Lyon Silk Secrets Tour
Half a day discovering the Croix-Rousse and its historic silk workshops
- WITH
- Alex's TEAM | about the guide
Lyon is steeped in history, from ancient Rome ruins to 21st century urban projects.
On the banks of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, the silk history flourished for centuries driving the city’s growth. At the heart of this industry, the Croix-Rousse was home to numerous silk workshops including a handful that are still active today.
This private interactive tour will take you into the heart of a historic district dotted with secret passages (traboules), silk worker homes (canuts) and wonderful views of the city. You’ll also discover the impressive Cour des Voraces and its famous staircase, the legend of the Gros Caillou and the magnificent mansions of the silk merchants.
Curious to find out more about the French silk industry and silk-making techniques? Make the most of two private demonstrations at two traditional workshops among the followings : 19th century silk loom techniques (Jacquard), silk velvet painting, silk farming (only from May to November) and more.
-
Lyon
France -
3 hrs
DURATION -
12
MAX. No. ON TOUR
TOUR DETAILS
- keywords :
- Lyon, Croix Rousse, silk-making, private silk demonstrations
- transport :
- by foot and public transport
- ACTIVITY LEVEL :
- Moderate
- ACCESSIBLE TO THE DISABLED :
- no
- Kid friendly :
- Children are welcome
- LANGUAGES:
- Français/French (native), Anglais/English (fluent), Italien/Italian (Bilingual)
- MAX. No. OF PEOPLE :
- 12
INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
Services of a professional private guide for 3 hours; demonstrations at 1 silk workshop
NOT INCLUDED
Transport if needed; Lunch; Shopping
ITINERARY
Your half-day private tour includes a leisurely stroll through the historic district of the Croix-Rousse on the lookout for secret passages, the houses of former silk workers (canuts) and splendid views over the city. You’ll also take part in two interactive silk demonstrations (weaving, silk paintings, printing, silkworm farming) at some traditional workshops. The choice of demonstrations will depend on the day/timing of the tour.
WHERE AND WHEN?
- MEET-UP LOCATION:
- Your hotel
- END OF TOUR LOCATION:
- Your hotel
about
your guide
Alex
Lyon
- languages :
- Français/French, Anglais/English, Italien/Italian
I was born and brought up in a town 50 km from Lyon, but I’ve always felt “Lyonnais”. After finishing my degree in modern languages at Lyon III University, I became an Italian teacher and then taught French in Italy. I also have 6 years of marketing experience. I’ve always loved history and art and I my first opportunity to test out my guiding skills came when my Italian students visited me in Lyon. I then started giving tours to Erasmus students at Lyon II University, so my passion for this amazing profession was born! Today, I’m a qualified professional guide. What can you expect during my tours? Lots of gastronomy, humor, anecdotes, participation and games. I like to create a fun and friendly atmosphere, and I’m fascinated by the origins of everything; from history, to languages and wines.
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