Segway – Ride along the rivers 1h30

Lyon, France, is a city brimming with charm, history, and picturesque vistas. While wandering through its cobbled streets on foot gives you a close-up view of its beauty, it can also be tiring and time-consuming. That’s where a Segway tour offers a delightful alternative — blending fun, efficiency, and insight into this UNESCO-listed city. This particular experience, lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, promises to show you Lyon’s top sights with ease and style, guided by knowledgeable locals.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible and engaging it is. You get to breeze past busy squares and along riverbanks, all while learning fascinating facts about Lyon’s landmarks. The guide’s enthusiasm and expertise make the experience memorable, especially as they share stories that add depth to visual beauty. However, a potential consideration is the need for some balance and coordination — if you’re worried about riding a Segway or have internal ear issues, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, fun way to see Lyon’s highlights without the fatigue of walking long distances. It’s a superb option for families, couples, or groups wanting a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and local insights. So, if you’re after a practical yet lively way to explore Lyon’s historic core and riverside scenery, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Easy, fun transportation to cover key sights in Lyon efficiently
• Guided commentary offers enriching stories behind iconic landmarks
• Stunning river views along the Rhône provide excellent photo ops
• Accessible for most travelers over 14 with basic balance skills
• Group size limited to 8 ensures personalized attention and safety
• Includes helmets and rain gear for comfort and safety

An In-Depth Look at the Lyon Segway Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

Meeting at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, the tour begins in the late afternoon, around 4:00 pm. The small group, capped at 8 people, makes for a more intimate and safe experience. The tour is led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, whose role is pivotal in making sure everyone feels confident on the Segway before heading out. As confirmed by a reviewer, “Our guide was super friendly and knowledgeable and also made sure everyone could ride the Segway properly before we left.” This reassurance is vital for those new to this mode of travel.

The cost of $57.62 per person offers good value considering the duration, guided commentary, and the chance to see multiple highlights in a short span. The price might seem steep compared to walking tours, but the convenience and fun factor make it worth the investment, especially for those short on time.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Vieux Lyon (Old Town) — 10 minutes
Your journey kicks off in the historic heart of Lyon, with a quick stop at the Courthouse. The guide shares the story behind its nickname, “the 24 columns,” and the most famous trial that took place here. It’s a perfect way to set the tone, blending history with a scenic ride through narrow, medieval streets. A reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide told stories about the city’s past,” which makes even brief stops like this feel meaningful.

Place Bellecour — 10 minutes
Next, you glide into the largest pedestrian square in Europe, home to the imposing statue of Louis XIV. The guide recounts the legend surrounding the square, adding a bit of local lore to your visit. The wide-open space provides a photo-worthy backdrop, and the vibrant atmosphere invites you to soak in Lyon’s lively spirit.

Berges du Rhône — Riverside and Panoramas — 15 minutes
Crossing the Rhône river, you’ll pause at a lookout for stunning panoramic views of the old hospital, Fourvière hill, and the replica of the Eiffel Tower. Riding along the riverbanks, you get a fresh perspective on Lyon’s scenic beauty, complemented by a stretch along the ViaRhôna trail. One reviewer appreciated this part, saying, “We loved the way the guide pointed out the view over the river and the city skyline.”

Opera National de Lyon — 10 minutes
A quick stop in front of the Opera House — affectionately nicknamed the “Toaster” — offers a photo op and insights into its architectural style. The guide explains its significance in Lyon’s cultural scene, making this more than just a pretty building.

Place des Terreaux — 15 minutes
The tour wraps up at Lyon’s lively central square, flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts and the City Hall. The Bartholdi fountain is a highlight here, and the guide shares stories behind its sculptures. This spot truly captures the heartbeat of Lyon, blending art, history, and urban life.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Guided storytelling: One reviewer pointed out the guide’s attentiveness, “Pierre was very attentive and concerned,” which enhances the experience by making it both educational and safe.
• Comfort and safety gear: Helmets are included, and raincoats are provided if needed, ensuring comfort regardless of weather.
• Ease of riding: Most travelers, even beginners, find the Segway surprisingly manageable after a brief practice session, thanks to the guide’s clear instructions.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

The high praise from travelers underscores the tour’s quality. Jason_M, for example, called it “a great fun way to see Lyon,” highlighting the balance of entertainment and informative content. Despite a minor incident, a reviewer noted that the guide, Pierre, was attentive and caring, and the overall experience remained positive.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour starts at 4:00 pm, making it an excellent late-afternoon activity, especially if you’re exploring Lyon over a few days. The group size ensures personalized attention, and the maximum of 8 travelers makes it more than just a crowd. The activity is suitable for most people aged 14 and above with basic balance skills. Travelers with internal ear problems are advised to consider this, as riding a Segway might cause discomfort.

The entire experience is around 1 hour 30 minutes, with brief stops at the key sites. The route is carefully designed to be manageable and scenic while covering Lyon’s most photo-worthy spots. Since the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to confirm your availability beforehand.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the cost might seem higher than some walking tours, the combination of guided insight, scenic stops, and the fun of riding a Segway makes it worthwhile. You’ll cover more ground than walking and gain a unique perspective of Lyon’s streets and riverbanks. Plus, the safety and comfort of helmets, along with a small group size, add to the overall experience.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, want to maximize limited time, and appreciate good storytelling. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace but still want to see the city’s highlights without the fatigue of extensive walking.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

• First-time visitors eager to get an overview of Lyon’s major sites
• Travelers with limited time who want an efficient sightseeing method
• Small groups or families looking for a fun, interactive experience
• Anyone interested in a guided tour with scenic river views and cultural insights

Final Thoughts

This Segway river tour in Lyon offers a unique blend of fun, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the city’s highlights without exhausting themselves on foot. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the ease of riding a Segway, make for a memorable and practical way to explore Lyon’s historic streets and riverbanks.

While it’s not ideal for travelers with ear issues or those who prefer a more stationary experience, if you’re comfortable on a Segway and looking for an engaging way to learn about Lyon, this tour can add a lively, interactive element to your trip. The high ratings and authentic reviews attest to its quality, making it a safe bet for an enjoyable afternoon adventure.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers find the Segway easy to ride after a short practice session. The guide ensures everyone feels confident before starting.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at 7 Quai Romain Rolland in Lyon, France.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including stops at key sights.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included to ensure safety during the ride.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for riding. Raincoats are provided if needed, and don’t forget your camera for scenic photos.

Is it suitable for children?
The minimum age is 14 years old, which generally includes most teenagers. Riders should have basic balance skills.

Can I participate if I have internal ear problems?
It is not recommended for travelers with internal ear issues, as riding a Segway can affect balance.

What happens if it rains?
Raincoats are provided, so you’ll stay dry and comfortable even if the weather turns bad.

This guided Segway tour of Lyon offers a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights with ease, enjoying scenic river views and the stories behind its landmarks. Whether you’re short on time or simply looking for a more engaging way to explore, this experience is a lively, insightful, and fun addition to your Lyon itinerary.