Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 join family workshops, hunt for animal mosaics, and picnic in Parc des Hauteurs. They must keep voices down in services and there is no indoor playground if weather turns bad.
Positives:
- No entrance fee: Visiting the basilica and crypt is free, making it easy to fit into any family budget.
- Panoramic viewpoints: Multiple terraces offer safe spots for kids to enjoy sweeping views of Lyon.
Challenges:
- Stairs and slopes: Many areas use stairs or steep paths; bring a carrier for younger children instead of a bulky stroller.
- Limited kid activities inside: The upper church is quiet; plan interactive stops or games to keep children engaged.
What is Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière?
- A 19th-century Roman Catholic minor basilica dominating Lyon’s Fourvière hill in a synthesis of Byzantine and Romanesque Revival architecture
- Four gleaming octagonal towers and white marble façades punctuate its monumental exterior
- An opulently decorated interior featuring intricate mosaics, stained-glass windows and gilded detailing honoring the Virgin Mary
What is so special about Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière for with kids?
- Free entry to both upper church and crypt sparks kids’ curiosity.
- Short funicular ride offers a memorable climb and city views.
- Nearby park and theatre let children run and play.
- Rosary Gardens provide interactive paths and rest spots.
- Seasonal changes add color to gardens and rooftop panoramas.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to tour the upper church and crypt, stroll the gardens, picnic, and visit the nearby Roman theatre at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière
Visit upper church and crypt:
See the bright mosaics upstairs and the darker crypt with its ‘seven deadly sins’ mosaic.
Tip: Point out the mosaic stories to kids and let them spot details on a family scavenger hunt.
Funicular ride:
Take the Ficelle funicular from Vieux Lyon up to the esplanade.
Tip: Buy TCL metro tickets (€1.90 each) at stations. Kids will enjoy the short uphill journey and city views.
Picnic in Parc des Hauteurs:
Relax on lawns and playground areas just below the basilica.
Tip: Pack sandwiches and water. Let children run free while you enjoy the view over Lyon.
Explore the Gallo-Roman theatre:
Climb the stone tiers of the 15 BC amphitheatre next to the basilica.
Tip: Ask kids to imagine gladiator battles or set up a simple role-play game among the stones.
Stroll the Rosary Gardens:
Follow the terraced paths dotted with statues and flower beds.
Tip: Look for the bronze rose markers. Bring snacks and rest on benches with river views.
When is the best time to visit Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière (Lyon, France)?
In spring and summer, gardens bloom—bring sun hats and sunscreen. In autumn, arrive before sunset to see the basilica light up against fall foliage. In winter, check closing hours and layer warmly for the windy hilltop.
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Reviews of Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière (Lyon)
Suryasree Roychowdhury
Was okay. Would recommend to get the guided tour booked in advance for English. They will not have availability otherwise. The architecture was okay. But, the St John's Cathedral was much more impressive. The view from the location was okay.
Aleksandar Jeremic
Lovely place to visit in Lyon. Get a day ticket for € 6.90 and couple of trains later you are there. Beautiful views of the city (sunset as well). Basilica is amazing. Don't compare it with Vatican however it is grand in its own way.
Angel L.B.
If you enjoy walking, the uphill trek takes about 30 minutes, while the return downhill stroll is around 20. The route winds through a peaceful, tree-lined path that’s absolutely worth taking—it adds a touch of nature to the experience. Not feeling up for the climb? No worries! The funicular offers a convenient and charming alternative.
Craig Coffey
You can see the Basilica from almost everywhere in the Lyon old town but it is well worth heading up to see it up close. Take the funicular (walking back down is nice) to get there. The Basilica is in such lovely condition. The murals look amazing and there is a real sense of peacefulness. Make sure you take the time to look closely at the murals. My favourite was the one depicting Joan of Arc. We...
Rosalie Brooke
A very impressive church with beautiful architecture. At the top of the hill so I recommend getting the cable car up for a few euro. The view is amazing as well. Was a very hot day and that affected our focus and interest in staying long but took a lot of photos of the inside as it looked beautiful.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Funicular tickets (4× metro fare) | EUR 7.6 |
| Pastries and drinks at Café de Fourvière | EUR 15 |
| Optional audio walking tour | EUR 11 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 33.6 |
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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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière
- Go early: Arrive by 9 AM to avoid crowds and find bench space in the gardens.
- Pack snacks: A small cooler means you can picnic anywhere on the hill without searching for food vendors.
Map of Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière
Address: 8 Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France
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About Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 4 78 25 13 0110 BEST nearby Activities
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