Place Bellecour Lyon - a building with a tower
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Place Bellecour Lyon

4.4
·26k reviews·Lyon, France

Lyon's grandest public square, a vast historical heart with a monumental statue and lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Place Bellecour Lyon - a building with a tower

Place Bellecour Lyon

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lyon's grandest public square, a vast historical heart with a monumental statue and lively atmosphere.

4.4
(26k reviews)

"A must-visit landmark in the heart of Lyon and one of the largest public squares in France."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

This is one of France's largest squares, so be prepared to walk a lot to explore its expanse.

Seek Shade in Summer :sun_with_face:

The square can get very hot. Utilize the shaded deck chairs or visit early/late in the day.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Equestrian Statue of Louis XIV

Equestrian Statue of Louis XIV

Center of the square

A magnificent bronze statue of the Sun King on horseback, a grand focal point of the vast square.

Lyon Tourist Information Centre

Lyon Tourist Information Centre

Edge of the square

Your go-to spot for city maps, passes, and local advice to navigate Lyon like a pro.

The Petit Prince Statue

The Petit Prince Statue

One corner of the square

A charming tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's beloved character, offering a whimsical photo opportunity.

Fountains and Shaded Deck Chairs

Fountains and Shaded Deck Chairs

Various locations

Cool off at the fountains or relax in the unique shaded deck chairs, perfect for people-watching.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scale of Place Bellecour

This is one of France's largest public squares, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring! It's a central hub, perfect for orientation, but can feel vast. Consider it a starting point for your Lyon adventures.

Timing is Key for Comfort

During summer, the open space can be very hot with limited shade. Look for the shaded deck chairs or visit during cooler parts of the day. The square is also a popular spot for events, so check local listings.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Local life unfolds, good for breaks
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Lively atmosphere, unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tips on traveling to Lyon France

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

This is one of France's largest squares, so be prepared to walk a lot to explore its expanse.

Seek Shade in Summer :sun_with_face:

The square can get very hot. Utilize the shaded deck chairs or visit early/late in the day.

reddit.com

Making the most out of my Lyon Visit

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)

Grab a Lyon City Pass :ticket:

The tourist office here is convenient for picking up passes for attractions and transport.

People-Watch Central :eyes:

Find a spot on a bench or in the unique shaded chairs and soak in the vibrant city atmosphere.

reddit.com

Lyon in 48 Hours What Should We See and Avoid?

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

This is one of France's largest squares, so be prepared to walk a lot to explore its expanse.

Seek Shade in Summer :sun_with_face:

The square can get very hot. Utilize the shaded deck chairs or visit early/late in the day.

Grab a Lyon City Pass :ticket:

The tourist office here is convenient for picking up passes for attractions and transport.

People-Watch Central :eyes:

Find a spot on a bench or in the unique shaded chairs and soak in the vibrant city atmosphere.

Great for Families :child:

Kids love cooling off at the fountains, and the open space is great for them to run around.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(26k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Place Bellecour to be a monumental and central landmark in Lyon, appreciated for its vastness and historical significance, particularly the Louis XIV statue. The shaded deck chairs and fountains are noted as pleasant amenities, offering respite and family fun. However, some find the square can feel dusty and lack shade in the middle during hot weather, and its sheer size can be overwhelming for some.

"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 celebrating 'the Petit Prince'. There are also several fountains on one side which seemed very popular with young families looking to cool off."

Craig Coffey

"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 monumental in scale, the statue adds a distinct focal point and reminds visitors of Lyon’s deep-rooted ties to French history."

Wisanu Tuntawiroon

"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."

Paul Vivas

What People Like

Vast, central public square
Impressive Louis XIV statue
Shaded deck chairs

What People Dislike

Can be hot and dusty
Limited shade in center

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place Bellecour is centrally located and easily accessible. You can reach it via the Lyon Metro (Lines A and D to Bellecour station) or numerous bus routes that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from many other central Lyon attractions. Reddit

Absolutely! Place Bellecour is a major hub and is within walking distance of many key sites like the Rhône riverbanks, Vieux Lyon, and the Presqu'île shopping district. Reddit

For first-time visitors, taking the Metro to Bellecour station is highly recommended as it drops you directly in the square. It's efficient and avoids any navigation confusion. Reddit

Yes, there are several underground parking garages near Place Bellecour, such as Parking Bellecour. However, driving and parking in central Lyon can be challenging and expensive, so public transport is often preferred. Reddit

Yes, the square is quite accessible. If arriving by train, the Part-Dieu station has metro connections directly to Bellecour. The square itself is flat and easy to navigate with luggage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Place Bellecour is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no admission fees. Reddit

Place Bellecour is always open, as it's an outdoor public space. However, any attractions within or around the square, like the museum or shops, will have their own operating hours. Reddit

You can purchase a Lyon City Pass online in advance or at the Lyon Tourist Information Centre located directly on Place Bellecour. This pass offers access to many attractions and public transport. Reddit

The equestrian statue of Louis XIV is a central monument within the public square and does not have an entrance fee. You can admire it freely. Reddit

Yes, Place Bellecour frequently hosts events, markets, and seasonal attractions like an ice rink in winter. Information on these events and any associated ticketing can usually be found at the Tourist Information Centre or local event listings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of the Louis XIV statue from various angles. The fountains offer dynamic shots, especially with people interacting. Try framing the statue with the surrounding architecture for a sense of scale. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sun, but the fountains can provide interesting reflections. Reddit

Drone usage in public spaces like Place Bellecour is generally restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local drone laws and obtain necessary permissions before flying. Reddit

The equestrian statue of Louis XIV is the most iconic. Also, the unique shaded deck chairs offer a quirky and memorable photo opportunity, especially with the square in the background. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the wide expanse of the square and details of the monuments. A wide-angle lens can be useful for emphasizing the scale. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the perimeter of Place Bellecour is lined with cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines. You can find places for a quick coffee, a casual lunch, or a more formal meal. Reddit

You'll find a mix of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, French brasseries, and international options. Many cafes offer pastries and light snacks perfect for a break. Reddit

While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring side streets off the main square or opting for bakeries and sandwich shops for a quick bite. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find benches or use the shaded deck chairs to enjoy takeaway food from a local boulangerie or market. Reddit

Many cafes offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the square's atmosphere. Look for brasseries serving local specialties like quenelles or andouillette. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place Bellecour is a fantastic spot for families. The open space is perfect for children to run around safely, and the fountains on one side are a huge hit for cooling off on warm days. Reddit The unique shaded deck chairs offer a comfortable place for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids. It's also a great place to grab an ice cream or a quick snack from one of the surrounding cafes. Reddit

Consider picking up a Lyon City Pass from the Tourist Information Centre on the square, which can offer value if you plan on visiting multiple attractions. The Petit Prince statue also provides a fun, whimsical photo opportunity for younger visitors. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Place Bellecour itself is free to explore, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. You can spend hours simply enjoying the atmosphere, people-watching, and admiring the monuments without spending a dime. Reddit Pack a picnic from a local boulangerie or market to enjoy on one of the benches or shaded chairs, saving money on dining out. Reddit

Utilize the free public transport options if you have a city pass or walk to and from the square, as it's centrally located. The Tourist Information Centre is also a great resource for free maps and advice on affordable activities in Lyon. Reddit

couples

Place Bellecour offers a romantic backdrop, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the light casts a beautiful glow over the square and its monuments. Reddit Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, find a quiet spot on a bench to chat, or share a coffee at one of the many cafes lining the square. Reddit

The shaded deck chairs provide a unique and cozy spot for couples to relax together and watch the world go by. Consider visiting during a local event or market for a more vibrant and engaging experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Lyon: Place Bellecour's Significance

Place Bellecour is not just a large public square; it's the historical and geographical heart of Lyon. As one of the largest open spaces in France, it has served as a central meeting point, a site for public gatherings, and a symbol of the city's grandeur for centuries. Its monumental scale is designed to impress, reflecting Lyon's historical importance as a major European city. The square's layout, with its wide avenues and central focus, makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Presqu'île, the peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers. Reddit

Beyond its sheer size, Place Bellecour is rich in symbolism. The prominent equestrian statue of Louis XIV, erected in the 17th century, anchors the square in French royal history. This monument, along with the surrounding elegant 18th-century architecture, contributes to the square's stately ambiance. Today, it continues to be a vibrant hub, hosting events, markets, and serving as a daily thoroughfare for locals and tourists alike. The presence of the Tourist Information Centre further solidifies its role as a gateway to discovering Lyon. Reddit

Experiencing Place Bellecour involves appreciating its vastness and its role as a central point. Whether you're using it as a landmark to navigate, a place to rest, or a starting point for your explorations, its significance to Lyon is undeniable. The blend of historical monuments, modern amenities like shaded seating, and its constant buzz of activity makes it a dynamic and essential part of any visit to the city. Reddit

Navigating Place Bellecour: Practical Tips for Visitors

Place Bellecour's immense size can be both its charm and a challenge. For visitors, understanding its layout is key. The square is essentially a large, flat expanse, making it easy to traverse. The most prominent feature is the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, which serves as a central reference point. Around the edges, you'll find tree-lined walkways offering some respite from the sun, and strategically placed shaded deck chairs that are a welcome amenity, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Getting around Place Bellecour is straightforward. The Lyon Metro's Bellecour station (Lines A and D) provides direct access, making it incredibly convenient. Numerous bus lines also serve the area. For those looking to explore further, the square is an excellent starting point for walking tours of the Presqu'île. The Tourist Information Centre, located on the square, is invaluable for picking up maps, booking tours, and getting advice on navigating the city. Reddit

Practical advice for enjoying Place Bellecour includes wearing comfortable shoes due to the vast walking area, and if visiting in summer, seeking out the shaded seating or visiting during cooler parts of the day. The fountains are a popular spot for families to cool down, and the general atmosphere is one of a lively, central gathering place. Reddit

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