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Lyon by the water
Ahoy there!
Activities and relaxation
Last updated date : 06/07/2026
Two rivers that come together in the heart of the city, two lakes and brilliant sunshine... Lyon offers a beautiful setting to enjoy leisure activities on its rivers and lakes.
Choose between something contemplative, active or even sporty, and enjoy the freedom!
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Travel like a local by public transport!
Would you like to explore Lyon at the pace of the river alongside the locals? Hop aboard the Navigône, the river shuttle that the locals use for their daily commute! Take advantage of this unique and affordable mode of transport — it costs €3 one way, €5 return, or is free with a 7-day Pass or a TCL season ticket — to explore Lyon from the Saône.
Explore Lyon in total tranquillity with a river cruise!
If you enjoy sightseeing and learning something new, why not opt for a sightseeing cruise with Les Bateaux Lyonnais? These one-hour cruises take you on a captivating journey, whether you're heading to Île Barbe to the north of Lyon or to La Confluence.
Brunch and aperitifs on the water with Vaporetto
If you are partial to early evening drinks, then you will be sure to enjoy an Aperitivos, a summer evening drink on the Vaporetto! Unless you're rather enjoying a brunch !
Lunch and dinner cruises
Step aboard the Hermès restaurant boat for a timeless break that combines fine food and a stunning view of the city, during the day or evening.
On the Saône, you can hire an electric boat with Cap Confluent and set off to explore Lyon as a family or with friends (up to 7 passengers), for one or several hours, or even the whole day…
Looking for romance and activity? Row, row, row (or pedal!) your boat
Take a rowing boat, electric boat or pedalo out on the lake at l'Embarcadère of Tête d’Or Park! This is an excellent way to spend a pleasant moment on the lake, with your sweetheart or friends, in a green setting surrounded by ducks and swans. You would never believe you’re in the heart of Lyon!
The Store
Boat or canoe rental
A taste for sport or even adventure?
Lyon Kayak on the Rhône
Take a canoe trip on the river Rhône and Saône, or try stand-up paddling at the Confluence. Enjoy a unique experience as you skim along the water past the river banks and barges. Life jackets are supplied.
Find out more about Lyon Canoë.
Those who fancy themselves as sailors can show off their skills on the lake at Grand Parc de Miribel Jonage. Learn various ways to navigate the river, including sailing, canoeing, rowing and windsurfing.
Find out more about water activities at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage.
Do you prefer to take part in water sports as a spectator?
If so, from May to the end of October, the joutes lyonnaises (Lyonnais water jousts) are for you!
And that’s not all, because Lyon hosts several sports events that take place on or in the water over the course of the year:
- The Traversée de Lyon à la nage avec palmes (Swim through Lyon with flippers) in January
- The Pardon des Mariniers (an event held in honour of Lyon’s bargemen) in May
- The 'Entre Rhône et Saône' Water festival in June
- The Open Swim Stars Lyon in September
- Lyon Kayak in Septembre