Lyon Segway Tour: The highlights

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon and want to see the city without the hassle of walking or the expense of taxis, this Segway tour could be a fun way to get your bearings. It’s designed to give you a smooth, accessible way to explore Lyon’s most iconic spots, all while gliding along the scenic rivers. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on reviews and the details available, it looks like a solid choice for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and a bit of adventure.

What really stands out about this tour are its easy-to-handle Segways and the chance to see Lyon’s vibrant streets and parks without breaking a sweat. The guide’s local insights add a nice touch, making the experience informative as well as enjoyable. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for pregnant women or children under 14, so it’s best for those in the right age group and with the right health considerations.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a quick, visually rich overview of Lyon, especially if you’re pressed for time but still want a memorable experience. It’s also a good pick for first-timers who’d prefer a relaxed way to start exploring the city’s highlights.

Key Points

• Scenic route along Lyon’s two rivers: Rhône and Saône offer a beautiful backdrop for your ride.
• Accessible and easy to learn: After a short training, most find the Segway manageable, even beginners.
• Highlights include key landmarks: Old Town, Place Bellecour, Tête d’Or park, and the Opera.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, making it more personal and engaging.
• Weather doesn’t stop the fun: Tours go on in all conditions, with ponchos provided if needed.
• Age and health restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or children under 14, and you need comfortable clothes and shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Lyon Segway Tour in Depth

Starting Point and First Impressions

You’ll meet your guide at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, a central spot that’s easy to find, marked by a shop with a red flag. Arriving about 15 minutes early helps, especially since there’s no restroom at the shop, so plan for that beforehand. Once checked in, the staff provides a helmet, hygien cap, and a brief safety talk. The focus here is on making sure everyone feels comfortable before you start, which is reassuring for first-timers.

The Training and Initial Ride

The training session is short but essential. Most reviews highlight how quick it is to get comfortable on the Segway—likely thanks to clear instructions from guides like Luce or Cécile, who are praised for their friendly, approachable manner. Once you’re up and riding, the real fun begins.

Old Town (Vieux-Lyon)

Your tour kicks off with a glide through Vieux-Lyon, the historic heart of the city. This area is full of narrow cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and charming corners. It’s a perfect way to start because it sets the tone for the city’s character — lively yet full of history. One reviewer mentions enjoying the “anecdotes on Lyon,” which shows the guide’s local knowledge is a real plus here.

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Place Bellecour

From there, you move to Place Bellecour, one of Europe’s largest open squares. It’s a hub of activity, surrounded by shops and cafes. Riding around here gives you a feel for Lyon’s vibrant street life and offers great photo ops. The 15-minute stop allows you to soak in the atmosphere, and many reviews note how smooth and fun the ride is around this area.

Place des Jacobins and the Rhône Banks

Next, the tour takes you to Place des Jacobins—a smaller, elegant square with a central fountain—and then along the Berges du Rhône, which is a 20-minute stretch that is often praised for its scenic views of the river. Most travelers find this part especially relaxing, with many saying it’s the highlight of the ride. The river views—whether of boats, bridges, or the city skyline—are what you’ll remember most.

Lyon National Opera and Place des Terreaux

Continuing past the Lyon National Opera, the route brings you to Place des Terreaux, famous for its ornate fountain and the city hall. The tour’s pace is easy, allowing you to enjoy the architecture and vibrancy of these spots without feeling rushed. Several reviewers, like Potsy, noted the guide “very enjoyable and interesting,” which adds to the overall experience.

Final Stretch and Return

The ride wraps up back at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, completing the loop. This gives you a full 1.5 hours of sightseeing that’s both manageable and packed with highlights.

What to Expect and Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a great option if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Lyon’s essence. The cost of $59 per person is reasonable considering the guided nature, the equipment, and the focus on key sites. Many reviews rave about the value for money, especially since it’s a guided experience, meaning you get local insights without extra costs or effort.

While the experience is generally smooth, it’s worth noting that no toilets are available at the starting point, so plan accordingly. Also, the weather can affect your ride, but ponchos are provided if needed—so don’t worry about a sudden rain shower ruining your plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable on a bike or similar device, and you’re happy to spend 1.5 hours outdoors, this tour fits well. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, want to see the city’s highlights without much walking, and don’t mind a bit of adventure on two wheels. Since it’s a small group, you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

Pregnant women and children under 14 shouldn’t participate, so this isn’t a family-friendly activity. Also, if you prefer walking or more in-depth historical tours, this might feel a bit superficial. It’s a breezy, scenic ride, so don’t expect detailed historical narratives but rather a lively overview of Lyon’s best spots.

Final Thoughts: Is the Lyon Segway Tour for You?

This Segway tour offers a lively, efficient way to see Lyon’s key sights within a short time frame. It’s a good pick for first-time visitors who want a broad overview, especially if they’re comfortable on a Segway or eager to try something a little different. The small group size and friendly guides make it a relaxed experience, and the scenic route along the rivers provides memorable views.

It’s not a deep historical exploration, but it’s a fun, practical way to get your bearings and enjoy Lyon’s vibrant streets. If you’re looking for a casual, engaging activity and don’t mind the weather or age restrictions, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most find the Segway easy to learn after a brief training session. The guides are helpful, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden a Segway before.

How long does the tour last?
The actual riding time is about 1.5 hours, covering key highlights and scenic spots along the rivers and in the city center.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended since you’ll be standing and riding for the duration. Flat shoes are best, and casual attire is fine.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, you must be at least 14 years old to ride. Children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.

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

Is it weather-dependent?
The tours run regardless of weather, with ponchos provided if it rains, but the experience might be less enjoyable in heavy rain or wind.

Are facilities available at the start?
No, there are no toilets at the departure point, so plan accordingly before your start time.

You can check availability for your dates here: