Lyon: Old Town Food Tour with 6 French Food Tastings & Wine

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon and want to get a real taste of the city’s famed gastronomy, this Old Town Food Tour could be just what you’re looking for. Over three hours, you’ll explore historic streets, secret passageways, bustling markets, and vibrant squares, all while sampling more than six authentic French dishes paired with quality local wines. It’s a wonderful way to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery, especially if you’re interested in understanding the traditions that made Lyon the “world capital of gastronomy” since 1935.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances delicious tastings with cultural storytelling—the guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share Lyon’s food heritage. Plus, the fact that it’s a small-group experience makes for a more relaxed, personal vibe.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and is best suited for those comfortable on their feet for a few hours. Also, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Still, if you’re eager to discover Lyon’s culinary scene with a friendly guide and a full belly, this tour is likely to hit the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Tastings: Over 6 traditional French dishes, including cheeses, pastries, and seasonal hot dishes.
• Cultural Context: Guides share Lyon’s rich culinary traditions and historical stories.
• Scenic Streets: Walk through Vieux Lyon’s cobbled streets, traboules, and lively squares in Presqu’île.
• Wine Pairings: Enjoy French white and red wines with your tastings, enhancing the flavors.
• Flexible & Convenient: Three-hour walking experience with a meeting point in Old Lyon.
• Good Value: For $116, you get a substantial culinary tour with expert local guides and memorable food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Lyon Old Town Food Tour

Exploring Lyon’s Old Town through a food-focused lens turns out to be a smart way to soak in both its flavors and its history. You don’t have to be a hardcore foodie to enjoy this tour; it’s accessible, engaging, and well-paced, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

The Itinerary — What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off in Vieux Lyon, the city’s Renaissance heart, where its cobblestone streets and hidden traboules create a charming backdrop. Here, the focus is on a Canut breakfast tasting, giving you a savory start that’s rooted in the city’s silk-worker past. Expect to sample a dish that has historical significance—something hearty and flavorful paired with local wine. It’s a good way to set the tone for the day ahead.

From there, you’ll visit one of Lyon’s most exclusive sweet shops. This part offers a glimpse into Lyon’s mastery of desserts, with a delicate pastry that showcases their baking finesse. It’s a highlight for anyone with a sweet tooth or an appreciation for artisanal confections.

Crossing the Saône River, the tour moves into the Presqu’île district, known for its grand monuments, statues, and lively squares. Here, the focus shifts to a seasonal hot dish—a warm, comforting meal that captures Lyonnaise flavors at their best. This dish varies depending on market availability but is always rich and satisfying.

Next, you’ll sample a selection of local cheeses, paired with fresh bread and, of course, a glass of wine. The emphasis on dairy products is crucial since Lyon has a renowned cheese culture, and tasting these cheeses gives you a window into the region’s culinary identity.

The tour concludes with a secret dish, described as a special treat you won’t find elsewhere, providing a fun surprise and a memorable end to your culinary journey.

The Food & Beverages

While the offerings are diverse, the tour is definitely meat-heavy, as many traditional Lyonnaise dishes are. You’ll enjoy famous regional cheeses, local wines—both white and red—and pastries that are a testament to Lyon’s pastry mastery. The inclusion of wine enhances each tasting, allowing you to appreciate the regional flavors more fully.

According to reviews, the quality of the food is generally excellent, with many travelers praising the generosity of the tastings and the pairing choices. One reviewer noted, “The tour was fantastic and our guide Rosie was simply amazing! She introduced us to the city, the culture, and the specialties of Lyon with such good humor, it was wonderful.”

The Guides & Experience

What truly elevates this tour are the guides. Countless reviews highlight guides like Charlotte, Coraline, and Ash, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate. Their ability to weave stories about Lyon’s history and culinary traditions keeps the tour engaging, even for those who might not know much about French cuisine beforehand.

One review captures it well: “Sybille was amazing, entertaining, and knowledgeable. Her love for the city and its food made the experience memorable.” It’s clear that a good guide makes or breaks this experience, and based on feedback, you’re in very capable hands.

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The Value & Price

At $116 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the range of tastings, wine, and cultural insights. For three hours, you’re not just eating; you’re also gaining a richer understanding of Lyon’s identity through food and storytelling. The reviews suggest that the portion sizes are generous, and many mention that they felt full and satisfied by the end.

One traveler mentioned, “A walking history tour with some food along the way. The first place we stopped at to sit down to eat was great, the second (for the main course) was average. What made this trip worthwhile was Charlotte’s knowledge of Lyon and her sense of humor.” This highlights that while some stops might be more memorable than others, the overall experience remains worthwhile.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour involves a fair amount of walking around Old Lyon, making comfortable shoes essential. It starts in front of the Temple on Place du Change, with guides holding an orange umbrella for easy spotting. Note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later. This makes it easy to plan without stress.

Weather & Seasonal Considerations

Most reviews mention that guides do their best to accommodate weather changes, with some tours happening in rain but still managing to deliver an enjoyable experience. The menu is subject to change based on seasonal ingredients and availability, so don’t expect a fixed menu.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies who want to explore Lyon’s culinary scene in a relaxed, social setting. It’s also a great choice for those interested in learning about Lyon’s history through its cuisine, as guides share plenty of stories along the way.

If you want a taste of local wines paired with authentic dishes and enjoy walking through picturesque streets, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate generous portions and insightful guides.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Lyon’s broader history or prefer a more physical, less food-focused experience, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around two and a half to three hours, this tour offers a genuine, tasty introduction to Lyon. The combination of historic streets, vibrant squares, and local delicacies make it a well-rounded experience. The guide’s expertise adds depth, making the food tastings more meaningful than just snacks.

Price-wise, it’s competitive considering the quality and quantity of food, wine, and local insights you get. The small-group format means you’ll likely enjoy a more intimate feel and better interaction with your guide.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it’s an excellent way to get oriented and leave with some delicious memories—and hopefully, some new favorite dishes. If you’re a curious traveler who loves to taste and learn, this Lyon food tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu may be meat-heavy, but you should contact the tour provider in advance with dietary requirements. They try to cater to special diets when possible.

How much walking is involved?
Expect to walk quite a bit through Old Lyon and Presqu’île, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour starting from the designated meeting point in front of the Temple, Place du Change.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
The tour is best suited for adults due to the walking involved, and it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes French white and red wines to pair with the tastings.

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

What if it rains?
Guides do their best to adapt, and the experience can still be enjoyable in rain, especially since many stops are indoors or covered.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours, with starting times available based on your booking.

What’s the price?
It’s $116 per person, offering a good amount of food, wine, and local insights for the cost.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot, with flexible payment options available.

If you’re eager to taste Lyon’s best dishes, learn about its traditions, and enjoy a lively walk through historic streets, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s a friendly, flavorful way to get to know the city—and leave with a bigger appetite for more adventures in Lyon.

You can check availability for your dates here: