Garden of Curiosities (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Garden of Curiosities?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: The free hilltop garden gives sweeping city views, sculptural chairs, and peaceful lawns for reading or sketching, so a solo visitor enjoys rich scenery without needing extra services; missing toilets is minor.
Positives:
- Free Entry: No ticket required for any visitor, making spontaneous visits easy.
- Panoramic City Views: Sweeping views over Lyon and the Saône make for memorable photos.
Challenges:
- No On-Site Facilities: There are no toilets, cafés, or water fountains; plan accordingly.
- Steep Access Paths: The walk up Fourvière hill involves uneven slopes and may be tiring.
What is Garden of Curiosities?
- A hillside public garden on Fourvière hill providing expansive views over Lyon’s rooftops and the Saône river
- Created in 2002 by landscape architect Michel Mercier with terraced lawns, light-canopy trees, and winding paved pathways
- Features six poetically inscribed steel chairs by sculptor Michel Goulet and panoramic belvédère terraces within its 0.6-hectare footprint
What is so special about Garden of Curiosities for solo trip?
- Free hilltop entry with sweeping views over Lyon and the Saône River
- Perfect for solo yoga, reading, or sketching on peaceful lawns
- Six sculpted chairs invite a photo-journal of poetic inscriptions
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the red-surface terrace at sunset
- Optional guided walk adds local history and a funicular ride
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to hike up, explore art installations, and enjoy a picnic or quiet reading.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Garden of Curiosities
Sunrise Yoga on the Lawn:
Practice yoga or meditation at first light on the open grassy terrace.
Tip: Arrive at opening time to claim a flat spot and face east for the morning sun.
Panoramic Picnic on the Terrace:
Enjoy a self-made snack on the red-surface overlook facing the city and Saône river.
Tip: Bring a small blanket and reusable utensils; skip glass bottles for safety.
Photo-Journal of Sculpted Chairs:
Visit each of Michel Goulet’s six steel chairs and capture the engraved quotations.
Tip: Use a journal app or notebook to jot personal reflections on each quote.
Quiet Reading or Sketching Break:
Find a secluded bench or grassy patch under light-leaf trees to read or draw.
Tip: Pack a lightweight book or sketchpad; heavier bags can stay on a bench.
Guided Fourvière Hill Walk:
Join a small-group tour that includes the funicular and local history insights.
Tip: Book in advance via the Lyon Tourist Office and confirm meeting point at Saint-Just station.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Garden of Curiosities
- Start Early: Arrive at 8 am to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
- Pack Light: Use a compact backpack for snacks, a water bottle, and personal items.
Reviews of Garden of Curiosities
Daniel Alejandro Bermúdez Calderón
It took time to reach the place but the view it's incredible.
Reem A
A lovely, quiet park overlooking Lyon. It's small, but a great place to relax. But I couldn't find any grocery stores or coffee shops nearby to grab refreshments.
Francesco Xodo
Little peaceful corner that can be reached with an uphill walk from Presqu'ile after crossing the Kitchener Marchand bridge. This garden was donated by the city of Montreal to mark the 20th anniversary of the cooperation relations with Lyon. Probably one of the best panoramic views on the city.
Alfie Freeman
Nice view but not like amazing, dogs not allowed which kinda sucks
Vasilis Skarleas
Very beautiful place. The ideal location to take outstanding pictures and have a picnic. You can arrive very easily by bus and it’s a great option if you want to explore Lyon a little bit.
When is the best time to visit Garden of Curiosities (Lyon, France)?
In summer, gardens stay open until 10 pm for extended sunset views. In winter, snow sometimes covers the slopes—bring waterproof shoes. Spring brings early wildflowers; watch for pollen if you are sensitive. Autumn offers softer light and fewer crowds.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | EUR 0 |
| Coffee at nearby café | EUR 3 |
| Optional guided walk | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 23 |
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 Garden of Curiosities
Address: 8 Pl. de l'Abbé Larue, 69005 Lyon, France
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About Garden of Curiosities
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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