Bartholdi Fountain (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Bartholdi Fountain?
What makes it 71% Solo-Friendly: The fountain gives solo visitors free art, good photo angles, guided-tour meeting points and lively people-watching, but scarce shade or seating with backs limits comfort beyond an hour.
Positives:
- Free admission: No entry fee; explore at your own pace without a ticket.
- Central location: Steps from Hôtel de Ville metro; easy access day or night.
- Well-lit at night: Fountain remains visible and safe after dark.
Challenges:
- Crowds during events: Fête des Lumières and midday visits draw large groups, limiting space.
- Limited seating: Only low walls to sit on; bring a small stool if desired.
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 solo trip?
- Intricate bronze sculptures invite close-up photography
- Start point for engaging small-group walking tours
- Free entry allows flexible timing
- Lively square hosts street music and local life
- Evening lighting transforms the fountain into a spectacle
Recommended visit duration: 30-60 minutes
Why 30-60 minutes visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to study the sculptures, capture photos, and join a short walking tour.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Bartholdi Fountain
Photo-hunt sculpture details:
Zoom in on each horse’s bridle, reins, and Bartholdi’s lead work.
Tip: Use a phone or compact camera and move around the basin for varied angles.
Join a small-group walking tour:
Start here and explore Old Town with a local guide.
Tip: Book in advance for morning slots; tours run 3–4 hours at ≈€40.
Golden hour photography:
Capture the fountain at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early and position yourself facing east (morning) or west (evening).
People-watch and street music:
Sit on the low walls and watch buskers and passers-by.
Tip: Bring a book or coffee from a nearby café and soak in the local vibe.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bartholdi Fountain
- Visit at opening hour: Arrive around 9 AM to enjoy quieter surroundings and clear views.
- Use Metro A: Take Metro A to Hôtel de Ville–Louis Pradel station and walk 2 minutes.
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)?
During early December’s Fête des Lumières, see nightly light projections on the fountain. In spring and summer, nearby cafés open early for terrace seating.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Walking tour | EUR 40 |
| Coffee at nearby café | EUR 4 |
| Light snack | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 49 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
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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