Lyon: Segway Tour Along Rhône and Saône River

A Fun and Informative Way to See Lyon

If you’re looking for a lively, engaging way to get to know Lyon’s highlights, a Segway tour along the Rhône and Saône rivers might just be your answer. This 1.5-hour adventure offers a fantastic mix of sightseeing, light exercise, and local insight—all on a cool, easy-to-ride electric transporter. From the moment you meet your guide in the old town, you’ll realize this isn’t just a typical city tour; it’s a breezy, fun-filled exploration of one of France’s most beautiful cities.

What I really like about this tour is how accessible it makes Lyon’s top sights. The quick training session ensures even newcomers feel confident zipping through the streets, and the small-group size guarantees personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for photos. Plus, the guides are full of passion and local tips—shoutout to Romane, Tatiana, and Cecile for making the experience memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone—minors under 14, pregnant women, or those with health issues like vertigo should consider other options. Also, since it’s a river-side route, you might want to check the weather forecast—you’ll want that raincoat handy on a drizzly day. The experience is engaging, safe, and packed with beautiful sights, making it a worthwhile addition to your Lyon itinerary.

Key points / Takeaways

• Accessible for beginners: The 15-minute training makes riding a Segway straightforward, even if you’ve never tried one before.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, so there’s plenty of space for questions and photos.
• Expert guides: Guides like Romaine and Tatiana are praised for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendly manner.
• Iconic sights: Ride through Place Bellecour, along river embankments, and explore Lyon’s medieval and Renaissance districts.
• Great views and photo opportunities: Capture moments at the Bartholdi Fountain, Opera House, and the Fresque des Lyonnais.
• Ideal for first-time visitors: Perfect if you want a quick, fun overview of Lyon’s major landmarks with some insider tidbits.

Discovering Lyon: A Segway Adventure

Starting Point and Training

The tour kicks off in the historic old Lyon, a fitting place to start because it’s the city’s heart and soul. After a quick 15-minute training session—which even the most hesitant will find reassuring—you’ll feel comfortable on your Segway. The instructors, like Cecile or Tatiana, excel at making sure everyone feels ready before heading out. The training is not just about safety; it’s part of the fun, and many reviews mention how surprisingly easy it is to learn.

Riding Along the Rhône River

Your journey begins with a glide through Place Bellecour, one of Europe’s largest town squares, dominated by the statue of Louis XIV. It’s a grand scene, and you’ll soon see why Lyon’s cityscape is so captivating. Then, you’ll follow the embankments of the Rhône River, an area popular with locals for strolling, biking, and relaxing in the gardens stretching for 5 kilometers.

Travelers consistently praise the stunning river views, especially at sunset or on clear days. One reviewer, J, notes that Romane gave them ample time to soak in the scenery while sharing insightful stories about Lyon’s history. Riding along the pedestrian-friendly pathways makes it easy to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed or crowded.

Exploring Lyon’s Downtown and Landmarks

Crossing the Saône River, the tour moves into the medieval and Renaissance district of Vieux-Lyon. This part of the city is full of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and secret courtyards. The guides provide colorful stories about these neighborhoods, helping you appreciate the architecture and history.

Highlights include the Opera House, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, and the Fresque des Lyonnais, a massive trompe-l’œil mural depicting local legends and figures. Many reviews mention guides like Matthew, who “took us safely across key tourist attractions” while sharing local insights that make the sights come alive.

Crossing to the Saône for a City Perspective

The tour’s route shifts across to the Saône River, offering a different perspective of Lyon’s lively downtown. Here, you’ll see more medieval structures, lively cafés, and bustling streets. The guides talk about Lyon’s history, its role as a silk and banking hub, and how its architecture reflects centuries of growth.

Photos and Local Tips

Throughout the tour, your guide will take photos of you on the Segway—something many reviews highlight as a pleasant bonus. They also share local tips about where to enjoy Lyon’s renowned gastronomy or visit lesser-known spots later in the day, adding value beyond just the sightseeing.

Why It Works

Many travelers appreciate how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. J says Romane was “really nice, providing us with a lot of information on Lyon,” blending education with fun. Others, like Kellee, mention how training was “fun and informative,” which sets the right tone for the entire ride.

The Tour’s Practical Aspects

At just 1.5 hours, this tour is an excellent middle ground—long enough to see many sights but not so long that it tires you out. The small group size ensures everyone stays safe and gets personalized attention. Helmets are provided, and raincoats are available if needed—so you’re covered come rain or shine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly well-suited for first-timers, families, or groups of friends looking for a lively, accessible way to see Lyon. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick yet rundown, with the bonus of fun photos and insider tips. However, those with mobility issues, inner ear problems, or pregnancy plans should consider other ways to explore the city.

Price and Value

At a reasonable price for a guided experience, it offers good value, especially when you consider it includes training, a knowledgeable guide, and photos. It’s an efficient way to cover a lot of ground—something that can be hard to accomplish on foot or by bus in such a dense city.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Segway tour blends entertainment and education in a way that keeps most travelers engaged. If you enjoy active, interactive experiences and want a unique perspective on Lyon, it’s a fantastic choice. It’s especially valuable for those new to the city or looking for a fun family outing—just be sure everyone is comfortable on a Segway and meets the minimum age and weight requirements.

For travelers craving a quick cultural fix combined with scenic river views and interesting stories, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. The guides’ enthusiasm and the chance to see Lyon from a different vantage point make it a memorable part of your trip.

FAQ

Is prior experience with Segways necessary?
No. The 15-minute training session ensures everyone, even complete beginners, learns how to ride comfortably before the tour begins.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and fun way to see many sights without feeling rushed.

What sights will I see?
You’ll ride along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, explore Place Bellecour, see the Opera House, Bartholdi Fountain, and the Fresque des Lyonnais, and visit the medieval Vieux-Lyon district.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but participants need to be at least 14 years old and weigh at least 100 pounds (45 kg). Minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Casual, flat shoes are recommended for comfort and safety. The tour provides helmets, and raincoats are available if needed.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with inner ear problems, or individuals over 260 pounds (118 kg). It’s also not recommended for people with vertigo.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel schedule.

This Lyon Segway tour offers a lively, informative, and scenic way to experience the city. It’s a great choice if you want to combine light adventure with cultural highlights—perfect for making your Lyon visit both fun and memorable.