Lyon Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

Introduction

If you’re considering a tasting tour in Lyon, this Old Town Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch promises a memorable way to spend half a day. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and high ratings suggest it’s a good choice for anyone eager to discover Lyon’s culinary delights accompanied by expert local guides.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines delicious tastings with fascinating insights into Lyon’s history and culture. Plus, it’s tailored to small groups — limiting it to just 12 people — so you get a more personalized vibe. On the flip side, the tour starts outdoors and involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must, and it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, which is worth planning for.

This tour particularly suits travelers who want to skip the endless research on where to eat and instead trust local insiders to guide their culinary journey. It’s a great option for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking to make the most of Lyon’s Old Town in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Tastings: Over 10 products across 6 tasting stops, including local specialties and a full lunch.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Passionate, knowledgeable guides who translate and share stories about Lyon’s gastronomy and history.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes all taxes, fees, water, coffee/tea, and a lunch, offering great value for the price.
• Ideal for Food and Culture Enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in both tasting authentic Lyonnais food and learning about the city’s secrets.
• Weather Dependence: Being an outdoor, walking tour, it’s best suited for good weather days.

A Deep Dive into the Lyon Old Town Food Tour

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the blend of culinary sampling and cultural exploration. You and your small group will wander through Lyon’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, which is packed with history, picturesque streets, and hidden corners. The tour isn’t just about eating; it’s about understanding the city’s unique food culture in an engaging, relaxed setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at 2 Pl. Benoît Crepu, the tour kicks off at 10:00 am, and you’ll spend roughly four hours meandering through the historic streets, stopping at various shops, local producers, and eateries. The actual stops are carefully curated to showcase Lyon’s best gastronomic addresses — you might find yourself tasting local cheeses, cured meats, sweets, and other regional specialties.

Each tasting is described as a “break,” with some reviewers noting the variety and high quality of the products. With over 10 different items to try, it’s quite a substantial experience, and many mention that the tastings alone could almost serve as a meal. The inclusion of wine and coffee or tea makes each stop feel like a little celebration, and many reviews highlight how the expert guides make the experience both fun and informative.

The Food and Tastings

While the exact foods aren’t listed, reviews emphasize local cheeses, meats, sweets, and wines, suggesting you’ll enjoy a well-rounded sample of Lyon’s regionally celebrated foods. The fact that multiple stops include local establishments with character means you’ll get an authentic taste of Lyon’s culinary scene, not just touristy spots.

You’ll also receive a full lunch as part of the tour, which many find to be a generous addition and a good value for the overall cost ($103.11). The tour price reflects not only the food but also the guiding expertise and insider access. Many travelers have commented that the tastings are well-chosen, with some describing the experience as “delicious” and “worth the money.”

The Guides and Atmosphere

The reviews are packed with praise for the guides’ knowledge, personality, and language skills. Jeremy, Nate, Manu, and Natalia all get mentioned for their engaging storytelling, humor, and care in making sure everyone feels included — even those who don’t speak French fluently. One review noted that Jeremy took extra care to translate highlights in English for a visitor, which is a nice touch.

Participants consistently mention how guides share interesting historical facts alongside their tastings, adding context to what you’re eating and why it’s special to Lyon. Their approachable, friendly manner makes the tour more than just a tasting walk — it’s an educational journey.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 12 travelers, you can expect a more intimate experience that allows for questions and personal interaction. This small-group format helps foster a friendly atmosphere, often leading to conversations and bonding with fellow food lovers.

The Overall Experience

Many reviews describe this tour as “fantastic,” “the best food experience,” and “highly recommended.” Guests praise the variety of tastings, the knowledgeable guides, and the beautiful Old Town scenery. Some mention that the tour provides a great overview of Lyon’s gastronomy and is a perfect way to introduce yourself to the city before exploring more on your own.

What Are the Downsides or Considerations?

While the experience is highly praised, some points to keep in mind include the outdoor nature of the tour. The walking component means you should wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. If you don’t like walking or are sensitive to outdoor conditions, it might be less ideal.

Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own. The tour is scheduled to start at 10:00 am, which works well for most travelers, but it’s something to plan around.

One review mentioned that the food wasn’t as satisfying as expected for some**, which could be a matter of personal taste or expectations. However, most reviews emphasize the variety and quality of the tastings.

The Value for Money

At just over $100 per person, the tour includes multiple tastings, a full lunch, guiding services, all taxes and fees, and a small-group experience. Many find this to be a fair price given the amount of food and the insider knowledge you gain. It’s also a convenient way to explore the Old Town without the hassle of organizing each stop yourself.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for foodies looking to sample authentic Lyonnais cuisine in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want an overview of Lyon’s culinary scene combined with a bit of sightseeing. Travel groups that enjoy small, personable experiences will find it fits perfectly.

If you’re after a culture paired with delicious food, this is a smart choice. Families with teenagers or older children might appreciate the mix of walking, tasting, and storytelling, but younger children might find the pace a bit too slow or the outdoor walking tiring.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While the tour covers a wide range of local specialties, it’s best to contact the provider in advance if you have specific dietary needs. The tour generally focuses on traditional Lyonnais foods, but they may be able to accommodate certain restrictions with prior notice.

What’s the meeting point and how do I get there?
The tour begins at 2 Pl. Benoît Crepu, in the heart of Lyon’s Old Town. It’s near public transportation, so getting there should be straightforward if you are staying nearby.

Does this tour include transportation?
No, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point on your own.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 4 hours, including all tastings, walking, and the provided lunch.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves some walking outdoors in the Old Town, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. Comfortable shoes are advised.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Lyon’s gastronomy and history, this Old Town Food Tour delivers. The combination of delicious tastings, expert guides, and small-group intimacy makes it stand out among food experiences. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to indulge in local flavors without the fuss of organizing multiple restaurants or tours on their own.

While it’s outdoor and involves walking, most reviews highlight how comfortable and engaging the experience is. The inclusion of a full lunch and multiple tastings offers serious value for money, and the high ratings suggest that it consistently exceeds expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply want to taste your way through Lyon’s historic streets, this tour will likely leave you with tasty memories and a deeper appreciation of Lyon’s culinary soul.

Enjoy discovering Lyon’s flavorful corners, and happy tasting!