Lyon Croix-Rousse: Wine Tasting & Vinyl Record Tour

Lyon Croix-Rousse: Wine Tasting & Vinyl Record Tour offers a unique blend of music, local culture, and wine in one of Lyon’s most vibrant neighborhoods. For $152 per person, this 2.5-hour walk through La Croix Rousse takes you from iconic record shops to a cozy wine cellar, with a hand-picked vinyl and expert guide. This tour is perfect for lovers of music, wine, and authentic Lyonese neighborhoods.

What we love most are the quality of the guides—noted for their enthusiasm and knowledge—and the chance to collect a meaningful vinyl as a memento. The intimate size of the group keeps the experience personal and relaxed. A potential downside is that the tour doesn’t include meals or transportation, so you’ll want to plan for meals or other transport options on your own. This experience suits travelers who enjoy discovering local arts, are curious about vinyl and wine, and appreciate a well-curated, authentic outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Lyon Experience: Focuses on Lyon’s bohemian district, La Croix Rousse, filled with street art, history, and character.
• Music & Culture: Visits to top record shops with a chance to pick a vinyl, making for a memorable keepsake.
• Wine Tasting: A curated session in a cozy wine cellar, perfect for savoring local wines in a relaxed setting.
• Expert Guides: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate, enhancing the overall experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized attention and interaction.
• Value for Money: The included vinyl and tasting, plus the knowledgeable guiding, make this a worthwhile outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lyon Croix-Rousse Vinyl & Wine Tour

When we think of Lyon, it’s often the historic sites and gastronomic delights that come to mind. But this tour pulls aside the curtain on a lesser-known, equally lively side of the city—its creative, bohemian neighborhood of La Croix Rousse. This area, with its narrow streets, street art, and artistic buzz, offers an authentic taste of Lyon’s trendy, artsy side, far from the tourist crowds.

Starting Point: Opéra National de Lyon

Your adventure begins in front of the Opéra National, a grand and easily recognizable landmark. From here, you’ll set off on a walk through the heart of La Croix Rousse, a district renowned for its history of silk production and its vibrant street art scene.

Discovering Record Shops: 1.5 Hours of Musical Treasures

The core of this tour is the exploration of Lyon’s most iconic record shops. Your guide—whose passion and local knowledge shine—will lead you through shops filled with everything from rare French vinyl to contemporary indie and electronic releases. This is especially appealing if you have an interest in music or vinyl collecting, but even casual listeners will find it fascinating to see the variety of sounds available.

The reviews highlight how engaging the guides are. One traveler from Germany mentioned, “The tour guide was super friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the music scene,” which shows how much enthusiasm guides bring to this experience.

Each record shop feels like a treasure chest, with staff eager to share stories about their collections. You might see vintage French posters, obscure local artists, or the latest indie hits. As part of the tour, you’ll select a vinyl—included in the price—that you can take home as a souvenir. One traveler from Australia joked that they now need to buy a record player to listen to their new vinyl, which adds a playful touch to the experience.

The Vinyl: A Personal Keepsake

The included vinyl is more than just a souvenir; it’s a personal memento of your Lyon adventure. The guide carefully picks a record that reflects the neighborhood’s artistic spirit or your musical tastes. Remember, this isn’t a mass-produced gift—it’s a thoughtful piece that echoes your journey and the vibrant local music scene.

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Wine Tasting: 1 Hour in a Cozy Wine Cellar

After the musical discovery, the tour concludes in a charming wine cellar tucked away in Lyon’s historic alleys, often in a traboule—those secret, twisting passageways characteristic of Lyon. Here, you’ll indulge in a curated wine tasting featuring local wines, carefully selected to complement the neighborhood’s artistic ambiance.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the wine and the knowledgeable guidance of the sommelier or host. One review from Bulgaria called the wine shop “very nice,” and the experience is described as a perfect way to unwind and absorb the local vibe.

Final Stop: Place Fernand Rey

The tour wraps up at this lively square, where you can continue exploring or head on to your next Lyon adventure. The relaxed pace and friendly group atmosphere make it easy to linger and absorb the neighborhood’s charm.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

This experience is exactly 2.5 hours long, making it an easy addition to a full day of sightseeing. Small groups—limited to 10—ensure that you get personalized attention and an intimate experience. Guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Catalan, broadening accessibility.

Cost and Value

At $152 per person, the price includes the guided tour, visits to exclusive record shops, a vinyl record, and a curated wine tasting. Considering the personalized nature and the quality of the experiences—especially the vinyl and wine—most travelers find this to be a good value. The tour offers a chance to connect with Lyon’s creative scene and walk away with meaningful souvenirs.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must—think cobblestones and uneven streets—and water to stay hydrated during the walk. Since transportation isn’t included, plan your arrival at the starting point in front of the Opéra Lyon and organize your transportation accordingly.

Cancellation and Booking

Flexibility is built in—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t yet set.

Authenticity and Value for the Curious Traveler

This tour is perfect for those who want to see Lyon beyond its famous landmarks. It offers a chance to experience the city’s artistic soul through music, wine, and authentic neighborhood charm. The guides’ passion and local knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and fun.

It’s especially suited for music lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone interested in local arts and culture. Because the group size is small and the stops are carefully curated, you’re unlikely to feel rushed or overwhelmed—making it a relaxed yet engaging outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates discovering hidden gems, this tour hits the sweet spot. The combination of vinyl shopping and wine tasting offers a well-rounded slice of Lyon’s creative scene. You’ll love the friendly guides, who aren’t just knowledgeable but genuinely enthusiastic about sharing Lyon’s musical and artisanal traditions.

Travelers keen on authentic local experiences will find this tour a highlight—especially those who enjoy collecting souvenirs rooted in their travels. And if you’re a music lover with a penchant for vinyl or simply curious about Lyon’s vibrant arts scene, this tour offers plenty of memorable moments.

The Sum Up

The Lyon Croix-Rousse: Wine Tasting & Vinyl Record Tour stands out as a refreshing and personalized experience that combines music, wine, and local neighborhood charm. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed outing that offers a glimpse into Lyon’s artistic soul. The small group size, expert guides, and thoughtful inclusions—especially the vinyl and wine—make it a worthwhile addition to any Lyon itinerary.

Whether you’re a music fanatic, a wine aficionado, or a curious explorer, this tour provides a meaningful way to connect with the city’s creative heartbeat. It’s not just a sightseeing experience; it’s a chance to taste, listen, and really feel Lyon’s bohemian spirit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, especially those interested in music and wine. Children under 1 year are not suitable, and the tour may not be appropriate for older children or teenagers.

How long does the wine tasting last?
The wine tasting takes approximately 1 hour and is conducted in a cozy wine cellar, offering a curated selection of local wines.

Are transportation options included?
No, transportation to and from the starting point is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to meet at the Opéra Lyon.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on cobblestone streets. Bringing water is also advisable.

Can I choose my vinyl record?
Your guide will hand-pick a vinyl for you based on your preferences and the local scene; you cannot select it yourself, but it will be a meaningful souvenir.

Is the tour available in my language?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Catalan, so check availability for your preferred language when booking.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option.

Will I get a physical record during the tour?
Yes, the vinyl included is a tangible memento of your Lyon experience, perfect for your record collection or to enjoy back home.

How many people typically join this tour?
Groups are limited to 10, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.

This experience offers a wonderful chance to see Lyon through a different lens—one filled with music, local flavor, and artistic charm. For those who love discovering hidden corners and authentic crafts, it’s a memorable and enriching choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: