Vieux Lyon (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Vieux Lyon?
What makes it 82% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 like the puppet and miniature museums and Sunday art market, yet uneven cobbles and scarce playgrounds mean parents must plan breaks and supervise closely.
Positives:
- Child-friendly exhibits: Most museums offer hands-on displays and free entry for children under 18.
- Compact area: All main attractions lie within a walkable zone along the Saône riverbank.
Challenges:
- Uneven cobblestones: The medieval streets have loose stones that can trip toddlers and strollers.
- Narrow passages: Some traboules are tight; use a baby carrier instead of a stroller in these areas.
What is Vieux Lyon?
- A historic district on the right bank of the Saône River at the foot of Fourvière Hill, featuring narrow, cobblestone streets and towering medieval and Renaissance houses
- A UNESCO World Heritage quarter distinguished by its network of Renaissance-era traboules and façades blending Gothic, Renaissance and classical styles
- A compact urban ensemble preserving 15th-to-17th-century architecture, anchored by landmarks such as Saint-Jean Cathedral and richly ornamented townhouses
What is so special about Vieux Lyon for with kids?
- Hidden medieval passageways that excite kids’ curiosity
- Interactive puppet museums with hands-on displays
- Fun funicular ride to Fourvière hill for city views
- Colorful ice cream flavors along the riverside
- Short walks between sites ideal for younger children
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 1-2 hours lets families see highlights at a relaxed pace
Kids-Friendly Activities in Vieux Lyon
Explore Traboules (hidden passageways):
Follow narrow cobblestone alleys that link courtyards and streets from the 15th century.
Tip: Download a free traboules map app before you go; hold your child’s hand in tight spots.
Visit Musée des Marionnettes (Puppetry Museum):
Walk through global puppet exhibits and try hands-on shows in an interactive gallery.
Tip: Aim for an early visit to avoid school groups and let kids test each display.
Watch the Saint-Jean Cathedral Clock:
Catch the clock’s animation at 12:00, 14:00, and 16:00 when its tiny figures appear.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early on the plaza outside the cathedral for the best views.
Ride the Fourvière Funicular:
Take the cable car up to Fourvière hill for city views and Roman theater ruins.
Tip: Buy round-trip tickets at the station; strollers fold easily for the ride.
Treat at Terre Adélice Ice Cream:
Choose from over 100 organic flavors at this riverside shop.
Tip: Share a scoop to taste more flavors; seats outside let you rest by the Saône.
When is the best time to visit Vieux Lyon (Lyon, France)?
On Sunday mornings (March–December), browse the nearby art market for handmade toys. In wet seasons, watch for slippery cobblestones and wear grippy shoes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Musée des Marionnettes tickets (2 adults) | EUR 16 |
| Le Petit Musée de Guignol tickets (2 adults, 2 children) | EUR 16 |
| Fourvière funicular round-trip (2 adults) | EUR 12 |
| Ice cream scoops (4) | EUR 12 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 56 |
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 Maximize Your Visit to Vieux Lyon
- Combine museum visits: Buy a combined ticket for Gadagne’s museums to save time and money.
- Early start: Arrive before 10:00 to avoid crowds at the Puppet Museum and traboules.
Map of Vieux Lyon
Address: Vieux Lyon, 69005 Lyon, France
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Vieux Lyon (Lyon)?
About Vieux Lyon
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
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