Segway Grand Tour of Lyon – 2h

If you’re visiting Lyon and want to see the city’s highlights without exhausting yourself, a Segway Grand Tour might just be the way to go. This 2-hour adventure offers a relaxed way to explore some of Lyon’s most iconic spots, from historic old town streets to lush parks and vibrant squares. We’ve looked into what this tour includes, and it’s clear it appeals both to first-time visitors and those who are short on time but eager to get a good taste of Lyon.

Two things we really like about this experience are the scenic routes along the Rhône and Saône rivers, and the chance to glide around Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the city’s best green spaces. Plus, the small-group format—capped at six people—means more personalized attention and easier navigation through the city streets.

One consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone. The minimum weight is 100 lbs (45 kg), and it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those who have difficulty standing for extended periods. Also, if you’re hoping for lots of historical commentary, you might find the narration a bit light; some reviews mention that the guide could share more facts. Still, if you’re after an active, fun way to see Lyon’s highlights, this tour could be just right.

This experience suits travelers who want a quick, engaging overview of Lyon, enjoy being outdoors, and are comfortable on a Segway. It’s also a good pick for those interested in snapping photos at key spots, soaking up scenic views, and trying something a little different from traditional city tours.

Key Points

• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Lyon’s main sights.
• Small group size ensures personalized experience and easier navigation.
• Scenic routes along the rivers and parks make for beautiful photo opportunities.
• Includes stops at major landmarks like Place Bellecour, Parc de la Tête d’Or, and Vieux Lyon.
• Accessible for most travelers aged 14+ who meet weight and mobility requirements.
• Potential for more commentary on city history, according to some reviews, if you’re a history buff.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This 2-hour tour is carefully designed to cover the city’s highlights while allowing enough time to enjoy each stop. The route kicks off at Vieux Lyon, the ancient part of town. Here, you’ll explore the old courthouse and learn the story behind Lyon’s nickname “the 24 columns.” This spot offers a glimpse into the city’s historic architecture and charm. Though it’s a quick stop of about 15 minutes, it’s a good introduction to Lyon’s medieval roots.

Next, the group heads to Place Bellecour, known as Europe’s largest pedestrian square. With the statue of Louis XIV and a legend attached to its history, it’s a bustling hub that’s perfect for taking photos. Again, about 15 minutes here gives you enough time to soak in the atmosphere and snap a few images.

Crossing the Rhône River, the tour pauses at the Berges du Rhône. Here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Fourvière hill and the city’s former hospital, offering a scenic backdrop before heading down to the riverbanks. This leg lasts around 20 minutes and is a highlight for many, both for its vistas and the smooth glide along the riverside via the ViaRhôna bike path.

The Parc de la Tête d’Or is the big draw—spanning 117 hectares, it’s a green oasis in the city. The tour spends about 35 minutes here, exploring the lake, wildlife park, and tropical greenhouses. It’s a peaceful spot that seems to melt away the urban hustle, and many reviews praise the guide’s thoughtful explanations of the park’s features.

After the park, the tour moves to the Opera National de Lyon—a building affectionately nicknamed “the toaster” by locals. This 10-minute stop offers a chance to learn about Lyon’s cultural scene in a building that’s as distinctive as it is historic.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Place des Terreaux, a lively square famous for its impressive fountain designed by Auguste Bartholdi. This 10-minute stop is a fitting conclusion, giving you a chance to take in the architecture and ambiance of central Lyon.

What It’s Like on the Ground

The tour includes a local guide who’s knowledgeable and friendly, as many reviews mention. You’ll ride a Segway that’s easy to control, even if it’s your first time. The rental includes a helmet and raincoat if needed, which makes it convenient. While the overall pace is relaxed, the routes are designed to be safe and smooth, even for newcomers.

The small-group format—max six participants—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guide can tailor their attention to your experience level. This is especially helpful if someone is a little nervous about riding a Segway for the first time, as many guides are patient and accommodating.

The duration of about two hours feels just right—enough to see a lot without feeling rushed. Plus, since the tour ends back at the starting point, you can easily plan your next activities afterward.

The Practicalities and Cost-Effectiveness

At around $65.46 per person, this tour offers decent value for what you get. Covering several landmarks, scenic riverside views, and a lush park in just two hours makes it a time-efficient way to get acquainted with Lyon. Many travelers appreciate the photo opportunities at key spots, which makes this a good experience for sharing memories afterward.

The booking lead time is usually about 13 days, so it’s worth planning ahead if you’re traveling during peak seasons. The tour operates at 10:00 am, a comfortable time to start and fit into a full day of sightseeing.

One downside to note is that food and drinks are not included, so if you want to extend your adventure with a meal, you’ll need to plan separately. Also, keep in mind that this experience is weather-dependent—bad weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

What Travelers Are Saying

Most reviews are quite positive, praising the knowledgeable guides and the scenic views. One reviewer particularly enjoyed their guide Cecil, mentioning her impressive knowledge of Lyon’s history, which made the experience more engaging. Others appreciated how safe they felt, even as first-timers on a Segway, thanks to the guide’s patience and clear instructions.

That said, not everyone was thrilled. One review pointed out that they would have liked more historical commentary, suggesting that the tour could be enriched with additional facts about the city’s past. Another negative review mentioned a scheduling mix-up, but that seems to be an isolated incident and not reflective of the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Segway Grand Tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing and want a relaxed, fun way to cover a fair amount of ground quickly. It’s particularly good for first-timers in Lyon or those with limited time. If you’re comfortable on a Segway and can stand for a couple of hours, you’ll likely enjoy the smooth ride and scenic stops.

It’s also ideal for those who love taking photos, as many stops are highly photogenic. If you’re traveling with kids aged 14 and up, this could be an enjoyable family activity, provided everyone is comfortable on a Segway.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time Segway riders?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners. The guides give clear instructions, and the equipment is easy to operate, making it suitable even for someone new to Segways.

What are the age and weight restrictions?
Participants should be at least 14 years old, with a minimum weight of 100 lbs (45 kg) and a maximum of 260 lbs (118 kg). Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the tour accessible for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the standing nature of the activity.

What should I wear?
Casual, flat shoes are best. Dress comfortably for warm or cool weather, and consider bringing a raincoat if rain is forecast.

Are food and drinks included?
No, this tour doesn’t include food or drinks. You might want to plan for a snack before or after the tour.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, Lyon. The tour begins at 10:00 am and ends back at the starting point.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
Up to six travelers can join, making for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel or change the reservation?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans before reserving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a lively, engaging way to see Lyon’s main sights in a short time, this Segway Grand Tour offers a blend of scenic views, cultural spots, and a bit of outdoor fun. The small-group approach, along with knowledgeable guides and accessible routes, makes it a solid choice for active travelers who want to get their bearings quickly.

While it might not satisfy those craving in-depth historical narration, it compensates with the ease of mobility and beautiful vistas. Perfect for first-timers, photo enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Lyon’s cityscape, this tour is a memorable way to kickstart your visit.

Final Recommendations

This tour shines for its scenic riverside routes, friendly guides, and compact itinerary that hits all the highlights efficiently. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and good company. If you’re prepared for the weather and comfortable on a Segway, you’ll likely come away feeling like you’ve seen Lyon from a fresh angle—and maybe even learned a few stories along the way.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a fun, accessible way to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and green spaces. Just remember to book in advance and consider the weather forecast for the day.

Happy riding!