What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can see Guignol puppet shows, tackle illusion rooms, follow a child audio trail and run in car-free courtyards, but there is no playground or hands-on science zone.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a puppet show, illusion museum, audio-guide tour and a snack break without rushing.
Véritable Théâtre Guignol puppet show:
Catch a classic Guignol performance in the open-air courtyard theatre
Tip: Buy tickets online or at the info desk in advance to secure seats
Musée de l’Illusion:
Explore mirror rooms and hands-on optical puzzles
Tip: Head there first when it opens to avoid waiting in lines
Children’s audio-guide “Portraits”:
Scan courtyard medallions for fun stories about Rabelais and Soufflot
Tip: Download the app and bring headphones for each child before arrival
Summer DIY workshops:
Join free mask-making and painting sessions during school holidays
Tip: Check the workshop schedule at the info desk on arrival
Explore the courtyards and gardens:
Let kids run safely among historic cloisters and shaded benches
Tip: Pack a small picnic or snacks to enjoy on the benches

J T G Nielsen
A must see when visiting Lyon. The amazing and stunning renovations are credit to the visionary approach and architecture that now plays a central role in the city. Stay at the Intercontinental Hotel or just go for lunch or dinner, it’s a must for everyone to visit.
Goldy Wong
By IHG group intercontinental management! New hotel! 6 years old. It was a children hospital before remodeling! Over 100 years old building! Modernized to a new hotel! service can be improved! Not detailed enough!
Susan Sutherland (Susie)
Beautiful! Want to stay here next time we come as location is ideal. Staff were lovely and the old court yards are so nice too. Had a drink outside in the hotel bar/courtyard and they brought us out champagne as we just got engaged, we loved the fuss and how special they made us feel! Will be back!
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
The Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon is more than just a beautiful building—it’s a masterpiece of Lyon’s architectural and cultural heritage, elegantly reborn for the modern age. Once one of the oldest hospitals in France, this grand structure along the Rhône River has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious complex housing a five-star hotel, gourmet restaurants, boutique shops, and a museum. The buildi...
Matthew Hughes
We visited the hotel's famous Le Dome bar for heavy hors d'oeuvres on Easter Sunday. We started with a few hand-crafted cocktails, including the signature Le Dome, an homage to the city's pink pralines, and a classic spicy bloody mary. We chose the Trilogy of Savory Delight to accompany the cocktails and were impressed with a three-tiered presentation of the snacks, reminiscent of our high tea t...
In summer, look for free kids’ workshops and outdoor puppet show performances in the courtyards. In cooler months, dress in layers as the open spaces can feel chilly and start with indoor activities like the illusion museum.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Véritable Théâtre Guignol puppet show (2 adults + 2 kids) | EUR 26 |
| Musée de l’Illusion family ticket | EUR 49 |
| Snacks & drinks at Café Mokxa | EUR 15 |
| DIY workshop materials | EUR 0 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 90 |
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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Address: 1 Pl. de l'Hôpital, 69002 Lyon, France
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