Start your family adventure in Vieux Lyon, the city’s charming historic district. With its Renaissance-era buildings, colorful facades, and narrow, winding cobblestone streets, Vieux Lyon is a wonder to explore. Take your time strolling through the area, stopping by the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a magnificent Gothic cathedral. Don’t forget to look for the hidden traboules, secret passageways that were once used by silk workers and can be explored for a bit of adventure. These unique passageways lead you through beautiful courtyards and old buildings, offering an exciting experience for kids.
Next, head up to Fourvière Hill to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. You can take a funicular ride to the top for stunning panoramic views of Lyon. The basilica itself is breathtaking, with intricate mosaics and beautiful stained-glass windows. Afterward, explore the nearby Roman Amphitheater, where you can imagine ancient gladiators performing and enjoy a family picnic while taking in the view.
No visit to Lyon would be complete without sampling its culinary delights. Start your morning with a visit to one of the city’s famous bouchons. These traditional Lyonnais restaurants serve local specialties like quenelles (delicate fish dumplings), salade lyonnaise (a delicious salad made with frisée, bacon, eggs, and vinaigrette), and tarte à la praline (a sweet pink pastry filled with praline). The whole family can enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere of these family-friendly spots while trying the best dishes Lyon has to offer.
After lunch, head out of the city for a short trip to Hauterives, where you can visit the Palais Idéal (Ideal Palace) of Postman Ferdinand Cheval. This unique and whimsical structure, built entirely by Cheval over 33 years from 1879 to 1912, is a true testament to one man’s dedication and creativity. The palace is made from a variety of stones, ceramics, and other materials Cheval collected during his daily mail route, creating an eclectic and imaginative work of art. It’s a wonderful and surreal place for kids to explore, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a fascinating glimpse into one man’s dream.
Don’t miss the Grave of the Postman Cheval, located just nearby. His simple but artistic grave, surrounded by flowers and stones, pays tribute to his life’s extraordinary work. The entire visit offers a refreshing and inspirational break from the usual tourist spots.
For your final day, spend the afternoon at the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. This park has something for everyone—a beautiful lake for boat rides, vast green spaces for picnics, and even a zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, and monkeys. The botanical garden is a peaceful spot to explore with the kids, and the Rose Garden offers a colorful and fragrant experience. This is the perfect place for the family to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy outdoor activities together.
On your way back to Lyon, take a leisurely stroll along the Saône and Rhône rivers. Lyon’s riversides are perfect for walking or cycling, offering beautiful views of the city’s bridges, traditional buildings, and lively atmosphere. Stop by a café for a coffee or ice cream, and soak up the local vibe. The riverside walk also offers opportunities for family-friendly shopping in the Presqu’île district, where you can explore boutiques, markets, and charming pedestrian streets.
For those who love shopping, La Part-Dieu Mall is the largest shopping center in Lyon and offers a variety of stores for all tastes, including plenty of options for kids.
Before you leave, don’t forget to try one last local delicacy: lyonnaise sausages or a Lyonnais praline tart at a local bakery or pastry shop. You’ll want to take a piece of Lyon home with you!
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