Place Bellecour (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Place Bellecour?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids find a Ferris wheel, winter ice rink and roller contests plus space for scooters, but there is no playground or grass and the hard surface makes falls painful, so close supervision is needed.
Positives:
- Open Space: The wide paved area lets children run freely and play.
- Accessible Facilities: Public toilets have changing tables and step-free entrances.
- Free Events: Seasonal festivals and contests run at no cost.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: Few trees mean the plaza can be hot in midday sun.
- Crowds: Popular events and weekends draw large groups around the statue.
- Hard Surface: The laterite paving is firm; bring soft-soled shoes for kids.
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 kids?
- Ride the Grand Roue for panoramic family photos.
- Join free roller contests and pétanque games for hands-on fun.
- Enjoy stroller-friendly open space with benches and public toilets.
- Skate together on the winter ice rink with pre-booked slots.
- Benefit from seasonal misting installations and shade in summer.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets kids enjoy the Ferris wheel and run around the plaza at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Place Bellecour
Grand Roue (Ferris Wheel):
Board the 30 m wheel for aerial views of Lyon’s rooftops, Fourvière hill and the Rhône.
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip lines and arrive early for lower wait times.
Lugdunum Roller Contest:
Join this free mid-May roller-skate festival with kids’ slalom and family fun loops.
Tip: Bring helmets and knee pads; register onsite early to secure rental skates.
Pétanque Games:
Bring or rent boules to join local players on the square during Pentecost weekend.
Tip: Pack your own set for no rental fees; watch a round first to learn rules.
Winter Ice Rink:
Glide on the seasonal open-air rink installed each winter.
Tip: Check online for current session times and book family slots in advance.
When is the best time to visit Place Bellecour (Lyon, France)?
In winter, book ice-rink sessions early; in mid-May pack light layers for roller events.
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Reviews of Place Bellecour (Lyon)
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 ...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferris wheel tickets (2 adults, 1 child) | EUR 24 |
| Ice rink session and skate rental (family) | EUR 25 |
| Café snacks | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 64 |
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
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Place Bellecour
- Early Visits: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid peak crowds and grab benches in shade.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water bottles, sunhats, and snacks for kids between activities.
- Check Event Calendar: Review the city website for up-to-date festival dates and ice rink rates.
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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