If you’re thinking about adding a little spice to your Lyon visit, this “Historical and Naughty Tour” might just be what you’re after. It’s a unique experience that combines history, humor, and a dash of risqué storytelling—all delivered in French. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a good sense of what it’s like and whether it could fit your travel style.
What jumps out immediately is how entertaining and informative this excursion promises to be. Tour-goers seem to love the entertaining storytelling delivered by a professional actor—who, while not in costume, definitely brings characters and anecdotes vividly to life. Also, for those interested in naughty stories from the past, this walk offers a surprising and playful way to learn about Lyon’s history. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t for everyone—explicit content and adult themes mean it’s strictly for mature audiences who can handle a bit of provocative fun.
This tour would suit travelers with a curious sense of humor, a love for quirky history, and a taste for adult-themed storytelling. If you’re traveling with children or prefer family-friendly activities, this might not be your best pick. But for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a humorous, revealing look at Lyon’s more playful side, it’s a solid choice.
Key Points

- Engaging storytelling by a professional actor makes history lively and fun.
- Adult-only content includes naughty anecdotes, erotic literature, and risqué addresses.
- The tour is affordable at $23 per person, offering good value for its 1.5-hour duration.
- Visiting historic courtyards and buildings provides an intimate glimpse into Lyon’s past.
- The experience is French-only, so some language skills are helpful.
- Highly rated with an average of 4.6/5 from 35 reviews, showing consistent guest satisfaction.
An Honest Deep Dive into Lyon’s Naughty Past

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What the tour covers and how it’s structured
This 1.5-hour walk takes you along Lyon’s peninsula, from the Place des Terreaux to the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, winding through some of the city’s most interesting historic sites. What makes this tour truly stand out is its focus on the sensual and naughty stories of Lyon’s past, which many traditional tours tend to skip.
Your guide, a professional actor, isn’t just giving a dry narration—he or she brings a theatrical flair that’s been praised by many. As some reviews mention, the guide’s dramatic style can be a bit exaggerated, but it’s part of the fun, especially when recounting the more risqué tales.
Throughout the walk, you’ll encounter anecdotes about Lyonnais debaucheries, uncover the positions doctors recommended in the 16th century, and hear about the medical views on masturbation from the 19th century. These stories, while explicit, are presented with humor and a touch of historical curiosity, making them more entertaining than shocking.
Highlights of the tour
A particularly amusing part is when a curious merchant shows off his pleasure cart filled with historic toys—yes, he even reveals his collection of vintage adult toys. The stories from erotic literature of the past add a literary twist, giving a sense of Lyon’s more provocative cultural history. Plus, the guide will reveal some of Lyon’s hottest addresses during the Renaissance, perfect for those interested in the city’s hidden, sensual spots.
What to expect from the content
Expect explicit content, which is clearly reserved for adults. The tour isn’t shy about discussing taboo topics, so if you’re sensitive to sexual humor or nudity references, it might be a bit much. Several guests appreciated the humor and frankness, with reviews praising the tour as “very funny and educational,” and others noting how well-interpreted and interesting the stories are.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and practicality
Meeting at the entrance of the Fine Arts Museum, the guide wears a badge saying “Cybèle”—easy to spot. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for visitors with mobility needs. It’s conducted only in French, so some language skills will help you follow along, though the storytelling and theatrical delivery can transcend language barriers to some extent.
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Is it worth the price?
At $23 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Considering the interactive storytelling, historic courtyards, and adult-themed anecdotes, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re intrigued by Lyon’s more provocative history. It’s shorter than many tours, but many guests say this is perfect for a quick, entertaining glimpse into Lyon’s naughty past.
What previous guests say
Feedback is overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer from Belgium called the tour “incredible”, praising how the guide brought characters and stories to life. Others appreciated the originality—describing it as “pleasurable, funny, and well-animated.” A few mentioned the guide’s over-the-top style but still found the experience delightful.
Downsides and considerations
The explicit nature of the content means this isn’t suitable for minors or the faint-hearted. Also, since it’s in French only, language barriers might limit some understanding if you’re not comfortable with the language. Some reviews note that the dramatization can sometimes feel exaggerated, but most agree it adds to the entertainment rather than detracts from it.
Final thoughts: Who should consider this tour?

If you’re looking to add a playful, humorous twist to your Lyon exploration, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for adults curious about the city’s risqué side, couples wanting a memorable, light-hearted experience, or friends seeking an unusual activity. Expect a fun, theatrical journey into Lyon’s past that combines history with humor and a bit of naughtiness.
However, if you prefer more traditional, family-friendly sightseeing, or if explicit content isn’t your thing, you’ll probably want to pass. It’s definitely a specialty experience, one that offers a different perspective on Lyon’s cultural landscape.
Historical and naughty tour of Lyon in french
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? No, it’s designed for adults due to explicit themes and content.
What language is the tour conducted in? It’s only offered in French, so some understanding of the language will help you follow the stories.
How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick yet engaging activity.
Does the tour include any physical activity? It involves walking along the peninsula, visiting courtyards and historic streets—no transportation or strenuous activity involved.
Is the guide in costume? No, the guide wears regular clothes but is dressed well and wears a badge with “Cybèle.” Expect lively storytelling rather than theatrical costumes.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, it’s accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for various mobility needs.
How much does it cost? It’s priced at $23 per person, which many guests find reasonable for the amount of entertainment and insight offered.
In the end, this Historical and Naughty Tour of Lyon promises an engaging blend of humor, history, and adult fun. It’s a chance to see a different side of the city, one that’s playful, provocative, and just a little bit cheeky—perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of risqué storytelling.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Historical Tours in Lyon
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