Lyon Croix-Rousse: Wine Tasting & Vinyl Record Tour

If you’re looking for an experience that combines music, local culture, and a touch of wine in Lyon’s most bohemian neighborhood, this tour in Croix-Rousse might just be your thing. It’s not a typical sightseeing walk; it’s more of a sensory journey through Lyon’s artistic soul. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve seen and read, it’s a well-curated blend of music discovery and wine tasting that appeals to those who love a mix of cultural bites and relaxed vibes.

What stands out is how personalized and intimate this experience feels—especially since the group sizes are limited to just 10 participants. Plus, the inclusion of a vinyl record to take home is a charming touch that makes the whole tour feel special. But it’s worth noting that at 2.5 hours, the tour is on the shorter side, so if you’re after a more extensive exploration, you might want to pair it with other activities.

A potential consideration is the focus—this isn’t a comprehensive tour of Lyon’s history or a foodie extravaganza. It’s more about the musical and bohemian vibe, so if your interests lean toward that, you’ll likely find it rewarding. It’s particularly suited to travelers who love music, appreciate good wine, and enjoy discovering local neighborhoods in a relaxed, friendly setting.

This tour seems best for those who want a taste of Lyon’s artistic spirit, with a focus on music and local flavor. Whether you’re a vinyl collector, a wine enthusiast, or just curious about Lyon’s boho side, it offers a cozy, memorable way to spend a few hours in Croix-Rousse.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and allows for personalized attention.
• Music lovers will appreciate the variety of record shops and the included vinyl.
• Wine tasting is curated, providing a genuine feel for Lyon’s local wine scene.
• Guide expertise is consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Hand-picked vinyl makes for a memorable souvenir of your Lyon trip.
• Duration of 2.5 hours makes it a compact, manageable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This walking adventure takes you through the heart of Croix-Rousse, Lyon’s artsy, bohemian quarter. From the outset, you’ll feel the neighborhood’s creative energy—colorful streets, street art, and a laid-back vibe that invites exploration. Starting at the Opéra National de Lyon, your guide will lead you through the winding streets, punctuated by visits to iconic record shops.

Focus on Music and Record Shops

Each record shop is a treasure chest—filled with French vinyl rarities, indie releases, and electronic hits. We love how the guide highlights the neighborhood’s musical diversity, giving you inside tips on where to find unique records. As you browse, you’ll get a sense of Lyon’s vibrant music scene, from jazz to modern indie. The highlight here is selecting your own vinyl, which is included in the tour price and is carefully chosen just for you—an added personal touch that many travelers rave about.

The Vinyl Pick

The vinyl you walk away with isn’t just a random record; it’s a curated piece that reflects your tastes or the neighborhood’s vibe. One traveler from Australia mentioned, “What a wonderful experience and able to listen and take in the world around. Just brilliant!” That sense of discovering a meaningful keepsake makes this part of the tour special. It’s perfect for music fans or those who want a tangible memory of Lyon’s creative pulse.

The Wine Tasting Experience

After your musical exploration, the tour culminates in a cozy wine cellar tucked away in the neighborhood’s historic alleys—called traboules. Here, you’ll enjoy a curated wine tasting, with each sip complementing your musical discoveries. The guide’s knowledge really shines during this part, as they explain different wines and their connection to Lyon’s culture. Reviewers have described the wine shop as “very nice,” emphasizing its intimate atmosphere.

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The Atmosphere and Guide

The guide’s reputation is a big plus—friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable. Rob from Germany noted, “The tour guide was super friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the music scene. It was just two of us in the group, so we got lucky with a private tour!” That personalized approach makes a difference, especially for those wanting a genuine, relaxed experience rather than a scripted tour.

Practical Details and Value

At $152 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience packed into 2.5 hours. It includes visits to record shops, the vinyl selection, and the wine tasting, so the value is fair considering the personalized touch. The small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the flexible reservation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Opéra National de Lyon, you’ll step into Croix-Rousse’s vibrant streets. The walk lasts around 1.5 hours, during which your guide will introduce you to the neighborhood’s artistic vibe, street art, and local history. The focus here is on shopping and discovering record shops, each offering a different musical flavor. You might find rare French vinyl or the latest indie records—each shop has its own personality.

Following this, the group moves to the wine cellar for about an hour. Here, the guided wine tasting is curated to reflect Lyon’s local flavors. The atmosphere is intimate and relaxed, perfect for savoring each sip and chatting with your guide about the wines’ stories and Lyon’s bohemian scene.

The tour winds down at Place Fernand Rey, a lively spot where you can soak in the neighborhood’s ongoing creative energy. The entire experience is designed to be a sensory journey—sights, sounds, and tastes all intertwining.

User Perspectives and Feedback

The reviews speak volumes about how well this experience resonates. One traveler from Bulgaria called it “Excellent! All you need to experience Lyon’s art vibe,” highlighting how the tour captures Lyon’s creative essence. Another from Germany described it as “Incredible,” with praise for the guide’s friendliness and passion, especially since he experienced a private tour.

The common thread is that people love the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wine selection. They note the tour’s relaxed, boutique feel and enjoy taking home a vinyl that feels personal and memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for music enthusiasts, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a more intimate glimpse into Lyon’s bohemian side. It’s especially suited if you appreciate small group tours and personalized attention. Travelers looking for a leisurely, culturally rich activity that’s easy to fit into a day will find this a perfect choice.

If you’re hoping for a deep dive into Lyon’s history or more extensive sightseeing, this tour may not cover everything you want. But if you’re after a unique, sensory-focused experience that combines music, local flavor, and a relaxed vibe, this tour hits the mark.

This Lyon Croix-Rousse: Wine Tasting & Vinyl Record Tour offers a delightful mix of music discovery, local wine, and neighborhood charm. Its small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of a vinyl to take home makes it feel genuinely special. The knowledgeable guide and curated approach make it a highlight for anyone with an interest in Lyon’s artistic and bohemian scene.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it’s an engaging way to connect with Lyon’s creative heartbeat. The focus on music and wine makes it particularly appealing to those who appreciate cultural depth and authentic local flavor. It’s a relaxed yet lively experience that invites you to slow down, enjoy good tunes, and savor fine wine—all in a neighborhood that’s full of character.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s intimate, fun, and distinctly Lyon, this tour might be just what your trip needs.

• Is the tour suitable for children? This tour is mainly suited for adults, especially music and wine lovers. It’s not designed specifically for children, and wine tasting may not be appropriate for very young kids.
• What’s included in the price? The tour includes a guided walk through Croix-Rousse, visits to iconic record shops, a hand-picked vinyl record, and a curated wine tasting.
• Do I need to bring anything? Just comfortable shoes and water—things to keep you comfortable during the walk and tasting.
• How long does the tour last? It lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity in your day.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is the tour bilingual? Yes, tours are offered in English, French, Spanish, and Catalan.
• Where does the tour start? It begins in front of the main façade of the National Opera of Lyon, a central and convenient meeting point.

In summary, whether you’re a music fanatic, a wine enthusiast, or just curious about Lyon’s artistic side, this tour offers a relaxed and authentic taste of the city’s creative spirit—perfect for a laid-back afternoon with a little cultural flair.

You can check availability for your dates here: