Lyon

Traditions of Lyon: Crafts, Courtyards & River Stories

Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours 5

(52)

Traditions of Lyon: Crafts, Courtyards & River Stories

Follow your interests through Lyon’s living traditions on a walk shaped around your pace, curiosity, and sense of connection.

You may think that lyon is perpetually 72 degrees and sunny, and it often is but the nights can become rapidly chilly so make sure to pack or wear layers

What makes this experience special

Step into Lyon’s layered past with a host who tailors each moment to you, sharing crafts still practiced, spaces that invite pause, and stories shaped by your pace and curiosity.

Key highlights

Explore old alleys your way, silk routes, civic sites, or stories beneath the stones
Choose covered walkways or quieter corners, depending on what draws you in
Step into a space of living heritage, shaped by what’s open and what interests you most
Hear how customs have shifted or stayed the same, guided by your questions
Pause in peaceful courtyards, or move on if you prefer to keep the rhythm flowing
End beside a mural or by the river, depending on the tone you want to close with
Tailor the focus and pace throughout, your host responds to your energy and curiosity

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Pl. Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Pl. Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France

Passageways of the Past

Stone alleys where Lyon’s old soul lingers

Traditions of Lyon: Crafts, Courtyards & River Stories

You might begin in Lyon’s Old Quarter, where soft light filters through archways and centuries-old façades whisper of trade and tradition. Your host follows your lead, perhaps you explore traboules once used by silk workers or slip into a quieter route where few others wander.

A Tradition Still Alive

A quiet space where heritage is practiced, not displayed

You’ll step into a place where Lyon’s traditions continue in everyday ways. What you encounter will shift with the day and your host’s insight; sometimes it’s a craft in motion, other times it’s a conversation that reveals how the past lives on.

Courtyard Pause or Sacred Corner

Stillness and story in an architectural embrace

In a hushed courtyard or chapel, you might pause. Your host shares what matters to you, maybe the structure’s past, a moment from its civic life, or simply how people once moved through the space. You can linger, sketch, or reflect. It’s your pace.

Final Reflections, River or Mural

From flowing water to local color, a story still moving

You might close by the Rhône or Saône, watching the city’s life flow past, or stand before a local mural that brings a cultural thread into focus.

Optional Close: An Unscripted Moment

A peaceful close

If time and energy allow, your host may suggest a final stop, a peaceful spot or place they love that fits the day’s feel. No plan, just presence.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Taking in the Views from a Stunning Hilltop

Capturing Moments by a Timeless Landmark

Laughter and Friendship in a Picturesque Square

Sharing Smiles Beneath Iconic French Architecture

Family Adventures with a Breathtaking Skyline

Savoring Every Bite of a Cozy French Meal

Chic Strolls Through Charming French Streets

A Cozy Café Moment for Two

Style and Sunshine at Palais Royal

Elegant Outdoor Dining with a Touch of Warmth

Sun-Kissed Day at Montmartre

Inside the Beauty of Parisian Churches

Capturing Joy at the Eiffel Tower

Parisian Shopping Adventures with New Friends

Lyon

Fun Encounters at the Wall of Fame in Montmartre

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

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What travelers think of our France experiences

Mary Aug 2025

We loved our tour of Monmartre with Pascal. The tour was fun and hit all of the spots where artists lived and painted. We stopped in the area center and bought lovely watercolor pieces to take home. I highly recommend.

Mary Aug 2025

We loved Pascal’s sense of humor and also attention to detail. He knew I was an artist so he took us out of the way to show us several houses and plaques from where the artists used to live.

Steven Aug 2025

Elies Aug 2025

Del was great, she recommended different ideas, was very patient with the kids, and adapted to our pace. She knew the area very well.

Alice Aug 2025

Host, Jill was warm and friendly, provided great insight and showed us some highlights of Paris - our first time visiting. Loved meeting her and getting a tour from a local!!

Nicole Aug 2025

We loved learning about the area of Monmarte. The history, the art, and the culture. This was our families favorite place to tour. Our guide, Hristo also gave us great recommendations for lunch and where to have our daughters portraits drawn after our tour. We felt we were able to confidently navigate following our tour.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can I request specific places or types of stops?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.