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The 7 Best Workshops & Classes in Lyon
Lyon is a city that practically breathes culinary excellence—famous for its gourmet food culture, silk weaving, and lively markets. What better way to experience Lyon than by rolling up your sleeves and getting involved? We’ve scouted the top workshops and classes that offer authentic, hands-on experiences. Whether you're eager to master French cuisine, explore local markets, or try your hand at neon art, Lyon’s diverse options will satisfy your creative and foodie cravings.
Among our favorites is the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class—a perfect blend of market exploration and cooking with a stunning view. If you want a deep dive into Lyon’s vibrant food scene, the Market Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch with Chef Thierry offers a lively, interactive experience in a local market and chef’s kitchen. For a more casual and fun evening, consider the Cocktail Workshop in your home, ideal for small groups looking to learn new skills in a relaxed setting.
Quick Overview
This list includes culinary classes, market tours, weaving workshops, cocktail making, and even neon art sessions. For example, at number 1, the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class combines market shopping and a gourmet lunch on a scenic rooftop. At number 2, the Market Tour & Cooking Class with Chef Thierry provides a comprehensive experience with market quizzing and a multi-course meal. For something completely different, the Lyon: Cocktail Workshop in your home offers a personalized mixology lesson. The Soierie Vivante weaving workshops will appeal to textile enthusiasts, while the Countryside Food & Cooking Tour mixes farm visits and cooking in the scenic Lyon outskirts. Lastly, the Neon Painting & Tarot Reading adds a quirky artistic twist. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class in Lyon

This half-day, small-group experience offers a perfect intro to Lyon’s famed cuisine. You start with a stroll through the Croix Rousse Market, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients directly from local vendors—think seasonal vegetables, cheeses, and charcuterie. Then, you’ll head up to a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Lyon, where a professional chef guides you through creating a 4-course French meal paired with cheese and wine.
What makes this class stand out is the personalized attention in a small-group setting, allowing you to ask questions and refine your skills. The host, Joelle, is noted for her friendly approach and her ability to make even beginners feel comfortable. The spectacular hilltop view enhances the meal, which is served as a communal, convivial affair. Guests rave about the authenticity of the experience, with one saying it was “fun to cook in true Lyonnaise style” and loved the “lovely rooftop view.” At around $220, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a true taste of Lyon’s culinary culture in a memorable setting.
Bottom Line: A top-notch choice for food lovers who want hands-on cooking, fresh market shopping, and spectacular city views, all in a cozy small-group atmosphere.
2. Market Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch with Chef in Lyon Studio

At number 2, this 4-hour culinary journey takes you into Lyon’s Saint Antoine Market, one of the city’s most iconic food spots. Led by Chef Thierry, you’ll explore the bustling stalls, interact with vendors, and select fresh ingredients for your meal. This immersive shopping experience is one of the most engaging ways to understand Lyon’s local produce and seasonal ingredients. After gathering your bounty, you’ll move to Thierry’s welcoming kitchen to prepare a multi-course French meal—including appetizers, soup, main course, and dessert.
Chef Thierry’s charismatic teaching style and deep knowledge make this class stand out. Guests mention his sense of humor and skillful instruction, which ensures everyone gets involved and learns practical techniques. One reviewer shares, “Thierry was engaging, informative, and an incredible cook,” highlighting the value of learning from a passionate chef. The class culminates in enjoying your creations for lunch, making it a truly full-circle culinary experience.
Value for money is excellent given the market visit, chef guidance, and meal. It’s best suited for those eager to learn authentic French recipes and enjoy a lively, interactive environment. The only potential downside is the 4-hour duration, so it’s ideal for a dedicated foodie day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cooking enthusiasts who want a comprehensive look at Lyon’s ingredients and techniques, all guided by an engaging chef.
3. Lyon: Cocktail workshop in your home

If you’re after a fun, relaxed activity, the Cocktail Workshop in your home is a charming option. Led by Florian, this personalized, at-home experience is perfect for small groups or couples who want to learn bartending skills without leaving their accommodation. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll discover how to make popular cocktails like margaritas or mojitos, with Florian sharing insider tips and tricks.
What makes this workshop unique is the fully customized approach—you choose the cocktails you want to learn, and Florian adapts the lesson to your taste. It’s also a great way to add a special touch to a celebration or just enjoy a casual evening. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the fact that you go home with new skills and a souvenir video if requested.
This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a cozy setting or have limited time but want a memorable mixology session. The price, at around $92 per person, makes it a good value considering the personalized service.
Bottom Line: A great choice for small groups or couples wanting a relaxed, customized cocktail lesson in the comfort of their own home.
4. Soierie Vivante’s weaving workshops: tours and demos

Lyon’s historic link to silk production makes this weaving workshop a fascinating experience. During the 1.5-hour guided tour, you’ll visit authentic “canut” workshops, see looms in action, and learn about the silk industry’s role in Lyon’s development. The tour includes two guided segments, each lasting about 40 minutes, where you’ll observe craftsmen at work, hear stories about the workers’ lives, and learn how fabrics are made.
The workshop is ideal for textile fans or history buffs interested in Lyon’s textile past. The shop at the end offers locally made silk souvenirs, making it a nice shopping stop. Reviews note that the “canuts” are passionate and willing to share their craft, creating an engaging experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the modest price (~$19) makes it accessible.
While it’s a shorter visit, the tour offers a genuine glimpse into Lyon’s silk heritage—not just a museum but a living tradition. It’s best suited for those with an interest in textiles or history, or travelers seeking a low-key, educational activity.
Bottom Line: An authentic, inexpensive way to explore Lyon’s silk industry and meet artisans preserving a craft that once made Lyon famous.
5. Lyon: Countryside Food Tour and Cooking Class with a Chef

For those wanting a full-day adventure outside the city, this 12-hour experience offers a rare chance to explore Lyon’s rural side. You’ll visit local farms, meet farmers, and learn about regional culinary traditions. The tour includes shopping for seasonal ingredients, followed by a traditional lunch in a chateau, where you’ll enjoy dishes made from what you’ve purchased. Afterward, the group heads back into Lyon for a private cooking class led by a chef in a stunning kitchen setting.
This tour’s highlight is the interaction with local producers, giving insight into rural culinary practices. The private chef then helps you prepare a meal that you’ll enjoy together, tasting your own creations for dinner. The luxury setting and farm visits make it ideal for foodies wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience.
With only one review, it’s a niche choice but offers a deep cultural connection. The price reflects the full-day experience, making it a substantial investment. Suitable for culinary travelers with a full day to spare and a desire for rural charm.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an all-encompassing day of farm visits and gourmet cooking, with a focus on regional food traditions.
6. Lyon: Tarot Reading and Neon Painting Workshop

Looking for something truly different? This quirky workshop combines tarot card reading with a neon painting session. Over a full day, you’ll first have your future revealed by a tarot reader, then unleash your creativity with black lights and fluorescent paints in a neon art class.
What makes this experience unique is the blend of mysticism and modern art. Guests report that the atmosphere is intimate and fun, with the chance to learn about fortune-telling while creating a one-of-a-kind neon piece. The workshop is suitable for adventurous travelers or art lovers seeking a memorable, quirky activity.
With a rating of 4.5/5 from just two reviews, it’s a niche experience that appeals to those interested in alternative arts and spiritual insights. The price of around $104 offers an affordable, entertaining day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers wanting a creative and mystical experience that combines art with a touch of fortune-telling.
7. Lyon: Asian cooking classes – make your own baos!

Finally, if Asian cuisine piques your interest, this interactive cooking class led by Chef Ying is a delightful choice. Over approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll learn how to craft homemade baos, including vegetarian options. Chef Ying shares her tips and tricks, guiding you through making two different recipes. The class is designed to be fun and hands-on, culminating in sharing your freshly made baos with fellow participants.
What sets this apart is the focus on Asian comfort food and the flexibility in dietary preferences. It’s a great activity for foodies interested in international cuisine or those who want to learn a new cooking skill in a friendly environment.
Priced at around $88 per person, it offers good value for a relaxed, cultural cooking experience. Reviewers appreciate the interactive style and the delicious outcome, making it ideal for a casual, flavorful adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for culinary explorers eager to learn Asian cooking techniques and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class
When selecting among these options, think about what kind of experience excites you most. If you love culinary immersion with scenic views, the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class is perfect. For a deep dive into Lyon’s food markets and regional recipes, go for the Chef Thierry experience. If you’re traveling with a small group or partner and want a personalized, at-home activity, the Cocktail Workshop offers a relaxed, fun approach.
Textile enthusiasts should consider the Weaving Workshops, especially if they’re interested in Lyon’s silk heritage. For those seeking an all-day rural adventure, the Countryside Food & Cooking Tour provides farm visits and a gourmet meal in a chateau setting. Art lovers or those looking for something quirky will enjoy the Neon Painting & Tarot Reading, blending creativity and mysticism. Lastly, foodies craving Asian flavors will find Chef Ying’s Bao-making class both fun and informative.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular classes like the market and cooking experiences, which often fill up quickly. Consider your budget, time availability, and interest in culinary arts, textiles, or arts and crafts to find your best fit.
Final Thoughts
Lyon offers an impressive array of workshops and classes that go beyond traditional sightseeing. Whether you want to master French cuisine, explore local silk weaving, or have a playful evening with neon art, there’s something for every type of traveler. For a hands-on culinary adventure, the Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class and the Chef Thierry Market Tour rank high for their authenticity and engaging formats.
For those looking to add a creative twist, the Neon Painting & Tarot or the Weaving Workshops provide memorable arts experiences. And if your time is limited, the at-home cocktail class offers a relaxed, personalized activity.
Whatever your interests, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these engaging, enriching ways to experience Lyon. Dive in and enjoy the city’s flavors, crafts, and creativity firsthand.