Lyon: Street Food Tour

Thinking about experiencing Lyon beyond the usual sights? This Street Food Tour by Lyon Original Tours promises a tasty, culturally rich journey through some of the city’s best local bites and vibrant street art. It’s a 3-hour walk that blends culinary delights with stories about Lyon’s neighborhoods and history, and it’s designed for those who love good food, interesting stories, and a manageable pace.

What we really like about this experience is its combination of taste and culture. You get to sample five of Lyon’s top street food spots — from savory bites to a sweet treat — all while strolling through lively districts. Plus, the tour keeps groups small (max 10 people), which makes for a more personal, friendly experience. But, a consideration is that vegetarians might find it less suited**, as the tour is focused on meat-based specialties.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to enjoy Lyon’s authentic street food scene while soaking in the city’s street art and history. It’s a good pick if you’re after a delicious, relaxed, cultural experience with a local guide who’s passionate about the city.

Key Points

• Gourmet and cultural blend: Combines street food tasting with street art and city stories.
• Small groups: Limited to 10, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.
• Local guides: Knowledgeable, passionate about Lyon’s food and history.
• Five tastings: Includes savory and sweet bites, offering a hearty experience.
• Duration: Three hours of walking, tasting, and exploring.
• Price point: At $76 per person, the tour offers good value for a curated experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lyon’s Street Food and Art Scene

When we look at tours like this, it’s the combination of culinary exploration and cultural storytelling that makes it worthwhile. This experience isn’t just about eating; it’s about understanding Lyon’s spirit through its local producers, historic neighborhoods, and public artworks. Plus, with a live guide speaking both French and English, the tour promises a flexible and engaging experience, whether you’re fluent or just beginning to learn about the city.

A Well-Structured Itinerary

The tour begins in Pl. de la Bourse, right in the heart of Lyon. From there, it moves through various districts, each offering its own unique flavor:

• The initial sightseeing stop (10 mins) sets the tone, probably introducing the area’s history and significance.
• The first local restaurant features street food tasting (15 mins), giving an immediate taste of Lyon’s culinary culture. Expect high-quality, “home-made” products that emphasize authenticity. The reviews rave about the generous portions and delicious flavors.
• Visiting the Museum of Printing and Graphic Communication (10 mins) adds a cultural layer, connecting Lyon’s artistic heritage with modern street art you’ll see later.
• The 1st Arrondissement offers another street food stop (15 mins), likely showcasing iconic Lyonnais specialties.
• As you move to Place des Terreaux (10 mins), you’ll enjoy more sightseeing, possibly including the famous Fresque des Lyonnais—a must-see street art mural.
• The tour then continues with more tastings (25 mins), likely small bites meant to keep your energy up.
• A walk through Vieux Lyon (30 mins) provides a chance to explore the cobbled streets, packed with character, with more street food tastings here that might include local delicacies.
• The route circles back with additional sightseeing, finishing at two designated drop-off points.

Food, Art, and History — The Perfect Trio

The food stops are spaced out well, giving you time to digest and soak in the sights. The street food itself is a major highlight. Reviewers talk about the size of the portions, which tend to be larger than expected, and the variety of flavors. Some stops focus on traditional Lyonnais products, giving you a taste of the local culinary identity.

Meanwhile, the street art, including the Fresque des Lyonnais, adds a modern twist to the city’s historic fabric. It’s especially engaging if you enjoy visual storytelling and urban murals. Our guide’s knowledge about street art and Lyon’s history adds depth, turning a simple walk into a cultural lesson.

What the Reviews Say

One visitor from Denmark shared that the guide was “not only knowledgeable about food and street art but also about Lyon’s history”, which we think is a big plus. They emphasized the plenty of food so skip breakfast! Conversely, a Canadian guest noted the repetition in the tasting stops—which might appeal more to bread lovers or those who enjoy a bread-centric tasting, even in ice cream form.

Other reviews highlight the personality and professionalism of the guides. A traveler from the US found the tour “the perfect combination of food, street art, and city stories” and appreciated the generous portions and delicious bites. The overall vibe is friendly, informative, and unhurried.

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Pricing and Value

At $76 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the five tastings and personalized experience. The inclusion of local guides in both French and English adds to the appeal, especially for those who want a more authentic, less touristy experience. Keep in mind, this isn’t a full sit-down meal, but the sampling stops are generous enough to serve as a light lunch.

Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is great for food lovers, culture buffs, and urban explorers. If you’re traveling with someone curious about local crafts, street art, and Lyon’s culinary traditions, they’ll likely enjoy this experience. It’s also suitable for those who prefer walking and small groups, as it keeps the experience personal and engaging.

However, if you’re vegetarian, this might not be the best fit, as the focus appears to be on traditional meat-based Lyonnais products. And if you’re after a very quick glance at the city’s highlights, this might feel too relaxed or detailed for your taste.

Final Thoughts

The Lyon Street Food Tour offers a well-rounded way to enjoy the city’s culinary delights and street art in a manageable, enjoyable setting. The small group size and passionate guide really make a difference, creating an atmosphere where you feel like you’re exploring with friends rather than just ticking off sights.

If you’re after a cultural, flavorful experience that combines tasting and storytelling, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. It’s especially good for anyone who enjoys local products and wants to get a feel for Lyon’s urban vibe beyond its historic landmarks.

While it might not be perfect for vegetarians or those wanting a quick overview, for most foodies or curious travelers, this is a satisfying and memorable way to spend a few hours in Lyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Unfortunately, vegetarians might find it challenging, as the tour focuses on meat-based Lyonnais specialties.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, including walking, tastings, and sightseeing.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak both French and English, ensuring accessibility for most travelers.

Are the food portions large?
Yes, reviewers mention that the tastings are quite generous, often more than enough for a light lunch.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and an appetite for delicious local bites.

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

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Lyonnais, this Street Food Tour offers a tasty way to uncover a different side of the city. It’s a fun, relaxed way to connect with Lyon’s local culture that we think many travelers will appreciate.

You can check availability for your dates here: