Lyon : 2 hills electric bike tour

Traveling through Lyon on a bike is one of those experiences that feels both relaxing and surprisingly enlightening. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this 2-hour electric bike tour offers a convenient way to see the city’s top sights without breaking a sweat. Designed to cover Lyon’s most iconic spots, it’s a great introduction — or a quick refresher — to this vibrant French city.

What really stands out are the stunning panoramic views from the hills of Fourvière and Croix-Rousse, plus the insight you get from a knowledgeable local guide. We also like how effortless it is to climb the hills thanks to the e-bikes, making what could be a strenuous walk into a breezy ride. That said, if you’re not comfortable on a bike or prefer a more laid-back sightseeing style, this might not be your best fit. It’s best for travelers who enjoy active experiences and want to pack a lot into a short time.

This tour suits anyone who’s after a fun, practical way to see Lyon’s highlights — whether you’re in town for a few days or just want a quick dose of city charm. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with someone who prefers not to hike or navigate steep streets on foot. Overall, it’s a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a dash of adventure.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views from Lyon’s two famous hills, Fourvière and Croix-Rousse.
• Effortless climbs thanks to well-powered e-bikes, making hills accessible for most riders.
• Rich local insight provided by an engaging, knowledgeable guide.
• Visit inside Tête d’Or Park and enjoy its botanical gardens, zoo, and lake — nice touches outside the city’s main sights.
• Short but comprehensive tour that packs in the city’s highlights in just 2 hours.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

We loved the way this bike tour makes Lyon’s highlights so accessible and fun. On a warm, sunny day, cycling along the riverbank with the Old Town’s colorful buildings as a backdrop instantly sets a joyful tone. The relaxed pace and smooth ride allow you to soak in the atmosphere while your guide shares fascinating tidbits about Lyon’s history and culture.

You start at the ComhiC bike rental location, where everyone gets a quick briefing and a chance to familiarize themselves with the e-bike. After that, it’s a gentle ride along the Quais de Saône, where the river vistas and lively streets make for a perfect intro to Lyon.

Exploring Vieux Lyon and the Riverbank

Your first stop takes you through Vieux Lyon, the city’s historic quarter, where medieval buildings and narrow cobbled streets come alive. It’s a fun area to see before heading towards the hills. The 25-minute ride offers plenty of opportunities for photos and initial impressions.

Next, the tour takes a 15-minute ride uphill to Fourvière, one of Lyon’s most recognizable landmarks. The ascent is made effortless, thanks to the electric bikes, which is a huge plus if hills aren’t your thing. Once at the top, you’ll visit the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, both offering great photo ops and a peek into Lyon’s ancient past.

The views from here are spectacular — sprawling cityscapes stretching out in every direction with a backdrop of the surrounding mountains. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the bikes were comfortable and powerful,” which really highlights how much easier the climb becomes with electric assistance.

Discovering Croix-Rousse’s Artistic Vibe

After exploring Fourvière, the tour continues to Croix-Rousse, the city’s bohemian hill known for its silk-weaving history and artisan vibe. This area has a lively, creative energy — street artists, boutique shops, and views that are worth the ride.

You’ll enjoy about 25 minutes exploring this neighborhood, soaking in the rooftop vistas and artistic atmosphere. The small group size allows for personalized conversation, and guides often share stories about Lyon’s silk industry and local culture, making the experience more meaningful.

A Relaxing Riverside Return

On the way back, the tour makes its way along peaceful riverside paths with a brief stop at Place des Terreaux, a lively square with fountains and sculptures. The entire route is carefully planned to combine city highlights with scenic spots, making it a balanced, enjoyable ride.

The last stretch takes you inside Tête d’Or Park — an unexpected but delightful addition. You’ll pass the botanical gardens, the zoo, and the lake, offering a break from the urban scenery. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some nature before heading back.

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What It’s Like on the Ground

Reviews consistently praise the quality of the bikes and the guides. Carole, who took this tour in July, said, “Super découverte des 2 collines de Lyon, vélos confortables et puissants, casque et cape de pluie dispo, Romane notre guide était au top!” That kind of feedback emphasizes how well the logistics are managed, and how much you’re supported throughout the ride.

Another reviewer appreciated the remarkable young guide, hinting at a friendly, informative experience. The small group setting (max 10 people) makes conversations more engaging and allows for a tailored experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $56 per person at this duration offers decent value, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and included gear like helmets and rain ponchos. The tour lasts 2 hours, which is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful overview of Lyon.

Important to note: you need to be at least 14 years old and comfortable riding a bike. The tour is not suitable for children under 14 or those under 4 ft 9 in (150 cm). Also, pregnant women and late travelers might want to reconsider, as safety and timing are important.

Group size is limited, which enhances the experience but also means you should book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Flexibility is offered with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving peace of mind if your plans change.

The Overall Value

While this isn’t a full-day adventure or a deep dive into Lyon’s hidden corners, it’s a well-rounded, scenic way to see the city’s highlights in a short window. The combination of beautiful viewpoints, cultural sites, and a lively guide makes it worth considering for travelers who want active sightseeing with minimal hassle.

The reviews underscore how much participants appreciate the comfort of the bikes, the know-how of the guides, and the stunning views. The inclusion of inside Tête d’Or Park adds a nice touch for those craving a bit of nature amidst urban exploration.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy cycling and want to see Lyon from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those who value local insights and a small-group vibe. If you’re visiting Lyon and want a quick, scenic route that hits the main highlights without much walking or strenuous effort, this tour fits the bill.

It’s also great if you’re traveling with someone who prefers not to hike or navigate steep streets. The e-bike makes the climb to Fourvière accessible and fun. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or aren’t comfortable on a bike, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to ride a bike?
Yes, you should be comfortable riding a bike, as the tour requires you to operate an electric bike.

Can I bring children?
Children under 14 aren’t allowed to participate, but bikes for children and child seats are available upon request. You’ll need to check in advance.

Is it suitable for someone who doesn’t like hills?
Absolutely. The e-bikes help make climbing Lyon’s hills easy and accessible.

What should I wear?
Casual clothes and flat shoes are recommended. The tour provides raincoats if necessary.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, covering key sights and scenic viewpoints.

What’s included?
The tour includes a briefing, an e-bike, a guide, a helmet, and rain gear if needed.

Are there any age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 14 years old and know how to ride a bike.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, and ponchos are provided if necessary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before.

Is the tour private?
It’s a small group experience. Private tours are available on request.

Final Thoughts

This Lyon 2 hills electric bike tour delivers a lively, scenic overview of the city that’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see a lot. The blend of stunning views, engaging guides, and effortless climbs makes it a compelling choice for active travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of panoramic vistas, or simply want a fun way to explore Lyon, this tour covers all bases.

If you enjoy compact, well-organized experiences that combine sightseeing with a little adventure, you’ll likely find this tour to be a highlight of your Lyon trip. Just remember to book early and come prepared for the weather — it’s an experience worth making room for in your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: