Montée de la Grande-Côte
A steep, picturesque street in Lyon's 1st arrondissement connecting historic districts with scenic city views and charming architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light
Montée de la Grande-Côte
Best Time
Golden hour light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A steep, picturesque street in Lyon's 1st arrondissement connecting historic districts with scenic city views and charming architecture.
"Very nice and characteristic place. Must visit if in Lyon."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The street is steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the climb and descent.
📸 Capture the Arches
Look for the unique doorways and arches; they make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Upper section of the street
Ascend for breathtaking vistas of Lyon, a rewarding sight connecting historic districts.

Architectural Charm
Along the street
Admire the picturesque doorways and arches that line this historic, colorful street.

Vibrant Local Atmosphere
Street level and nearby
Experience the lively ambiance and discover unique, alternative bars with live music.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Climb
Discover Local Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Alternative/underground Bars in Lyon
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The street is steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the climb and descent.
📸 Capture the Arches
Look for the unique doorways and arches; they make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Monday Lyon Nightlife / Club / Bar recommendations?
🎶 Explore Nearby Bars
Check out alternative spots like The Trokson for live music on weekends.
⬆️ Start from the Top
Many suggest walking downhill from the Croix-Rousse plateau for better views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The street is steep! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the climb and descent.
📸 Capture the Arches
Look for the unique doorways and arches; they make for fantastic photo opportunities.
🎶 Explore Nearby Bars
Check out alternative spots like The Trokson for live music on weekends.
⬆️ Start from the Top
Many suggest walking downhill from the Croix-Rousse plateau for better views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Montée de la Grande-Côte to be a picturesque and characteristic street in Lyon, offering beautiful city views and a unique architectural charm. While some note it's a relatively short street, its steep climb and connection between historic districts make it a worthwhile and memorable experience for many.
"I mean, it’s a street. It’s nice, but it’s short and it’s not the most unique street out there. Worth checking out."
Fergus ST
"Very picturesque street of Lyon, that with its narrow path framed by colorful buildings connects the Croix Rousse hill with Presqu'ile. I suggest to travel it from the upper part to the lower one so you can enjoy one of the beautiful views on the city."
Francesco Xodo
"Very nice and characteristic place. Must visit if in Lyon"
Michele
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Montée de la Grande-Côte is easily accessible. You can reach it by taking the metro to the Hôtel de Ville - Louis Pradel station and then walking a short distance. Alternatively, buses also serve the area. Many visitors enjoy walking up from the Presqu'île or down from the Croix-Rousse plateau.
Yes, it's a street designed for walking! However, be prepared for a steep incline. It connects the Terreaux area to the Croix-Rousse plateau, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Many travelers recommend walking downhill from the Croix-Rousse plateau towards the city center to best appreciate the views. The 400-meter ascent offers a sense of adventure and leads to beautiful city panoramas.
While it's a street, it's primarily a pedestrian and public space. Driving is generally not recommended or feasible for tourists due to its steepness and pedestrian focus. Parking can be found in nearby areas.
Yes, several bus lines stop near the Montée de la Grande-Côte, and it's a reasonable walk from metro stations like Hôtel de Ville. This makes it very accessible for visitors using Lyon's public transport network.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Montée de la Grande-Côte is a public street and there are no tickets or entry fees required to walk along it or enjoy the views. It's a free attraction for everyone to explore.
As a public street, Montée de la Grande-Côte is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can visit at any time that suits your schedule, though daytime and early evening are often preferred for the best views and atmosphere.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning or early afternoon. Weekend evenings can be busier, especially if there's live music at nearby venues like The Trokson.
While the street itself doesn't host ticketed events, the surrounding Croix-Rousse district and Lyon's 1st arrondissement often have festivals, markets, and live music. Keep an eye on local listings for events happening nearby.
Yes, it's a relatively short street (about 400 meters). You can easily walk its length in 15-20 minutes, but allow more time if you plan to stop for photos or explore the surrounding area.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street offers great photo opportunities! Focus on the picturesque doorways and arches, the steep incline itself, and the panoramic views from the upper sections. The colorful buildings also make for vibrant shots.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. The soft light enhances the colors of the buildings and the city views.
Yes, the street is known for its charming and varied doorways and arched passageways. These architectural details add character and make for unique, close-up shots.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations in Lyon. It's advisable to check current rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in this urban area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the street's length and the expansive city views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details like doorways and arches. Even a smartphone camera can capture the charm effectively.
🍽️ 🎶 Nightlife & Dining
Absolutely! The area around Montée de la Grande-Côte, particularly in the 1st arrondissement, is known for its vibrant nightlife. The Trokson, located on the street itself, is a popular spot for live music every weekend.
You can find a mix of alternative bars, some with live music and curated DJs, offering a more local and bohemian vibe. It's a great place to discover unique spots away from the main tourist hubs.
While the street itself is more known for its scenic walk and nearby bars, you'll find a good selection of restaurants in the surrounding Croix-Rousse and Terreaux neighborhoods. These areas offer diverse culinary options.
At night, Montée de la Grande-Côte can be quite lively, especially on weekends with the bars in full swing. The street lights add a different charm, and the city lights from above are also visible.
Generally, the area is considered safe, but as with any urban nightlife district, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups if possible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds directly on the street, the journey itself is an adventure. Consider bringing snacks and water, as it's a good spot for a leisurely stroll. The panoramic views from the top can be a great reward for little legs. Nearby areas in the 1st arrondissement also offer cafes and open spaces for breaks.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Walking this street solo allows for flexibility. You can stop for photos whenever you like, linger at viewpoints, or pop into a bar for a drink. It's a great way to get a feel for the city's distinct neighborhoods and enjoy a moment of personal discovery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture the perspective of the street. The architectural details of the buildings offer opportunities for close-up shots, while the expansive city vistas provide a broader canvas. Don't forget to capture the atmosphere of the local bars and the general street life for a more comprehensive portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: Connecting Lyon's Districts
Starting from the Place des Capucins or Place de la Republique and heading upwards towards the Fernand-Rude esplanade, visitors are treated to a visual feast. The street is lined with picturesque buildings, featuring charming doorways and arches that hint at the rich history of the area. The steep gradient itself adds a sense of adventure, making it a memorable part of exploring Lyon's distinct neighborhoods.
Many recommend experiencing Montée de la Grande-Côte from top to bottom. This allows for a more relaxed descent, with the city spread out before you, offering a breathtaking panorama. It's a perfect spot for photography, especially during the golden hour, when the light casts a warm glow over the city.
Beyond the Views: Local Life and Nightlife
The 1st arrondissement, where Montée de la Grande-Côte is located, is particularly noted for its alternative bar scene. Travelers often seek out spots with live music and curated DJ sets, creating a unique and energetic atmosphere. The Trokson, situated directly on the Montée de la Grande-Côte, is frequently mentioned as a must-visit for its weekend live music offerings, providing an authentic taste of Lyon's underground music culture.
Exploring these local establishments offers a different perspective on Lyon, one that is less about grand monuments and more about the city's creative spirit and community. It's an opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the city's contemporary cultural offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit