Des Hauteurs Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Des Hauteurs Park?
What makes it 56% Kids-Friendly: Children can run along the car-free footbridge and do a garden scavenger hunt, but the steep steps, lack of toilets or playground and few flat rest areas demand close supervision.
Positives:
- Free entry and rest areas: Park is free and open; benches and lawns offer spots for breaks and snacking.
- Safe car-free trails: All paths are pedestrian-only, so kids can run under supervision.
Challenges:
- Steep and uneven paths: Gravel sections and staircases can tire little legs quickly.
- No playground or water features: The park lacks play equipment and water play, plan other stops for that.
What is Des Hauteurs Park?
- A hillside urban park on Fourvière hill beneath the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
- A landscaped ensemble of terraced rose gardens, stone staircases and elevated footbridges
- A historical site incorporating Gallo-Roman theatre ruins within its lush parkland
What is so special about Des Hauteurs Park for with kids?
- Free hillside park under Fourvière basilica with rose terraces
- 600 m car-free footbridge feels like a treetop adventure
- Picnic lawns and scavenger hunts keep kids engaged
- Easy funicular access saves family energy
- Sweeping city views reward all ages
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to explore the footbridge, rose garden and viewpoints without getting overly tired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Des Hauteurs Park
Passerelle des Quatre Vents footbridge:
Walk the 600 m elevated path through tree-top gardens with no car traffic.
Tip: Start near Jardin du Rosaire and hold younger kids’ hands on narrow sections.
Jardin du Rosaire picnic:
Set up a picnic on terraced rose and hydrangea lawns beneath the basilica.
Tip: Bring a blanket and simple snacks; use benches to rest every 10–15 min.
Floral scavenger hunt:
Search for roses, hydrangeas, peonies and ivy-covered belvederes along the paths.
Tip: Print a simple map from Lyon open data or draw symbols to keep kids engaged.
Esplanade de Fourvière viewpoint:
Enjoy sweeping city views from the flat lawn beside the basilica.
Tip: Visit just before sunset for warm light and cooler temperatures.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Des Hauteurs Park
- Arrive early: Start around 9 am to enjoy shade and quieter paths in busy months.
- Use the funicular: Take Vieux Lyon–Fourvière funicular to save energy for exploring.
- Pack a light stroller: A foldable stroller works on paved sections near the esplanade; avoid gravel.
Reviews of Des Hauteurs Park
Catalin Hulea
If you are in the Vieux Lyon district and want to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (or, conversely, if you are up at the basilica and want to go down to the old quarter), you have two options: 1. The fast but unpleasant option: by funicular. If you can’t stand crowds and/or unpleasant smells, it’s best to avoid it. 2. On foot — the more time-consuming and tiring option, but by far t...
Huy Nguyen Le
As an international student in Lyon, Parc des Hauteurs quickly became one of my favorite escapes from the busy city. Hidden behind Fourvière hill, the park feels peaceful and almost secret, with paths winding between trees, gardens, and ancient Roman ruins. I love walking there after classes, especially in the evening when the view over the Saône River and the rooftops of Vieux Lyon is breathtakin...
Mike Aoun
I did not even realize i was in a park until i got there by mistake on my way to the cathedral. It is very quiet and has a nice flora ans view over the city. Great place to relax on your climb up.
Richard Jack
One of the best Cathederals I have been in, in Europe. You can go outside and look over the city up to the snow capped Alps.
Michael Mack
Beautiful park in Lyon. We walked down from the Basilica to the Old Town of Lyon. The views were spectacular and even in late November, there were still leaves on the trees and flowers. It was so peaceful. Beautiful statues along the way. There is a long winding path or you can take much steeper stairs. We took the winding path and the walk was beautiful. Highly recommend visiting this area of Lyo...
When is the best time to visit Des Hauteurs Park (Lyon, France)?
Visit May to June for peak rose blooms. In summer bring hats, water and sunscreen. In fall expect cooler weather and fewer crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Funicular tickets (2 adults) | EUR 4 |
| Snacks and water | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 14 |
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 Des Hauteurs Park
Address: Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France
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About Des Hauteurs Park
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 69 47 6010 BEST nearby Activities
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