Lyon Botanical Garden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Lyon Botanical Garden?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 solve the free treasure hunt, join fun nature workshops and tours, gaining science insight; lack of onsite playground means excess energy must wait for the wider park.
Positives:
- Free entry: No ticket needed for garden and greenhouses.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Wide flat paths and benches make it easy with a stroller.
- Nearby playground and zoo: Across the street in Parc de la Tête d’Or, kids can play after the garden.
Challenges:
- No playground inside: The garden has no slides. Use the park playground nearby.
- Tours in French: Guided visits are only in French; self-guiding may suit non-French speakers better.
What is Lyon Botanical Garden?
- A historic botanical garden established in 1857 within the Parc de la Tête d’Or
- A living collection hosting over 15 000 plant species across themed greenhouses, an arboretum and specialized outdoor gardens
- A research and conservation center featuring a herbarium, a botanical library and a seed bank for scientific study
What is so special about Lyon Botanical Garden for with kids?
- Free entry and stroller-accessible paths.
- Interactive Cotylédon treasure hunt for kids.
- Explore tropical greenhouses and rare plants.
- Family-friendly guided tours at 6 € per person.
- Picnic spots under shaded trees.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Long enough to explore greenhouses, join a kid’s treasure hunt, and enjoy a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Lyon Botanical Garden
Cotylédon treasure hunt:
Solve 10 plant riddles with a game sheet designed for ages 7–12.
Tip: Download and print the sheet at home. Bring pencils and snacks. Supervise the 3-year-old with simple spotting tasks.
Self-guided greenhouse tour:
Wander 6,500 m² of greenhouses with orchids, carnivorous plants and Amazonian lilies.
Tip: Start early to catch morning light. Follow numbered signs to keep kids engaged.
Family guided tour:
Join a 1½ hour French-only tour covering greenhouses and arboretum.
Tip: Book ahead on the website. Combine with the free treasure hunt for extra fun.
Picnic under the trees:
Use park tables and shaded lawns near the entrance.
Tip: Pack sandwiches and cold drinks. Let kids run on nearby lawns before resting.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lyon Botanical Garden
- Combine with the park: Visit the botanical garden first, then walk to the zoo or carousel in the same park.
- Bring your own map: Print the treasure hunt and park map at home to save time at the entrance.
Reviews of Lyon Botanical Garden
Gabriella Alekian
Free of charge. Nice botanical and rose garden inside the park. Interesting plants from different places in the world.
S B W
It's simply unbelievable that such a gorgeous botanical garden is open to the public completely free of charge. The park and the greenhouses contain innumerable plants from all over the world. In the middle of the city but away from the rush and noise you can easily spend some hours here, walking through the colourful flowers or sit in the shadow of old trees and just relax.
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
Tucked within the expansive Parc de la Tête d'Or, the Lyon Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique de Lyon) is a true treasure for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Boasting one of Europe's richest collections with over 15,000 plants across 8 hectares, it's a fantastic journey through global flora, all free of charge. The garden is thoughtfully laid out, featuring a diverse range of outdoor...
Steven Betancourt
A wonderful way to enjoy a sunny day. The zoo was the standout surprise, especially the giraffes! We also learned about a new animal, Tapir from Malaysia. There was also a piano in a gazebo with someone playing sweet music.
Matthew Hughes
We visited here as part of the Segway Tour. The history of the building was amazing. The plants inside were nice, but not a lot was blooming. It is not large, but it is free, so it is worth a stop when you are walking through the park.
When is the best time to visit Lyon Botanical Garden (Lyon, France)?
In July–August, join free drop-in workshops (forest games, insect watching). Arrive early—spots fill fast.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family guided tour (4×6 €) | EUR 24 |
| Snacks and drinks | EUR 12 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 36 |
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 Lyon Botanical Garden
Address: Tête d'Or, 69006 Lyon, France
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Lyon Botanical Garden (Lyon)?
About Lyon Botanical Garden
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official Website10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities