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Authentic Tour with a Lyonnais
Lyon
Explore Lyon’s history, culture, and cuisine on a 2-hour walking tour with a passionate local guide. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks.
Duration:
2 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon - We will talk about the construction of Lyon as Lugdunum, the capital of the Gauls during the Roman Empire. I will present the history of the basilica of Fourvière, and then we will discover the inside of the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
- Vieux Lyon - We will discover the beautiful old town of Lyon, mainly built during the Renaissance. I will share some hidden secrets about the city, and of course, we will go through several passageways, known as the ‘Traboules’!
- Rue du Bœuf - I will introduce you to Lyon’s rich culinary heritage, including the history of the ‘Bouchons’ and their traditional recipes. We’ll also discuss how Paul Bocuse and Mère Brazier helped popularize this cuisine.
- Palais de justice historique de Lyon - I will show you the River Saône and the Palais de Justice de Lyon. I will introduce you to Lyon’s history during World War II, when it was a key point for the Resistance. We will talk about Jean Moulin, a key figure of the French Resistance, and Klaus Barbie, the chief of the Gestapo, who was judged in this courthouse more than 30 years later!
- La Place des Jacobins - I’ll take you through the beautiful squares of this renovated neighborhood, showcasing the new Lyon built in the 19th century for its wealthy residents. We’ll also have a chance to discuss what it’s like to live in Lyon today.
- Grand Hotel Dieu - I will show you the Hôtel-Dieu of Lyon, which was a grand hospital for centuries. We’ll explore this impressive building, which has now been transformed into a mall.
- La Place Bellecour - We’ll conclude the tour at Place Bellecour, one of Lyon’s main squares located in the city center. I’ll reveal some hidden secrets of the square, and we’ll end by visiting the lesser-known statue honoring Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the Lyonnaise author of The Little Prince.
What's Included
- Bottled water
- English Tour Guide
- Umbrellas
What's Not Included
- Dinner
Additional Information
In a small group, we’ll chat, have fun, and I’ll take you to Lyon’s hidden secrets and must-see spots.
I’m passionate about sharing french culture and history with foreigners. I will show you what it’s like to live in Lyon, sharing my personal insights along the way.
What Will You Discover?
- Ancient Beginnings: Explore Lyon’s origins as Lugdunum, the vibrant capital of Roman Gaul.
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Renaissance and Silk Industry: Discover the silk industry’s influence, Italian architectural impact, and the Canuts’ struggles that inspired Marx and socialism.
-️ War and Resistance: Explore Lyon’s role during the Nazi occupation, including the arrest of the Resistance leader and Klaus Barbie’s dramatic trial.
-️ Culinary Revolution: Discover how Lyon earned its reputation as the culinary capital of France. - Secret Pathways: Explore hidden passages used by silk workers and Resistance fighters during WWII.
Join us and you’ll be able to tell your friends that you indeed visited Lyon!
Location
Place Saint-Jean
Meet me at Place Saint-Jean, where the Cathédrale Saint-Jean is located in Vieux Lyon. I will be in front of the fountain at the center of the square, wearing a blue beret and an inscription "Free tour Lyon".
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.