Lyons History and Must-Sees With a Lyonnais! (English Tour)

Delving into the rich history and vibrant culture of Lyon is a captivating experience. On this guided tour, visitors can explore the city’s iconic sites, from the stunning Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste to the hidden traboules that tell stories of silk workers and Resistance fighters. Along the way, they’ll connect with Lyon’s textile heritage and discover the picturesque squares that make this UNESCO-listed city so charming. But the journey has only just begun – what other hidden gems await discovery?

Key Points

• Explore Lyon’s rich history from Roman roots to becoming a culinary capital, guided by a passionate local who shares stories of the city’s hidden passages and cultural significance.
• Tour the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, marveling at its Romanesque and Gothic architectural features, including an intricate 14th-century astronomical clock and a vast underground crypt.
• Discover the hidden traboules, a network of passageways used by silk workers and Resistance fighters, and visit the Maison du Crible, an interactive museum showcasing Lyon’s textile heritage.
• Visit the lively Place des Jacobins, a former Dominican convent with a Flamboyant Gothic church, and the picturesque Place des Célestins, home to a Renaissance-style fountain.
• Explore the historic Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon, a renowned 12th-century hospital that prioritized patient comfort and recovery, known for its Renaissance-style courtyard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Introduction

As you arrive at the meeting point of Place Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon, Quentin, your passionate local guide, will greet you and begin the Lyons History and Must-Sees tour.

He’ll provide an introduction to the city’s rich history, from its Roman roots to its modern-day reputation as the culinary capital of France.

Quentin will share intriguing stories about the hidden passages used by silk workers and Resistance fighters during WWII, whetting your appetite for the exploration to come.

With his personalized insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Lyon’s unique character and culture.

Guided Tour of Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste

Quentin then leads the group on a guided tour of the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Standing tall for over 1,000 years, the cathedral boasts intricate stonework and awe-inspiring stained glass windows.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Romanesque Facade | Massive stone entrance with rounded arches |

| Gothic Naves | Tall, vaulted ceilings and pointed arches |

| Astronomical Clock | 14th-century timepiece with intricate mechanisms |

| Organ Pipes | Towering musical instrument with over 6,000 pipes |

| Crypt | Underground ossuary containing ancient remains |

The group listens intently as Quentin shares fascinating insights into the cathedral’s rich history and cultural significance.

Exploring the Hidden Passages

After the guided tour of the cathedral, the group follows Quentin through the winding streets of Vieux Lyon.

He leads them to a hidden passageway used by silk workers and Resistance fighters during WWII. Quentin explains the history of these traboules – covered passages connecting courtyards and streets.

He points out the architecture and shares stories of their secret uses. The group is fascinated by the hidden world within the city.

Quentin then takes them to the Maison du Crible, a rare surviving example of a silk workshop, providing a glimpse into Lyon’s rich textile heritage.

Visit to Maison Du Crible

From the hidden traboules, the group continues their journey with Quentin as he leads them to the Maison du Crible.

This former silk workshop now serves as an interactive museum, offering a glimpse into Lyon’s textile heritage.

Quentin explains how the building’s unique architecture and machinery were integral to the silk-weaving process.

The building’s unique architecture and machinery were essential to the intricate silk-weaving processes that defined Lyon’s textile heritage.

Visitors can touch the looms and experience the challenges faced by skilled artisans.

The stop provides a tangible connection to Lyon’s past, fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s industrial roots and the ingenuity of its people.

More Great Tours Nearby

Sightseeing at Quai Romain-Rolland

Next, the group makes its way to the Quai Romain-Rolland, a picturesque stretch along the Saône River. Here, Quentin points out the stunning riverside views and the Pont Lafayette, a bridge dating back to the 19th century. He highlights the area’s historical significance, once home to silk workshops and a hub of resistance activity during WWII. To emphasize this, Quentin shares a table of key facts:

| Era | Significance |

| — | — |

| 19th Century | Silk industry center |

| WWII | Resistance hideout |

| Present Day | Riverside promenade |

Quentin encourages the group to take in the ambiance and soak up the city’s rich history.

Guided Tour of Place Des Jacobins

Where next does the tour group venture? Quentin leads them to Place des Jacobins, a lively square surrounded by Renaissance architecture.

Here, he explains the square’s historical significance as a former Dominican convent. Quentin points out the grand façade of the Church of the Jacobins, a prime example of Flamboyant Gothic style.

The square’s historical significance lies in its former role as a Dominican convent, showcasing the grand Flamboyant Gothic façade of the Church of the Jacobins.

He regales the group with tales of the square’s role in the French Revolution, when it served as a meeting place for the Jacobin political club.

The 10-minute stop provides a glimpse into Lyon’s rich past as Quentin weaves an engaging narrative for the attentive participants.

Sightseeing at Place Des Célestins

After exploring the historic Place des Jacobins, Quentin leads the group to the charming Place des Célestins.

This picturesque square is surrounded by elegant buildings and cafes. Quentin points out the iconic Fontaine des Célestins, a beautiful Renaissance-style fountain. He explains the square’s history as a former convent site and its connection to the Celestine monks.

Quentin encourages the group to enjoy the lively atmosphere and take in the architecture and ambiance before continuing the tour. With 10 minutes allotted, the group has time to snap photos and soak in the quintessential Lyonnais setting.

Guided Tour of Hôtel-Dieu De Lyon

What awaits the group at the next stop on the tour? A guided tour of the famous Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon, a historic hospital dating back to the 12th century.

The guide leads the group through the grand Renaissance-style courtyard, sharing the hospital’s storied past. Visitors learn how the Hôtel-Dieu served as a vital medical institution, caring for the sick and poor.

The guide highlights the stunning architectural details and explains how the hospital’s design prioritized patient comfort and recovery.

After 20 minutes, the group departs, eager to reach the final stop at the impressive Place Bellecour.

Ask Away

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour appears suitable for people with disabilities, as it includes short walking segments and accessible locations like cathedrals and plazas. Accommodations like umbrellas and recommendations for comfortable shoes suggest the tour considers accessibility needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages, as it offers personal insights and recommendations that can be enjoyed by both younger and older participants. There are no age restrictions stated for this tour.

Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants are welcome to take photographs during the tour. The guided tour includes photo stops, allowing attendees to capture the historic sights and architecture of Lyon. Photography is permitted throughout the experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour. Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended to allow for easy movement and exploration. The tour takes place outdoors, so dressing appropriately for the weather conditions is advised.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour does not include time for purchasing souvenirs. However, the guide may provide recommendations for the best places to find unique local items after the tour. Guests are free to explore on their own before or after the tour.

Final Words

Discover the vibrant history and culture of Lyon with a local guide. Explore iconic sites like the magnificent Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, uncover hidden passages, and explore the city’s textile heritage. Stroll through picturesque squares and conclude the tour at the historic Hôtel-Dieu De Lyon, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s rich past and present.

You can check availability for your dates here: