Parc de la Tête d'Or - low angle photo of palm trees beside building
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Parc de la Tête d'Or

4.6
·59k reviews·Lyon, France

Lyon's sprawling green lung, offering a free zoo, botanical gardens, a lake, and endless recreational opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy blooming roses & pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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Parc de la Tête d'Or - low angle photo of palm trees beside building

Parc de la Tête d'Or

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy blooming roses & pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lyon's sprawling green lung, offering a free zoo, botanical gardens, a lake, and endless recreational opportunities.

4.6
(59k reviews)

"A beautiful and spacious urban park in the heart of Lyon, perfect for a relaxing walk or a family day out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Opening Hours

Park access can be restricted for security reasons. Always check official sources before your visit .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Free Zoo

The Free Zoo

Within Parc de la Tête d'Or

Discover a diverse range of animals in this expansive, free-entry zoo. A hit with families and animal lovers alike.

Botanical Gardens & Greenhouses

Botanical Gardens & Greenhouses

Within Parc de la Tête d'Or

Wander through lush botanical collections and impressive greenhouses, featuring everything from carnivorous plants to South African flora.

Lake Activities

Lake Activities

Central Lake, Parc de la Tête d'Or

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or rent pedal boats on the picturesque lake, offering beautiful views of the park.

International Rose Garden

International Rose Garden

Within Parc de la Tête d'Or

In bloom during summer, this stunning garden showcases a vibrant array of roses, perfect for a fragrant stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Parc de la Tête d'Or

This vast urban park offers a zoo, botanical gardens, and a lake. Consider booking a boat or mini-train tour to cover its expansive grounds efficiently. Check opening hours, as occasional security closures can occur.Reddit

Best Ways to Explore the Park

Parc de la Tête d'Or is huge! Renting a bike or taking the mini-train are great options for covering more ground.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as you'll want to explore its many attractions like the free zoo and stunning rose gardens.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy blooming roses & pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Late spring afternoons
Why
Ideal for botanical garden visits
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Parc Tête D'or

🎟️ Check Opening Hours

Park access can be restricted for security reasons. Always check official sources before your visit.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many attractions.

reddit.com

What are the must see/do things when visiting Lyon for two (30/32) females from the US. (One has never left the country)

reddit.com

2 days in Lyon

🚂 Take the Mini-Train

A fun way to get an overview of the park's scale and key attractions, especially with kids.Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of green spaces make it perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch.

reddit.com

I will be visiting Lyon for the first time this weekend.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Opening Hours

Park access can be restricted for security reasons. Always check official sources before your visit.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore its many attractions.

🚂 Take the Mini-Train

A fun way to get an overview of the park's scale and key attractions, especially with kids.Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of green spaces make it perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch.

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore more of the park's sprawling grounds at your own pace.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(59k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Parc de la Tête d'Or is widely praised as a magnificent and vast urban oasis offering something for everyone. Visitors rave about the free zoo, beautiful botanical gardens, and the serene lake. It's considered an essential Lyonnaise experience for relaxation, family outings, and enjoying nature.

"Fantastic Park and is absolutely massive.
We didn’t realise the scale and size of it until we took the little train tour around it which was over 20 minutes and stopped twice.
There is a large outdoor zoo space boat pedal bikes, botanical Gardens and loads of stop offs for ice cream.
You could genuinely spend all day there and would have a great time. Very fun and close to the bus stops for local bus back to the train station."

Liam Stone

"A beautiful and spacious urban park in the heart of Lyon, perfect for a relaxing walk or a family day out. It features a large lake for boating, botanical gardens, and plenty of green spaces. Ideal for jogging, picnics, or simply enjoying nature."

elyes bouneb

"Parc de la Tête d'Or is undeniably the green lung of Lyon, a sprawling urban oasis that offers something for everyone. More than just a park, it's a vibrant hub of activity and tranquility, perfect for a leisurely day out.

From its expansive lawns ideal for picnics and relaxation to the beautiful lake where you can enjoy a boat ride, the park provides endless opportunities for recreation. It's home to a fantastic (and free!) zoo, a stunning international rose garden (currently, in late May, it would be in its prime!), and diverse botanical greenhouses, including fascinating carnivorous and South African plant collections.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a family outing, a jog, or simply a place to escape the urban bustle, Parc de la Tête d'Or delivers. Its sheer size and variety of attractions make it an essential and cherished part of the Lyonnaise experience."

Wisanu Tuntawiroon

What People Like

Free zoo
Expansive grounds
Botanical gardens

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is easily accessible by public transport. The metro (Line A) will take you close, with about a 500-meter walk to the gates.Reddit Several bus lines also stop near the park, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Lyon.

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the park entrances. However, during peak times, these can fill up quickly. Public transport is often a more reliable option.

Depending on your starting point, it's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy exploring the city. Alternatively, a short metro or bus ride will get you there much faster.

Parc de la Tête d'Or is a major landmark in Lyon and is well-signposted. Its large size makes it visible from many surrounding areas.

Given its size, consider the mini-train tour Reddit or renting a bike to cover more ground. Walking is also a great option if you have ample time to explore.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, general admission to Parc de la Tête d'Or is free. Some specific attractions within the park, like boat rentals, may have associated costs.

The park generally opens early and closes at dusk. However, it's crucial to check the official website for exact hours, as they can vary seasonally and due to unforeseen circumstances like security closures.Reddit

No, the zoo within Parc de la Tête d'Or is free to visit, making it a fantastic attraction for all visitors, especially families.

The park often hosts events, especially during summer. Guided tours might be available for specific sections like the botanical gardens. Check the park's official schedule for details.

Generally, dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash. Specific rules may apply in certain areas like the zoo or greenhouses.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the free zoo, the stunning botanical gardens and greenhouses, the picturesque lake for boating, and the vibrant rose garden (especially in summer).Reddit

Yes, there is a large and impressive free zoo within the park, featuring a variety of animals. It's a major highlight for many visitors.Reddit

You can enjoy a relaxing boat ride or rent pedal boats on the lake. It's a popular spot for leisure and offers lovely views of the park's surroundings.

Yes, there are several cafes and kiosks within the park where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Many visitors also opt for picnics on the lawns.Reddit

Absolutely! The free zoo, playgrounds, and ample open space make it a fantastic destination for families. The mini-train is also a hit with kids.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rose garden in bloom, the botanical greenhouses, the lake with its boats, and the diverse animal enclosures in the zoo offer fantastic photo opportunities. The park's grand trees and fountains are also picturesque.

The greenhouses offer unique lighting and exotic plant life, making for stunning shots. Be mindful of other visitors and any 'no photography' signs in specific areas.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check local regulations or park rules before attempting to fly a drone.

Yes, photography of the animals is generally permitted. However, avoid using flash, as it can disturb the animals. Be patient and capture them in their natural behavior.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parc de la Tête d'Or is a dream destination for families. The free zoo is a guaranteed hit, offering hours of entertainment and learning for children.Reddit Beyond the animals, there are playgrounds scattered throughout the park, providing ample space for kids to run and play. Consider taking the mini-train tour for a fun and informative overview of the park's vastness, which is particularly enjoyable for younger visitors.Reddit

Packing a picnic is highly recommended, as there are many scenic spots perfect for a family meal. The lake also offers opportunities for boat rentals, adding another layer of fun. With its open spaces and diverse attractions, the park provides a safe and engaging environment for a full day of family adventure.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful escape, Parc de la Tête d'Or offers a wealth of opportunities for quiet contemplation and romantic strolls. Wander through the botanical gardens and greenhouses, discovering exotic plants and enjoying the tranquility.Reddit The rose garden, especially when in bloom, provides a beautiful and fragrant setting for a romantic walk.

Rent a boat on the lake for a serene experience, or simply find a quiet bench to read a book or enjoy the scenery. The park's sheer size means you can always find a secluded spot to yourself, making it ideal for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Lyon.

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts

Parc de la Tête d'Or is an excellent location for fitness enthusiasts. Its extensive network of paths makes it perfect for jogging and running, with distances easily customizable to your workout needs.Reddit You can also find open grassy areas for yoga or outdoor workouts. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and get a more vigorous cardio session while exploring the park's diverse landscapes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Botanical Gardens

Parc de la Tête d'Or boasts an impressive collection of botanical wonders, housed within several distinct greenhouses. Visitors can explore diverse plant ecosystems, from the humid tropics to arid desert landscapes. A particular highlight is the collection of carnivorous plants, which fascinates many.Reddit The South African plant collection also offers a unique glimpse into a different flora.

Beyond the greenhouses, the outdoor botanical collections are equally captivating. The park meticulously maintains themed gardens, showcasing a wide variety of species. During the summer months, the International Rose Garden is a must-visit, bursting with color and fragrance. It's a testament to the park's dedication to horticultural excellence and provides a beautiful backdrop for leisurely strolls and photography.

A Day at the Zoo

One of the most beloved features of Parc de la Tête d'Or is its expansive and entirely free zoo. This isn't just a small collection of animals; it's a significant zoological park housing a diverse array of species from around the globe. Visitors can encounter everything from large mammals like giraffes and zebras to a variety of birds and reptiles.Reddit The enclosures are designed to be as naturalistic as possible, offering a pleasant viewing experience for both animals and guests.

The zoo is a major draw for families, providing an educational and entertaining outing without any cost. It's a place where children can learn about different animals and their habitats. The sheer variety and accessibility of the zoo make it a standout attraction within the already impressive Parc de la Tête d'Or, contributing significantly to its reputation as a vibrant urban oasis.

Lake Activities and Relaxation

The large central lake is a focal point of Parc de la Tête d'Or, offering a serene escape and a hub for recreational activities. Visitors can rent pedal boats or opt for a more leisurely boat tour, providing a unique perspective of the park's sprawling landscape.Reddit Gliding across the water allows for beautiful views of the surrounding greenery, the elegant bridges, and the distant city skyline.

Beyond boating, the lake's perimeter is perfect for a relaxing walk or jog. Numerous benches are scattered along the shore, inviting visitors to sit, enjoy the view, and perhaps feed the resident ducks and swans. It's a tranquil spot to unwind, observe local life, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this expansive urban park.

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