Lyon: the Great Bike Tour From North to South

Exploring Lyon by bike offers a thrilling way to experience the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture. As cyclists weave through the vibrant streets, they’ll discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks that paint a captivating portrait of this French metropolis. From the stunning riverfront vistas to the charming cobblestone alleys of Vieux Lyon, this guided tour promises an exhilarating journey that showcases the city’s harmonious blend of old and new. Buckle up and get ready to uncover the layers that make Lyon a truly remarkable destination.

Key Points

• The guided bike tour showcases Lyon’s vibrant cityscape, from the historic renaissance monuments to the picturesque riverbanks and the charming Vieux Lyon neighborhood.
• Cyclists can admire the stunning views of the Saône and Rhône rivers converging at the heart of the city and the serene beauty of the peninsula.
• The tour provides opportunities to explore Lyon’s rich architectural heritage, including the Palais de Justice, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Palais de la Bourse.
• Cyclists will cross the Saône River, seeing the medieval ambiance of Vieux Lyon and its winding alleyways, hidden passageways, and captivating courtyards.
• The 3-hour guided tour includes a bike or e-bike, a 15-minute training session, a local guide, and the option to explore the city in either French or English.

Cycling Through the City

Gliding effortlessly through the vibrant streets, cyclists enjoy the rhythmic pulse of Lyon’s urban landscape, weaving between historic landmarks and modern architecture.

The guided tour provides a unique vantage point, allowing participants to discover the city’s hidden gems and unexpected corners.

With the wind in their hair, they navigate the network of bike lanes, stopping to admire the stunning views of the Saône and Rhône rivers that converge at the heart of the city.

Whether pedaling past the Renaissance-era buildings of Vieux Lyon or the bustling commercial districts, the cycling experience offers an exhilarating and intimate way to explore Lyon’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant urban fabric.

Admiring the Peninsula

Cruising along the riverbanks, cyclists admire the picturesque peninsula nestled between the converging Saône and Rhône rivers.

This iconic landscape, flanked by historic monuments and lush green spaces, offers sweeping vistas that captivate visitors.

As they pedal through the city, tour-goers marvel at the Renaissance architecture that lines the peninsula, from the stately Palais de Justice to the towering Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Stopping to take in the panoramic views, they’re struck by the serene beauty of the rivers flowing on either side, creating a natural oasis amidst the urban landscape.

This tranquil respite provides a welcome contrast to the vibrant energy of Lyon’s city center.

Renaissance Monuments in Lyon

As cyclists coast through the city, they encounter a wealth of Renaissance monuments that bear witness to Lyon’s rich architectural heritage.

From the ornate facades of the Palais de Justice to the soaring spires of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviѐre, these exquisite structures transport visitors back in time, showcasing the city’s distinctive blend of historical significance and modern vibrancy.

The Palais de la Bourse, a grand 16th-century building, serves as a centerpiece of the historic district, its magnificent limestone exterior and intricate detailing captivating passersby.

Similarly, the Cour des Loges, a series of interconnected Renaissance-era courtyards, offers a glimpse into the city’s prosperous mercantile past.

These architectural gems seamlessly integrate with the modern cityscape, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.

Crossing the Saône River

Cyclists cross the tranquil Saône River, leaving the Renaissance monuments behind as they transition into the historic Vieux Lyon neighborhood on the opposite bank.

This iconic bridge crossing offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the river’s gentle flow.

As they pedal across, riders get a sense of Lyon’s storied past and present:

• Gazing up at the pastel-hued buildings lining the riverbanks
• Spotting the intricate architecture of the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
• Marveling at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière perched atop the hill
• Feeling the energy of the lively quayside promenades and cafes
• Immersing themselves in the charming, medieval ambiance of Vieux Lyon

Exploring Vieux Lyon

Having crossed the Saône River, riders find themselves immersed in the enchanting medieval ambiance of Vieux Lyon.

They’ll meander through the narrow, cobbled streets, marveling at the façades of Renaissance-era buildings that have stood the test of time.

The historic district’s winding alleyways and secret passageways, known as ‘traboules,’ invite exploration.

Riders can stop to admire the iconic St. Jean Cathedral, a striking example of French Gothic architecture.

As they wander, they’ll stumble upon charming courtyards, hidden workshops, and lively cafés, all of which contribute to Vieux Lyon’s captivating character.

This vibrant neighborhood offers a glimpse into Lyon’s storied past and a chance to soak up its timeless charm.

The 3-Hour Guided Tour

The 3-hour guided tour allows visitors to experience Lyon’s highlights while cycling through the city’s picturesque streets and along the Saône and Rhône rivers.

Participants begin their journey at the ComhiC shop, where they’re fitted with a bike or e-bike and receive a 15-minute training session to ensure they feel comfortable and confident on the roads.

The tour guide, wearing a distinctive red jacket, leads the small group of 10 or fewer through the city, highlighting:

• The breathtaking views of the Peninsula between the two rivers
• Renaissance monuments and architecture in the heart of the city
• The charming Vieux Lyon neighborhood on the west bank of the Saône
• Cycling paths that offer a unique perspective of Lyon’s northern and southern districts
• Opportunities to admire the wind in your hair and the sights at your own pace.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the 3-hour guided bike or e-bike tour, participants can expect a bike or e-bike, a local guide, a 15-minute training session, and a helmet and rain cape to be provided.

However, transportation to and from the starting point, food and drinks, and tips aren’t included in the tour price.

This allows guests to focus on the highlights of the tour, like feeling the wind in their hair as they ride through the city, admiring the stunning Renaissance monuments, and crossing the Saône River into historic Vieux Lyon.

With a small group size and available in both French and English, the tour offers an intimate and immersive way to explore Lyon from north to south.

Booking and Meeting Point

Booking the Lyon bike or e-bike tour is easy, with the cost set at £50.80 per person. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, checking availability for different starting times.

The meeting point for the tour is the ComhiC shop, a red boutique with a red flag and bikes out front, where the guide wearing a red jacket will greet the small group of up to 10 participants.

The booking process offers several conveniences:

• Reserve now, pay later
• Check availability for preferred start times
• Meet at the easily identifiable ComhiC shop
• Group size limited to 10 for a more intimate experience
• Tour guide in a distinctive red jacket to ensure a smooth meet-up

Recap

Lyon’s bike tour offers an unparalleled way to explore the city’s captivating blend of old and new.

Cyclists enjoy the vibrant rhythms of the urban landscape, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking views.

From the iconic Saône and Rhône rivers to the enchanting Renaissance monuments and charming Vieux Lyon, this guided journey provides an exhilarating and intimate experience, showcasing Lyon’s rich cultural heritage in an unforgettable manner.