Lyon 2.5-Hour Lunch Cruise

If you’re considering a way to see Lyon that combines good food, scenic views, and some laid-back sightseeing, a lunch cruise on the Hermès restaurant boat might just fit the bill. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, plenty of travelers rave about it, and with good reason. It offers a different perspective on Lyon—seeing the city’s landmarks from the river, all while enjoying a delicious meal in comfort.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly marries gourmet dining with scenic views, giving you a chance to relax and take in Lyon’s beauty without the hustle of walking around. Plus, the informative commentary adds a layer of insight that elevates the whole trip. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it might not be ideal if you’re craving a more active or in-depth history tour of Lyon’s sights; this is more about enjoying the scenery with a good meal.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic experience with a focus on comfort and good food—whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking for a relaxing way to see the city.

Key Points

• Relaxing 2.5-hour cruise combining sightseeing with a gourmet meal.
• Scenic views of Lyon’s landmarks from the Rhône and Saône rivers.
• Multiple menu options for a three-course meal, including vegetarian choices.
• Informative commentary enhances the experience, providing context for sights passing by.
• High customer satisfaction, with a 4.5-star average from nearly 500 reviews.
• Good value for the overall experience, especially considering the quality of food and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Lyon Lunch Cruise

When you step aboard the Hermès restaurant boat, you’re stepping into a floating dining experience with spectacular views. The cruise lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to unwind and enjoy Lyon from a different angle. The boat itself is spacious, stable, and designed for comfort, so you won’t feel cramped or overwhelmed by movement—an important detail if you’re sensitive to boat rides or traveling with someone who prefers stability.

The Itinerary and Scenic Highlights

The tour typically starts with your chosen meeting point (which may vary depending on your booking). Once aboard, the boat gently glides along Lyon’s waterways, offering views of the city’s most iconic sights. Many reviews highlight the panoramic views and the luxurious feel of the boat, with some mentioning how the boat’s stability makes the experience especially pleasant. You’ll see Lyon from a vantage point that most city walks can’t provide, with sights such as the Saône and Rhône rivers and the city’s bridges and historic buildings.

While the cruise isn’t a comprehensive city tour, the commentary—available in English and French—provides interesting details about the passing landmarks. Reviewers have noted that the commentary can sometimes be delayed (like the commentaries in some reviews that arrived late or were less detailed), but overall, it adds value and context to the sightseeing.

The Meal: Gourmet Food on the Water

The real highlight for many is the 3-course meal served during the cruise. The menu features a variety of dishes, from starters like a burgundy poultry tart or grilled stuffed squid, to main courses such as duck from Dombes with morel sauce or a stuffed conchiglioni with ricotta. Desserts are equally tempting, with options like praline tart, Valrhona chocolate soufflé, and the chef’s special dessert.

Most guests find the food quality high, describing it as a “luxury lunch” with good portion sizes and tasty options. Several reviews mention that the meal exceeded their expectations, especially considering they were dining on a boat. The service is often praised, with staff being described as attentive, helpful, and friendly.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The atmosphere on the boat is elegant but relaxed—it’s not stuffy, but there’s a sense of occasion. The spaciousness and stability of the boat contribute significantly to the comfort, making it suitable for most travelers. You can either sit inside in the stylish dining area or enjoy the views from the deck if the weather permits.

Many reviews highlight the value for money—considering the quality of the meal, the scenic tour, and the friendly service, most guests feel it’s a worthwhile splurge. Prices are reasonable for what you get, especially when compared to other fine dining options in Lyon.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day in Lyon that combines good food with sightseeing. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate gastronomy and want a luxurious yet laid-back way to explore the city from the water.

It’s also a great choice for celebrating special occasions—many reviewers mention how perfect it was for birthdays or anniversaries. The family-friendly menu options and spacious boat make it accessible, although the experience is generally more appreciated by adults or older children.

If you’re someone who prefers a more active or in-depth historical tour, this might not be your first choice. But for those seeking a comfortable, scenic meal experience with friendly service and impressive views, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Boarding and Starting Point

Depending on your reservation, your meeting point might vary, but the coordinates provided (45.747108459472656, 4.8172407150268555) suggest a central, convenient location. The staff are generally attentive, and many reviewers point out that they arrived late due to heavy traffic but were accommodated without issue. The boat itself is described as large, clean, and modern, offering a first-class environment for your meal.

The Scenic Passages

During the cruise, you’ll pass Lyon’s most notable sights from the water—views that differ from walking tours. Many travelers mention how peaceful and scenic the experience is, especially on a nice day. The boat’s stability allows for comfortable viewing, and some reviews highlight how the panoramic windows and outdoor deck provide excellent photo opportunities.

The Commentary

The commentary adds a layer of context, helping you understand the significance of passing landmarks. While some reviews note a slight delay or that it could be more detailed, most agree it enhances the experience. The availability of audio guides in both English and French is a bonus, making it accessible to international visitors.

The Meal Service

Once settled, the staff serve the three-course meal. The menu choices are diverse, with options catering to different palates. The quality of ingredients and presentation impress most guests, with some describing it as comparable to a top restaurant. The service is described as professional and attentive, making the dining experience seamless.

The Overall Atmosphere

Whether inside the elegant, well-appointed dining area or outside on the deck, the atmosphere remains relaxed and refined. Guests often remark on how comfortable and spacious the boat is, which makes for a very pleasant experience, even if the cruise is during a busy period.

Price and Value

The cost of this experience is generally viewed as reasonable given what’s included: a scenic cruise plus a gourmet meal. Many reviews emphasize the value for money, especially when considering the high quality of food and the level of comfort. It’s a good option for those who want to combine sightseeing with a meal without breaking the bank or making multiple stops.

Final Thoughts

The Lyon lunch cruise on the Hermès boat offers a wonderful way to spend a relaxing afternoon. You get to see the city from the water, enjoy delicious food, and learn a bit about Lyon’s landmarks—all in a comfortable and elegant setting. This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic, and tasty way to explore.

While it might not satisfy those looking for an in-depth historical tour or a lively party atmosphere, it shines as a peaceful, high-quality experience that combines gastronomy and scenic beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic outing, or simply want a different perspective on Lyon, this cruise can deliver.

Who Should Consider This?

• Travelers seeking a relaxing meal with great views
• Food lovers wanting a gourmet experience on the water
• Visitors interested in scenic tours without extensive walking
• Couples or small groups celebrating something special
• Those who appreciate attentive service and comfort

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Those looking for a more active or in-depth historical tour
• Travelers with tight schedules, as 2.5 hours is a bit of a commitment
• Visitors with mobility issues, although the boat’s spaciousness helps

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the spacious boat and family-friendly menu options suggest it can accommodate children, especially older ones who can enjoy the scenery and meal.

What languages is the commentary available in?
The commentary can be provided in both French and English, making it accessible to international guests.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which gives you enough time to enjoy the views and meal without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are drinks included in the meal?
Reviewers mention beverages, and some describe the wine selection as excellent, but specific details about inclusions vary, so check your booking.

Is the boat modern and comfortable?
Yes, many reviews praise the boat’s cleanliness, modern design, and stability, which makes the experience very comfortable.

Will the commentary be interesting?
Most find it informative and helpful, though a few noted it can sometimes be delayed or less detailed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Given the popularity and the reviews, it’s wise to book ahead to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.

This lunch cruise on Lyon’s waterways offers a balanced mix of sights, flavors, and relaxation. It’s an experience that can add a touch of elegance and a new perspective to your visit—perfect for unwinding and soaking in the city’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: