroll through the cobbled streets, the audio guide shares captivating stories about the significance of these Renaissance-era landmarks, transporting you back in time and immersing you in the city’s architectural splendor.

Discovering Cobbled Streets and Covered Passageways

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Discovering Cobbled Streets and Covered Passageways

As visitors stroll through Old Lyon‘s charming cobblestone streets, they’ll stumble upon a network of covered passageways, known as "traboules."

These architectural gems, dating back to the 4th century, offer a unique glimpse into the city’s storied past. The traboules were originally built to provide residents with a sheltered route between the Saône and Rhône rivers.

Today, these hidden passages connect courtyards, staircases, and buildings, allowing travelers to explore a labyrinth of history. Along the way, visitors can admire the impressive Renaissance-era facades, wooden beams, and intricate ironwork that adorn the traboules, transporting them back in time.

Stories of Local Culture and History

Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon - Stories of Local Culture and History

Along the tour, visitors uncover engaging stories about Lyon’s vibrant local culture and captivating history. The audio guide delves into the city’s iconic Guignol puppet, a beloved local tradition dating back to the 18th century.

Guests also learn about:

  • Lyon’s rise as a center of gastronomy, earning it the nickname "the stomach of France"
  • The architectural significance of the Renaissance-era façades and covered passageways
  • The city’s cinematic legacy, with connections to legendary filmmakers like Auguste and Louis Lumière
  • Fascinating tales of the local people and their unique way of life

These immersive narratives breathe life into the historical sites, allowing visitors to truly connect with the soul of Old Lyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Audio Tour Last?

The audio tour lasts for an undisclosed duration, covering 11 different stops highlighting Lyon’s history, architecture, gastronomy, and cinema through engaging stories about the local culture and the famous Guignol puppet.

Is the Audio Guide Available in Multiple Languages?

The audio guide is available in multiple languages. Travelers can select their preferred language when booking the tour, ensuring they can fully enjoy the history and culture of Old Lyon during the self-guided experience.

Can I Purchase Any Souvenirs or Local Products During the Tour?

No, the audio-guided tour does not include any opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local products. The tour focuses on exploring the historic sights and cultural highlights of Old Lyon. Any shopping would need to be done separately from the tour itself.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various points along the tour route. Participants can expect to find public restrooms at some of the major landmarks and attractions visited during the audio-guided walking tour of Old Lyon.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Tour?

The best time to take the tour is in the morning between 07:00 AM – 11:00 AM, when the crowds are smaller and the weather is cooler. This allows for a more comfortable, enjoyable experience exploring the historic streets and architecture of Old Lyon.

The Sum Up

The Audio-Guided Tour of Old Lyon offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore Renaissance facades, charming cobblestone streets, and the unique traboules, while learning about Lyon’s gastronomic and cinematic legacy. With daily availability until 2025, this immersive experience is a must-visit for those seeking to uncover the enchanting world of Old Lyon.