Lyon: Old Town Food Tour with 6 French Food Tastings & Wine

Exploring Lyon’s Old Town through its flavors offers a delicious glimpse into one of France’s most celebrated food scenes. This 3-hour guided experience takes you through historic streets, secret passageways, bustling markets, and lively squares, all while sampling more than six authentic dishes paired with wines. It’s a taste of Lyon’s gastronomic reputation, which has earned it the title of the world capital of gastronomy since 1935.

What really makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable guides who bring Lyon’s culinary and cultural stories to life. The expertly curated tastings — from traditional cheeses and pastries to seasonal hot dishes — give you a genuine taste of local traditions. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and is not suitable for those with mobility challenges, so comfy shoes are a must.

Perfect for curious food lovers, history buffs, or travelers wanting an authentic bite of Lyon’s vibrant scene, this tour offers great value for its price of around $116. It’s more than just a tasting; it’s an educational journey into what makes Lyon’s cuisine so special.

Key Points

• Authentic Tastings: Over 6 traditional French dishes, including cheeses, pastries, and seasonal hot dishes.
• Cultural Exploration: Discover the historic streets of Vieux Lyon and lively Presqu’île squares with insights from local guides.
• Hidden Gems: Access secret traboules and lesser-known spots that reveal Lyon’s unique architectural and culinary heritage.
• Local Wines: Enjoy carefully selected white and red wines that match each tasting and enhance the experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ash, Rosie, Anna, and Nathalie are praised for their knowledge, humor, and personal touches.
• Value for Money: At $116, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Lyon’s food scene, perfect for those wanting both education and indulgence.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting in Vieux Lyon: Walking Through the Renaissance Past

The tour kicks off in the heart of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO-listed quarter characterized by cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and hidden traboules (secret passageways). These passageways, once used by silk workers, are fascinating architectural features that add an element of adventure to your walk. As you navigate these narrow lanes, your guide shares stories of Lyon’s silk industry and how it contributed to the city’s prosperity.

During this initial phase, expect to taste a savory dish historically eaten by Canut silk workers. You’ll pair it with a local wine, giving you a first-hand experience of Lyonnaise culinary traditions. Reviewers note guides like Charlotte or Ash make these stories engaging, blending history with food seamlessly. One traveler mentions how Ash’s enthusiasm and knowledge made the city come alive, even under less-than-ideal weather.

Sweet Tooth Stop: French Pastries at an Exclusive Shop

Next, you’ll step into one of Lyon’s most exclusive sweet shops. Here, the focus is on delicate local pastries that showcase Lyon’s mastery in desserts. From pralines to fluffy pastries, this stop highlights how Lyon’s sweet confections are rooted in tradition yet continuously evolving. Reviewers like Daphne and Nicole emphasize the quality and generosity of these treats, often mentioning the pralines or Les Coussin as favorites.

The Lively Presqu’île District: Monuments, Squares, and Hot Dishes

Crossing the Saône River, the tour moves into Presqu’île, Lyon’s bustling city center filled with grand monuments, statues, and lively markets. Here, you’ll enjoy a seasonal hot dish, rich with flavors that reflect local seasonal ingredients and traditional Lyonnaise cooking. The hot dish is often described as comforting and hearty, perfect for experiencing regional flavors on a cold day.

Several guests, including Paige and Stephanie, appreciate the insightful commentary from guides like Anna, who enriches the experience with historical anecdotes. The lively atmosphere of the squares and streets makes this part of the tour a true snapshot of Lyon’s urban vitality.

The Dairy Delights: Cheeses and Wines

No Lyon food tour would be complete without exploring its renowned dairy products. You’ll sample a selection of regional cheeses, often paired with fresh bread and a glass of wine, creating a sensory journey into Lyon’s dairy traditions. Reviews frequently mention how much they enjoyed the pairing, with some guides providing expert insights into cheese varieties and wine matching.

The Secret Dish and Final Sweet Surprise

The tour wraps up with the “Secret Dish,” a special treat that’s exclusive to this experience. While the details are kept under wraps, guests consistently find it to be a delightful, unexpected end to their culinary adventure. Some reviewers, like Ian from Australia, note that the mix of food, history, and cultural insights makes this tour a well-rounded experience.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice?

The Guides Make the Difference

Multiple reviews highlight the passion and knowledge of guides such as Charlotte, Ash, Rosie, and Nathalie. Their ability to weave stories of Lyon’s history, architecture, and culinary traditions keeps the tour engaging. Many mention how guides go above and beyond, even accommodating weather challenges or dietary requirements, demonstrating their dedication.

Authentic, High-Quality Tastings

Each stop delivers genuine local flavors, from cheeses and pastries to hearty seasonal dishes. Many reviewers appreciate the generosity of portions and the chance to taste a variety of Lyon’s culinary staples. The wine selections, carefully curated to match each dish, add an extra layer of authenticity and enjoyment.

The Perfect Length and Pace

Three hours is a manageable timeframe, especially with the walking involved. The tour balances eating, learning, and exploring without feeling rushed. Guests report that the pace is comfortable, even when stopping for photo opportunities or quick history lessons.

Practical Considerations and Value

While the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, the meeting point in front of the Temple at Place du Change is easy to find. The price of $116 per person is reasonable considering the quality and quantity of tastings, the expertise of guides, and the in-depth exploration of Lyon’s neighborhoods.

Accessibility and Limitations

It’s important to note that this tour involves considerable walking and is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, especially given the cobbled streets and uneven surfaces in Vieux Lyon.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to taste regional specialties in an authentic setting. History lovers will appreciate the stories woven into the culinary stops, while those wanting a manageable, guided overview of Lyon’s main sights and flavors will find it perfect. It also suits travelers who want a social, friendly atmosphere, as many reviewers praise the company of guides and fellow guests.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction to Lyon’s food scene, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you crave a more comprehensive city tour with in-depth architecture or shopping, consider supplementing it with additional excursions.

Final Thoughts

The Lyon Old Town Food Tour with 6+ tastings and wine stands out as a fantastic way to experience Lyon’s culinary soul. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge elevate the experience from simple tasting to culture. The variety of stops, from historic streets and exclusive pastry shops to vibrant squares, offers a taste of the city’s diverse flavors and stories.

The generous portions, paired wines, and authentic local dishes make it a smart choice for anyone wanting to sample Lyon’s best without feeling overwhelmed. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors who want an engaging, educational, and delicious introduction to Lyon’s gastronomic traditions.

In short, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply curious about Lyon, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable, and flavorful experience that’s worth every penny.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable way to explore Lyon’s food scene without taking up your whole day.

What’s included in the tastings?
You’ll taste over 6 items, including cheeses, pastries, a seasonal hot dish, and a secret treat. Wines are also included to pair with the tastings.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, you’re encouraged to contact the tour provider in advance to share dietary requirements so they can do their best to cater to your needs.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, due to the walking involved and the uneven cobblestone streets, it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of the Temple at Place du Change, 69005 Lyon. Guides are easy to spot holding an orange umbrella.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations are flexible, allowing you to book now and pay later.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on tasting and walking suggests it’s best suited for older children or teens who can walk comfortably and enjoy food.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, authentic local dishes, hidden passageways, and lively city squares creates a truly memorable experience that captures Lyon’s essence.