Lyon, France’s third-largest city, sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers—a natural setting that makes boat tours an ideal way to explore its diverse neighborhoods and stunning architecture. Whether you’re after a relaxing lunch cruise, a romantic dinner on the water, or an active boat rental without a license, Lyon offers a variety of ways to see the city from the river. We’re particularly fond of the Lyon 2.5-Hour Lunch Cruise for its delicious meal and scenic views, and the Private boat tour in Lyon city center for a personalized experience that feels exclusive but is surprisingly affordable. If you’re into food and wine, the Lyon: City Cruise with Charcuterie, Cheese, and Wine offers a tasty way to enjoy the city’s culinary scene. And for a full-day adventure, the Guided tour of Annecy + Fondue cruise combines sightseeing with a classic Savoyard feast on the lake.
To help you choose the best option, here’s a quick overview of the different types of Lyon boat experiences available: leisurely daytime and dinner cruises that highlight the city’s landmarks, private rentals for a customized journey, guided sightseeing cruises that add historical insights, and even self-navigable boats for the adventurous. Each offers something unique, depending on your interests, budget, and travel style. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these top-rated cruises and what makes them special.
1. Lyon 2.5-Hour Lunch Cruise
Rated 4.5/5 with nearly 500 reviews, this lunch cruise combines gourmet dining with sightseeing along Lyon’s scenic waterways. Starting from the Hermès restaurant boat, the cruise lasts about 2.5 hours and features a three-course meal you can choose from a variety of menus, making it perfect for food lovers. As you drift past Lyon’s famous landmarks, your onboard commentary provides insights into the city’s history and architecture, enriching the experience.
What makes this cruise stand out is its balance of relaxation, good food, and educational commentary. Guests consistently praise the quality of the meal and the stunning views. The boat’s elegant setting adds a touch of sophistication without feeling pretentious. It’s well-suited for those looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with both visual and culinary delights. The price includes the meal and the scenic cruise, offering excellent value considering the duration and quality.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, food-focused cruise that shows off Lyon’s best sights, this is a top choice.
2. Lyon 2.5-Hour Dinner Cruise
Rated 4.4/5 from over 600 reviews, the dinner cruise is much like its lunchtime twin, but with the added magic of a sunset and evening ambiance. Again departing from the Hermès boat, this cruise offers a three-course dinner with a rotating menu, perfect for a romantic night or special occasion. The 2.5-hour route covers Lyon’s illuminated monuments and historic sights, with commentary providing context along the way.
Guests highlight the enchanting atmosphere at sunset, as the city’s landmarks glow under the evening sky. The onboard commentary is engaging, giving you a richer understanding of Lyon’s story. The overall experience combines fine dining with breathtaking views, making it a recommended option for couples or anyone celebrating a special night. The reviews note that the food is enjoyable and the scenery unforgettable, making it a solid value for a memorable evening.
Bottom Line: For lovers of good food and romantic settings, this dinner cruise offers a perfect blend of sights, tastes, and atmosphere.
3. Lyon: Boat Rental without a License
Rated 4.6/5 from 77 reviews, this self-guided boat rental is a fun and flexible way to explore Lyon’s waterways at your own pace. The modern license-free boat can carry up to 10 people and is surprisingly easy to operate, even for beginners. Starting at the 1 Pl. de la Capitainerie, you can navigate the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying scenic views of Lyon’s Confluence neighborhood and the historic old town.
This experience is perfect for small groups or families who want to add a dash of adventure to their trip. The included tourist map guides you through highlights like the Vieux Lyon and the modern architecture along the river. The duration is 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and snap photos without feeling rushed. Reviews emphasize how intuitive the boats are to operate and how fun it is to be your own captain.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, active way to see Lyon from the water, renting a license-free boat is a memorable and inexpensive option.
4. Lyon: City Cruise with Charcuterie, Cheese, and Wine
Rated 4.5/5 from 70 reviews, this relaxed cruise combines sightseeing with tasting local specialties. For 1.5 hours, you’ll glide past Lyon’s key landmarks while enjoying local charcuterie, cheeses, and a glass of wine. The cruise offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a casual evening or a small celebration.
The highlight is the chance to sip wine and nibble on regional products while watching the city’s landmarks, such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, drift by. Many reviewers appreciate the peaceful sunset views and the opportunity to try authentic Lyonnais flavors in a beautiful setting. It’s especially suited for foodies or those wanting a low-key, cultural experience.
Bottom Line: For a delicious and scenic introduction to Lyon’s culinary scene, this cruise is a delightful way to unwind.
5. Guided tour of Annecy + Fondue cruise on the lake from Lyon
Rated a perfect 5/5, this full-day experience marries a private transfer, a guided tour of Annecy, and a fondue cruise on Lake Annecy. It’s ideal for travelers craving a comprehensive taste of the Alps’ beauty and culture. The trip begins early in Lyon, with a private chauffeur taking you to Annecy, where a heritage guide shares stories of this picturesque “Little Venice of the Alps.” You’ll wander through charming streets, passing landmarks like the House of Savoy and Pont des Amours.
After exploring, you’ll board a boat for the fondue cruise, enjoying local cheeses and Savoy wine while taking in stunning lake views. The reviews are glowing, noting how memorable and well-organized this tour is—perfect for those who want a day away from Lyon but still enjoy top-notch guides and scenery.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full-day, immersive experience with culinary highlights and scenic boat rides, this tour offers incredible value.
6. Lyon Old Town Tour with Sightseeing Cruise Tickets
Rated 5/5 from a single review, this combination tour offers a 2-hour private walk through Lyon’s Old Town plus a 1-hour river cruise. Starting at Place des Terreaux, a private guide takes you through the narrow streets, revealing landmarks like the Cathedral of St John and Hôtel de Ville. The cruise then provides a scenic overview of Lyon’s Renaissance architecture and the UNESCO World Heritage sites from the water.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention from the guide and the seamless blending of land and water exploration. The included cruise adds a relaxing element to the visit. It’s suitable for history lovers who want in-depth storytelling combined with visual impressions.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded introduction to Lyon’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, this private combination tour hits the sweet spot.
7. Lyon: from Confluence to Barbe Island by free license boat
Rated 4/5 from 3 reviews, this self-navigable boat trip lets you be the captain for a few hours. Starting from the Confluence area, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Lyon’s modern architecture and bridge crossings as you cruise toward Barbe Island. This 3-hour adventure is ideal for travelers who want more control and fun in their Lyon water experience.
The experience emphasizes environmentally friendly navigation and the ease of use even for novices, making it accessible for most. Many reviewers mention how surprising it is that you don’t need a license or prior experience to enjoy steering your boat. It’s a great choice for families or groups wanting a personalized, relaxed trip.
Bottom Line: If you prefer to steer your own boat and explore Lyon’s waterways at your own pace, this self-guided tour offers a memorable and flexible option.
8. Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Cruise
Rated 4.5/5, this one-hour cruise provides a quick but comprehensive look at Lyon’s most iconic sights. Departing along the Saône River, the cruise highlights the UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the confluence of the rivers and the Renaissance buildings of Vieux Lyon. The commentary offers historical context without overloading.
This tour is perfect for those short on time but wanting a visual overview of Lyon’s highlight spots. Many reviews mention how this cruise is a great way to get oriented, especially for first-time visitors. It’s budget-friendly and takes minimal time, making it a good add-on if you’re already exploring the city.
Bottom Line: When you need a quick, scenic snapshot of Lyon’s architecture and history, this cruise fits the bill.
9. Private boat tour in Lyon city center with skipper
Rated with no reviews yet, this private, customizable boat tour offers a unique way to see Lyon. Fully privatized and with a dedicated skipper, this experience allows you to enjoy a luxurious journey tailored to your interests. Whether you want to focus on Lyon’s secrets, take romantic photos, or just relax in comfort, this private tour has you covered.
The skipper serves as your personal guide, sharing insights about the city along the way. This experience is perfect for special occasions or travelers who want a bespoke exploration without the crowds. The duration is 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and conversation.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an exclusive, personalized Lyon boat experience and don’t mind splurging a bit, this private tour offers unmatched comfort and flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Lyon Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour, consider your priorities: budget, time, interests, and the type of experience you want. For a relaxed meal with fantastic views, the Lyon 2.5-Hour Lunch Cruise is hard to beat. If you prefer a romantic evening, the Dinner Cruise offers an unforgettable sunset experience.
Active travelers or families looking for adventure might enjoy the self-guided boat rental (Lyon Boat Rental without a License), while those wanting a private, tailored experience can opt for the Private boat tour with skipper. For a quick overview, the Guided sightseeing cruise provides a snapshot of Lyon’s highlights.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons like spring and summer, to secure your preferred date and time. Check the specific tour details for flexibility, inclusions, and cancellation policies.
Lyon’s waterways offer a refreshing perspective on the city’s history, culture, and scenery. Whether you’re after a gourmet meal, a private adventure, or a simple scenic ride, this list covers the best options. Consider what fits your style and schedule—then go ahead and book early to ensure a memorable trip.
