Lyon Segway Discovery Tour – 1h

Lyon Segway Discovery Tour – 1h: A Fun and Efficient Way to Experience Lyon

Getting a quick yet comprehensive look at Lyon can be a challenge if you’re on a tight schedule or want to avoid walking for miles. The Lyon Segway Discovery Tour offers a relaxed, lively way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights in just an hour. With a small group of up to 16 travelers, this tour promises a fun, accessible experience, led by knowledgeable guides who bring Lyon’s history and charm to life.

One of the things we love about this tour is how effortless it is to get from one highlight to the next—thanks to the Segway’s easy handling and the well-planned route. Plus, the fact that it covers places that larger tour buses can’t reach means you get a more intimate glimpse of Lyon’s diverse neighborhoods.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour’s duration is quite short, making it ideal for a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration. Travelers who want to spend more time at each site might prefer longer, more detailed excursions. Still, for those with limited time or looking for a memorable introduction, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is especially well-suited for first-time visitors, adventure lovers, or anyone curious to try Segway riding in a safe, guided setting. It’s also a good pick for those who want to see the city without the fatigue of walking, especially when paired with a desire for some light, outdoor activity.

Key Points

• Quick, rundown of Lyon’s top sites in just one hour
• Expert guides bring history and local insights to life
• Accessible and fun, suitable for most travelers aged 14 and up
• Off the beaten path: explore areas larger vehicles can’t reach
• All necessary gear provided including helmets and optional raincoats
• Limited group size ensures a more personalized experience

Exploring Lyon on a Segway: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Initial Training

The adventure begins at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, a convenient location near public transportation. Here, your guide greets you and provides all the gear—helmet included. The short training session is designed to build confidence on the Segway, especially for newcomers. Based on reviews, most people find this process quick and reassuring; as one traveler noted, “we got very rapidly used to the Segway.” Guides like Cécile are praised for their clear, friendly instructions and patience, making even nervous participants feel comfortable.

Vieux Lyon: The Historic Heart

Your journey kicks off in Vieux Lyon, the medieval old town. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of charming cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and lively cafes. While the visit is brief—just 15 minutes—it’s enough to get a sense of the area’s character. Travelers mention that the guide’s explanations add depth, turning a simple ride into a mini history lesson.

Passerelle du Palais-de-Justice

Next, you’ll glide over the Passerelle du Palais-de-Justice, a bridge offering picturesque views of the Saône River. The old courthouse nearby is steeped in stories of trials and legal history, which your guide will share. This spot offers a quick but meaningful peek into Lyon’s judicial past, perfect for history buffs or architecture lovers.

Place Bellecour

No visit to Lyon is complete without seeing Place Bellecour, one of Europe’s largest pedestrian squares. Its vast open space is lined with shops, cafes, and statues, including the famous Louis XIV equestrian statue. Here, you’ll learn about its role as the city’s bustling hub and social gathering point. Reviewers loved this stop for its vibrant atmosphere, with one calling it “the biggest square in Lyon,” a perfect spot to snap photos and soak in local life.

La Place des Jacobins

A short ride takes you to La Place des Jacobins, widely regarded as one of Lyon’s most beautiful squares. Its symmetrical layout and ornate facades make it a favorite among visitors. Guides explain its architecture and the significance of the surrounding buildings, turning a scenic stop into a mini cultural lesson.

Eglise Saint Nizier & Panoramic Views

Next, you’ll visit the historic Église Saint Nizier, a church with centuries of history. From here, you get a panoramic view of Lyon’s rooftops and the Basilica of Fourvière. One reviewer noted, “You can see the replica Eiffel Tower from there,” highlighting how this spot offers unique perspectives of Lyon’s skyline.

Murals and Street Art: Fresque La Bibliotheque de la Cite

Your final brief stop showcases one of Lyon’s famous murals—the “Fresque La Bibliotheque de la Cite.” Known for its vibrant street art, Lyon’s murals add a modern, artistic touch. Though only a 5-minute stop, it’s a fun way to see how contemporary art blends with historic cityscapes.

The Value and What Travelers Say

The cost of $34.51 per person for an hour may seem modest, but considering the convenience, personalized guidance, and coverage of key sites, it offers good value. Reviewers consistently mention that guides like Cécile are very knowledgeable, making the experience richer. One reviewer, Laurence, appreciated the “ludic side” of the tour combined with seeing major sights, calling it “really pleasant.”

The small group size (maximum 16) creates a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for more interaction and questions. The included gear—helmet and optional raincoat—ensures safety and comfort, especially during unpredictable weather.

Timing and logistics are straightforward: the tour starts at 2:30 pm, ideal for an afternoon activity. The activity is suitable for most travelers aged 14 and above, with a minimum weight of 100 lbs (45 kg). It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with inner-ear problems, as stability and balance are required.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

Most travelers find the Segway surprisingly easy to master. As one reviewer said, “we got very quickly used to the Segway,” which makes the tour accessible, even for first-timers. The guide’s explanations are clear and often include interesting anecdotes, making the sightseeing both fun and informative.

The route’s design ensures you see Lyon’s highlights efficiently—covering important landmarks without feeling rushed. The fact that the tour ventures into areas that larger vehicles cannot reach means you get a more authentic feel of Lyon’s neighborhoods.

Additional Considerations

While the tour is excellent for a quick overview, it isn’t designed for deep dives into each site. For visitors wanting a more extensive exploration, combining this with longer tours or walking excursions might be beneficial.

Also, since the tour covers a lot of ground in just an hour, it’s best suited for those who can comfortably ride a Segway and enjoy outdoor activities. The weather can affect the experience, but raincoats are provided if needed.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For first-time visitors, it’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and see key sights without exhausting yourself. The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, add a personal touch that enriches the ride.

For adventure lovers, the novelty of riding a Segway around a historic city adds an element of fun that traditional tours may lack. It’s a lighthearted yet informative experience that mixes urban exploration with a sense of adventure.

For those short on time, the hour-long format ensures you get a snapshot of Lyon’s character, making it a perfect addition to a packed itinerary.

For anyone seeking great value, the inclusion of gear, quality guides, and access to both popular and tucked-away spots makes this tour a worthwhile purchase.

FAQs about the Lyon Segway Discovery Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 16 years old can participate, but those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age to ride is 14.

Do I need prior experience with Segways?
No, a brief training session is provided, and most people adapt quickly. Guides are patient, making it suitable even for first-timers.

What should I wear?
Casual clothes and flat shoes are recommended for comfort and safety during riding.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is not specified as accessible, and it requires some balance, so it might not suit everyone with mobility challenges.

What if it rains?
Raincoats are provided if needed, so weather shouldn’t spoil the experience.

How long does the training take?
The training session lasts about 15 minutes, which is enough for most to feel comfortable riding.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, in Lyon, making it easy to plan after arrival or before other activities.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Lyon Segway Discovery Tour offers a lively, practical way to see Lyon’s most notable sights in a short period. Its well-chosen route, coupled with expert guides and accessible equipment, makes it a solid option for travelers who want a blend of fun, efficiency, and insight.

Perfect for first-timers, those with limited time, or anyone eager to try something a little different, this tour balances entertainment with education. Although it’s not an exhaustive deep dive into Lyon’s history, it provides just enough highlights to whet your appetite for more.

If you’re seeking a lighthearted, informative way to get acquainted with Lyon’s charm—especially if you love outdoor activities and are comfortable on a Segway—you’ll find this experience to be both memorable and worthwhile.