Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour

Dive into the captivating history of Lyon’s resilient Jewish community on this immersive private tour. As you stroll through the charming Vieux Lyon neighborhood, you’ll uncover the remarkable stories that have shaped this vibrant heritage. From the grandeur of the Great Synagogue to the hidden gems of the medieval Jewish quarter, your knowledgeable guide will bring this rich tapestry to life, revealing the profound contributions of Lyon’s Jewish citizens over the centuries. Prepare to be swept away by the resilience and resilience of this community, leaving you eager to explore more of their enduring legacy.

Good To Know

• Provides a private 2-hour walking tour exploring Lyon’s Jewish heritage, including the medieval Jewish quarter, the Great Synagogue, and historical narratives.
• Begins at Place des Terreaux and visits the Vieux Lyon neighborhood, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and La Longue Traboule.
• Highlights the Jewish community’s significant contributions during the French Revolution and their resilience and hardships faced during World War II.
• Tour is led by a 5-star licensed guide fluent in multiple languages, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.
• Offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and accommodates group sizes from 1 to 25 people.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private Jewish heritage tour in Lyon provides an intimate, 2-hour exploration of the city’s rich Jewish history.

The tour begins at the central Place des Terreaux and Hôtel de Ville, then delves into the charming Vieux Lyon neighborhood and the unique La Longue Traboule.

Next, visitors marvel at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist before the main stop at the magnificent Great Synagogue of Lyon.

Along the way, guests discover remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter, including the historic Rue Lanterne and Rue Juiverie.

With a 5-star licensed guide, the tour offers fascinating insights into Lyon’s Jewish contributions, World War II history, and the resilience of its community.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the centrally located Place des Terreaux and Hôtel de Ville, where guests soon venture into the charming Vieux Lyon neighborhood and the unique La Longue Traboule.

After exploring these historical areas for 30 and 20 minutes respectively, the group visits the striking Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

The main stop is the magnificent Great Synagogue of Lyon, where guests spend 20 minutes learning about its significance.

Along the way, the guide points out remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter, including the evocative Rue Lanterne and Rue Juiverie.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide shares captivating insights into Lyon’s Jewish heritage, from ancient Roman times to the World War II era.

Historical Insights

The Jewish presence in Lyon dates back to the year 39 when the Roman city of Lugdunum was established. Over the centuries, Jewish communities thrived here, contributing to the city’s rich history. During the French Revolution, Jews played a vital role, fighting for liberty and equality. However, the community faced dark times during World War II and the Nazi occupation. Many were deported to concentration camps, while brave individuals resisted the oppression. Through personal stories, the guide sheds light on the resilience and hardships endured by local Jewish families.

Significant Dates	Historical Events
39 CE	Jewish presence in Lugdunum (Lyon) established
1789	Jewish contributions during French Revolution
1940-1944	Jewish oppression and resistance under Nazi occupation

Tour Experience

How does the tailored walking tour engage visitors and bring the Jewish history of Lyon to life?

From the moment the tour begins at Place des Terreaux, the 5-star licensed guide captivates with fascinating stories and insights.

Visitors explore the winding alleyways of the Vieux Lyon and La Longue Traboule, discovering remnants of the medieval Jewish quarter.

The highlight is the visit to the grand Great Synagogue, where the guide shares compelling tales of Jewish contributions during the French Revolution and the harrowing experiences faced under Nazi occupation.

Throughout the tour, the pace and focus adapt to suit the interests of the group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the rich Jewish heritage that has shaped Lyon over the centuries.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Chocolats Voisin Terreaux, an iconic confectionery located in the heart of Place des Terreaux.

This historic square serves as the starting point for a 2-hour private journey exploring Lyon’s rich Jewish heritage.

The tour covers the Vieux Lyon neighborhood, the city’s medieval center, and the La Longue Traboule tunnel – a hidden architectural gem.

Along the way, guests will visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and spend 20 minutes at the Great Synagogue, the crown jewel of this cultural excursion.

With an expert guide leading the way, travelers will uncover the remnants of the ancient Jewish quarter and gain insight into the community’s tumultuous history.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Priced from $205.55 per person, this private Jewish heritage tour of Lyon offers exceptional value.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan your visit with confidence.

This 2-hour walking tour provides a personalized experience, limited to 1-25 guests for attentive guidance from a 5-star licensed guide.

Whether you’re exploring the medieval Jewish quarter, visiting the Great Synagogue, or learning about Lyon’s rich Jewish history, you’ll appreciate the flexibility to tailor the pace and focus to suit your interests.

Additional guides are available for larger groups at a higher price.

Don’t miss this immersive journey through Lyon’s Jewish heritage.

Live Guide and Language Options

Accompanied by a 5-star licensed guide, guests on this private Lyon Jewish heritage tour can explore the city’s rich history through the lens of various language options. Whether you’re a local or an international visitor, the tour offers live guides fluent in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience for all.

Language	Availability
English	✓
French	✓
German	✓
Italian	✓
Spanish	✓

With the guide’s expertise and linguistic versatility, guests can explore the fascinating stories and landmarks that showcase Lyon’s vibrant Jewish heritage, from the Roman era to the World War II era and beyond.

Important Information

Comfortable shoes are a must when embarking on this immersive Lyon Jewish heritage tour, as the experience involves a fair bit of walking around the city’s historic streets and alleyways.

The group size is limited to 1-25 guests, ensuring personalized attention from the 5-star licensed guide. Larger groups can be accommodated, but at a higher price.

Be sure to check your email the day before for any important tour information.

This tour offers:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Sightseeing around the Great Synagogue and other significant Jewish sites
• Recommendations for additional activities to enhance your Lyon experience
• A tailored pace to suit your interests
• Fascinating historical insights on the Jewish community’s rich legacy in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kosher Food Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include kosher meals, but the guide can provide recommendations for nearby kosher restaurants or shops where guests can purchase kosher snacks or items during the tour.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Synagogue?

Unfortunately, photography is generally not allowed inside the Great Synagogue of Lyon. The tour guide will provide important historical information and insights about this sacred site. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the synagogue’s policies during the private tour.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for People With Disabilities?

The tour offers accommodations for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility and guided tours adapted for those with hearing or vision impairments. Travelers are encouraged to discuss their needs when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Stop on the Tour?

The tour spends around 30 minutes exploring Vieux Lyon, 20 minutes at La Longue Traboule, 10 minutes at the Cathedral, 20 minutes at the Great Synagogue, and time discovering the medieval Jewish quarter landmarks like Rue Lanterne and Rue Juiverie.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit each guest’s pace and interests. The 5-star licensed guide tailors the experience, focusing on the historical details and sites most meaningful to you. They’re happy to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences.

The Sum Up

The Lyon Jewish Heritage and Old Town Private Tour offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich Jewish history. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors explore the picturesque Vieux Lyon neighborhood, uncover the significant contributions of the Jewish community, and gain personalized insights into the resilience and heritage of this vibrant culture. It’s an immersive experience that brings the past to life and leaves a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: