Place Bellecour (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Place Bellecour?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: The step-free expanse suits strollers and toilets have a changing table, but there is no nursing room, little shade and the bare paving heats up, which can tire or dehydrate babies.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly surface: Laterite paving is smooth and flat for easy stroller movement.
- Central metro access: Bellecour station (lines A and D) is steps away for quick return to hotel.
Challenges:
- Crowds at midday: Wide plaza fills quickly on sunny afternoons and event days.
- Limited permanent shade: Only shaded sections are under the misting structures; bring a sunshade.
What is Place Bellecour?
- A vast, rectangular public square at the heart of Lyon’s Presqu’île district, historically known as Place Royale
- One of Europe’s largest pedestrian plazas, paved with laterite stone and bordered by uniform 19th-century façades and plane trees
- Its centerpiece is an 1825 bronze equestrian statue of Louis XIV, underscoring the square’s historical and architectural significance
What is so special about Place Bellecour for with baby?
- Flat, open plaza perfect for stroller strolls
- Baby-changing toilets next to Tourist Office
- Seasonal Ferris wheel with free baby rides
- Shaded, misted lanes keep little ones cool
- Central metro stop and benches for breaks
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to stroll the plaza, use baby-care facilities and enjoy a Ferris wheel ride without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Place Bellecour
Open-air stroller stroll:
Walk across the flat, paved square with your stroller.
Tip: Start on the east side to find benches and shaded spots near the misting lanes.
Grande Roue (Ferris Wheel):
Ride the seasonal Ferris wheel for city views.
Tip: Book tickets in advance for a quieter cabin; baby under 1.20 m rides free.
Public toilets with changing tables:
Use the free restrooms behind the Tourist Office pavilion.
Tip: Open 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m. (extended hours on event days); step-free access.
‘Tissage urbain’ shade & misting:
Cool off under shaded lanes with gentle mists.
Tip: Perfect in summer; bring a light towel to dry off your baby.
ONLYLYON Tourist Office pavilion:
Rest with free Wi-Fi and ask staff for baby-friendly tips.
Tip: Open 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; ask for nearby café recommendations with high chairs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Place Bellecour
- Visit early: Go before 10 a.m. to enjoy quieter space and better light for photos.
- Pre-book wheel tickets: Reserve online to avoid lines and secure a cabin next to your stroller space.
Reviews of Place Bellecour
bhupendra kumar verma
Nice open hangout place in Lyon City center, Mersmerising views on all sides from the center, can walk from Perrache stop within 10 minutes or get the metro directly from anywhere in the city. Many public events are conducted here and definitely a place to be during festive evenings in lyon.
Sérgio Vinícius de Sá Lucena
Famous square in Lyon, quite big. There are some installations providing shadow and some areas with water drops making environment more fresh for the hot summer days. Really good idea and kids love it.
Paul Vivas
Legendary Square in the Hyper Centre of Lyon This is a really nice 'place' probably one of the largest in France. It is super big and has a few historical points, like status, gardens etc. All very grand and obviously the place is surrounded by nice cafés, restaurants, & shops.
Craig Coffey
The square is very large and was pretty dusty and with next to no shade in the middle. I'm sure this space would be will use for events etc. Around the edges are yes lined walkways which was welcome in the summer heat. The Lyon tourism centre is here for those looking for help or interested in getting a city pass (you can pick them up here if you buy online). In one corner is the statue celebratin...
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
Place Bellecour is a must-visit landmark in the heart of Lyon and one of the largest public squares in France. This vast open space—framed by elegant architecture and bustling with local life—serves as a central hub for the city, where history and modern rhythm collide. The square’s centerpiece is the striking equestrian statue of Louis XIV, poised grandly atop his horse. Though the square feels ...
When is the best time to visit Place Bellecour (Lyon, France)?
Late Nov–Mar ride the Ferris wheel and ice rink opens in winter. Spring brings boules tournaments and roller festivals. In summer, use misting lanes early to beat crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferris Wheel ride (2 adults) | EUR 18 |
| Café snack for two | EUR 10 |
| Flower stall souvenir | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 33 |
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 Place Bellecour
Address: Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon, France
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About Place Bellecour
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 77 69 6910 BEST nearby Activities
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