Lyon: City Cruise with Charcuterie, Cheese, and Wine

If you’re visiting Lyon and craving a way to enjoy the city that’s laid-back yet memorable, this city cruise with wine and snacks could be just the ticket. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the reviews and details, it sounds like a relaxing, tasty way to see Lyon from a different perspective.

What really catches our eye are the combination of scenic water views and the chance to indulge in local flavors—a win-win in our book. The sunset views, especially, seem to shine here, adding a special touch to an already charming experience. On the flip side, the tour lasts just 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick break but might leave some wanting more depth if they’re after a deep historical dive.

This cruise is likely best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed vibe, good food, and scenic water views. It’s a nice pick for those looking for a chill way to unwind, especially if you appreciate local culinary treats and a good glass of wine. Families with older kids might also enjoy it, but keep in mind, children under 5 aren’t really the target demographic here.

Key Points

• Relaxed Water-Based Tour: A gentle cruise along Lyon’s waterways offering stunning city views.
• Gourmet Snacks Included: Charcuterie, cheeses, and a glass of wine or soft drink make for a laid-back, tasty experience.
• Scenic Highlights: See landmarks like the Fourvière Basilica and the new Confluence district from a different vantage point.
• Affordable and Flexible: Usually priced at $40, with options to purchase extra wine if desired.
• Ideal for a Sunset: The timing and setting are perfect for an evening watching the sun go down.
• Knowledgeable Hosts: Guides are reported to be friendly, providing insightful commentary about the city’s key sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Cruise Experience: What to Expect

Imagine boarding a boat at the Darse de Confluence harbor or Rambaud quay, with easy parking nearby. From there, the journey is approximately 1.5 hours long—just enough time to relax without feeling rushed. The cruise boat, either Le Confluence or L’Officiel, will guide you along Lyon’s waterways, showcasing iconic sights from the water.

As you settle in, your hostess will take care of you, offering a charcuterie/cheese board and a glass of wine or soft drink. If you’re feeling extra thirsty, you can buy additional wine—6 euros per extra glass or a full bottle for 25 euros. The snacks are described as high-quality, with reviews praising the “superb panorama” and “great” food and drink.

The route covers several of Lyon’s renowned landmarks, including the Fourvière Basilica, the slopes of the Red Cross district, and the National Music Conservatory. These sites are best appreciated from the water, where their grandeur is softened by the glow of the setting sun, especially if you catch the cruise in the late afternoon or evening.

The guide’s commentary is likely to be informative, providing context about the landmarks and the city’s layout, making it a pleasant, educational ride. The overall tone is laid-back, with the emphasis on enjoying local products and the view.

Why People Love It

According to reviews, many travelers find this cruise to be “very pleasant” and a great way to unwind after a busy day. For instance, one reviewer from France called it “really nice and pleasant” and recommended it without hesitation. Others loved the “beautiful sunset,” describing it as “pure bliss,” which hints at what makes this experience stand out.

The quality of the food and wine also seems to be a hit, with travelers appreciating the selection and the friendly staff who make sure everyone feels taken care of. Reviewers mention that the host is “super friendly,” and the product quality is “great,” confirming that this isn’t just a touristy quickie but an experience where you feel genuinely looked after.

One small critique from a reviewer suggests that, for the price, a second glass of wine could be included—fair point, but overall, it seems like the value for the experience is well-regarded.

The Practical Side

This tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for those with mobility needs. It’s also family-friendly, although children under 5 aren’t really the target audience—probably because of the duration and nature of the cruise.

You’re advised to watch your email for the exact meeting point, as it can change, but generally, you’ll meet either at the Quai Antoine Riboud or the Rambaud quay, both conveniently located near Lyon’s water and parking.

Booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan without stress. The tour also offers the option to reserve now and pay later, which is handy when planning a trip with a tight schedule.

Is It Worth It?

At $40 per person, this cruise offers decent value for a relaxing, scenic experience with good food and drinks included. For the price, you get a well-organized outing with quality products. It’s not a long tour, but it’s enough to give you a taste of Lyon’s beauty from the river, especially around sunset.

If you’re someone who enjoys tasting local specialties and soaking in views without too much fuss, you’ll probably find this cruise pretty delightful. It’s more about the vibe—chilling on the water, enjoying wine, and appreciating Lyon’s skyline—than about heavy sightseeing.

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Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a peaceful break from sightseeing and enjoy good food and wine in a scenic setting. It’s suitable for couples, friends, or anyone looking to add a little gourmet flair to their Lyon trip. Families with older children might enjoy it too, especially if everyone appreciates a relaxed cruise with some tasty bites.

It’s a great option if you’re visiting during the evening and want to end the day watching the sunset over Lyon’s beautifully lit landmarks. Just remember, if you’re after a deep historical tour or more extensive sightseeing, you might want to supplement this with additional activities.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not recommended, but older kids who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings might find it enjoyable.

Can I buy extra wine during the cruise?
Yes, you can purchase additional wine at 6 euros per extra glass or 25 euros for a bottle.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point can vary. You’ll be emailed 24 to 72 hours before with details, generally at either 1 Quai Antoine Riboud or 15 Quai Rambaud.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short break or evening activity.

What’s included in the ticket price?
You get the cruise, a charcuterie/cheese board, and one glass of wine or soft drink.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, easy parking is available at the Confluence shopping center parking lot.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see the Fourvière Basilica, the slopes of the Red Cross district, and the new Confluence district, among others, from the water.

If you’re after a gentle, flavorful way to experience Lyon, this cruise ticks many boxes. It combines scenic views, local food and drink, and a relaxed atmosphere—all within a manageable 1.5 hours. It’s well-suited for those wanting a taste of the city’s beauty without long tours or heavy itineraries.

The quality of the products, the friendly hosts, and the stunning sunset views make this a memorable little outing. While it’s not the most comprehensive tour, it’s definitely a worthwhile addition to your Lyon itinerary, especially if you love a good combination of scenery and good eats.

For those who appreciate leisurely moments and charming views, this cruise might just become one of your favorite ways to unwind in Lyon.

You can check availability for your dates here: