Lyon: Discovery Tour by Segway

Traveling through Lyon doesn’t have to be a serious slog on foot. If you’re looking for a way to see the city’s highlights while keeping things light and fun, the Lyon: Discovery Tour by Segway could be just what you need. It’s a neat, hour-long intro to some of Lyon’s most famous sights—perfect if your time is limited but you want to get a good sense of the city’s vibe.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is. No previous experience is required, thanks to the friendly training session, and the small group size helps keep things personal. That said, it’s not without a few quirks—like the fact that it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on a Segway and can stand for an hour.

This tour tends to attract travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer in Lyon or just want a fun way to cover ground quickly, you’ll probably find this a worthwhile addition to your trip.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: The 15-minute training helps everyone get comfortable on the Segway.
• Great for quick sightseeing: Cover several key spots in just an hour, making it perfect for tight schedules.
• Knowledgeable guides: Tour guides are friendly and able to share insights about Lyon’s main attractions.
• Stunning views: You’ll enjoy views of Bellecour Square and the banks of the Saône, along with the city’s famous hills.
• Small group experience: With a maximum of 10 participants, it feels more personalized and less rushed.
• Weather considerations: Raincoats are provided if needed, but the tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Lyon Segway Tour

When you sign up for this tour, you’re signing up for a concise but lively ride through Lyon’s heart. The experience kicks off with a brief training session—just about 15 minutes—where your instructor will get you comfortable on the Segway. If you’re new to this kind of transport, don’t worry; most folks find their footing quickly, and the guide is there to help.

Once you’re ready, the real fun begins. Your first stop is Bellecour Square, one of the city’s most iconic spots. Here, you can soak in the lively atmosphere and get a sense of Lyon’s grandeur, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling cafes. The guide will point out the significance of the square and share some local stories, making it more than just a photo op.

Next, you’ll cruise along the Saône River embankment, where vibrant houses line the water. It’s quite a picturesque stretch, with some reviews mentioning the “beautiful views” and “colorful houses.” Riding along the river offers a different perspective of Lyon’s downtown, with easy access to some of the city’s scenic spots.

You’ll also get views of Lyon’s two famous hills—Fourvière and Croix-Rousse—which are visible from certain vantage points. Your guide will share snippets about their history and importance, adding context to your pictures.

The tour then takes you through Jacobins Square and St. Nizier Square, which are renowned for their history and architecture. These stops give you a taste of Lyon’s past and its lively modern-day scene. The guide’s commentary makes these spots come alive, whether you’re a history buff or just enjoy colorful city streets.

Finally, you’ll glide back along the banks of the Saône, passing more of Lyon’s charming buildings, before returning to your starting point. It’s a neat way to see several highlights without tiring your feet or losing your way.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
The main advantage of this tour is how easy and accessible it is. Guided by a knowledgeable instructor, you’ll quickly learn the basics and then zip through Lyon’s highlights comfortably. The small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and it’s easier to ask questions or get personalized attention.

Many reviewers raved about their guides—Lilou and Léa are singled out for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. One traveler from France called it a “super guided visit,” while another from Denmark mentioned it was “really fun.”

The views along the river and the squares are genuinely stunning. Several reviews mention the “beautiful city views,” and that the ride along the Saône banks offers a special perspective on Lyon’s colorful architecture. It’s a quick way to get a sense of the city’s layout and style, especially if you’re pressed for time.

Value-wise, $41 per person for an hour—plus the training and a guide—is pretty reasonable. It’s a fun activity that gives you a different angle on Lyon, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure.

Cons:
A notable limitation is that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It requires standing and balancing on the Segway for about an hour, so those with inner ear issues, vertigo, or pregnant women should skip it. Also, the minimum age is 14, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Some reviews mention a slightly brisk start—riders don’t always get the full 15 minutes of practice if the group is eager to go, which can be a little nerve-wracking for absolute beginners. Also, the tour doesn’t run rain or shine, and there are no toilet facilities at the departure point, so plan accordingly.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The full hour is quite packed, but it’s well-paced so you’re not rushed. Expect your guide to keep things moving smoothly, with stops to listen and ask questions.

Starting at Bellecour Square, you’ll get introduced to Lyon’s main square, a hub of activity and history. From there, it’s a glide along the riverbanks, where the colorful houses and scenic views make for perfect photo ops. You’ll pass through Jacobins Square and St. Nizier Square, both of which are steeped in Lyon’s history and architecture.

The view of the two hills, Fourvière and Croix-Rousse, provides a great backdrop, and your guide will share some insights about their importance. The ride concludes with a final stretch along the river, letting you soak in the cityscape before returning to the start point.

The Practicalities

The cost of $41 is pretty competitive, considering it includes the training, guide, helmet, and raincoats if needed. Keep in mind that drinks and personal expenses are not included, so plan to explore local cafes afterward.

The small group size means more personalized attention, and the choice of English or French guides makes it accessible. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

Weather can impact the tour—raincoats are provided, but if it’s pouring, the experience might not be as enjoyable. Wear casual, flat shoes for comfort and ease of riding.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Segway tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick, engaging overview of Lyon. It’s good for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without tiring out their feet, especially if touring with kids aged 14 and over.

If you’re comfortable standing and balancing, and enjoy a bit of light adventure, you’ll likely have a blast. However, if you have mobility issues, inner ear problems, or aren’t confident on a Segway, this probably isn’t the best fit.

It’s also a good activity for those who enjoy guided experiences, as the guides are noted for their friendliness and knowledge. With its reasonable price point, it makes for a fun, low-pressure way to see Lyon’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The Sum Up

The Lyon: Discovery Tour by Segway offers a lively, practical way to get a snapshot of Lyon’s most iconic spots. It’s perfect if you want a lighthearted approach to sightseeing, combining a bit of fun with easy access to the city’s highlights. The guided element and small group size ensure an experience that feels personal and informative, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

The views along the riverbanks and the lively squares provide enough visual interest to keep everyone engaged, while the brief training session ensures even newcomers can enjoy the ride. Price-wise, it’s a reasonable activity that complements other explorations, especially if walking all day isn’t appealing or feasible.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of scenery, history, and a dash of adventure, this tour is a solid choice. But keep in mind your own comfort level with Segways and standing for an hour. It’s a fun, different way to see Lyon, and many travelers come away feeling they’ve gained a fresh perspective on this beautiful city.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the 15-minute training session helps first-timers get comfortable on the Segway, and guides are there to support you throughout the ride.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1 hour, including the training. The actual ride through Lyon’s highlights is a well-paced, quick tour.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I wear?
Casual, flat shoes are recommended for comfort and safety. No special clothing is required, but wearing weather-appropriate gear is advised since raincoats are provided if necessary.

Are children allowed on the tour?
The minimum age is 14, and those under 16 need an adult accompanying them. It’s not suitable for children under 14 or pregnant women.

What if it rains?
Raincoats are provided, but the tour might be less enjoyable in heavy rain. It’s best to check the weather forecast before booking.

Are there any health considerations?
Yes, it’s not recommended for people with inner ear problems or vertigo, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women due to standing and balancing on the Segway.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, straightforward way to see Lyon’s downtown in a short window, this Segway tour hits the mark. It balances ease, engagement, and practicality, making it a highlight for many travelers looking to add a bit of adventure to their city trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: