Bartholdi Fountain (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bartholdi Fountain?
What makes it 57% Kids-Friendly: Children may enjoy counting horses and hearing the river story, but lack of play gear, toilets, guardrails and shade means parents must supervise closely and leave after a short stop.
Positives:
- Free and Open: No ticket required; open 24 hours on a level, paved square with ramps.
- Central Location: Steps from Place des Terreaux cafés and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: Little cover around the fountain—bring hats or umbrella in summer.
- No Playground: No running area here; for more play space head 1 km to Parc de la Tête d’Or.
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 kids?
- Free entry in the city center
- Interactive count-and-find river game for kids
- Easy snack picnic on low seating walls
- Rich sculptural details to explore
- Short visit fits young children’s attention spans
Recommended visit duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Why 30 minutes - 1 hour visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to explore the sculptures, play counting games, and have a quick snack without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bartholdi Fountain
Count-and-Find River Game:
Ask kids to count the five water jets and identify the four horses symbolizing France’s rivers.
Tip: Bring a simple map or drawing pad so children can mark what they find.
Storytime at the Chariot:
Tell the tale of Marianne guiding her four horses around Lyon’s rivers.
Tip: Encourage kids to pretend they’re steering the chariot for extra fun.
Snack Picnic on the Low Walls:
Enjoy pastries or sandwiches from a nearby boulangerie while watching pigeons and passers-by.
Tip: Pick up croissants at a bakery on Rue Tupin and sit on the fountain’s edge benches.
Discover Sculpture Details:
Spot fine lead work on the horses’ bridles and the ornate chariot.
Tip: Use your phone’s zoom to show kids the small features up close.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bartholdi Fountain
- Early Visit: Go before 10 AM to find a quiet spot and avoid large tour groups.
- Combine with Museum: Pair your visit with the Musée des Beaux-Arts next door for an indoor break.
- Pack Water: Carry bottles to stay hydrated—no taps at the fountain.
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)?
Visit at sunrise or sunset to avoid midday crowds. In early December, see the fountain lit during Lyon’s Fête des Lumières—arrive 30 minutes before light shows start.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fountain entry | EUR 0 |
| Parking (1–2 hours) | EUR 6 |
| Bakery snacks for four | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 16 |
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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