Segway Tour by ComhiC – The Highlights – 1h30

Lyon’s history and charm are best appreciated from a fresh perspective, and a Segway tour offers just that. For about 90 minutes and around $53, you get to glide through the city’s most notable sights, guided by knowledgeable locals like Cécile, Pierre, or Luce. Starting at the lively 7 Quai Romain Rolland, you’ll first learn how to control your self-balancing scooter, then set out on a route that hits Vieux Lyon, the Place Bellecour, the Grand Hotel Dieu, the Berges du Rhône, and finally Place des Terreaux.

What we really love about this experience is its combination of accessibility and excitement—it’s surprisingly easy to pick up the controls after a brief training, and the compact group size (max 8 travelers) ensures plenty of personal attention. Plus, the tour covers so much ground in such a short time—an efficient way to get a broad sense of Lyon’s historic and scenic highlights.

A possible consideration is that the tour isn’t designed for those with significant physical limitations or pregnant women, due to safety restrictions and activity constraints. Also, since the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to be sure of your schedule and comfort level with riding a Segway beforehand. This tour suits active travelers eager for a fun, fast-paced sightseeing option, especially those interested in history and architecture, who want to see a lot without the fatigue of walking.

Key Points

• Efficient sightseeing: Covers key Lyon landmarks in just 90 minutes.
• Guided commentary: Expert guides provide rich stories and historical context.
• All-inclusive instruction: No experience needed—just a quick training session.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Authentic city views: Enjoy scenic spots like the riverbanks and historic squares.
• Great value: Combines fun, education, and mobility at a reasonable price.

A Deep Dive into the Lyon Segway Tour by ComhiC

Getting started at the tour headquarters at 7 Quai Romain Rolland feels welcoming. After a brief 15-minute instruction, you’ll be comfortably riding your Segway, ready to explore. Guides like Cécile or Pierre are often praised for their friendly demeanor, patience, and ability to make even nervous first-timers feel at ease. We loved how one reviewer described Cécile as “very welcoming and friendly,” making the experience accessible and fun, even for those initially hesitant.

The old town, Vieux Lyon, is the first stop. Expect to see the historic courthouse and St. John’s Cathedral, two of Lyon’s most distinctive landmarks. This part of the tour gives you a chance to appreciate Lyon’s medieval streets while listening to engaging commentary about the city’s past. Reviewers praise the “well-chosen sights” and the “informative” guides, which help bring Lyon’s history to life without the need for a comprehensive walk.

Next is Place Bellecour, one of Lyon’s largest and most iconic squares. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the lively city atmosphere and learn about its monuments and history. The tour then moves to the Grand Hotel Dieu, a stunning building on the Rhône banks. The guide’s stories about why the hospital was located there—and what the site has become today—add depth that visitors appreciate. One review pointed out, “Do you know why the hospital was on the Rhône’s banks? Do you know what became this unmissable monument?” which showcases how these stories enrich the sightseeing.

The riverbanks, Berges du Rhône, are the highlight for many, offering a chance to accelerate and enjoy the breeze. Here, you can test the Segway’s speed while taking in breathtaking views of Lyon’s bridges and waterfront. One reviewer called this “the moment to try the speed of your Segway,” emphasizing the thrill of riding along the scenic riverfront.

Finally, the tour culminates at Place des Terreaux, where the city hall, the Fine Arts Museum, Bartholdi’s fountain, and Buren’s sculpture are situated. This elegant square provides a fitting end to the tour, allowing the guide to point out some of Lyon’s artistic and architectural treasures. Reviewers frequently mention how this last stop leaves them feeling satisfied, with many noting the “beautiful and well-chosen” sights.

What sets this tour apart? First, the small group size means you get more personalized attention and a safer riding experience. Second, the inclusion of helmets, rain gear, and luggage storage at the agency makes the experience convenient and comfortable. Plus, the price of approximately $53 offers a strong value—getting to see Lyon’s top sights with expert narration in a fun, active way.

Reviews consistently highlight the enthusiasm and friendliness of guides like Mathieu or Cécile, who go out of their way to make guests feel comfortable and informed. The ability to hear commentary while gliding along makes the experience more engaging than a typical walking tour. One traveler summed it up as “a very well managed and informative tour,” which is exactly what you want when exploring a city in a limited amount of time.

However, the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. Due to safety restrictions, it’s not accessible for pregnant women or quite young travelers under 14 and 45 kilos. The activity also requires a reasonable level of coordination—your guide will teach you how to control the Segway, but some initial practice is necessary.

This tour is perfect for active travelers, families with older children, and anyone craving a quick but thorough introduction to Lyon. It’s especially attractive for those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure—all delivered in a relaxed, small-group setting.

Practical Details and Tips

Location and Meeting Point: The tour begins at 7 Quai Romain Rolland, close to public transportation—making it easy to access. You’ll meet at the agency, where you can also leave luggage securely.

Duration and Timing: The entire experience lasts roughly 90 minutes, ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing day. The reviews note that it’s well-paced, with plenty of time at each landmark without feeling rushed.

Inclusions: Helmets, hairnets, rain capes (if needed), and luggage storage are all included, which simplifies your planning. You’ll be able to focus on the ride and the sights without worrying about gear.

Pricing and Value: At about $53 per person, considering the small group size and guided narration, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing compared to the cost of individual museum entries or extensive walking.

What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are recommended, though you’ll mostly be standing on the Segway. Weather can vary, so bringing rain gear is wise if rain is forecasted.

Age and Physical Requirements: Participants should be at least 14 years old and weigh at least 45 kilos. The activity isn’t suited for pregnant women or those with mobility limitations. As one reviewer pointed out, “It’s normal to have some apprehension,” so if you’re unsure, communicate with the guides beforehand—they’re experienced in making everyone feel safe.

Authentic Traveler Experiences and Insights

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a highlight. Multiple guests mention their guides’ friendliness, local knowledge, and attentiveness, making the experience memorable. One reviewer even praised the multilingual skills of Mathieu, who conducted the tour in Spanish, showcasing how flexible and accommodating the guides can be.

Many guests mention the scenic spots and the unique way a Segway allows them to experience Lyon’s historic streets and riverbanks. Some found the ride an exhilarating way to cover more ground than on foot, especially on a hot day, with one reviewer noting, “We received our hairnet and helmet and a short practice session,” which underscores how straightforward and safe the activity is once you get the hang of it.

Safety and Incident Management are also noted. A reviewer described how the guide handled a small collision calmly, emphasizing the professionalism and safety measures in place. This reassurance is important for first-time Segway riders.

The overall consensus is that the tour offers a fantastic balance of fun, education, and scenic beauty. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a “highlight of my day,” as one guest said, and prefer a more dynamic way to see Lyon compared to traditional walking tours.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a fun, efficient, and informative way to see Lyon’s top sights, this 90-minute Segway tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for active travelers, families with older children, or anyone who enjoys a dash of adventure with their cultural exploration. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and scenic route make it a standout option—delivering a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly those with limited mobility or pregnant women—the tour offers exceptional value for the lively glimpses it provides into Lyon’s history and beauty. It’s a lively way to kickstart a day of sightseeing or to enjoy a quick, engaging city overview.

FAQ

Is prior experience with Segways necessary? No, the tour includes all instruction, and most travelers find it easy to get the hang of it after a brief practice session.

What’s included in the price? Helmets, hairnets, rain capes if needed, and luggage storage at the agency are included in the $53.36 fee.

How long does the tour last? The tour runs approximately 90 minutes, with time allocated at each stop for sightseeing and commentary.

Can I bring luggage? Yes, you can leave your luggage at the tour agency during the ride, which adds to the convenience.

Is the tour suitable for children? Participants must be at least 14 years old and weigh at least 45 kilos. It’s not suitable for younger children or pregnant women.

What if it rains? Rain gear is provided if needed, so you can still enjoy the tour even in wet weather.

In short, this Segway tour is a great way to explore Lyon’s historic streets and scenic spots efficiently and enjoyably. With friendly guides and a handful of stops packed with stories, it’s an experience that offers both fun and authentic city insights—making it well worth considering for your Lyon itinerary.