best food tours lyon

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• Best Lyon Food Tours

The 7 Best Lyon Food Tours in France’s Gastronomic Capital

Published 06 November 2023 by  Leyla Alyanak  — Parisian by birth, Lyonnaise by adoption, historian by passion

Lyon is known for many things - and great food is at the top of the list. If you're looking for an introduction to the city's food specialties, taking one of these 7 Lyon food tours is the best way to start. 

Walking tours are ideal to discover Lyon and lyonnaise cuisine.

My first Lyon food tour was typical: it involved walking around the Old Town, sampling everything from pralines to saucisson. But the best part was meeting the various restaurant and shop owners, who explained the "why" of dishes, and the stories behind them.

NOTE: Pages on this site may contain affiliate links, which bring in a small commission at no cost to you.

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Just want the #1 best Lyon food tour? 

Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Food Tour Option

This tour has it all, from delicious food samples of local specialties to authentic French wine. Their local guides are filled with knowledge about Lyon’s food culture and they have over 200 five-star reviews.

Book It Now!

7 Best food tours in LYON

• 1. Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Tour Option
• 2. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch
• 3. Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour
• 4. Lyon: Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide
• 5. Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience
• 6. Lyon Vegan Food Tour
• 7. Lyon Electric Bike Tour including Food Tasting with a Local Guide

The 7 Best Lyon Food Tours

Below you’ll find a list of the top 7 food tours to take in Lyon, and they're all highly rated, with a minimum of 4.5 out of 5 stars (most actually have 5/5).

Lyon has over 4,000 restaurants that feature French cuisine, including many local and regional specialties. Food has long been an important part of the local culture, and many of the best-loved recipes have been passed down through generations − that's how important food is here.

Most Lyon food gourmet tours traditionally involve a walk through the historic old town, where you'll visit several establishments and sample food and wine. A few other tours may take you to different parts of town, like the vegan tour that goes to Croix-Rousse or the bike tour that explores several parts of Lyon. 

Whichever you choose will be a great start to your Lyon culinary adventure − and you won't have to face the overwhelming decisions of what to try first, where, and you'll gain plenty of insight into the food culture. 

Let me add that many of the Lyon food tours are similar, varying only in length and the choice of local artisans along the way, whether charcuterie producers or praline makers. They're all highly rated and you'll do well with any of them.

Also, descriptions are accurate at the time of writing but stops and samples may change, so be sure to click through and check before you book!

1. Secret Food Tours Lyon with Private Food Tour Option

Indulge in the best of French cuisine including freshly baked pastries, a traditional Canut breakfast sampling, Lyonnais sweet treats, French cheeses, and a secret dish on this tasty Lyon food tour − which also, by the way, includes a tasting of French wine. 

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours    ✔︎  Sample a traditional Canut (silk weaver's) breakfast ✔︎  Fresh pastries ✔︎  Hot dish in a traditional "bouchon" ✔︎  Creamy French cheeses ✔︎ Walk through the Old Town in the heart of Lyon ✔︎ French red and white wine

🍽️  BOOK YOUR SECRET FOOD TOUR HERE

This secret food tour in Lyon will explore the Old Town Neighborhood of the city. The group is limited to 12 people so it is the perfect way to experience the food culture in Lyon without a large crowd. 

You can also book this as a completely private tour for just your group. Not only does a private tour give you a more personalized experience, but it also can fit better with your schedule as you can select a start time based on your needs.

⭐️  Rating: 5 / 5  ⭐️

“Highly recommended, you get to see some of the sights of Lyon and taste your way through some true culinary delights.” －John

"Charlotte provided us with such knowledge of Lyon (and all of France) and brought us to the most amazing food stops. Would absolutely take another Secret Food tour!! － Samantha E.

See more reviews here

2. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties

This half-day food tour takes place in Lyon’s historic old town and stops  at 6 different establishments, where you'll taste 10 different local specialities, meet local food producers and learn more about Lyon’s incredible gastronomical scene. Make sure you show up for this tour hungry, because it also includes a delicious lunch.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  10 food tastings in 6 different establishments ✔︎  Passionate and expert guides ✔︎  Small group with a maximum of 12 people ✔︎  Walk through Lyon’s Old Town and meet local producers ✔︎  Lunch included

🍷  BOOK YOUR OLD LYON TOUR HERE

This highly rated food tour is limited to a small group of 12, so you’ll get a personalized experience and be able to interact with the local guide.

The tour takes place in Lyon’s old town and includes a walking tour to learn more about the history and culture of the neighborhood.

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 ⭐️

“This was by far the best tour we did while in France! A perfect combination of history, seeing the city, and trying plenty of food (with generous portions)." －Maria

"Wonderful meeting the shop owners and seeing the obvious pride they have in their products!" －Nicol_W "We loved every place we stopped at and appreciated they were all locally owned and operated. The entire tour was wonderful! I highly recommend it!" －Diane_M

3. Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

Another exploration of Vieux Lyon takes place with this 4-hour Lyon food tour, during which you'll taste 14 delicious local products. As part of your tour, you'll explore  St Jean Cathedral, along with Old Lyon's traboules, or secret passageways, once used by merchants to keep their silk cloth dry.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  14 food tastings at 5 different places, equivalent to a typical lunch ✔︎  Expert local guide ✔︎  Walk through Lyon’s Old Town, one of Europe's largest Renaissance areas ✔︎ See the Cathedral of St. Jean and the famous passageways

🍗  BOOK YOUR OLD LYON 4-HR FOOD TOUR HERE

This tour mixes history and food tastings and gives you the chance to explore Lyon’s oldest neighborhood while tasting some delicious food. Your guide will show you 5 different places where you can enjoy local food tastings and learn more about the food culture of Lyon.

⭐️  Rating: 4.8 / 5  ⭐️

“Our tour was outstanding. Three tours in one. Historical, architectural, and, of course, culinary. Superbly well-designed and managed by Erick, who was extremely well-versed in the history and origins of food in Lyon.” － Anonymous

4. Lyon Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide

This Old Town walking tour stops at 4 different places to meet with local artisans to learn more about French cuisine in Lyon.  This afternoon food tour allows you to sample some of the best French food, including typical dishes – an assortment of regional cheeses, local cold-cut meats, brioche, praline pie and artisanal regional ice cream, along with French wine and local beer.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours     ✔︎  10 food tastings at 4 different places ✔︎ Expert local guide and small group tour ✔︎  Local cold cuts with red wine ✔︎ Selection of regional cheeses with white wine ✔︎ Praline pie and chocolates ✔︎  Alcoholic beverages included

🍫  BOOK YOUR WALKING FOOD TOUR HERE

This food-tasting tour offers late afternoon starting times, which is perfect for anyone wanting to do their sightseeing in the morning, and is capped at 12 people to keep it small and intimate.

⭐️  Rating: 4.7 / 5  ⭐️

"Our guide was both knowledgeable and passionate about Lyon, its history, and its food. The food samples were VERY good. A great way to explore Vieux Lyon.” －Mitch

5. Do Eat Better Lyon Food Tour

Lyon is the perfect destination for foodies, and this food-tasting tour is sure to meet expectations for some delicious French cuisine. Wander through the Old Town of Lyon while making stops at 5 different places for some unique food tastings.

Try such Lyonnaise specialties as pike quenelle (dumplings) with rice, cervelle de Canut (a creamy cheese dip), praline brioche, and more while your guide explains more details about food culture in Lyon.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours    ✔︎  5 unique food tastings at 5 different locations ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Try cervelle de canut, the artisanal creamy cheese, and taste a pike quenelle ✔︎ Top it off with a praline brioche and a typical Lyon sweet, the "coussin lyonnais" ✔︎ Wine and bottled water included ✔︎ Small group tour

🍭  BOOK YOUR DO EAT BETTER TOUR HERE

This small group tour is limited to 10 or fewer participants so that you can sample the foods promptly and have a chance to ask questions. The tour visits local artisan shops, bakeries, and more in the area of Lyon’s Old Town.

⭐️  Rating: 4.5 / 5  ⭐️

“Great to be informed about the local delicacies and introduced to new things we hadn’t come across yet. Perfect sized group.” － Shannon

"We enjoyed the great local people, shops and food and Baptiste's connections across Vieux Lyon. A must experience for anyone." －Neal_E

6. Lyon Vegan Food Tour

This vegan food tour in Lyon is an incredible food-tasting experience for those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet and lifestyle, and as of this writing, this is the only vegan tour in the city of Lyon. 

Not only will you get to experience some of the best vegan food in France, but you will also get to taste foods from a few of the best vegan restaurants in Lyon. Your professional guide will also be able to give you recommendations on where to eat vegan or vegetarian-friendly food during your stay in Lyon.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours    ✔︎  Vegan food tastings ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Explore the bohemian Croix-Rousse neighborhood of Lyon ✔︎ Perfect tour option for vegans and vegetarians

🍇  BOOK YOUR VEGAN FOOD TOUR HERE

This small-group tour features 100% vegan food tastings, but you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy it. It is also a great option for people who want to try something different from the typical food tours in Old Town, whether they are vegan or not.

The tour explores the Croix-Rousse neighborhood of Lyon, which has an artsy, bohemian feel to it. This was once home to the silk weavers and their workshops, and today, it is filled with beautiful street murals, art galleries, and eateries.

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 ⭐️

“Lulu is a super guide. In addition to taking us to many fine vegan restaurants and a patisserie, she showed us the Croix-Rousse on a very interesting tour.” －Fred_H

"Don’t eat ahead of time… portions are generous. Guide is super knowledgeable about vegan jam and Croix-Rousse history. All around happy with my choice!" －Naomi_B

"I am a non-vegan (and non-vegetarian) and booked this tour because my children are vegetarians. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased at how good the food was on this tour!" － Anonymous

7. Lyon Electric Bike Guided Tour With Food Tasting

Combine a food tour in Lyon with sightseeing on this electric bike tour with food tastings. A local guide will take you around the highlights of Lyon by electric bike, seeing all the interesting sites in Lyon’s UNESCO-heritage old town and along the beautiful Rhône River.

Your guide will tell you more about the history of Lyon and how it became known as the food capital of France. In addition to stopping at several historical sites, you’ll wrt stop at a local eatery to sample some of Lyon’s best foods.

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours    ✔︎  Electric bicycle and helmet ✔︎  Option to book a 2.5-hour tour or 4-hour tour ✔︎  Local expert guide ✔︎  Explore Lyon’s Old Town pedestrian zone ✔︎ Stop at a local eatery for delicious food samples ✔︎  Glass of wine or drink of your choice ✔︎  Small group tour

🥖  BOOK YOUR ELECTRIC BIKE TOUR HERE

On this tour of Lyon, you’ll see important sites such as the Place Bellecour, Place des Terreaux, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and more. The food stop at a local restaurant will also allow you to taste some of the famous Lyon cuisine. 

This is a great option for those who want to combine food tasting with sightseeing on either a 2.5-hour or a 4-hour tour. Both tours include food tasting and sightseeing, but the 4-hour tour includes a ride up to La Croix-Rousse for incredible views of Lyon.

“The bikes were fun and the route was quite safe. It is a great orientation to everything you would want to see in Lyon. Bring a refillable water bottle!” —Mike

"Definitely need electric bike to go up steep hills – effortless via e-bike and well worth going." —Awi_K

"A fantastic tour of the overall layout of the city along with a great pit stop for wine and a snack. Do this one early on your trip so you can take full advantage of all their recommendations for food, shopping, and fun local experiences." —Spencer_R

Before you go...

In my story on Lyon as the  world capital of gastronomy,   read all about the Lyonnaise mothers, or mères lyonnaises, who contributed so much to the city's local culture as chefs during the 19th century.

Lyon is home to many regional and local food specialties, many with recipes passed down through generations.

Eating well is important here, and is one of the best things to do in Lyon .

My favorite foodie activity? Spend a few hours in  Les Halles Paul Bocuse , the city's covered market with a wide range of high-end products.

So go out, explore, and eat to your heart's content!

HEADED TO LYON?

🏙️ A Lyon City Pass covers your transportation and most attractions

🏢 Have a look at hotel availability during your stay

🙋‍♀️ Sign up for an interesting Lyon tour to learn more about the city

Bonjour! I’m Leyla, born in Paris, I now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France. My days are spent exploring my country. 

As a journalist and former diplomat, I spent years living abroad and now, it’s time to rediscover my own back yard.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, with plenty of food stops and many castles – I am French, after all!  Read more here .

Did you enjoy this article? I'd love if you shared it!

Bonjour! I’m Leyla! I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad in Canada, Spain and Switzerland as a journalist and a diplomat － and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles － I am French, after all!

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Lyon Food Tours : 11+ Best Local Tours and activities | 2023

Taste culinary delights on a food tour through beautiful Lyon!

Lyon, the culinary capital of France, down and dirty: you’ve got Presqu’Île, Vieux Lyon, and La Croix-Rousse. You’re gonna smell quenelles , grattons , and cervelle de canut . You will see Renaissance buildings, barges-cum-bars, and greasy spoons for the proletarian sous-chefs slaving away in the tourist kitchens.

But let’s get to the heart of the matter. Sure, you may have been dreaming of Paris. But Lyon is going to be waiting for you by candlelight while dinner stays warm in the oven. Ah yes, my dear, Paris is but a dalliance! Come home to Lyon and really taste la France . Savour the romance. Life is too short for long-lost love. We’re talking about cuisine , amour , la vie . What more do you need to know? Pack your bags then book the flight. Because that’s what food tours are for.

Lyon Food Tours

French food feeds your soul, and the knowledgeable tour guides that lead the superb tours have insight about the city and its’ food scene that will feed your mind.

1. Lyon Food Tour

Lyon Food Tour welcomes everybody into town for accessible tours in small groups going short distances. They provide vibrant, passionate guided tours through Les Halles, Presqu’île and Old Town. The leisurely pace gives you the chance to receive uniquely crafted experiences full of anecdotes, serious food, and an excellent first excursion. We recommend their 4-hour Old Town Food Tour which features local artisanal delicacies and a visit at a traditional Lyonnais bouchon restaurant. The emphasis at these hyperlocal eateries is on having a good time and getting your fill.

2. Praline et Rosette Food Tour

Praline et Rosette offer a series of relaxed gourmet food tours exclusively in French . If you’re a Francophile foodie visiting Lyon for the first time, this is the company for you. With several tours and friendly guides, experience Lyonnais cuisine the way it’s meant to be! Learn about traditional specialties and tour local restaurants to practice your language skills and develop a taste for the region. Our favourite tour of theirs is the Choco’Lyon , with 5 stops to artisanal chocolatiers on the Presqu’île peninsula. If you’re thinking of extending your stay in Lyon, chocolate is a good way to resist the call of the road.

3. Tasty Lyon

Tasty Lyon offers a half-dozen guided tours in English with a chill vibe and a variety of additional services. Get in touch with the gourmet side of Lyon, or take a tour through the Croix Rousse neighbourhood, or book a private tour for a more intimate experience . Our best rec is for the Best Of Lyon Private Tour , a picturesque walking food tour that takes a half day. Educational, affordable and unique, Tasty Lyon is the best choice for parties of English-speaking first-time visitors.

4. Free Tour Lyon

Free Tour Lyon is definitely your best bet for Western Europe backpacking and impromptu family excursions. Although free to book, they are food tours making stops in local restaurants, so make sure to bring some pocket change at least. We recommend the Morning Food Tour Lyon which gives you the opportunity to get a proper French breakfast in a famous pastry shop . Just remember, if you show up out-of-season, then you can still take the self-guided tour!

5. Only Lyon

Only Lyon Tourisme offers a series of incredible food tours showcasing traditional French cuisine. The Old Lyon Food Tour begins with a mâchon breakfast, including pork tripe and Mâconnais wine. The 2-kilometre trek down along La Saône river heads into lunchtime, stopping at 6 culinary destinations, so it is advised not to make lunch plans following the tour. Along the way you’ll get acquainted with local artisans and discover secret passageways, or traboules as they’re known locally.

Lyon Wine Tours

Discover Lyon and the surrounding countryside by sipping on premium French wine that’s some of the best in the world.

7. Wine Dine Caroline

Wine Dine Caroline is the premier wine tasting tour company in Lyon. With expert sommelier Caroline Conner at the helm, tours typically include 6-7 local wines, of which Lyon has many. Each tour includes a cheese and charcuterie platter in a maximum group of 8, guaranteeing an intimate experience. For the bon vivant and connoisseur alike, we recommend the Wines of Lyon tasting . The tour includes tastings of Burgundy, Rhône and Beaujolais wines and lasts about 2 hours. So, we say santé in advance and lift our glasses to you!

7. Lyon Oenotourisme

Lyon Oenotourisme likewise offers wine tasting tours for everybody. If you wish, you can take a day trip tour or book one taking place over a period of days . Accompany the experienced local guide and winemaker Vincent Pontet on a tasteful journey through the best of the region’s varietals and bottlings. We suggest the Prestige Tannin Tour , a day trip outside of Lyon, giving you access to the best of Northern Rhône wines.

Kanpai Tourisme aims to celebrate your visit to Lyon. Take a trip through the countryside with an English-speaking driver, to see the sights and taste regional wines. With fun tour names like The Syrah/Shiraz Morning and The Beaujolais Wine Afternoon Discovery, you can’t go wrong. We’re highlighting the Beaujolais Crus Wines and Castles tour , for the authenticity of the bottlings and spectacle of the views. If you want an authentic Lyonnais experience , this is the tour for you.

9. Zingermans Food Tours

Zingermans Food Tours offer stunning and exclusive luxury tours. The 2020 Jura trip is already fully booked. However, if you have an undying love for authentic cuisine and exploring on your own, this is the company for you. Offering experienced knowledgeable guides and a group capacity of 12, these tours make for unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Each journey includes 7 nights accommodation and transportation, with behind-the-scenes tours of local artisanal food makers. Click here to join the waiting list .

Bonus Lyon Tours

Beyond food and wine, there’s more unique ways to find find your way around Lyon!

10. Lyon Bike Tour

Lyon Bike Tour offers accessible guided biking tours spanning the entire city on electric bikes . Most of their tours include pit stops for tastings and take about 2 hours each. The most unique tour they offer is the Confluence Tour , centred on a visit to the modern district that stands between the town’s two rivers. Available in English and French, they offer you everything you need, including a bottle of water and safety helmet.

11. Cybèle Unusual Guided Tours of Lyon

Cybèle describes its tours in French as unusual, but also as providing storytelling and dramatizations . These all-ages tours are indeed out of the ordinary. Five tours in English (and more in French) offer everything from role-playing as Flemish traders at the Grand Royal Fair of 1548, to a crime scene investigation, to an Amazing Race-type team tour. We highly recommend Extraordinary Tour of Lyon’s Old Town , which takes you on an intimate journey to get a closer look at the unique passageways of the Old Town, bringing tales of the Renaissance to life!

Check out our own unique food tour experiences:

• Toronto Culinary Adventure Tour
• Montreal Culinary Tour
• Quebec City Culinary Tour

Things to do in Montreal

Things to do in quebec city, things to do in toronto.

THE 10 BEST Lyon Food Tours

Food tours in lyon.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option

2. Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience

3. Afternoon Old Town Food tour

4. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

5. Private Gourmet Tour : Halles Paul Bocuse Covered Market

6. Lyon Morning Food Market Tasting Tour in Les Halles Paul Bocuse

7. 3h Lyon Vegan Food Tour

8. Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Lyon

9. The 10 Tastings of Lyon Private Walking Food Tour

10. Private Gourmet walking tour of Lyon and Les Halles Paul Bocuse covered market

11. Very Best of Lyon : Private Tour

12. Lyon Old Town Private Food Tasting Tour with a Local Expert

13. Lyon Walking Tour and Food Market Discovery

14. Beaujolais Wine Lovers Tour with Private Driver

15. Rhone Valley Wine Tasting

16. Private Gourmet Tour of Lyon's Historic Center

17. Downtown Lyon Food Tour with Local Food Guide

18. Lyon The Original Private Food Tasting Tour

19. Lyon Private Morning Market Food Tasting Tour in Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Beaujolais Segway Tour with Wine Tasting

Cheese and Wine Accord Tour at Château de Champ-Renard

Gourmet walk in the gardens of Château Champ-Renard

2 Days Foodie Weekend with a Private Sommelier

What travellers are saying.

• Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley
• Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option
• Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience
• Afternoon Old Town Food tour
• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon
• Lyon Food Tour
• Praline et Rosette
• The Foodie Lyon
• Lyon-Winetours
• Secret Food Tours Lyon

THE 10 BEST Lyon Food Tours

Food tours in lyon.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option

2. Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience

3. Afternoon Old Town Food tour

4. Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

5. Private Gourmet Tour : Halles Paul Bocuse Covered Market

6. Lyon Morning Food Market Tasting Tour in Les Halles Paul Bocuse

7. 3h Lyon Vegan Food Tour

8. Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Lyon

9. The 10 Tastings of Lyon Private Walking Food Tour

10. Private Gourmet walking tour of Lyon and Les Halles Paul Bocuse covered market

11. Very Best of Lyon : Private Tour

12. Lyon Old Town Private Food Tasting Tour with a Local Expert

13. Lyon Walking Tour and Food Market Discovery

14. Beaujolais Wine Lovers Tour with Private Driver

15. Rhone Valley Wine Tasting

16. Private Gourmet Tour of Lyon's Historic Center

17. Downtown Lyon Food Tour with Local Food Guide

18. Lyon The Original Private Food Tasting Tour

19. Lyon Private Morning Market Food Tasting Tour in Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Beaujolais Segway Tour with Wine Tasting

Visit of the Château & wine and chocolate workshop

Tasting and Chais Tour

2 Days Foodie Weekend with a Private Sommelier

An All-Terrain Electric Scooter Excursion in Génissieux

What travellers are saying.

• Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley
• Secret Food Tours Lyon w/ Private Tour Option
• Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience
• Afternoon Old Town Food tour
• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon
• Lyon Food Tour
• Praline et Rosette
• The Foodie Lyon
• Lyon-Winetours
• Secret Food Tours Lyon

15+ French Dishes You Need To Try On Your Lyon Food Tour

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It had been our dream to visit Lyon, France for the longest time, and we finally made it happen this year!! Dubbed the “food capital of the world,” Lyon is every foodie’s dream come true. Home to many top chefs like Mère Fillioux, Paul Bocuse, and Mathieu Viannay, Lyon is no doubt the ideal place for you to fall in love with French cuisine!

Before you embark on your Lyon food tour, make sure to familiarize with the Lyonnaise cuisine. That way you can feel like a local as you experience the best Lyon has to offer. This introductory food guide highlights the typical French dishes you will find in Lyon as well as a list of the best bouchons in Lyon and top Michelin restaurants in France to add to your itinerary.

Salade Lyonnaise

Let’s start with appetizers!

You’ll find Salade Lyonnaise (Lyonnaise salad) at almost every restaurant in Lyon. What’s so special about Lyonnaise salad?

Typically, the bowl comprises of fresh lettuce with small pieces of bacon, poached eggs, croutons, and vinaigrette dressing, but every restaurant does it a bit differently.

Some bouchons (old-fashioned bistros) have their own magic recipe to tempt diners’ taste buds. For example, at Daniel & Denise, the salad also comes with snout slices, lentils, smoked herring, and potato amandine. It is the most unforgettable Salade Lyonnaise we have ever tried!

Cervelle de Canut

Don’t gross out by its literal translation “silk worker’s brains, ” there is no component of brains in Cervelle de Canut whatsoever. Instead, this specialty is more like a cheese spread, made of fromage blanc, chopped herbs, shallots, salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar. It is enjoyed with sliced baguette as an hors-d’œuvre.

So, where did the name “silk worker’s brains” come from?

Back in the day, silk production was the pillar of Lyon’s economy. The city was known as the silk-weaving capital of France . When the silk industry reached its peak in the 19th century, there were over 100,000 looms in business!!

Silk workers, known as ‘ canuts ’, would start working before dawn. To recharge, they would visit bouchons for a hearty morning meal ( mâchon ), and the seasoned cheese spread was typically served on the table.

Rosette de Lyon

Along with baguette and Cervelle de Canut, it is common to find   dry-cured pork sausage ( Rosette de Lyon ) served as an appetizer. This signature specialty is made with a casing from a pig’s lower intestine, stuffed with coarse ground pork. It makes a tasty addition to sandwiches and charcuterie boards.

Andouillette

Speaking of sausages, you will come across andouillette in markets or on restaurant menus. The famous Andouilette is made entirely of pork (sometimes veal) intestines and stomachs, seasoned with pepper, wine, and onions.

It is known to have a very strong, distinctive smell so be prepared. Most of the time, it is served hot, either boiled, panfried or barbecued, but it can be eaten cold as well.

Fonds d’Artichauts aux Foie Gras

Another classic starter is Fonds d’Artichauts aux Foie Gras.  First created by la mère Filloux, later modified by Eugénie Brazier, this dish combines delicate melting foie gras and crisp artichoke hearts, providing a remarkable depth of flavour!

Pâté en Croûte

Literally “pâté in a pastry crust,” Pâté en Croûte is a popular cold dish. Typically, the pâté is made of pork, but sometimes it can be veal, poultry or rabbit. Between the meat pie and pastry crust, chilled transparent jelly is added to fill the top cavity.

The end product is rich, dense and divinely good.

Saucisson de Lyon Brioche

One of our favourite French dish in Lyon is Saucisson de Lyon Brioche (sausage in a brioche).  Salty and sweet, it is amazing how something simple like this can be so satisfying. Cooked sausage stuffed in a wonderfully soft and buttery brioche, it is a taste you can never forget!

You will see Quenelles everywhere in Lyon bistros. This football-shaped specialty is typically made with pike (a freshwater fish), mixed with butter, flour, milk, and eggs. It is cooked with tomato sauce, béchamel, or the famous Nantua sauce (prepared with crayfish, carrots, celery and cognac).

Coq au Vin (Rooster in wine sauce) , another legendary dish in Lyonnaise cuisine. Essentially, it comprises of chicken seasoned with herbs and vegetables. The meat is then slowly braised in a Burgundy wine sauce until it is tender on the inside. The stew dish promises textured, juicy meat!

Soupe aux Truffes Noires V.G.E.

When speaking of French dishes, we can’t leave out Chef Paul Bocuse, the pope of French cooking and the founding father of modern French cuisine.

His most famous dish was Soupe aux Truffes Noires V.G.E. (black-truffle soup named after former French President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing). This famed soup contains foie gras, mushrooms, truffles, and chicken broth;all held captive under a dome of puff pastry.

You can try this classic dish at his three Michelin-starred restaurant in Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or located just 4km north of Lyon.

Poulet En Vessie

Another one of Bocuse’s iconic dishes is Poulet en Vessie (truffle-stuffed bresse chicken cooked in a pig’s bladder).

We know what you’re thinking: Cooking in pig’s bladder? How? This is a technique pioneered by Brazier (remember we mentioned her earlier?). It begins by stuffing slices of black truffles and foie gras under the chicken skin. The chicken is then enclosed in the bladder and packed in an aromatic broth. The method makes the meat extremely flavorful and moist!

At Paul Bocuse Restaurant, the staff will deflate the bladder and debone the entire chicken in front of your eyes. In case you are curious about how it is done, check out the clip below:

Bugnes Lyonnaises

Now, let’s move onto desserts!

Bugnes Lyonnaises is a classic Lyonnaise dessert, similar to beignet but not quite the same. This lemon-scented pastry is thinner and crunchier, sprinkled with powdered sugar.

You will see pink pralines (almonds with pink sugar coating) everywhere on the streets of Lyon. This traditional French confection is unique to Lyon, can be eaten alone as it is or added to desserts.

Tarte aux Pralines

The most common pralines dessert is Tarte aux Pralines (Pralines Tart).  The combination of crushed pralines and all-butter shortcrust pastry delivers an irresistible taste!

Coussin de Lyon

Shaped in a pillow, this sweet specialty of Lyon is made with chocolate, marzipan, flavoured with curacao liqueur. It can be distinguished with its aqua green colour.

Best Restaurants in Lyon for Classic Lyonnaise Meals

All those sound delicious, but where can you have a classic Lyonnaise meal? below are a few bouchons and Michelin star restaurants in Lyon we recommend you stop by!

Daniel Et Denise

To try traditional Lyonnaise food, we highly suggest putting Daniel et Denise on your agenda. As one of the best bouchons in Lyon, the bistro is dedicated to serving local specialties. Their delicious Lyonnaise dishes like quenelle and salade Lyonnaise are sure to dazzle taste buds!

The restaurant has four locations across the city. Reservation is recommended as they can get quite busy (even on weekdays)!

La Mère Brazier

We mentioned Eugénie Brazier a few times earlier. She is the mother of modern French cooking and the first woman to be awarded six Michelin stars! Many renowned chefs including Paul Bocuse were her student.

To get a taste of her recipes, visit La Mère Brazier – her first restaurant, which was established in 1921 when she was only 26 years old. Today, the establishment holds two Michelin stars and is run by executive chef Mathieu Viannay.

Auberge Du Pont De Collonges

The Paul Bocuse Restaurant in Lyon is a destination itself, attracting foodies around the world year-round. This luxury establishment has held three Michelin stars continually since 1965. It is also the only one in Lyon to receive three stars.

You will quickly understand why it is worth a special journey as soon as you arrive. The dining rooms in Paul Bocuse Restaurant is pure elegance. Service is impeccable. Each dish is carefully planned to balance tastes and textures. The entire dining experience is unmatched by any other Lyon Michelin restaurants.

Today, Chef Bocuse is no longer there, but a trio of chefs, Christophe Muller, Gilles Reinhardt, and Olivier Couvin, carry on his legacy so that you can enjoy his classic dishes like black truffle soup and sea bass stuffed in puff pastry shell.

Les Halles De Lyon Paul Bocuse

For casual eateries, we recommend Les Halles De Lyon Paul Bocuse, a well-known indoor food market in Lyon, named after the famous chef Paul Bocuse.

The market houses 48 food stalls impressing you with gourmet delights, like cured meat, pastries, cheeses, and chocolates (perfect place to go food shopping in Lyon, France!). There is also a good selection of casual bars and restaurants to enjoy a sit-down meal.

Cooking Classes in Lyon, France

Want to learn to make classic Lyonnaise dishes? We recommend book a cooking class on eatwith with chef Thierry.

We did a 3-hour cooking class with him. Aside from learning the traditional cooking technique, Thierry gave us an informative introduction into the history of Lyon and its influence on the Lyonnaise food culture. He is very passionate and knowledgeable!

You can choose between 3 different options – market tour, cooking class, and pastry class. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with Lyonnaise cuisine and we recommend doing this at the beginning of your Lyon vacation!

We hope this article incentivizes you to visit Lyon, the gastronomy capital of France! Lyon is truly unique and has surprised us in so many ways!

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Pingback: 15 Secrets To Help You Visit Lyon, France Like A Local | For Two, Please

Such a great read, thanks for sharing. OMG those desserts – how can you choose between the tarte or the Coussin de Lyon? I would definitely enjoy the cooking class and visiting the restaurants in your article. So much to do I would be in ‘foodie heaven’.

That’s interesting. I live in Belgium currently, neighbour to France and we’re planning to explore the country soon and ofcourse Lyon is in the list! Cervelle de Canut sounds horrible with ‘brain’ in it, but super happy to know that its vegetarian! Oh! I didn’t know Coq au Vin is from Lyon. I know it from SATC movie when Carrie Bradshaw says, ‘I’m more Coco Chanel than Coq au Vin’!!!

Food in Lyon and your cooking class look amazing – I love Coq au Vin personally, it is such a classic. I would love to return to France sometime. I’ve spent months living in France but that was working in the Northern France refugee camps. When I wasn’t working, I was in a very suburban area that felt very much like the UK. I ate a lot of oatmeal and sandwiches and random Ethiopian curries, LOL! So I don’t think I really have gotten a “feel” for France or its more cultural sides – like the amazing food! You’ve definitely inspired me to investigate this for my October travel plans, Cat….

I loved the article! Also made me so hungry!haha, cant wait to go to Lyon to try that soup with foie gras!!!! 

So typically French, where as much care is taken with the food as with its presentation. Though I have not ventured to Lyon , I have a friend from there and he is a top-notch chef and no wonder judging from your article. The Foie Gras serving is gorgeous but what I would really like to taste is the Coq Au Vin. And of course the French Desserts (your photos make my mouth water) – who can resist them ?

My mouth’s watering after reading this post!! The Saucisson brioche looks wonderful, and is something I’d devour in 10 seconds! As I’ve a sweet tooth, the Bugnes Lyonnaise also looks interesting. They’d also make some nice gifts to take home.

I just love the “silk worker’s brains” story. And I could imagine enjoying the cheese spread with a fresh baguette, a bottle of wine, and a nice dried pork sausage, sitting on a bench and watching Lyon pass me by…until I headed off to buy some Bugnes Lyonnaises and chase a few down with a cup of coffee. Mmmmmmmmmm.

Brains of silk workers. Only the French… I just read how Buckingham Palace was built on a mulberry field. The mulberry trees were to feed British silkworms to oust French silk. The praline pie looks amazing.

I think about the only thing I’ve heard of in this post is Coq au Vin. Which is great. Nice to be introduced to some innovative new cooking. I guess Lyon is the place to go. I still haven’t been, so I must add it to the list.

A lot of people don’t know that Lyon is the food capital of France – they always assume it is Paris. I used to live 2 hours from Lyon so I had plenty of opportunities to visit, eat and explore! I So miss the praline tarts – I have not seen them in the US anywhere and they are SO delicious!

This looks absolutely delicious! I’ve never been too keen on French dishes but then again these pictures make me reconsider. La Mere Brazier and the Coussin de Lyon are my top choices but the Tarte aux Pralines looks really delicious as well. I’m positively surprised to be honest, I guess I need to give french cuisine another chance!

I never knew that Lyon is foodies paradise. It would be great to taste all those things here in Lyon. I would love to taste the Lyon dessert – bugnes lyonnaises and Pink pralines. Even the ambiance of Daniel Et Denise is beautiful. Thanks for sharing wonderful list.

wow loved the article thanks

Your food photography is always on point! I’d love to try the Bugnes Lyonnaises – they sound delicious! And, I love that beautiful mural!

I have not visited Lyon before ad only done Paris but this post surely puts it on my list to visit places in France. Being a food buff and enjoying French cuisine it makes it the perfect destination I must say. Truly an understated destination and one which needs more promotion like the capital and Nice.  I would surely want to get involved in the Cooking Class with Chef Thierry.  Thanks for sharing this great culinary journey. 

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A unique gastronomy experience!

Lyon FOOD Tour offers a unique gastronomy experience. Accompanied by a passionate local guide you will discover the capital of gastronomy during a rhythmic guided visit full of unusual anecdotes and exceptional culinary tastings. Explore must see places, meet local artisans and taste products that identify with the reputation of Lyon’s heritage. Make your choice between four types of our gastronomic tours and immerse yourself in the heart of a trip that will delight the gourmet who resides inside of you.

Included in our formulas

Small groups.

Our visits are limited at 12 persons in order to guarantee a convivial moment

Accessible to all

2.5 km of walk at the maximum

Passionate local guide

They will share with you their love for Lyon and its gastronomy

Combine visit and culinary taste

Unusual anecdotes

An original and funny way to discover Lyon

Advices and good addresses

All the tips you need for a successful stay in Lyon !

Local passionate artisans

La Crèmerie Lyonnaise – Cheeses shop

I took over this cheese dairy, which had been open for 8 years, in the Saint Georges district 6 years ago. Having previously worked in catering and food distribution, I wanted to devote myself to my passion for good local products. In collaboration with several regional artisans such as Christian Janier (MOF 2000), I take great pleasure in selecting various and varied quality cheeses for everyone’s enjoyment.

BMD – Wine bar

Passionate about wine since always, I decided to open this establishment 6 years ago. Making myself happy by working with quality products is a priority for me! I select and offer wines from producers in the region but also French and international wines. Having grown up in Old Lyon, this new adventure is a homecoming.

Luminarium – Praline pie and drinks

Alexandre is captain of the Luminarium, a charming establishment with a cozy atmosphere. The Luminarium offers you a wide selection of teas developed by them, but coffee lovers will also be combined. Alexandre has chosen a Mokxa roaster from Lyon and he will be delighted to introduce you to their selection according to the rules of the art, espresso, ristretto or cappuccino, it’s like being in Italy! Sweet tooths will not be left out and could enjoy cheesecake, cookies and other sweets!

Les Fines Gueules –  Bouchon Lyonnais

Here we have two quality requirements: Serving a real Lyonnais food and using fresh local products.

First of all, he studied at the Hotel School of Chamalières and after several experiences in Lyon, Paris and London he had a job at the Paul Bocuse Institute and finally worked 11 years with Paul Bocuse in Collonges as Deputy Director. As a result he is back to the fundamentals of Lyon’s kitchen: Here we peel, we bone, we simmer, in a word we cook “… Enjoy your meal and let you be parched in our beautiful district of Old Lyon!

La chope de Lug – Beer cellar

For 14 years Frédéric has been the master of the place, a real AliBaba cave for those looking for quality Lyonnaise specialties. Here, only good food, artisanal cured meats, Lyonnaise sweets and above all a sense of welcome and unparalleled generosity. Frédéric is a real gone and he will be happy to introduce you to the spirit of Lyon’s ripailleur. “Bon appetit and thirsty”!

La Fabrique Givrée – Artisanal ice creams

The adventure of Fabrique Givrée, is that of three childhood friends: Jérémie, Martin, et Hugues. Jérémie, a young expert and offbeat chef spent his early years in the saucepans. But when he was adolescent he chose to be a pastry chef! After 15 years in prestigious houses (Fauchon, le Bristol, Valrhona), in 2012 Jérémie chooses to leave with his sidekicks in search of the ultimate ice cream, putting his mastery of tastes and textures at the service of his unbridled imagination and his love for sharing.

Etienne (MOF)

Mons – cheeses.

In 1964, Hubert Mons and his wife decided to sell cheeses on the markets of the Roannaise region. In 1983, Hervé, the eldest son, after a career with the greatest Parisian cheese maker, established the first point of sale at the Halles Diderot. He continues to travel around France in search of the best products, producers who still produce in a traditional way respecting the ancestral know-how. Products which then he refines in his cellars.

This is why Maison MONS is now the official supplier of the best restaurants around the world and the reference in terms of cheese specialties.

“Girls”

Bobosse – charcuteries  (cold cuts).

Since the 1960s, René Besson a.k.a Bobosse created a cold cuts shop whose foundations were fresh products, quality and friendliness. From Lyon’s bouchons to the great Parisian restaurants, to the inns of France and Navarre, this ambassador of St Antoine – patron of the charcutiers – has made known his products, thereby developing the image of the whole Beaujolais region. Of course, the years have passed away, but stringed titled andouillettes, baked sausages and other dishes are the best proof of the well-preserved know-how.

“Boys”

Merle – oysters.

In 1938, Alphonse Merle bought the Maison Forte “Oysters and Shellfish” to set up at Les Halles des Cordeliers. With the help of his son Alain, champion of France’s oyster sellers in 1971, he made possible that the house Merle become the reference for the tasting of oysters in Lyon. In 2005, Alain Merle sold his house to the Lameloise family, owner of the Brasserie Georges. Today, the director Philippe Allard and his Chef, Oyster seller, Romain Masse continue this beautiful story with passion and talent.

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Contact us for each particular request.

Lyon Food Tour provides personal custom-made formulas for a unique gastronomy moment!

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At Secret Food Tours: Lyon, we're extremely passionate about French cuisine, and we're delighted to share our love of food and local culture with you. By booking our tour, you'll have the opportunity to experience some of Lyon's finest food and wine, and discover why eating and drinking are a "way of life" here in France.

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A Culinary Journey through Lyon and Southern France

10 days  |  wine & food, experience the best of lyon and southern france's exceptional gastronomy, luxury | from $12,199 pp, day 1: lyon.

Luxury transfer from   Lyon Airport to Hotel in Lyon

A chauffeur will meet you for a private transfer from Lyon Airport to your accommodation in Lyon in a luxury vehicle.

Welcome to Lyon, the “culinary capital of France”

Lyon is an important cultural and historical center with unique geography; the city started flourishing as a Roman colony between the Rhone and the Saône rivers. The Croix-Rousse district is one of the most unique features of the city and was one of the reasons why the city was once known as the “silk capital of the world”, as the Croix-Rousse hill was home to the silk workers of the city up till the 19th century.

One of the titles of Lyon is “culinary capital of France”. Lyon is famous for its gastronomy and offers some of the best French culinary delicacies. Furthermore, Lyon is located between two of the best wine-producing regions in France, the Cotes du Rhône and the Beaujolais. Be it the rejuvenating Beaujolais red wine or local delicacies like salade Lyonnaise, ouille, and marrons glace, you will find plenty to stimulate your taste buds among an extensive choice of restaurants.

Lyon also has a very old tradition of “trompe l’œil” mural art: the art of creating the optical illusion of a three-dimensional scene, which can really take you by surprise.

Restaurant Booking – Restaurant Jeremy Galvan – Dinner

Exalte all your senses and feel free at Jeremy Galvan, a 1 Michelin-star restaurant. The theme of the restaurant is dedicated to 4 elements: Earth and Fire, Water and Air. The intimate and warm ambiance will make you feel relaxed and at ease.

The chef Jeremy Galvan boasts of preparing innovative and daring dishes whilst appreciating fresh, local, and seasonal produce.

Day 2: Lyon

Enjoy a private food walking tour in Croix Rousse

During this historic gourmet tour, you can discover the secrets of gastronomy in Lyon while you stroll around this beautiful district. You can savor exotic delicacies like cheese, charcuterie, delicious chocolates, and rich wines.

You will have a chance to meet your local epicurean guide on the top of the Croix-Rousse hill, and let yourself be guided to the rhythm of sumptuous tastings with interesting anecdotes. You will even be able to appreciate the special atmosphere of the district, a real village in the city, which is still full of memories of the fabulous period when the most beautiful silk fabrics were woven here.

Guests can begin by visiting the workshop of a renowned chocolate maker in Lyon and know about its secrets and methods. The chocolate makers will also be glad to share the techniques and intricacies of chocolate making. After this, you can learn about the history of the silk industry in Lyon while relishing the iconic praline brioche.

At the end of the tour, you can taste exotic cheese and charcuterie and your guide will accompany you through the beautiful farmers market and narrate interesting stories and explain why Lyon is considered the World’s capital of gastronomy.

For persons having sweet tooth, a traditional sweet will be offered for a memorable experience.

Day 3: Lyon

Private guided walking lunch tour

Lyon has been considered the French capital of gastronomy. From fine restaurants to the famous local bouchons, to street food, Lyon offers plenty of options for foodies. However, it is not easy to determine what to taste. With our local guide you will have an overview of Lyon gastronomy, and find a perfect place and the best thing to eat.

First, you will be offered several delicious starters which will awaken your appetite. An authentic Lyon sausage accompanied with potatoes will be served for lunch in a comfortable place.

Finally, you will be taken for a walk through the lanes and streets of Vieux Lyon and along the way get to taste sweet culinary treats.

Suggestion for the afternoon: Walks in Lyon at Tete d’Or Park, Banks of the river Rhône and River Sâone

The Parc de la Tête d’Or (“Park of the Golden Head”) is a 290-acre urban park in Lyon, France.

It includes the Jardin botanique de Lyon as well as a lake where boating is permitted during the summer season. This park attracts a large number of visitors during the summer and it is a popular destination for joggers and cyclists.

There is a small free zoo in the middle of the park that houses giraffes, deer, reptiles, primates and other animals. A velodrome, boules court, mini-golf and equestrian facility are also available, as well as a mini-train.

The Berges du Rhône (Rhône Banks) or Quais du Rhône (Rhône Quays) is a series of parks, quays, streets and walking paths that run along the river Rhône in Lyon. The modern Berges du Rhône were built between 2005 and 2007, resulting in the development of 10 hectares of land on the Rhône’s left and right banks, from Parc de la Tête d’Or to Parc de Gerland.

Day 4: Lyon - Aix-en-Provence

Luxury transfer from   Lyon Hotel to Lyon Train Station

A chauffeur will meet you for a private transfer from Lyon Hotel to Lyon Train Station (Part – Dieu) in a luxury vehicle.

Direct Train from Lyon to Aix-en-Provence in First Class

Luxury transfer from Aix-en-Provence TGV Train Station to Aix-en-Provence

A chauffeur will meet you for a private transfer between the Aix-en-Provence TGV train station and Aix-en-Provence.

Welocme in Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, the capital of Provence in the 15th century is surrounded by authentic Provencal houses, traditional French-style gardens, city squares bursting with flowers, ancient fountains, and shaded narrow streets.

The Cours Mirabeau is one of the most busiest and frequently visited places in the Provence region. Named after the Revolutionary hero the Comte de Mirabeau, this fountain-studded street is surrounded by Renaissance hotels, beautiful verdant trees, and elegant private mansions.

Stroll around the 17th and 18th-century houses, where there is plenty of authentic cafes, and labyrinthine boulevards. You can relax and smell the rich aroma of the coffee, listen to some upbeat techno music, while you spend your time in vibrant ambiance, and relish some of the typical Provencal delicacies.

Restaurant Booking – L’incontournable – Lunch or dinner

Enjoy a delicious meal whilst discovering the endearing surroundings of the lively Aix-en-Provence. Excellent cuisine and delicious drinks accompany you while you relax and enjoy the environment.

Day 5: Lauris - Seguret - Sault - Lourmarin - Aix-en-Provence

Driver at disposal for the day

Enjoy a custom-built private tour from your hotel with an English-speaking driver in a luxury vehicle.

Harvest Mornings – Experience the winemaking process

Grab a pair of boots and a pair of pruning clippers and get into the game of harvesting the delicious grapes. Pick a few rows of vines and bring them back to the cellar to discover how they are transformed into wine.

You can also taste the juices during fermentation which will be followed by lunch in the vineyards.

Perched Balcony Villages of the Luberon

You will discover some of the small villages of Provence, that are built from local stone. Some of the perched villages are Gordes, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Seguret, Les Beaux-de-Provence, Sault and Aurel.

The small village of Seguret is clinging to a hillside and overlooking a vine-filled plain. Here you will see the houses built into the old ramparts. You can stroll through the narrow stone streets, then begin your walk to the chapel at the top to take in the   view of the surrounding plain and the hills of the Dentelles de Montmirail.

The village Sault is known as the Lavender capital of Vauclause and it is located in the heart of the Albion plateau. During the early summer season, you will witness the beautiful view of the lavender fields which will refresh your eyes and nose with its scent.

Lourmarin is recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France. This village is all about art. In every step at this village, you will find an artist. There are varieties of art work that is made. Learn some art and take it as a souvenir. You can also visit the famous 15th century: The Chateau of Lourmarin.

Day 6: Marseille - Cassis - La Ciotat - Bandol - Le Beausset - Aix-en-Provence

Private Gourmet luxury tour to Marseille and the East coast

With this tour, you can be sure you will get the best of Provence, experiencing its gourmet food and typical wine, surrounded by Marseille and the east coast.

Your driver-guide will pick you up at your hotel in the morning for a full day of sightseeing and experiences, in a luxury vehicle. First of all, you will discover the highlights of the second-largest city of France, but also its particularities that make this city so unique thanks to a vibrant cultural and food tour with your driver-guide. Enjoying Marseille from inside out and top to bottom. You will cross the Phocéenne town from the famous old harbor to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, through the winding seaside road called the “corniche”.

After enjoying the thriving Marseille, you will venture to the serene Cassis little town, which is on the way to La Ciotat. The road from Cassis to La Ciotat is taking you across beautiful landscapes. Once a very important shipyard in Europe, La Ciotat is now focusing on the yacht industry. You will have some free time to stroll along its little charming harbor.

After La Ciotat, you will reach the region of Bandol, famous for its vineyards, especially for the Rosé. You will have the opportunity to discover the backstages of an enchanting Domaine hidden in the hills, with a private wine tasting by a passionate winemaker. He will be happy to share with you – part of – its know-how and secrets to get this perfect balance and character from Provence … While tasting wine, you will enjoy a heartbreaking view of the coloured rocky massif of Sainte-Baume.

At the end of this well-rounded day, your driver-guide will drive you back to your hotel.

Day 7: Le Tholonet - Aix-en-Provence - Cannes - Grasse

Driver at disposal for the half-day

Private Initiation Workshop and Tasting (Visit & blind tasting)

During your visit to The Château Henri Bonnaud, the team offers introductory sessions to learn about wine-tasting methods and the varieties of our wines to see and know their heritage.

The visit will be followed by a blind tasting of Domaine’s various wines to identify the various aromas of each wine.

1st class train between Aix-en-Provence and Cannes

Luxury transfer from Cannes train station to your accommodation in Grasse

A chauffeur will meet you for a private transfer between the Cannes train station and Grasse

Restaurant booking at La Bastide Saint Antoine –  Lunch or Dinner

The restaurant is located in the prestigious Provençal country house from the 17th century. The gastronomic restaurant welcomes you in a cozy atmosphere and offers a joyful culinary journey designed to be delicious, fresh, and boldly flavored. The chef boasts of preparation with seasonal produce and refined presentation. Apart from the exceptional dishes, it also offers a wide range of excellent vintage wines from different regions of France. Surrounded by trees and gardens, the terrace of the restaurant offers you a sense of freshness and calmness in your mind, where you can spend amazing time with your loved ones.

Day 8: Saint Tropez - Grasse

Saint Tropez (Gassin) luxury private driving tour

Your licensed driver-guide will pick you up at your hotel in a Luxury vehicle.

Embark from the port of Sainte Maxime for an arrival by the sea in Saint-Tropez, a colorful and unvexed village with an authentic soul filled with eloquent contrasts. It is also known as a mythical and trendy place for international and aristocratic individuals who wish to establish their businesses.

Through a lush-green setting, drive along the famous roads of Pampelonne to enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from the medieval village of Gassin. For a worthwhile experience, complete your “Tropezian day” with a moment of sharing and wine tasting at a nearby vineyard.

Day 9: Grasse

A chauffeur will pick you up in a luxury vehicle from your accommodation and drive you around the French Riviera according to your program and then back to your hotel.

Private Perfume workshop in Nice

Enjoy the living patrimony by creating your own customized vial of perfume from one hundred essences present in the boutique. You will first attend the workshop provided by an expert perfumer and subsequently, with his help make one for your own and take it home.

Restaurant Booking – La Rotonde – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

You will be welcomed by this glamorous restaurant located in heart of Nice. Savor the delicious food throughout the year. You will also explore the children’s menu with many varieties.

Afternoon suggestion: Visit Nice – The Pearl of the French Riviera

The elegant city of Nice is set against an impressive backdrop of soaring hills and the famous blue waters of the French Riviera. The “Place Rossetti” is at the city’s heart, surrounded by brightly colored buildings, the cathedral, and a large fountain lending the square a unique flavor. Nice is a city for all seasons.

The Cours Saleya is the main street in the old town and hosts a daily flower and vegetable market (except Mondays). You can find top-notch seasonal produce here, and there is a good selection of other local souvenirs if you’re eyeing some Marseille soap or lavender to take home with you.

Spend some time by the beautiful harbor, where the sun shines from the west in the evening. It’s a popular restaurant area if you’re looking for a special dinner by the water.

From the harbor, you can climb to the Colline du Château for great views of the city. Despite the name, there is no longer a castle on the hill, as it was destroyed in 1706. Now there is a beautiful park with views of the beach stretching along the Baie des Anges (“Angel Bay”).

The beach might be Nice’s most famous attraction. The famous “Promenade des Anglais” boardwalk follows the Mediterranean seafront for 3 miles (5 kilometers). It was built in the early 19th century when the English upper class began coming to the French Riviera to spend their winters in a mild climate. This gave the boardwalk its name, which translates to the “Walkway of the English.”

Day 10: Nice

Luxury transfer to the airport

Your chauffeur will pick you up at your accommodation in a luxury vehicle and drive you to the airport.

Your journey with us has come to an end. We hope to see you soon!

About This Tour:

• Enjoy 24/7 English-spoken telephone assistance while traveling
• This itinerary includes transport, activities, guides, accommodations with breakfasts, and other listed services
• Price is in USD per person, assuming double occupancy. Note that prices and availability are subject to change.

Customize this itinerary:

Every French Side Travel trip is custom-built for your unique needs and interests. Above is an example of what’s possible. If this isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, contact us today . Put together your dream trip with our travel experts. Handpick the accommodations, guides, activities, and meals that are right for you.

When you book with French Side Travel, you’re getting a trip that’s as unique as you are. 

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Meet the Team

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We are real foodies, and we have made it our goal to introduce visitors to the excellence of Lyonnaise food. Since our small crew resides in Lyon, we will be sharing with you our local knowledge of the dining culture and latest gastronomy trends. Our team of Lyonnaise guides will take you to eateries and food shops, beloved by the area’s locals, and we know you will fall in love with them too.

PRIVATE TOURS Private Tours are specifically organised for your group therefore can be customized to meet your tastes and needs / Choose your date, time and pick-up location

The Best of Lyon

All the highlithts of Lyon in an half day

The Market Tour

Friendly atmosphere and fresh products

Paul Bocuse Covered Market

Discover the high place of Lyonnaise gastronomy

Lyon gourmet tour

Historic districts and tasty gastronomy

The Cheese tour

For the real cheese lovers !

Food and silk in Croix Rousse

A beautiful stroll off the beaten tracks

The Aperitif Tour

Finish your tour around an aperitif !

The charming Old Lyon and the iconic Paul Bocuse Market

The Chocolate Tour

Chocolate in all its states !

The Lunch Tour

The french lifestyle

The very best of Lyon

A full day discovering Lyon

The Silk Tour

The famous silk history

ANOTHER WAY TO DISCOVER LYON, IN ALL ITS SAVORS…

Since the early 20th century, Lyon has been widely considered as the French capital of gastronomy. In 1935, the French gastronomy writer Curnonsky, who was then the most celebrated in the trade wrote “Lyon, the World Capital of Gastronomy”. Lyon gastronomy is often a quite simple way of cooking with local produce. Typical dishes from Lyon might sometimes be rich, but Lyon gastronomy is a high quality traditional cuisine. Discover its main features through a our gourmet tours in the Gauls’ capital…

From the origins of the french cuisine to the new rising stars of the contemporary gastronomy, thank to anecdotes and meetings with shop owners and producers, our food tours are the best way to explore the city in a different way! Visits are in small groups for more conviviality. All our guides are wildly passionate foodies with great personnality who love to share their culture and recipes.

Get you taste buds ready!

21 rue du 8 mai 69550 Amplepluis 06 65 06 00 88 Contact us by mail

Tasty Lyon is not a travel agency but a tourism provider, accredited for the transport of passengers.

© TastyLyon 2018 – www.oz-media.com

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Travel bucket list idea:

Lyon’s best food & drink

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France

Bucket List Experience

Pink praline tart – a Lyon specialty

Quenelle – a Lyon specialty

Pistachio peppered sausage – a Lyon specialty

Garlic snails anyone? A Lyon specialty

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a covered market of some sixty traders and restaurants – it’s Lyon’s foodie central

Credit Shutterstock.com/Pierre Jean Durieu

Most of the produce is locally-made or sourced

There are lots of other excellent food courts too – like this one, ‘Heat’

Lyon, the ‘gastronomic capital of the world’, holds the highest number of Michelin stars in France (after Paris), and is home to so many food shops, markets, food halls and eateries that walking its streets sometimes feels like you’re in one gigantic picnic basket.

The world-renowned wine regions of Beaujolais, Burgundy and the Cotes du Rhone are nearby, for vineyard tours and tastings, also meaning wine sauces are common, as well as great wine lists.

Sandwiched between wine-growing regions and numerous agricultural hubs, the richness of its gastronomy lies in its geography: Bresse chicken from the north; snails and game from the north-east; and pork from the western foothills.

What to try

Quenelles  – creamy, floury dumplings, made most often with pike served in Nantua (crayfish) sauce – is a classic dish.

Also look out for garlicky snails, offal dishes, poultry, pistachio peppered sausage, tablier du sapeur (tripe boiled in white wine) and bright pink praline tart.

Also see our round-up of traditional French foods to try in France .

The dining scene

The most famous chef on Earth was the Lyonnais Paul Bocuse, hailed the ‘Pope’ of French cuisine. His legacy lives on in his award-winning restaurants and in the hearts of almost every top chef today – many of whom are making their own culinary waves in restaurants across town.

Make sure you dine at least once in a traditional bouchon – a welcoming, typically family-run bistro that serves Lyonnais dishes (using every part of the animal) with pitchers of local wine. Many, though, are only open on weekdays and close during August.

Fabulous food halls are another recent addition to the food scene. They’ve popped up all over town with one thing in common: locavore ingredients used by emerging chefs to make memorable and creative French street food. See our recommendations below.

Who to go with: tour operators

Auberge du pont de collonges.

Theatrical Michelin-star dining experience paying homage to one of France’s culinary legends, chef Paul Bocuse. Pioneer of lighter, more innovative nouvelle cuisine.

Adult price: 80

Good for age: 18+

Daniel & Denise Crequis

Wood-panelled walls, red-and-white-chequered tablecloths… the decor in this typical bouchon hasn’t changed in years, and neither has the excellent food quality. Try their classic pate-en-croute with calf sweetbreads.

Food Society

This hip, loft-like space and terrace lies atop the La Part-Dieu mall and showcases creative French street food made with only locally-sourced produce.

Food Traboule

Set in the Tour Rose, a stand-out Renaissance building, this trendy food court contains multiple spaces managed by twelve creative chefs. Look out for international dishes with innovative local twists.

Grand Hotel Dieu

This chic shopping spot in a landmark historical building is home to the Cite Internationale de la Gastronomie Lyonnaise , with food-related exhibits and frequent cooking shows.

This open-air street-food spot in the modern Confluences area is yet more proof that Lyon’s food hall revolution is well and truly afoot. Sidle up to a counter then tuck in to street food galore.

Good for age: 16+

This hip food hall (in a former woodwork factory) hosts 15 stalls headed by up-and-coming chefs. Expect the best of local produce, crafted into creative street food-like dishes.

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Top suppliers fill this stunning covered food market, where gourmet ‘corners’ provide ample seating for you to sample the region’s world-class food amid the hustle and bustle.

La Croix Rousse Market

Amid the hilly slopes of the former silk-weavers’ quarters, this wonderful daily market (except Mondays) is the locals’ spot for filling up on gourmet treats and taking in the views.

La Mere Lea

This quayside bouchon – all wood and tiled floors – is the place for classic salade Lyonnaise , braised belly pork and ile flottante (whipped egg whites) with custard and praline.

Saint-Antoine Market

Set along the River Saone, this is city’s most picturesque market and the place where both locals and chefs come to hand-pick their fresh ingredients.

Getting there & doing it

There are great eateries across Lyon, but one street that stands out is Rue du Boeuf, in Vieux Lyon. Amongst its Renaissance facades and bustling bistros lie no less than three Michelin-starred restaurants, making this the most starred street in France.

Another good spot is Fourviere Hill, which harbours upscale eateries with views over the historic centre. Or plum for the Presqu’ile known for its traditional bouchons .

If you’re looking for somewhere trendy, the Croix-Rousse hillside (along with Rue Royale at its base) brims with hip cafés and bars. You could also try Les Brotteaux area, near Tete d’Or Park.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch

Rating 4.92 / 5 [229 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

Afternoon Old Town Food tour

Rating 4.81 / 5 [181 ratings]

Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience

Rating 4.71 / 5 [164 ratings]

Wines of Lyon Tasting - A Quintessential Local Experience

Rating 4.92 / 5 [93 ratings]

Lyon Small Group Guided Electric Bike Tour with Food Tasting

Rating 4.80 / 5 [31 ratings]

Destination guides

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Auberge-Rhone-Alpes, France

Destination guide

The gastronomic capital of France, if not the world, is not just a foodie hotspot. With UNESCO-protected architecture and awe-inspiring Roman ruins, its one for history lovers too..

Lyon Food Tour: TASTING THE CLASSIC RECIPES OF LYON’S SILK WORKERS & LYONNESSE MOTHERS

Navigating through the intricacies of Lyon’s legendary gastronomy uncovers stories steeped in the city’s rich history and vibrant culinary culture. On the Lyon Food Tour , the palate is introduced to timeless recipes, each presenting a delightful variety of flavors that have lingered in the city’s kitchens for decades, perhaps even centuries. The culinary traditions of the Canuts, the resilient silk workers, intertwine seamlessly with the storied practices of the esteemed Lyonnaise Mothers, creating not only a dining experience but also a significant exploration through its appetizing history.

Lyon, anointed as a pivotal gastronomic locale in France since 1935, has firmly held its position, inviting explorers to a world where each morsel, each aroma, unfolds stories of the past and presents the meticulous craftsmanship that has defined the city’s culinary scene. Venturing through the city’s storied pathways, you are being silently narrated the historical anecdotes and culinary marvels through experiences, through sips and bites that hold within them the secrets and traditions of the renowned Mères Lyonnaises and the industrious Canuts.

Both play a crucial part in the Lyon food history, and are very present on the Lyon Food Tour , so we thought we’d share a little bit more about this very interesting background story. 

The Pinnacle of Gastronomy: Lyon’s Time-Honored Culinary Scene

Lyon’s culinary acclaim isn’t a serendipitous feat, but a richly woven chronicle marinated in tradition, skill, and an unyielding pursuit of gastronomic excellence. When the distinction of being a gastronomic titan was bestowed upon the city in 1935, it wasn’t only recognizing the contemporary culinary scene but venerating an enthralling history that seamlessly melds with cuisine. 

The essence of this culinary metropolis is not confined to the high-end restaurants that have sparkled with Michelin stars but is generously sprinkled throughout, from local markets to modest bouchons, where tradition is the special ingredient that has been simmering for centuries.

Mères Lyonnaises: Maternal Architects of a Culinary Legacy

When discussing the Mères Lyonnaises (Lyonnaise mothers), one mustn’t confine them to the realms of conventional chefs or simple cooks of their time. The moniker “Mère,” translating to “Mother,” reflects not only their gender but symbolizes the nurturing and profoundly familial touch they embedded within the Lyon gastronomic scene in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These women, often widows or single mothers, cultivated spaces of warmth and genuine hospitality within their establishments, overshadowing the grandeur of more formal culinary arenas with their unassuming yet remarkable skills.

In an era where professional kitchens were predominantly steered by men, the Mères propelled themselves into the culinary limelight, constructing a matriarchy that would inform Lyon’s gastronomy for generations to come. With their dishes, they wove a comforting, generous, and evocative culinary style, often rooted in home-cooked traditions yet distinguished by a delicate finesse that transcended mere sustenance.

Lyon’s culinary matriarchs presented dishes that enchanted both humble households and the elite palates, showcasing a mastery that fused homely comfort with exceptional culinary skills. For example, Mère Brazier, perhaps one of the most notable among them, was renowned not only for her elevated Lyonnaise cuisine but also for crafting dishes that whispered the essences of warmth, generosity, and maternal tenderness, earning her not one but six Michelin stars across her two restaurants in 1933.

Despite their often humble beginnings and challenges in a male-dominated profession, the Mères Lyonnaises etched their essence into the world of gastronomy with a tender yet unyielding grip, demonstrating that brilliance in the culinary arts emanates not just from technical skill and innovation but from a profound, intrinsic love for nourishing and delighting those who dine at your table. These women, their stories, and their dishes have forever interlaced with Lyon’s culinary history, offering a timeless embrace that continues to cradle and inspire those who savor the city’s flavors today.

In exploring Lyon’s gastronomic paths, one not only encounters flavors and techniques but also embarks on a sentimental journey, where each dish is a gentle nod to the Mères – the formidable women who, through the language of their culinary creations, narrated tales of warmth, resilience, and unbridled passion for their craft.

Threads and Tastings: Savoring the Culinary Practices of Lyon’s Canuts

The Canuts, renowned as Lyon’s legendary silk weavers, were not merely artisans laboring over the intricacies of silk threads. These skilled workers, with their nimble fingers and patient demeanors, unknowingly threaded a culinary subplot into Lyon’s rich gastronomic story. Operating in the historic Croix-Rousse district, a locale steeped in narratives of silk and toil, the Canuts navigated through the demands of an intense and laborious craft that permeated the fabric of Lyon’s economic and cultural life during the 19th century.

Within the narrow confines of their workshops and beneath the persistent clatter of looms, the Canuts established a simple yet wholesome culinary practice that was modest, yet surprisingly rich in character and flavor. Their approach to food was devoid of extravagance, focusing on nourishing, accessible, and hearty meals that would fuel their meticulous and physically demanding work.

The culinary habits of the Canuts may appear straightforward at a glance, yet their food was a delicate balance of nutritional prudence and subtle flavors, exemplifying a practical yet palatable approach to daily meals. Consider the “Cervelle de Canut,” a classic Lyonnaise dish directly translating to “Silk Worker’s Brain.” This cheese spread, far from being a mere concoction of fromage blanc, herbs, and shallots, stands as a testament to the Canuts’ ability to cultivate satisfying flavors from limited ingredients.

The dishes birthed from the hands of the Canuts were invariably infused with a robustness, suffused with an authenticity that sprouted from their everyday lives and needs. Simple stews, hearty bread, and cheeses often made appearances on their dining tables, each item chosen for its ability to provide sustenance and pleasure in equal measure. Even amidst the rigorous demands of their profession, the Canuts nurtured a culinary culture that prioritized satisfaction and energy in every bite.

Navigating Through Tantalizing Lyonese Paths: A Thoughtful Tour Selection 

Navigating through the historic and culinarily-rich lanes of Lyon does propose a particular question: What is the optimal way to become intimately acquainted with its culinary wonders? The walking food tours offer an immersive alternative that whisks you away through a detailed exploration of both the gourmet and the historically pivotal. The foot journey through various eateries, bistros, and local food shops inherently facilitates a slower pace, granting you the time to appreciate, to savor, and to absorb the city in a manner that’s simultaneously leisurely and enlightening.

Within this framework, each step taken along the path is an opportunity to soak in Lyon’s architectural charm, absorb the delicate aromas wafting through its quaint alleys, and engage with the local vendors and chefs, who often share snippets of their daily lives and culinary secrets. Indeed, a walk allows you the time and space to appreciate the intricate details of Lyon, from its culinary artistry to its historical richness, weaving together an experience that honors both the palate and the spirit.

Choosing to explore through the Lyon Food Tour is embracing an intimate, nuanced encounter with the city. It crafts a rich, layered experience, wherein each tasting is a fragment of Lyon’s culinary and cultural tapestry, narrated by those who weave it daily. It’s a gentle journey through time and taste, forging connections that transform tourists into temporary locals, authentically entwining them within the city’s vibrant culinary and historical fabric.

The pull of Lyon’s gastronomy extends far beyond its geographic boundaries, spiraling out to touch hearts across continents with its humble, unassuming elegance. The echoes of the Mères Lyonnaises and the resilient silk workers seamlessly meld into today’s dining experiences, offering a timeless connection that enriches each bite. In this journey, through alleys of history and boulevards of flavors, you’re cordially invited to carve out your own chapter, exploring, savoring, and lovingly cherishing the gastronomic soul of Lyon.

Secret Foodie

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Best Food Tours in Lyon

If there is something you have to know in Lyon is its unique combination of French and international flavors. I'll tell you the best plans to discover Lyon's cuisine.

Andressa García

11 min read

Lyon food street | ©Pedro Szekely

Signing up for a gastronomic tour is one of the best things to see and do in Lyon , considering that this is an excellent way to discover the gastronomic culture of this city. Among the dishes you should not miss are the Lyon salad, which is made of a mixture of vegetables and salted meat .

During these tours through the gastronomy of the city you will have the opportunity to taste other typical recipes such as cochonnailles and other traditional dishes. You will have the opportunity to enjoy this experience in iconic places of the city such as the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market and learn part of the gastronomic history of the city.

1. Gourmet tour of the best wines of the Lyon region

Undoubtedly one of the best gourmet tours in Lyon is this one that takes you throughout the city to know and taste the wines of the region, while learning about the wine culture of the place. During the tour you will be accompanied by a guide specialized in wines, who will show you the most important wineries in the region.

In the wineries you will also learn about the winemaking process and how the history of winemaking in the region has developed . Among the wines you will have the opportunity to taste are the popular Beaujolais, Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu . This is a shared tour in which you will be going to know all these places together with about ten other people.

Details of interest

• Price : In general, the price of a wine tour in Lyon can range from 150 to 250 euros per person.
• Duration : You can take between 4 and 6 hours to finish this tour.
• Means of transport : The whole experience is completed by private vehicle, although you have to get on your own to the starting point.
• Advantages of this option : Wine tasting is included in the tour. Also included is the company of an expert who will tell you everything you need to know about the wines. The visit to the winery and some wine stores are included.
• Disadvantages of this option : Transportation to and from the airport or to the accommodation in Lyon is not included. Personal expenses or shopping are also not included.

Book a wine and cheese tasting in the Rhône Valley

2. Gastronomic tour of the Lyon market

This experience is undoubtedly one of the best activities to do in Lyon , because together with a tour guide you will have the opportunity to go to know the markets of Lyon, where you can discover part of the gastronomic culture of the city. The Les Halles de Lyon is one of the most famous that you will go to know and walk around.

During this tour the experienced tour guide will take you to taste the freshest products of the region, but you will also get to know the local producers and their specialties. You will taste traditional dishes of the region, including Franche-Comté cheese and foie gras from Bresse . This is an experience for a maximum of eight people.

• Price : You'll have to pay around 45 euros per person to enjoy this experience.
• Duration : The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.
• Means of transportation : The whole tour is on foot, although you will have to go to the meeting point on your own.
• Advantages of this option : The tour includes the company of an expert guide. Tasting of local food and desserts is included. Also included is a visit to the main markets of Lyon.
• Disadvantages of this option : Transfer to and from the accommodation is not included. Personal expenses and purchases are also not included.

3. Gastronomic tour of the old city of Lyon

You will go on a tour throughout the old city of Lyon to discover the flavors and history of the gastronomy of this French town. During the tour, you will get to know the oldest markets and restaurants of the city, so you could also consider it as one of the best tours in Lyon , as you will get to meet the local producers.

Among the dishes you will be able to taste on the tour are Beaujolais wine and Lyon macarons . In addition, you have the opportunity to adapt the experience to vegans and vegetarians , so it is a tour for all tastes.

• Price : This gastronomic tour of the old city of Lyon is priced at around 49 euros per person.
• Duration : It will take you approximately 2 hours and a half to complete the whole tour.
• Means of transportation : The tour is completed in a bus with all the comforts for the whole group.
• Advantages of this option : The assistance of an expert guide is included. Tasting of local food during the tasting is included in the price. The visit to the main markets of Lyon and the tasting of desserts are also included.
• Disadvantages of this option: Transfer to and from the accommodation is not included in the price.

Book a private tour of Lyon

4. Tasting tour of the best desserts of Lyon

If you have a sweet tooth, Lyon is undoubtedly one of the best cities in France to taste the best of French sweet treats. In the middle of this tour you will get to know and taste the best desserts of Lyon, but at the same time you will have the opportunity to know the whole city as you could not even know it by taking the tourist bus of Lyon .

You will taste the different types of sweets and desserts typical of Lyon , including cakes, pastries, ice cream and crepes. In the middle of the tour you can visit famous restaurants and pastry shops in Lyon , where desserts can be accompanied by drinks such as wine or herbal teas and beers.

Interesting details

• Price : To enjoy this tour you will have to pay around 25 euros per person.
• Duration : It will take between an hour and a half and 3 hours.
• Means of transport : The whole tour is completed on foot.
• Advantages of this option : The tasting of different typical desserts of Lyon is included. The walking tour through the streets of the city with a tour guide is included.
• Disadvantages of this option : The price of desserts is not included, nor the purchase of sweets beyond the tastings.

5. Gastronomic tour of the Rhône-Alpes region

To go and enjoy this gastronomic tour of the Rhône-Alpes region, you will have to sign up for one of the best tours from Lyon , to go and discover the wide variety of flavors that this region has to offer. Your tour guide will take you to visit wineries where you will taste local wines .

After visiting the wineries, you will have time to wander around the region to check out the local restaurants and food stores. In the middle of the experience your tour guide will tell you all about the cultural heritage and history of the Rhône-Alpes . One thing you will love about this tour is that you will enjoy the natural landscapes of the region.

• Price : The price of this gastronomic tour of Rhône-Alpes from Lyon is 120 euros per person.
• Duration : It will take you about 5 hours to finish this tour.
• Means of transport : You will complete the whole tour by private transport in which you will move between places.
• Advantages of this option : Visits to three restaurants in the region are included. Wine tastings and the company of a private guide are also included.
• Disadvantages of this option: Food and beverage costs at the restaurants visited are not included.

6. Wine tasting tour in the Beaujolais region from Lyon

One of the things you have to do when you visit the city is to sign up for one of the best wine tours in Lyon . In this specific one you will have the opportunity to go tasting different varieties of wines around the Beaujolais region . One of the things you will like most about the tour is that you will be able to see and photograph the French countryside.

When you arrive at your destination you will have the opportunity to visit the wineries of the region and learn first hand about the winemaking process . At the end you will be able to taste the wines of the region, including the typical Beaujolais Nouveau, Chiroubles , Morgon and Beaujolais Villages. You will accompany them with cheese, cold meats, dried fruits and bread.

• Price : A wine tour of the Beaujolais region from Lyon usually costs between 150 and 200 Euros.
• Duration : It will take between 6 and 8 hours to complete the experience.
• Means of transportation : The entire tour is completed in private vehicles and with all the comforts.
• Advantages of this option : Transportation to and from the lodging site is included. Visits to the wineries are also included. Wine tasting and lunch are included in the price.
• Disadvantages of this option : The cost of additional purchases at the wineries is not included.

7. Private tasting tour of traditional dishes

On this tour you will go to learn which of Lyon's traditional dishes stand out amidst its varied gastronomy. Your guide will take you to taste dishes such as quiche lorraine , cheese from the Beaujolais region, onion soup, fondue savoyarde, tablier de sapeur, crepes and cheesecake.

You will taste all these dishes in traditional restaurants and bistros in Lyon. This is a private tour that you can share with eight of your family and friends . You will also be accompanied by a tour guide. As for the dishes, you will accompany them with local drinks.

• Price : You will have to pay around 150 euros per person to enjoy the tour.
• Duration : The whole tour is completed in about 3 to 5 hours, approximately.
• Means of transportation : The activity is done in a private vehicle with all the comforts.
• Advantages of this option : It is a private tour in which only you and your group will participate. The transfer from and to the hotel or lodging place is included. Tasting of typical dishes of the region and entrance to traditional restaurants is included.
• Disadvantages of this option : The cost of lunch, meals or drinks in restaurants is not included.

8. Tasting tour of the best cheeses of Lyon

If there is something that represents Lyon is its famous cheese varieties, that's why in this cheese tasting tour in the city you will have the opportunity to discover each of its flavors and preferences. It is a tour that I recommend you to include in your Lyon itinerary in 3 days or less, you can not leave without tasting these delicacies.

You can go to meet the cheese producers in the local markets or even go to visit specialized cheese stores . Your guide will take you to the ideal places to try cheese-based dishes, such as soups, salads, quiches, cakes, etc. You will visit a cheese factory where you will learn about the cheese making process and taste the final products.

• Price : To enjoy this tour you will have to pay between 50 and 200 euros per person.
• Duration : It will take you about three hours to complete this experience.
• Means of transportation : The entire tour is completed by bus with all the comforts.
• Advantages of this option : Tasting of various types of cheese is included. Entrance and guided visit to the cheese factory is included.
• Disadvantages of this option : Food is not included except for those detailed in the experience. Purchases of cheeses or other items you want to take with you from the cheese factory or cheese stores you visit are not included.

9. Tapas tour of Vieux Lyon

As in the rest of Europe, tapas are also very famous in France, that's why in this tour of Lyon you will get to know which are the most traditional and popular tapas that you can eat in the city. During the experience you will be able to visit several bars and restaurants in Lyon, where you can taste cheeses, sausages, olives, pates, cakes and salads .

This is a good option to include among the activities to see and do with children in Lyon , although they must be at least 8 years old to participate in the tour. If you practice veganism you will not have problems, because on this tour you can ask for an exclusive option for you . During the tour you will be able to accompany the tapas with drinks such as wine, beer, tea and coffee.

• Price : This tour usually costs between 50 and 70 euros per person.
• Duration : It will take you about 3 hours to finish this experience.
• Means of transportation : The entire gastronomic tour is completed on foot, but you will have to make your own way to the meeting point.
• Advantages of this option : The tour includes the tasting of typical tapas, as well as visits to the different bars and restaurants. The company of an expert is included during the tour.
• Disadvantages of this option : Transportation to and from the airport is not included, nor from or to the lodging place. Personal expenses are not included.

10. Cured Meats Tasting Tour

One of the most famous qualities of this French city is its cured meats. That's why on this cured meats tasting tour in Lyon, you will have the opportunity to taste some of the best in the region. These meats are prepared with a mixture of traditional and aromatic spices that give them flavor and aroma.

Some of the cured meats you will taste include: loin, salami, sausage, chorizo, bacon and ham. During the tasting you will also enjoy bread, red or sparkling wine, and cheese from the region. This is a shared tour with a maximum of 10 people .

• Price : This cured meats tasting tour in Lyon costs approximately 50 to 60 euros per person.
• Duration : The whole tour lasts between 3 and 4 hours.
• Means of transport : You will board an air-conditioned tourist bus.
• Advantages of this option : The company of a tour guide and all tastings are included.
• Disadvantages of this option : Transportation to and from your hotel or accommodation is not included.

Tips for a gastronomic tour of Lyon

• Be sure to bring enough money to buy food, drinks and artisanal products during the tours.
• Be attentive to the tour guide's recommendations on the places that have the best prices.
• Take enough water with you for the whole way .
• Book in advance to make sure there is room for you on the gastronomic tour .

The Best Travel Guide to Lyon

• Olympique Lyonnais Tickets
• Best Tours in Lyon
• Lyon in 1 Day: all you need to know
• Best Activities in Lyon
• 10 Things to do in Lyon at Christmas
• Lyon in 2 Days: everything you need to know
• Lyon in 3 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit
• 10 Things to Do in Lyon at Night
• 10 Things to Do in Lyon in December
• Best Wine Tours in Lyon
• Best Bike Tours in Lyon
• Best Day Trips from Lyon

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