Private tours in Lyon cut through the tourist confusion and zero in on what makes France’s third-largest city so special. The best tours lead you through the old town’s mysterious traboules (hidden passageways), while others focus on Lyon’s claim to fame as France’s gastronomic capital. For architecture buffs, expert guides showcase both the Renaissance-era old town and the city’s modern districts. What makes these tours worth your time and money is the local expertise – guides share stories you won’t find in guidebooks and adjust the pace to match your interests.
I especially like the food tours through the Presqu’île district, where you’ll sample local specialties in authentic bouchons (traditional Lyonnaise restaurants). The hidden passages tour through Vieux Lyon is another favorite, offering access to otherwise locked medieval corridors.
Check out our top-rated Lyon private tours below.
Key Points
- Lyon’s private tours offer a wide range of unique experiences, from exploring the city’s secret traboules to immersive culinary tours and customizable sightseeing.
- The tours are highly rated, with many receiving 4.5 or higher stars, and praised for their knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences.
- Pricing is flexible, with options ranging from budget-friendly city sights tours to more comprehensive packages covering UNESCO sites and the Rhône Valley.
- Tour features emphasize small group sizes, engaging storytelling, and the ability to explore beyond typical tourist attractions, providing a personalized and cultural experience.
- Advance booking is recommended for popular tours, and multilingual guides are available to cater to diverse travelers.
Lyon’s Big Traboules in Little City: Stories From the Past – Private Guided Tour
The Lyon’s Big Traboules in Little City: Stories From the Past – Private Guided Tour offers travelers a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and hidden gems.
With a 5.0 rating from over 123 reviews, this private tour is highly recommended, with 99% of travelers endorsing it.
Led by the knowledgeable and adaptable guide Konstantin Masajlo, the tour explores Lyon’s iconic traboules (secret passageways), local stories, and vibrant workshops.
Priced from $48.52 per person, the experience is accessible to most travelers and can be customized to suit group interests.
Reviewers praise the engaging storytelling and the tour’s ability to provide an authentic feel of Lyon beyond typical tourist spots.
Read our full review: Lyon’s Big Traboules in Little City: Stories From the Past – Private Guided Tour Review
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Lyon Cinema and Miniature Museum and Old Town Private Tour
Exploring the wonders of Lyon’s cinema and miniature world, the Lyon Cinema and Miniature Museum and Old Town Private Tour offers visitors a captivating blend of art, history, and visual delights.
Guided by a local expert, this 2-hour tour takes you through the renowned Miniature Museum, showcasing intricate models of iconic Lyon landmarks.
You’ll then explore the charming alleys of Old Town, uncovering the hidden traboules and learning about the city’s rich past.
With a small group size and personalized attention, this private tour provides an immersive experience that allows you to fully appreciate the city’s cinematic heritage and architectural gems.
Read our full review: Lyon Cinema and Miniature Museum and Old Town Private Tour Review
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Lyon Like a Local Customized Private Guided Tour
For those seeking a truly personalized Lyon experience, the Lyon Like a Local Customized Private Guided Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s hidden gems.
Rated 4.6 out of 92 reviews, this private walking tour allows you to customize the itinerary based on your interests, be it local life or authentic flavors.
Led by a knowledgeable Lokafyer guide, the tour provides flexible meeting times and locations, ensuring a tailored experience.
While the tour excludes personal expenses and transportation, it promises a glimpse into Lyon’s local side, with positive feedback highlighting the friendly guides and insightful itineraries.
However, some travelers have reported communication and organizational issues, underscoring the importance of reading reviews and requesting popular guides.
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Lyon: Private Transfer and Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy the grandeur of Lyon with the Private Transfer and Sightseeing Tour.
This comprehensive experience takes you through the city’s modern and historical highlights, from the Cité Internationale to the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Explore the lush Parc de la Tête d’Or, stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and visit the interactive Musée des Confluences.
End your journey in the charming Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced at Kč 6,317 for up to 6 participants, this tour includes round-trip transfers, a professional driver-guide, and all entrance fees.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, it’s the perfect way to discover Lyon’s captivating sights.
Read our full review: Lyon: Private Transfer and Sightseeing Tour Review
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Secret Food Tours Lyon W/ Private Tour Option
One of the top private tour options in Lyon is the Secret Food Tours Lyon, which has earned a stellar reputation with over 335 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate.
The tour offers an immersive culinary experience, including a traditional Canut breakfast, French pastries, hot dishes, cheeses, and a unique Secret Dish.
With a maximum group size of 12, the private tour provides a personalized and relaxed pace, allowing guests to engage with the knowledgeable guides and explore Lyon’s rich culinary heritage.
Dietary needs can be accommodated, and the tour is stroller-accessible.
Guests consistently praise the tour’s engaging experiences and delicious food, making it a must-do for those seeking to discover Lyon’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Secret Food Tours Lyon W/ Private Tour Option Review
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Lyon: the Most Complete Discovery! Private Guided Tour
The private guided tour “Lyon: the Most Complete Discovery!” offers an extensive exploration of Lyon, the second-largest city in France.
Lasting 8 hours, this private tour is led by an official guide since 2005, Romain, who speaks English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Priced at Kč 13,897 for up to 10 participants, the tour covers UNESCO World Heritage sites, Fourvière Basilica, Roman ruins, and the charming Old Lyon.
Guests can also opt to visit a museum of their choice.
With skip-the-line access, personal assistance, and recommendations for local cuisine, this comprehensive tour provides a full day of discovery in Lyon.
The tour’s flexible meeting point and availability make it a convenient choice for individuals or groups.
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Rhône Valley Wine Tasting Private Day Tour From Lyon
Explore the renowned Rhône Valley on this private full-day wine tasting tour from Lyon.
You’ll sample regional wines, including Syrah and Viognier, and learn about French winemaking and ‘terroir’ during winery tours.
With a knowledgeable private guide, you’ll visit the Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph, and Condrieu wine regions.
The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and wine tastings.
Enjoy a personalized experience and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
With 97% of travelers recommending this tour, you’re sure to have an unforgettable day exploring the Rhône Valley’s world-class wines.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Rhône Valley Wine Tasting Private Day Tour From Lyon Review
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Lyon: Private Walking Tour of Lyons Traboules
For those seeking to uncover Lyon’s hidden past, the Private Walking Tour of Lyon’s Traboules offers an immersive experience.
This 2-hour private walking tour takes visitors through the city’s network of secret passageways, known as traboules.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide with over 25 years of experience, the tour explores 50 accessible traboules, providing insights into Lyon’s history, including the silk trade and French Resistance.
Participants can discover lesser-known gems from the Renaissance period and learn about the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour ensures a personalized experience.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as stairs are common in the traboules.
Read our full review: Lyon: Private Walking Tour of Lyons Traboules Review
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Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour
Uncover Lyon’s rich Jewish heritage and captivating Old Town on this private walking tour.
Led by a 5-Star History Expert-Guide, you’ll explore the Great Synagogue of Lyon and learn about its historical significance.
Discover the remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter in Vieux Lyon and hear stories of Jewish families, expulsions, and the resistance during World War II.
Venture through hidden Traboules used by Resistance fighters and tailor the pace to your interests.
This 2-hour tour is available in multiple languages and priced at $196.74 per person for a group of 1-25 guests.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Lyon’s Jewish legacy and medieval streets.
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Lyon: Private Guided Tour With an Official Tour Guide!
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Lyon’s UNESCO-listed treasures can embark on a private guided tour led by an official guide since 2005, Romain.
The 3-hour tour, priced from $370.21 for up to 10 participants, covers the city’s highlights, including the Saint-Jean-Baptiste cathedral, paleo-Christian baptistery, sieve house, Gadagne palace, and Change palace.
Guests can also explore the city’s famous traboules, or secret passages, and learn about their rich history.
The tour is available in multiple languages and is wheelchair accessible, making it a personalized experience for all.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from previous guests, this private tour promises an in-depth exploration of Lyon’s cultural and historical wonders.
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Lyon: Guided City Sights Private Pedicab Tour
The Lyon: Guided City Sights Private Pedicab Tour offers travelers a unique and immersive way to explore the historic city of Lyon.
Priced from $75.37 per person, this private tour provides options for 1, 2, or 3 hours of sightseeing, with a knowledgeable guide and transportation in a pedicab.
Highlights include famous monuments, picturesque spots on the peninsula, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Renaissance district.
With flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour earns a 4.8/5 rating from over 150 reviews, praised for its informative guide and value for money.
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Lyon: Traboules Private Tour of the Secret Passages
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Lyon’s architectural gems, the Lyon: Traboules Private Tour of the Secret Passages offers a captivating experience.
This 2-hour guided tour takes visitors through the city’s hidden Traboules, or passageways, not accessible to the general public. Led by expert local guides, the tour covers the Croix Rousse, Presqu’île, and Vieux Lyon neighborhoods, providing insights into Lyon’s history, the influential silk workers (Canuts), and the French Resistance during World War II.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience. Rated 4.9/5 based on 7 reviews, it’s a must-do for anyone interested in discovering Lyon’s architectural wonders and hidden stories.
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Lyon: UNESCO Districts Private Guided Walking Tour
Explore Lyon’s UNESCO-recognized districts on this private guided walking tour.
Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit hidden traboules, marvel at the Basilica on Fourvière Hill, and stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon.
Along the way, your English-fluent guide will provide insightful commentary on the city’s history, culture, and gastronomy.
Enjoy skip-the-line entry to the Guignol Puppet Museum and a funicular ride.
With a maximum of 10 participants, this tour offers a personalized experience.
Priced at $142.80 per person, it offers excellent value with its included entry fees and transportation.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easy.
This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Lyon: UNESCO Districts Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Lyon : Architecture Walking Tour ( Private or Group )
Enjoy the architectural wonders of Lyon on this captivating walking tour, available as either a private or group experience.
Explore the city’s iconic structures, including the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, with a local expert guide.
Uncover Lyon’s rich architectural history, blending classic and contemporary designs, and learn about the influential figures who shaped the city’s cultural identity.
The tour lasts 2 hours and is wheelchair accessible, with prices starting from $163.95 per person.
Enjoy the flexibility of booking now and paying later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Lyon : Architecture Walking Tour ( Private or Group ) Review
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Lyon: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
Travelers seeking a personalized exploration of Lyon can embark on a private custom tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour offers flexibility, with duration options ranging from 2 to 8 hours. Guests can explore the city’s main attractions and discover hidden gems, tailoring the experience to their interests.
The tours are available in English and French, and pickup from accommodations within the city is included.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 49 reviews, the tours provide excellent value for money.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, who offer valuable insights into local life and culture.
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Lyon : Old City Walking Tour ( Group or Private )
Although Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history, visitors can choose between a private or group walking tour to fully enjoy the district’s charming medieval atmosphere.
These 2-hour tours, available in English and French, start from $163.95 per person and are wheelchair accessible. Highlights include exploring the historic traboules passageways, visiting the Saint-Jean Cathedral, and learning engaging facts from a live guide.
While reviews are mixed, most praise the quality of the guides and overall experience. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Lyon: Private Guided Walking Tour
Setting out on a private guided walking tour of Lyon, visitors can explore the city’s captivating 2,000-year history.
Priced at Kč 7,264 for up to 15 participants, the 2-hour tour is available in English and French, with a convenient meeting point at Place Des Terreaux.
Exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites and Renaissance architecture, travelers will discover the city’s unique traboules, or narrow passageways.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the experience promises fascinating insights into Lyon’s ancient Roman roots, Italian influences, and transformation over the centuries.
With flexible booking options and free cancellation, this private tour offers a customizable and enriching way to uncover the historical gems of France’s second-largest city.
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Lyon: Private Historic Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy Lyon’s captivating 2,000-year history on this private historic guided walking tour. Priced from $469.64 per group, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Gothic Maison du Chamarrier, and the 14th-century Lyon Cathedral.
Along the way, uncover the secrets of the Jardin Archéologique and the Renaissance-style La Maison des Avocats. The 2-hour tour, available in English and French, offers flexibility with a reserve now and pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about Lyon’s rich past, this private guided tour promises an unforgettable experience.
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Lyon: Private Architecture Tour With a Local Expert
Visitors exploring Lyon’s rich architectural heritage can embark on a private tour led by a Local Expert, offering an exclusive glimpse into the city’s iconic structures.
The 2-hour tour showcases significant buildings, including the Palais de la Bourse de Lyon, Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière, and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, revealing how they reflect Lyon’s architectural evolution.
Priced at $633.60 per group (up to 8 participants), the tour is available in multiple languages and can be tailored to the group’s interests.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour provides a flexible and personalized experience to discover Lyon’s blend of classic and contemporary designs, shaped by influential figures like Tony Garnier and the Lumière brothers.
Read our full review: Lyon: Private Architecture Tour With a Local Expert Review
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Lyon: Old District Private Guided Walking Tour
Unraveling the captivating history of Lyon’s Old District, this private guided walking tour offers an immersive experience for visitors seeking to discover the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed gems.
Priced from Kč 4,409 per person, the 2-hour excursion takes guests on a journey through landmarks like the Saint-Jean Cathedral, Hotel Gadagne, and the famous ‘Traboules’ – the city’s intricate network of underground passageways.
With expert, multilingual guides catering to personal interests, the tour can be customized to focus on both renowned sites and hidden gems.
Boasting an impressive 4.4/5 overall rating, this walking tour promises an insightful exploration of Lyon’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Lyon: Old District Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Lyon offers a variety of private tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural wonders. From guided walks through the city’s traboules and old town to specialized tours of its museums and monuments, these personalized experiences provide an in-depth look at the unique charms of Lyon. Whether you’re interested in cinema, gastronomy, or urban design, there’s a private tour to suit your interests and ensure you make the most of your time in this captivating French city.