Strolling through Lyon’s parks and green spaces: a perfect fusion of nature and city
Lyon, a historic city in southeastern France, is famous for its unique architectural complex, delicious food and geographical features of the confluence of rivers. In addition to its cultural heritage and food charm, Lyon’s parks and green spaces are also unforgettable. The tender green of spring, the lushness of summer, the colorful autumn and the tranquility of winter, in the four seasons, parks and green spaces have always been the best place for Lyon citizens and tourists to get close to nature.
1. The Heart of Lyon Park: Parc de la Tête d’Or
Location and Overview
Located in the sixth district of Lyon, it covers an area of 117 hectares and is one of the largest urban parks in France. The park is built along the Rhone River, with sparkling lakes in the park, and the botanical garden and zoo complement each other. It is a representative of the city’s green lungs. This is not only a place for citizens to rest every day, but also a Lyon attraction that cannot be missed.
Opening hours
Open all year round, from 6:30 to 22:30 in summer (April to September) and from 6:30 to 20:30 in winter (October to March). It is recommended to check the specific opening hours in advance so that you can fully arrange your visit time.
Suggested time
It is recommended to arrange 3 hours to half a day. The park is large, and it is worth savoring the botanical garden, zoo, lake area and walking trails. Spring and autumn are the best time to visit, when flowers are in bloom or autumn leaves are in full bloom, especially suitable for taking pictures.
Transportation route
Take the subway line A to Masséna station or Foch station, and walk about 10 minutes to reach the park entrance. There are also many bus routes in the city that connect the north and south ends of the park, making travel very convenient.
Booking platform and fees
No tickets are required, and admission is free. There is no additional charge for the zoo and botanical garden in the park. If you want to experience boating on the lake in the park, you can book a boating project through booking platforms such as “GetYourGuide” or “Klook”, and the cost is about 12 euros per boat/half an hour.
If you want to follow a professional guide to learn more about the history and ecology of the park, you can book a park walking tour through “Viator” or “Tripadvisor”, the price is about 20 euros per person.
2. Romantic trails and historical charm: Connors Park (Parc de la Cerisaie)
Location and Overview
Connors Park is located on the La Croix-Rousse hill in the fourth district of Lyon. It was originally the private garden of the Connors family, a famous industrialist. There are large lawns, winding paths and exquisite sculptures in the park. In addition to the greenery, it exudes a hint of retro charm.
Opening hours
Open all year round, from 6:00 to 22:00 in summer (April to September); from 6:00 to 20:00 in winter (October to March). The playing time is flexible and suitable for casual visits.
Recommended time for visiting
It is recommended to arrange 1-2 hours. This place is of moderate size, suitable for morning jogging or jogging, or for sitting and having a picnic with a few friends and enjoying the panoramic view of Lyon city.
Transportation route
Take bus C13 or C18 and get off at “Henon” station, and walk for 5 minutes. Metro Line C can also reach La Croix-Rousse station, which is about a 10-minute walk. The streets along the way are full of artistic atmosphere, which is interesting.
Booking platform and cost
The park is open to the public free of charge, and no ticket reservation is required. If you want to experience a walking photography tour led by a local, you can find related activities on the “Klook” or “GetYourGuide” platform, which usually ranges from 15-25 euros per person and lasts about 1-1.5 hours.
3. The fusion of modernity and nature: Parc de Gerland
Location and overview
Located in the 7th district of Lyon, close to the Saône River, it was originally an industrial area and has been carefully designed and transformed into a vibrant green space. The park is designed in a modern style and is equipped with sports fields, children’s play areas and picnic areas, attracting many young people and family tourists.
Opening hours
Open all year round, from 6:30 to 22:00 in spring and summer, and from 6:30 to 20:00 in autumn and winter. At sunset, the golden afterglow falls on the park, which is unique.
Suggested time to play
It is recommended to arrange 1.5-3 hours. The park is large and suitable for walking, cycling or taking children to experience various recreational facilities. The riverside trail and picnic area are particularly popular.
Transportation route
You can take the subway line B to Stade de Gerland station and walk about 5 minutes to the park entrance. Many bus routes in the city also go directly, making travel convenient and fast.
Booking platform and cost
The park is free and no additional tickets are required. If you want to participate in yoga classes or morning jogging activities in the park, you can book it on “Viator” or “Tripadvisor”, and the cost is generally 10-20 euros per person. Occasionally there are markets or small performances in the park, which can be checked and booked through the local “Lyon Event Calendar” or “Eventbrite”.
4. An oasis away from the hustle and bustle: Oranje Park (Parc de la Feyssine)
Location and Overview
Located in the new district of Villepinte, north of the center of Lyon, it is close to the Rhone River and has a vast wetland ecological area. It is an ideal place for birdwatchers and nature-loving travelers, and it is also a model of ecological restoration in Lyon.
Opening hours
Open all day throughout the year, especially suitable for early morning or evening, quiet and pleasant. There is no fixed closing time, and the play plan can be arranged flexibly.
Recommended play time
It is recommended to arrange 2-3 hours. There are trails and cycling trails in the park, where you can breathe fresh air. Spring and summer are the best seasons for birdwatching, and water birds and forest birds can often be seen.
Transportation route
Take tram line T1 to Université Lyon 1 station and walk for 10 minutes. You can also ride from the center of Lyon. Cycling along the riverside greenway is a particularly recommended way.
Booking platform and fees
Free, no tickets are required. If you want to join a bird watching tour with a professional natural guide, you can book it on “Klook” or “GetYourGuide”. The cost is about 30 euros per person and the duration is 2-3 hours. It is suitable for getting close to nature and learning ecological knowledge.
5. The perfect fusion of history and gardens: Parc des Hauteurs
Location and overview
Located on the Fourvière Hill, it is built on the mountain. The park has the remains of the ancient Roman theater and the quiet trails of the monastery. Climbing up and looking far away, the whole city of Lyon is in full view. It is an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and hiking enthusiasts.
Opening hours
Open all year round, from 6:00 to 22:00 in summer and from 6:00 to 20:00 in winter. The golden light before sunset is the most beautiful moment.
Suggested play time
It is recommended to arrange 1-2 hours. The park is not large, but due to the undulating terrain, it is suitable for walking and enjoying the panoramic view of the city and the integration of ancient ruins.
Transportation route
You can take the Funiculaire F1 line to Minimes – Théâtres Romains station and walk for 3 minutes. Climbing up from the old town on foot is also a challenging journey.
Booking platform and cost
Free admission, no ticket required. If you want an in-depth historical tour, you can book a joint tour of the ancient Roman theater and Fourvière Hill through “Viator” or “Tripadvisor”. The price is generally 25 euros per person and the duration is about 2 hours.
6. Travel suggestions and tips
Dress comfortably: Lyon’s parks are mostly natural trails and hills. It is recommended to wear light and comfortable shoes.
Picnic experience: Picnics are allowed in many parks, especially the Golden Head Park and Connes Park. Prepare simple baguettes and cheese to share a beautiful afternoon with relatives and friends.
Respect nature: When visiting wetlands and ecological reserves, be sure to follow the signs and do not feed wild animals or pick plants at will.
Combine with a city walk: Lyon’s parks are closely connected to the city blocks and can be flexibly arranged to cleverly combine with visits to the old city or modern blocks.
Lyon’s parks and green spaces are not only an extension of nature, but also a source of nourishment for urban life.
The next time you go to Lyon, you might as well take a pair of relaxed steps and step into the greenery. Let the flowers and plants whisper, let the wind blow on your face, feel the perfect blend of nature and the city, and enjoy the tranquility and agility of the green space.
