Parc De La Tête D'Or

Parc de la Tête d’Or Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Parc de la Tête d’Or is Lyon’s largest and most iconic urban park, spanning 117 hectares in the heart of the city. Renowned for its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant community life, this green oasis is a must-see for visitors seeking tranquility, recreation, and cultural enrichment. This guide provides in-depth information on Parc de la Tête d’Or visiting hours, ticketing, key attractions, accessibility, and travel tips, ensuring you make the most of your visit to one of Lyon’s historical gems.

Water arm surrounding the Grand Island at Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon, France

Black panther lying on rock inside cage at Parc de la Tête d'Or zoo

Panoramic view from Belvédère overlooking Parc de la Tête d'Or and La Part-Dieu district

Scenic view from Belvédère overlooking Parc de la Tête d'Or and La Part-Dieu district in Lyon, France

View of Parc de la Tête d'Or from Jardin partagé des Lilas in Caluire-et-Cuire

Octagonal bear cage in Parc de la Tête d'Or with surrounding trees

General view of the site for the creation of Parc de la Tête-d'Or before construction begins

Aerial view of the 1894 Universal, International and Colonial Exposition held in Lyon's Parc de la Tête d'or, black and white heliogravure by A. Dubail

Postcard showing the International Fair held in Lyon in 1894 with exhibition buildings and attendees

Aerial view of the 1894 Lyon Universal Exhibition in Parc de la Tête d'Or

Etching artwork of Ferme de la Tête d'Or in Parc de la Tête d'Or, depicting a rustic farm scene with detailed architectural features

Drawing of the Tête d'Or farm in 1836 illustrating Paul Saint-Olive's work Notice sur le territoire de la Tête-d'Or published in 1860

Ferme de la Tête d’or farmhouse sketch in 1856 with pencil and red chalk

Ferme de la Tête d’or farm sketch in 1857 with detailed pencil work

Historical Background and Significance

Established in 1857, Parc de la Tête d’Or stands as a testament to visionary urban planning during the Second Empire. Its transformation from flood-prone swamplands into a lush public park was driven by a desire to offer green space to the city’s growing population. The park’s name, “Park of the Golden Head,” is rooted in a local legend about a buried golden relic, adding a touch of mystery to its legacy (Wikipedia, Discover Walks).

Designed by the Bühler brothers, Denis and Eugène, the park embodies the English landscape style with winding paths, sweeping lawns, a vast artificial lake, and a harmonious integration of botanical and zoological gardens. Over the decades, the park has been expanded and enhanced, hosting world exhibitions and becoming a symbol of Lyon’s dedication to environmental stewardship and public well-being (lyon.fr, Exposition Lyon).

Main Attractions

The Grand Lake

At the heart of the park lies a spectacular 17-hectare artificial lake, a centerpiece for boating and relaxation. Created from an old branch of the Rhône, the lake features two islands, including Remembrance Island, a poignant memorial to fallen soldiers (Visiter Lyon). Rowboats and pedal boats are available for hire, especially popular in spring and summer (This is Lyon).

Botanical Gardens and Historic Greenhouses

The park’s botanical garden spans 8 hectares and boasts over 16,000 plant species, making it the largest in France. The historic greenhouses, dating back to 1865, are architectural marvels housing tropical, Mediterranean, and arid plants. The Alpine Garden, open March to October, presents rare mountain flora in a unique setting (en.visiterlyon.com, epilyon.com).

The Rose Gardens

With more than 30,000 rose bushes and over 350 varieties, the rose gardens are a highlight, especially from late spring through early autumn. The International Rose Garden is renowned for its beauty and horticultural significance (This is Lyon, Travel to Lyon).

The Zoo

Founded in 1865, Parc de la Tête d’Or’s zoo is one of France’s oldest and remains free to the public. It houses around 400 animals representing 64 species, with modern enclosures like the Asian Forest and African Savannah focused on conservation and education (en.visiterlyon.com, LyonMag).

Family-Friendly Activities

Families can enjoy several playgrounds, a miniature train, pony rides, and a carousel. Open lawns and woodlands offer ample space for picnics, sports, and relaxation (epilyon.com).

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The park hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, from flower shows and open-air concerts to the famed Festival of Lights and sporting events (Travel to Lyon).

Historic Gates and Monuments

Notable entrances like the ornate Porte des Enfants du Rhône, as well as statues and fountains, underscore the park’s historical and civic importance (monumentsdefrance.com).

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Park:
- Summer (April 15 – October 14): 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Winter (October 15 – April 14): 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM (epilyon.com)
Zoo:
- January to mid-April: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Mid-April to mid-September: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Mid-October to December: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Tuesdays
Botanical Garden and Greenhouses:
- October to March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (greenhouses close at 4:30 PM)
- April to September: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (greenhouses close at 5:30 PM; Sundays at 5:00 PM)

Tickets and Entry

Entry to the park, zoo, and botanical gardens is free. Some activities, like boat rentals or seasonal events, may require a small fee.

Accessibility

Most main paths are wheelchair accessible.
Accessible restrooms are available throughout.
Assistance dogs are permitted.
Multiple public transport options connect the park to the city center (travelsetu.com).

Getting There

Metro: Line A to Foch or Masséna stations.
Bus: Lines C1, C4, C5, C6, C38, 27, 38, 70, and C2.
Tram: T1 line stops at Charpennes.
Car: Limited parking on nearby boulevards; paid options at Cité Internationale.
Cycling: Vélo’v bike stations at main entrances.

Travel Tips

Best Times: Early mornings and weekdays are quieter. Weekends and holidays can be busy.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, picnic supplies, sunscreen, and a camera.
Pets: Dogs on leash are welcome in most areas.
Food: Kiosks and cafés serve snacks and drinks; many visitors bring picnics.
Safety: The park is safe, with regular patrols; maintain usual vigilance regarding personal belongings.

Notable Nearby Attractions

Musée d’Art Contemporain
Maison des Canuts
Jardin Rosa Mir
Opéra de Lyon
Place des Terreaux
Musée des Beaux-Arts
Musée des Confluences (Lonely Planet)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry to the park, zoo, and botanical gardens is free.

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM in summer; 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM in winter.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for the botanical and zoological gardens; check the official site for schedules.

Q: Can I cycle or jog in the park?
A: Yes, the park has extensive paths for jogging, cycling, and rollerblading.

Q: Is the park accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Most paths and facilities are accessible; some uneven surfaces exist.

Conclusion

Parc de la Tête d’Or is a living symbol of Lyon’s dedication to green space, public health, and cultural vitality. With its free entry, diverse attractions, and year-round accessibility, the park welcomes everyone—from families and nature lovers to history enthusiasts and casual visitors. Whether you’re boating on the lake, exploring the botanical collections, enjoying a picnic, or attending a festival, Parc de la Tête d’Or offers a memorable experience at the crossroads of nature and urban life.

For the most current information, always consult the official park website and Lyon’s tourism portal (en.visiterlyon.com).