Family-Friendly Adventures in Lyon!

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), one of Europe’s largest Renaissance neighborhoods and a UNESCO World Heritage site! Here’s a perfect one-day itinerary for a family exploring this charming area.

Morning: St. Jean Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste)

Start your day at the stunning St. Jean Cathedral. Located in the heart of Vieux Lyon, this cathedral is easy to reach via the Vieux Lyon metro station. Known for its magnificent 14th-century astronomical clock, the cathedral offers an enchanting spectacle when it chimes (check timing to catch a performance). Explore the intricate gothic architecture and the peaceful ambiance of this historic site.

Mid-Morning: Traboules Exploration

After visiting the cathedral, dive into the hidden traboules, secret passageways that weave through buildings and courtyards. These passageways were used by silk manufacturers and merchants to transport their goods. Guided tours are available and recommended to fully understand the history and purpose of these unique pathways. A popular starting point is near the cathedral, and maps are available at the local tourist office.

Lunch: Local Bouchon

Head to a traditional Lyonnais "bouchon" for lunch. Bouchons are known for their warm, friendly atmosphere and traditional Lyon cuisine. Try local specialties like "quenelles" (cream fish dumplings) or "saucisson brioché" (sausage in brioche).

Afternoon: Gadagne Museums

Post lunch, visit the Gadagne Museums, a short walk from many bouchons. Housed in a beautiful Renaissance building, the museum complex includes the Lyon History Museum and the Puppet Museum, offering interactive exhibits that are fun for kids and adults alike.

Evening: Stroll along the Saône River

Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Saône River. The riverfront provides stunning views of the city as the sun sets, a perfect end to your family day in Old Lyon.

Enjoy your trip filled with history, culture, and delicious food in Vieux Lyon!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ancient Theatre of Fourvière (Théâtre Antique de Lyon)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Ancient Theatre of Fourvière (Théâtre Antique de Lyon)

Morning Arrival & Exploration

Start your day early by catching the funicular from Vieux Lyon metro station directly to "Minimes - Théâtres Romains". This quick and scenic ride will save your energy and raise the kids" excitement as you ascend the hill toward the theatre. Upon arrival, you"ll be greeted by the grandeur of the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, which dates back to 15 BC. Originally capable of seating 10,000 spectators, this magnificent structure was a hub for entertainment in Roman Gaul.

Interactive Family Tour

Explore the theatre"s vast tiers and imagine the spectacles of ancient drama and music that once captivated audiences. Engage the kids by having them count the rows or find the best acoustics spot by shouting from the stage. Don"t miss the Odeon next door, a smaller theatre that held musical recitals and poetry readings, offering a more intimate glimpse into Roman cultural life.

Picnic Lunch & Views

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby gardens that offer a stunning view over modern Lyon. This is a perfect spot for kids to play and for adults to relax and soak in the view.

Visit the Museum

Post-lunch, visit the adjacent Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière (closed on Mondays). The museum presents fascinating artifacts from Lyon"s Roman era, including mosaics, statues, and ancient tools, all displayed in a manner that tells a vivid story of the city’s illustrious past.

Evening Stroll & Departure

As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll back down to Vieux Lyon. If energy permits, explore the medieval alleyways and local shops, or simply hop on the funicular to return to your starting point.

This family journey through history will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Lyon"s ancient and modern culture!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lyon Les Halles Market (Les Halles Paul Bocuse)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family day out at Les Halles Paul Bocuse in Lyon, a culinary paradise! Here"s your engaging itinerary to make the most of this gastronomic hub.

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early by taking the metro to Part-Dieu station, which is just a 10-minute walk from Les Halles. If driving, there’s convenient parking at Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse underground car park.

### Explore Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Enter the market around 9 AM to avoid the larger crowds. This vibrant market, named after the legendary French chef Paul Bocuse, is a treasure trove of the finest regional foods, from cheeses and meats to chocolates and pastries. Fascinate the kids with a visit to Mère Richard for some famous Saint-Marcellin cheese, or stop by Renée Richard for exquisite dairy.

### Snack Time

Around 11 AM, treat the family at A La Marée, known for its fresh oysters and seafood. If seafood isn"t a family favorite, there are plenty of other options like local sausages from Colette Sibilia, perfect for a lighter snack.

### Interactive Cooking Class

After snacking, join a cooking workshop often held in or near the market. These classes often include a tour of the market to pick ingredients, offering a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.

### Late Lunch

By 1 PM, enjoy a hearty sit-down meal at Le Fer à Cheval, a bouchon Lyonnais inside the market, well-loved for its authentic Lyon cuisine. Try the quenelles or the local rosette sausage.

### Sweet Ending

Conclude your visit around 3 PM with a sweet treat from Chocolaterie Sève, which will be a hit with the kids. Their macarons are a must-try!

### Departure

Stroll back to Part-Dieu station, sharing stories of your favorite experiences from the day. Alternatively, catch a taxi right outside the market if you’re laden with gourmet goodies.

This visit to Les Halles Paul Bocause offers not just a taste but a full immersion into Lyon’s rich culinary culture, all while keeping it fun and engaging for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bellecour Square (Place Bellecour)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Bellecour Square, the vibrant heart of Lyon and one of the largest open squares in Europe! Ideal for a family day out, this historic area is not only picturesque but also filled with activities and sights.

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Bellecour Square, easily accessible by Lyon"s efficient metro system; take Line A or D to Bellecour Station, which places you directly on the square. Upon arrival, take a moment to admire the equestrian statue of Louis XIV that dominates the space. It"s a great spot for a family photo!

Statue of Louis XIV and Playground Fun

After snapping some photos, head to the playground located towards the western end of the square. Kids can enjoy the swings and slides, while adults appreciate the benches and views of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière on the hilltop.

Lunch and Shopping

By noon, you might be ready for lunch. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy right on the square, or visit one of the nearby cafes for some Lyonnaise specialties. Post-lunch, explore the surrounding streets for unique boutiques and souvenir shops.

Visit to the Tourist Office and Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

After lunch, stop by the Tourist Office on the square. Here, you can pick up a map and perhaps join a guided tour. For a unique twist, book a horse-drawn carriage ride around the square and adjoining streets, a hit with kids and a relaxing way for the whole family to see the sights.

Evening Stroll and Departure

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Rhône River, just a few minutes from the square. It"s the perfect way to wind down and discuss the day"s adventures. Head back to Bellecourt metro station for your journey home, or continue exploring the vibrant city of Lyon if time permits.

Enjoy your family-friendly adventure at Bellecour Square, where history and fun blend seamlessly!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière)

Why Visit?

Family Visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Morning

Start your day early by taking the funicular from Vieux Lyon metro station to the hilltop where the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is perched, offering a stunning view over Lyon. The funicular ride itself is an adventure for kids, resembling a small hill-climbing train that captures the old-world charm of Lyon.

Visit to the Basilica

Once at the top, explore the majestic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a marvel of 19th-century architecture. The church, constructed between 1872 and 1884, stands as a symbol of gratitude to the Virgin Mary, believed to have saved the city from a cholera epidemic. The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, stained glass, and artworks that enchant visitors of all ages. Don"t miss the crypt of Saint Joseph, which is quieter and has its own unique atmosphere.

Interactive Activities

Participate in a family-friendly guided tour available on weekends, which helps decode the symbols of the basilica through fun activities designed for children. These tours often reveal fascinating stories and legends associated with the basilica, making the historical visit more engaging for younger minds.

Lunch and Leisure

Enjoy a picnic in the nearby gardens of the Rosaire, offering panoramic views of Lyon — a perfect spot for kids to play and adults to relax.

Afternoon

Post lunch, visit the neighboring Fourvière Archaeological Park. Just a short walk from the basilica, this park houses the ancient remnants of the Roman city of Lugdunum. It"s a great place to explore history hands-on, with amphitheaters and ruins that spur the imagination.

Return

Head back down using the funicular to Vieux Lyon, where you can treat the family to some traditional Lyonnais snacks like a praline tart or a Lyon sausage at a local café, wrapping up a day full of exploration and learning.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.