See Lyon with Someone Who Actually Lives Here
I’m Matt, an American who moved to Lyon in 2016 and never left. No scripts, no headsets, no group of 20. Just your group and me, exploring the city I call home.
I Moved Here in 2016. Still Haven’t Left.
I’m a regular at the Saturday farmers market, fluent in French, and an American who has spent the last 10 years figuring out how Lyon actually works.
I started showing people around because friends kept visiting and asking me to take them out. Every time, they told me I should do this professionally. Eventually I agreed.
If you want someone who will ask what you’re interested in and build the day around that, that’s what I do.
More About MattHow It Works
We Meet
Your hotel, a metro stop, a café nearby. Wherever works for you. We start relaxed and go from there.
I Ask What You’re Into
History? Food? Architecture? Or just want to walk and see what happens? There’s no wrong answer. The day is built around you.
We Explore Together
The traboules, the markets, the Roman ruins most tourists walk right past. I show you the city I know, not the one in the guidebook.
You Leave Knowing Lyon
Where to eat, what to skip, how to get around. By the end you’ll feel like you actually know the city. Not just that you visited it.
This Is Not a Group Tour.
No Script
I’m not reading from a prepared talk. We’re having a real conversation. If you want to stop somewhere, we stop. If you want to ask something, ask.
Just Your Group
Your booking is private. It’s just you and me. No strangers, no compromises, no waiting for the back of the group to catch up.
10 Years of Real Local Knowledge
I go to the farmers market every week. I know the vendors. I know which streets are worth your time and which ones aren’t. That’s what you get when you go with someone who lives here.
An American Who Gets It
I know what’s confusing about France when you’re coming from the States. I can explain it, translate it, and make sure you actually enjoy it instead of feeling lost in it.
Experiences & Pricing
Every booking is private. Your group, your pace, your interests. Pick a tour or tell me what you’re looking for and we’ll build something around that.
Croix-Rousse & Traboules
2 to 2.5 hours
Hidden passageways, silk history, and Roman ruins most tourists never find. Finish at Hôtel de Ville.
Vieux Lyon Tour
2 to 2.5 hours
Renaissance streets, a traboule, and St. Jean Cathedral with real context. One of the best preserved neighborhoods in Europe.
Lyon Orientation Session
45 minutes. Zoom or in-person café.
Drowning in open tabs trying to plan your trip? 45 minutes with me and you’ll have a real plan.
Custom Private Tour
Half day or full day. You pick.
Tell me what you’re into and I build the day around it. Every one is different. That’s the point.
What People Say
“Matt made Lyon feel alive. His knowledge, kindness, and ability to connect with local vendors transformed my experience. I felt less like a tourist and more like a welcomed guest. A magical and unforgettable tour.”
“Super friendly and a happy go lucky attitude. In my tour, we traveled to the farmers market and explored the old town. I got practical tips there that I can take with me back home.”
“This tour is perfect for foodies. We booked this tour on our first morning in Lyon and it set the tone for our entire trip. During our tour Matt gave us tips on where to eat, kitchen supply store recommendations, and also helped us with the metro and tram at the end. Highly recommend!”
“The market tour with Matt was the highlight of our visit. He showed us how to pick the right ingredients, the seasonality of foods, and was able to speak to the vendors to order for us. Thanks Matt!”
“As English speakers, we really appreciated Matt guiding conversations in French for us. It made the market feel welcoming and removed all the intimidation. Thanks!”
“Because of Matt, I got the full Lyon experience with food and French culture. Walking through the charming streets and traboules of La Croix-Rousse, Matt made me feel less like a tourist and more like a welcomed guest, creating an unforgettable experience.”
Planning a Trip to Lyon?
Get in touch and tell me what you’re looking for. We’ll figure out the rest from there.
Email Mattinfo@mattsfrance.com