Lyon isn’t just France’s gastronomic capital; it’s a city brimming with hands-on experiences that let you connect with its culture, food, and craftsmanship. Unlike typical sightseeing, these workshops and classes immerse you in local life—whether it’s wandering bustling markets, learning to cook traditional dishes, or exploring Lyon’s silk history firsthand. One standout is the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class, which combines a lively market visit with a rooftop meal featuring stunning views of Lyon. We love how this small-group experience offers personalized attention, fresh ingredients, and a memorable 4-course French lunch, making it a favorite for those wanting an authentic culinary day out.
Lyon’s workshops span various interests—from culinary classes to textile demonstrations—each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich traditions. Whether you’re a food lover, craft enthusiast, or curious traveler, these experiences provide more than just sightseeing—they’re about creating memories. Below, we’ve selected the top eight workshops and classes, highlighting what makes each one stand out and helping you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class in Lyon
At number 1, the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class offers an engaging way to learn Lyon’s culinary secrets. This half-day tour begins with a walk through Lyon’s colorful Croix Rousse Market, where you’ll handpick fresh ingredients alongside your guide. The market’s lively atmosphere gives you a real taste of local life, unlike packaged food tours. Afterward, you’ll take your bounty to a rooftop kitchen, where you’ll cook a complete 4-course meal, paired with cheese and wine, all while enjoying spectacular views of Lyon.
What makes this tour special is its small-group setup—only a few participants—ensuring personalized guidance and a friendly vibe. Guests rave about the authentic Lyonnaise-style cooking and the delicious meal served on the terrace. The host, Joelle, is praised for her warmth and expertise, making this a highlight for food lovers seeking both education and a memorable meal. The total experience lasts about 3.5 hours and costs around $220 per person, delivering excellent value for such an immersive local experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a hands-on class that combines market shopping, cooking, and stunning views, this is a top choice. It’s perfect for those who love food, scenic spots, and small-group intimacy.
2. Market Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch with Chef in Lyon Studio
At number 2, the Market Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch with Chef offers a slightly longer and more interactive experience. Led by Chef Thierry, this 4-hour journey starts at the vibrant Saint Antoine Market, where you’ll explore seasonal produce and chat with local vendors. The chef then guides you through selecting ingredients for your meal, followed by hands-on cooking in his warm, welcoming kitchen. The class ends with a sit-down lunch where you taste your creations.
Guests consistently praise Thierry’s engaging style and his ability to blend cultural insights into the cooking. One reviewer notes, “Thierry is funny and an incredible cook,” emphasizing how much personality and expertise he brings. This tour is ideal for those looking to deepen their culinary knowledge and enjoy a communal, friendly atmosphere. The price (~$295) reflects its depth, including both the market visit and a full cooking experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies eager to learn about Lyon’s seasonal produce and prepare a meal with a local chef, with plenty of opportunity for culture.
3. Lyon: Cocktail Workshop in Your Home
Number 3 on our list is the Lyon: Cocktail workshop in your home. This private, 2.5-hour experience is perfect for small groups wanting a fun, relaxed evening without leaving their accommodation. Led by Florian, the workshop covers the art of cocktail making, from shaking to garnishing, with personalized attention.
What makes this experience stand out is its flexibility—you choose where it takes place, and Florian customizes the menu based on your preferences. The workshop isn’t just about mixing drinks; it’s about sharing a convivial moment, with the option to make a souvenir video. It’s great for groups celebrating or just wanting a casual night in with drinks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples looking for a personalized, fun cocktail experience in their own space. Good value at $92 per person.
4. Soierie Vivante’s Weaving Workshops: Tours and Demos
Next, the Soierie Vivante weaving workshops bring Lyon’s silk-making traditions to life. The 1.5-hour tour takes you through authentic silk workshops, where “canuts”—the silk workers—operate traditional looms. You’ll learn about the history of silk production in Lyon, see various old weaving looms in action, and discover how fabrics are made.
This experience highlights craftsmanship passed down through generations, with demonstrations of silk printing and velvet hand-painting. Visitors can browse a shop filled with authentic silk souvenirs, making it a perfect pick for art and textile lovers. The tour is intimate, small-group oriented, and costs just $19, making it highly accessible.
Bottom Line: An excellent cultural activity for those interested in Lyon’s textile history and traditional crafts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at silk production.
5. Lyon: Countryside Food Tour and Cooking Class with a Chef
Number 5 is a full-day adventure, the Lyon: Countryside Food Tour and Cooking Class. This 12-hour experience takes you beyond the city to meet local farmers, sample fresh seasonal ingredients, and enjoy a traditional mâchon lunch at a historic château.
After this rural feast, you’ll return to Lyon for a private cooking class with a chef in a beautiful kitchen. The class covers multiple dishes, from appetizers to desserts, and concludes with a dinner of what you’ve made. This tour is best suited for foodies seeking a deep dive into regional culinary traditions, though it’s pricey at around $761 per person due to its comprehensive nature and rural experiences.
Bottom Line: For serious food lovers wanting a full-day immersion into Lyon’s countryside gastronomy combined with a professional cooking lesson, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience.
6. Lyon: Unique and Friendly Cooking Class in the Center with Tasting
Number 6 features a small-group cooking class in a historic Lyon location. Duration is about 3.5 hours, with an emphasis on sharing and learning. The class includes a gourmet welcome, preparing a full menu, and tasting your creations on-site. It’s well-equipped, and the instructor focuses on imparting techniques you can impress friends with later.
Guests enjoy the convivial atmosphere, with wine and drinks included, and praise the instructor’s friendly style. The class is designed for those wanting a relaxed yet educational experience that ends with a delicious meal. Prices aren’t specified, but the value lies in the intimate setting and comprehensive menu.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a cozy, friendly environment with hands-on cooking and tasting, perfect for couples or small groups.
7. Lyon: Asian Cooking Classes – Make Your Own Baos!
For those craving something different, number 7 offers Asian cooking classes, where Chef Ying guides you through making authentic baos. This 3.5-hour workshop covers two recipes, with vegetarian options available, and ends with sharing your creations.
Chef Ying shares tips and tricks that elevate your homemade baos beyond basic recipes. The class is flexible, interactive, and focuses on the fun of making Asian street food in Lyon. It’s a hit for those interested in Asian cuisine or looking for a lively, hands-on activity.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies eager to master a new cuisine and walk away with skills to recreate delicious baos at home.
8. Lyon: Guided Tour of the Last Silk Printing Workshop
Finally, the guided tour of Lyon’s last silk printing workshop takes you inside a working silk workshop. Over 50 minutes, you’ll watch artisans demonstrate traditional silk printing and velvet hand-painting, gaining insight into Lyon’s long-standing silk heritage. You’ll see a variety of silk accessories labeled “Made in Lyon,” and get a chance to ask questions directly to the craftspeople.
This tour is perfect for textiles enthusiasts or anyone interested in artisanal crafts. It offers an authentic glimpse into Lyon’s proud silk-making tradition without requiring a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A must-do for lovers of craftsmanship and traditional art forms, offering a unique look at Lyon’s silk industry.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class
Selecting the best experience depends on your interests, budget, and the kind of memory you want to take home. If you’re after a culinary adventure that combines market shopping with rooftop dining, Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class is hard to beat. For a more comprehensive food immersion that includes rural flavors and a professional chef, the Countryside Food Tour and Cooking Class offers a full-day experience.
Travelers interested in craftsmanship should consider the silk weaving demonstrations or the guided tour of Lyon’s last silk printing workshop. For those seeking a fun, casual night or a private event, the cocktail workshop in your home provides a personalized touch.
Your choice should reflect your time, budget, and passion—whether it’s cooking, textiles, or cocktails. Booking early is wise, especially for popular classes and private experiences, to ensure availability.
Lyon offers a diverse array of workshops that go far beyond sightseeing. Whether you want to learn to cook like a Lyonnais, explore silk crafts, or master Asian street food, there’s a class tailored for you. For the best experience, match your interests with the right tour, consider the duration and price, and don’t hesitate to reserve ahead. These authentic, hands-on experiences make your visit to Lyon truly memorable.
