Place des Célestins - a black and white photo of a street light
1 / 10

Place des Célestins

4.6
·491k reviews·Lyon, France

A lively Lyon square featuring the grand Théâtre des Célestins, surrounded by charming cafes and a central fountain.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Place des Célestins - a black and white photo of a street light

Place des Célestins

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lively Lyon square featuring the grand Théâtre des Célestins, surrounded by charming cafes and a central fountain.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the authentic Lyonnaise atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Grab a Cafe Seat

Enjoy the local life by grabbing a coffee at a surrounding cafe. Perfect for people-watching!

🎭 Admire Theater Architecture

Don't miss the stunning facade of the Théâtre des Célestins. It's a true gem!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Théâtre des Célestins

Théâtre des Célestins

North side of the square

An iconic Lyon theater with stunning architecture, a must-see for its grandeur and cultural significance.

Fountain of the Célestins

Fountain of the Célestins

Center of the square

A beautiful central fountain that adds a touch of elegance and a refreshing ambiance to the bustling square.

Café Culture

Café Culture

Surrounding the square

Enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the many charming cafes, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local scene.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Place des Célestins is a vibrant square, perfect for soaking in Lyon's atmosphere. Arrive early to snag a good spot at a cafe and people-watch. It's a hub for local life, so expect it to be lively, especially on weekends.

Best for a Relaxed Stroll

This square is less about ticking off sights and more about experiencing Lyon's charm. It's ideal for a leisurely walk, enjoying street performers, or simply relaxing with a coffee. Don't rush; savor the moment.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively with street performers
Crowd
High
When
Evening
Why
Beautifully lit, romantic ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Three nights in Lyon on my own. What to do, and anyone want to meet up? [xpost r/solotravel]

☕ Grab a Cafe Seat

Enjoy the local life by grabbing a coffee at a surrounding cafe. Perfect for people-watching! Reddit

🎭 Admire Theater Architecture

Don't miss the stunning facade of the Théâtre des Célestins. It's a true gem!

reddit.com

Best place to have a beer along the seine?

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Relax

This square is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time to soak it all in.

No content available

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Grab a Cafe Seat

Enjoy the local life by grabbing a coffee at a surrounding cafe. Perfect for people-watching! Reddit

🎭 Admire Theater Architecture

Don't miss the stunning facade of the Théâtre des Célestins. It's a true gem!

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Relax

This square is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time to soak it all in.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Place des Célestins is appreciated for its central location and vibrant atmosphere, particularly its charming cafes and the impressive Théâtre des Célestins. It's seen as a great spot for people-watching and experiencing the local Lyonnaise lifestyle. Some visitors find it can get quite crowded during peak times.

What People Like

Charming cafes
Théâtre des Célestins
Lively atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Place des Célestins is easily accessible by public transport in Lyon. You can take the metro to Cordeliers station (Lines A and C) or Bellecour station (Lines A, B, C, and D), both of which are a short walk away. Several bus lines also stop nearby, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city. Reddit

Yes, Place des Célestins is centrally located and walkable from many key Lyon attractions. It's a pleasant stroll from the Presqu'île area, Vieux Lyon, and the Rhône riverbanks. If you're exploring the city on foot, it's a natural point to pass through. Reddit

For solo travelers, using Lyon's efficient public transport system (metro and buses) is highly recommended. It's safe, affordable, and easy to navigate. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan on using transport frequently. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Place des Célestins is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no admission fees for the square itself. Reddit

As a public space, Place des Célestins is open 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and cafes will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until evening. The Théâtre des Célestins has its own performance schedule. Reddit

While there might not be specific tours solely dedicated to Place des Célestins, it is often included in general walking tours of Lyon's Presqu'île district. These tours can provide historical context and insights into the square's significance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo spots include the grand facade of the Théâtre des Célestins, the central fountain, and the charming cafes lining the square. Capture the lively atmosphere during the day or the romantic ambiance at night when the square is illuminated. Reddit

For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for weekday mornings. If you prefer a more vibrant scene, weekend afternoons offer more activity, but will be busier. Evenings offer beautiful lighting for photography. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around Place des Célestins is brimming with dining options. You'll find numerous cafes perfect for a coffee or light lunch, as well as traditional Lyonnaise bouchons and more upscale restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit

Absolutely! The cafes that line Place des Célestins are ideal for people-watching. Grab a seat on a terrace, order a drink, and enjoy observing the daily life of Lyon unfold. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Place des Célestins offers a pleasant, open space for families to relax. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the central fountain can be a point of interest for children, and the surrounding cafes provide easy access to snacks and drinks. It's a good spot for a brief respite during a day of sightseeing. Consider visiting during the day when it's less crowded and safer for little ones to wander a bit. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, Place des Célestins is a fantastic spot to experience Lyon's local life. Grab a coffee at a terrace cafe and enjoy people-watching, or simply take a leisurely stroll. The square is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to access from your accommodation. It's a safe and welcoming environment to soak in the city's atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Lyonnaise Culture

Place des Célestins is more than just a square; it's a microcosm of Lyon's vibrant cultural life. Dominated by the magnificent Théâtre des Célestins, a historic venue that has hosted countless performances, the square buzzes with an artistic energy. The theater's opulent architecture is a sight to behold, making it a focal point for visitors and locals alike. Reddit

The square itself is a popular gathering spot, especially on sunny days. Lined with charming cafes and restaurants, it offers the perfect setting for leisurely people-watching and soaking in the authentic Lyonnaise atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee or an evening aperitif, the ambiance is always lively and inviting. The central fountain adds a touch of elegance, providing a refreshing backdrop to the daily comings and goings. Reddit

For those interested in experiencing Lyon like a local, spending time in Place des Célestins is a must. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of the city, observe its daily rhythms, and appreciate its blend of history and contemporary life. It’s a testament to Lyon’s reputation as a city that cherishes its cultural heritage while embracing modern vibrancy.

Navigating Lyon's Public Transport

Getting to and around Place des Célestins is straightforward thanks to Lyon's excellent public transportation network. The TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais) system includes metros, trams, and buses, making it easy to reach the square from anywhere in the city. The closest metro stations are Cordeliers (Lines A and C) and Bellecour (Lines A, B, C, and D), both just a short walk away. Reddit

For solo travelers or those on a budget, the TCL system is a lifesaver. A day pass or a multi-day Lyon City Card can offer great value if you plan on using public transport extensively and visiting multiple attractions. The system is well-signed and generally easy to navigate, even for those who don't speak French fluently. Many visitors find it a stress-free way to explore Lyon. Reddit

When planning your journey, it's always a good idea to check the TCL website or use a navigation app for real-time schedules and route planning. This will help you optimize your travel time and ensure you don't miss out on experiencing the charm of Place des Célestins and other Lyonnaise gems.

You may also like