Place Bellecour

Introducing Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is located in the heart of Lyon, France. It is known as the Royal Square. Unlike other squares, the ground of Place Bellecour is entirely paved with red soil.

The square boasts a large statue depicting Louis XIV on horseback. This statue is the work of the sculptor Lumont. Place Bellecour was once a key stage for the Lyon textile workers' uprising in the mid-19th century.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Temperate maritime climate with continental characteristics

The temperate oceanic climate is mild and humid year-round. Its characteristics include mild winters, mild summers, and relatively even rainfall throughout the year.

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit:

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a Catholic minor basilica in Lyon, France. In 1998, the entire Historic Centre of Lyon, including the Basilica, was designated a World Heritage Site.

Notre-Dame de Fourvière is considered an important symbol of Lyon. Its construction began in 1872. In 1884, the exterior of the cathedral was completed, and the interior was completed in 1964. The cathedral consists of two churches, the upper and lower.

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Attraction opening hours

Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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Most Popular FAQs for Place Bellecour

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Place Bellecour is a significant historical square in Lyon, originally laid out in the 17th century. It is renowned for its vast size and central location, acting as a key meeting place and cultural hub in the city. The statue of Louis XIV, which stands in the middle of the square, marks its importance in Lyon's royal history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Place Bellecour is located in the heart of Lyon. To get there:

• By Metro: Line A (Bellecour station) stops directly at the square.
• By Bus: Several bus lines, including 1, 27, and C1, have stops nearby.
• By Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the city, and Place Bellecour is easily reachable by car.
• By Walking: It is centrally located, making it easily walkable from other main attractions like Vieux Lyon and the Rhône River.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Place Bellecour is an open public square and can be visited at any time. However, the best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant, and the square is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Place Bellecour is free to access. There is no entrance fee as it is an open public square.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No booking is necessary for visiting Place Bellecour, as it is a public open space.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore the square, depending on whether you want to relax, take photos, or explore nearby areas. If you plan to shop or enjoy the local cafés, you may want to spend more time here.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The large equestrian statue of Louis XIV is the main highlight in the center of the square.
• The beautiful view of Fourvière Hill and its Basilica from the square is also a must-see.
• The nearby shopping streets and cafés that surround the square are a great way to experience Lyon’s vibrant atmosphere.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no specific guided tours for Place Bellecour, but the surrounding area, including Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), is often included in city tours. Audio guides are available in multiple languages through tour companies and apps for general city tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The statue of Louis XIV offers great photo opportunities with the backdrop of the square.
• The surrounding streets and the view up to the Fourvière Hill provide scenic photography spots.
• Standing at the southern end of the square, looking towards the Saône River, gives a beautiful perspective of Lyon.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking around the square and taking in the view of the equestrian statue of Louis XIV. Then, head towards the nearby shopping streets like Rue de la République, and consider walking down to the Rhône River. If you have time, explore the surrounding neighborhoods like Vieux Lyon or cross the bridge to visit the Presqu'île district.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Place Bellecour is beautiful at night, especially during the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) in December, when the square and many landmarks are illuminated. There are also occasional outdoor events and concerts held in the square.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Place Bellecour can be quite crowded, especially during weekends and in the summer. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays during off-peak seasons (fall and spring).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are several cafés and restaurants surrounding Place Bellecour, as well as shops along Rue de la République. Public restrooms can be found nearby, and there are water fountains in the area for hydration. The square itself is a rest area, with benches available to sit and relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Place Bellecour is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors, as it is a large, flat open space with no stairs or barriers. The surrounding areas, including the metro stations, are also wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most shops, cafés, and restaurants around Place Bellecour accept credit cards and mobile payments. Cash is still accepted, but it’s recommended to use cards for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Café Bellecour, located right on the square, offers a great spot for coffee or a meal with a view of the square.
• Bouchon Le Jura, a short walk from the square, serves traditional Lyonnais dishes.
• There are many other cafés along Rue de la République, providing plenty of options for a bite to eat.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many cafés and restaurants in Lyon offer vegetarian and vegan options, with some also catering to halal diets. You’ll find plenty of choices in and around Place Bellecour.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon is located near Place Bellecour, offering luxurious accommodations.
• Hotel La Résidence, a budget-friendly option, is also within walking distance of the square.
• For a more central experience, Hotel Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette is a short walk from Place Bellecour.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage site with Renaissance architecture.
• The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers panoramic views of Lyon.
• Parc de la Tête d'Or, a large park with a lake, botanical garden, and zoo.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops around Place Bellecour and along Rue de la République. Typical souvenirs include silk scarves (reflecting Lyon's history as a center of silk production), local wines, pralines, and handmade crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Place Bellecour, you can continue your journey by taking the metro from Bellecour station (Lines A and D). Alternatively, you can catch a bus or take a taxi to other parts of the city. The square is centrally located, so most attractions are within walking distance.