Bartholdi Fountain (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Bartholdi Fountain?
What makes it 48% Baby-Friendly: Wide paving helps strollers and car parks under the square offer free changing tables, but no nursing room, quiet corner, or weather cover makes the spot only moderately suitable for babies.
Positives:
- 24/7 Open space: The square is always open and free, so you can visit any time that suits your baby’s schedule.
- Central location: Located next to Musée des Beaux-Arts, making it easy to combine with indoor baby-friendly facilities.
Challenges:
- No on-site baby facilities: The fountain area has no changing tables or nursing rooms; nearby car parks and cafés can fill the gap.
- Crowds at peak times: Place des Terreaux can be busy midday and during festivals, which may stress a young baby.
What is Bartholdi Fountain?
- A monumental late 19th-century public fountain by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi at Lyon’s Place des Terreaux
- A neoclassical sculptural ensemble featuring a seated female allegory on a chariot drawn by four horses personifying France’s major rivers
- Cast in lead and bronze, the fountain comprises multi-tiered basins and rhythmic water jets surrounding the dynamic figures within the urban square
What is so special about Bartholdi Fountain for with baby?
- Stroller-friendly square with ramp access.
- Free and open fountain visit with vivid water jets.
- Nearby low walls for picnic and rest stops.
- Cafés on the square offer booster seats and changing tables.
- Close to Musée des Beaux-Arts for additional baby facilities.
Note: Bartholdi Fountain is 48% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Lyon for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour
Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to admire the sculptures, snap photos, and let the baby rest without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Bartholdi Fountain
Stroll to the fountain:
Use the wide, paved square to roll your stroller right up to the basin.
Tip: Follow ramps on the north side for smooth access without steps.
Watch the water jets:
Enjoy the rhythmic spray from the four horses’ mouths.
Tip: Position your stroller near a low wall for a front-row view of the water patterns.
Snack break on the low walls:
Sit on the surrounding ledges for a quick picnic spot.
Tip: Pick up fresh pastries from a nearby boulangerie and bring a small blanket.
Baby feeding at a nearby café:
Step into a terrace café for a nursing or bottle-feeding comfort.
Tip: Try Bouillon Baratte on the north side; they offer booster seats and a changing table with a meal purchase.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bartholdi Fountain
- Visit early: Arrive before 10 AM to find quieter space and shaded spots for your baby.
- Use Parking Terreaux: Park here for free changing tables and roll out to the fountain without extra walking.
- Combine with museum: Pop into Musée des Beaux-Arts next door for a climate-controlled break and baby facilities.
Reviews of Bartholdi Fountain
Tanya Sheridan
Beautiful fountain, very nice place. We did a big Bulgarian folklore dance event there.
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
The Bartholdi Fountain in Place des Terreaux is one of Lyon’s most iconic and dramatic landmarks. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the same sculptor who created the Statue of Liberty, this stunning fountain is a powerful display of motion, emotion, and artistry in bronze. The sculpture features a majestic female figure representing France riding a chariot pulled by four wild horses, each o...
Kent Wang
The Fontaine Bartholdi was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi when he was only 23 years old. Bartholdi would design the Statue of Liberty 15 years later. The fountain depicts France as a female figure (Marianne) seated on a chariot, controlling four powerful horses that represent the four great rivers of France: the Rhône, the Rhine, the Loire, and the Seine. Originally commissioned by the c...
Bob Myles
Plan to see it after April 1st. We got there on March 29th only to find that like most waterworks in Paris and Lyon it was completely dry. They are active starting April 1st. The sculpture is large and very impressive and conveys a sense of motion. Bartholdi after all designed the Statue of Liberty in New York. This work also has an interesting history which you should look up and read.
Koray (IG: koraytravels)
A great spot to spend some time in this spacious square. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. It's perfect for taking a break, enjoying a drink, or having lunch while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit!
When is the best time to visit Bartholdi Fountain (Lyon, France)?
Early December brings the Fête des Lumières light show; arrive before dusk to avoid crowds with a baby.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fountain visit | EUR 0 |
| Parking (1 hour at Terreaux) | EUR 2 |
| Café drink | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 7 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Bartholdi Fountain
Address: Pl. des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France
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About Bartholdi Fountain
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+33 4 72 77 69 6910 BEST nearby Activities
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