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

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon, one of France’s most celebrated gastronomic hubs, chances are you’ll want a taste of its culinary traditions. This Old Town Food Tour with 6 French Tastings & Wine promises a flavorful journey through the city’s historic districts, led by passionate local guides eager to share not just food, but stories and secrets that make Lyon special.

What sets this tour apart? For starters, you get to sample more than six dishes, from regional cheeses and pastries to seasonal hot dishes, all paired with local wines. The experience combines walking through beautiful cobbled streets and secret passageways with a deep dive into Lyon’s gastronomic history. Plus, reviews highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides as a major highlight.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since menus can vary based on weather and availability, expect some surprises along the way.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of food, culture, and local stories—perfect for first-timers eager to understand Lyon beyond its famous landmarks, or food lovers looking for authentic tastes and insider tips.

Good To Know

• Authentic Tastings: Over 6 local dishes, including cheeses, pastries, and seasonal hot dishes
• Cultural Insights: Exploration of Vieux Lyon’s cobbled streets, traboules, and Presqu’île’s monuments
• Wine Pairings: Enjoyed with carefully selected French wines, enhancing each bite
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Ash, Rosie, and Charlotte are praised for their expertise and friendliness
• Value for Money: At $116, the tour offers a comprehensive food and culture experience in a prime location
• Walking Tour: Expect a 3-hour stroll through some of Lyon’s most iconic neighborhoods

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting in Vieux Lyon: The Renaissance Charm and Hidden Passageways

The tour kicks off in Vieux Lyon, easily one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city. Its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval buildings make for a stunning setting, but it’s the traboules—secret passageways used by silk workers—that really pique curiosity. As a visitor, walking through these hidden corridors adds a sense of adventure to the tasting experience.

Here, the guide introduces Lyon’s history through its architecture and stories. Guests often comment on guides like Charlotte, who, even in bad weather, keeps everyone engaged with humor and insights. As one reviewer mentions, “Charlotte made it an incredible experience even with the rain,” highlighting how guides can turn weather challenges into memorable moments.

Sampling a Canut Dish and Local Wine

The first tasting is a savory dish once eaten by Lyon’s silk workers, the Canuts, paired with a local wine. This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s a piece of Lyon’s working-class history. The pairing offers a genuine taste of regional flavors, and many guests appreciate the way the guide explains the connection to Lyon’s past.

Sweet Treats at an Exclusive Pastry Shop

Next, you’ll visit one of Lyon’s most refined sweet shops. Here, expect to sample a delicate pastry, showcasing Lyon’s expertise in desserts. Reviewers praise guides like Daphne, who said, “Great food and insider tips,” emphasizing how these stops are both delicious and educational.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Crossing into Presqu’île: Art, Monuments, and Seasonal Hot Dishes

Crossing the Saône River, the tour moves into the lively Presqu’île district. This area is packed with grand monuments, bustling squares, and vibrant street life. It’s the perfect setting for sampling a seasonal hot dish—a hearty, traditional Lyonnaise meal bursting with local flavors. Guests note the hot dishes are rich and comforting—ideal for autumn or winter visits.

Cheese, Bread, and Local Wines in a Traditional Setting

Lyon’s reputation for dairy products is well-earned, and sampling local cheeses paired with bread and wine offers a simple yet profound taste of regional excellence. One reviewer mentioned, “The cheese and wine pairings felt authentic and generous,” confirming the quality and authenticity of this part of the tour.

The Secret Dish: An Unexpected Finale

The tour wraps up with a “secret dish,” a special treat only available on this experience. Guests often find this surprise to be a fun and memorable way to conclude their culinary exploration—highlighted by reviews praising the guide’s storytelling and the thoughtful selection of this final taste.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $116 per person for 3 hours, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and value. With at least 6 tastings, including drinks, it means you’re getting a full meal’s worth of flavors and stories at a fraction of what dining out could cost in Lyon.

The tour departs from a central spot in Vieux Lyon, in front of the Temple at Place du Change, marked by an orange umbrella for easy spotting. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, travelers should plan for their own transportation to and from this meeting point.

Guides like Ash, Rosie, and Charlotte receive consistently high praise for their enthusiasm, storytelling, and local knowledge. They not only introduce the food but weave in Lyon’s history, architecture, and quirky facts—adding depth to the tasting experience.

Walking and Accessibility

Expect a fair amount of walking through historic streets, so comfortable shoes are essential. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, but for anyone able to walk at a leisurely pace, it’s a manageable and enjoyable route.

Flexibility and Booking

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authenticity and Guest Insights

Reviews reveal that this tour isn’t just about food—it’s about experiencing Lyon’s soul through its flavors and stories. Guests mention guides like Coraline, Charlotte, and Anna, who bring warmth and expertise, making even rainy days enjoyable. “The food stops were great, and her knowledge of Lyon was second to none,” one review says, showing how a good guide can elevate the experience.

Several guests appreciated the mix of history, culture, and food, praising the guide’s ability to tell stories that stick long after the tour ends. The variety of tasting stops, from pastries to cheese to hot dishes, gives a well-rounded view of Lyon’s culinary landscape.

Which Travelers Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, and first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Lyon. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking, storytelling, and authentic local flavors. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for those who prefer engaging, conversational tours rather than large, hurried explorations.

Final Thoughts

This Lyon Old Town Food Tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to explore the city’s culinary traditions while soaking in its historic charm. The combination of delicious tastings, knowledgeable guides, and scenic neighborhoods makes it a standout experience for anyone looking to understand what makes Lyon such a gastronomic capital.

The value for money is clear when you consider the quality and quantity of food, the insider insights, and the chance to explore both famous and hidden corners of the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper dive into Lyon’s food scene, this tour provides memorable moments that go beyond just eating.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and flavorful introduction to Lyon, this tour ticks all the boxes. You’ll leave not only with a full belly but also with stories and tips that will enrich your stay long after the last sip of wine.

FAQ

Is there a dress code or specific attire recommended?
Comfortable shoes are advised as the tour involves walking through cobbled streets and historic neighborhoods.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, it’s recommended to contact the tour provider in advance if you have dietary requirements so they can cater as best as possible.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers at least 6 tastings, including cheeses, pastries, hot dishes, and wine.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s helpful to bring a small water bottle and a sense of curiosity.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering key areas of Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île.

Can I join the tour if I am not a big eater?
The tastings are generous and meant to resemble a full meal, but if you have very specific dietary needs or appetite concerns, it’s best to communicate with the provider beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, the tour is primarily designed for adults who enjoy walking and tasting. The group size and theme might not appeal to very young children.

What’s the best way to book?
Reservations can be made online with flexible options to pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here: