Tour Part Dieu

Tour Part-Dieu Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Tour Part-Dieu, widely recognized by its nickname “Le Crayon” (The Pencil), is a defining feature of Lyon’s skyline and a symbol of the city’s transformation from its historic roots to a thriving contemporary metropolis. Erected in the 1970s as the centerpiece of an ambitious urban renewal program, this skyscraper helped drive the redevelopment of the Part-Dieu district from former military grounds and railway yards into France’s second-largest business hub, after Paris’s La Défense (Tribune de Lyon; Architecte France).

Designed by American architect Araldo Cossutta—with the iconic pyramidal crown by French architect Stéphane du Château—the 165-meter tower blends modernist ambition with nods to Lyon’s architectural heritage. Its strategic alignment with the Basilica of Fourvière pays homage to Lyon’s past while propelling its image into the future (Wikipedia; Monuments de Lyon).

The tower is primarily used for offices and hosts the Radisson Blu hotel on its upper floors, which offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Located adjacent to the bustling Westfield La Part-Dieu shopping center and Lyon Part-Dieu train station, the tower anchors a vibrant district renowned for its shopping, cultural venues, and excellent transport connections (Holidify; seat61.com).

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Tour Part-Dieu’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing information, accessibility, and the wealth of nearby attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Lyon’s modern heart.

Entrance of Tour Part-Dieu at Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle in Lyon

Construction site direction signs on Boulevard Vivier-Merle in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Modern train station hall and La Part-Dieu tower in Lyon

View of Parc des Halles and Le Jardin Suspendu in Lyon 3rd arrondissement with Le Crayon reflected in Tour Incity

Northern side of Rue Lavoisier at Rue des Rancy intersection in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Southern side of Rue des Émeraudes in Lyon 6th district viewed from Avenue Thiers

Place du Lac square in Lyon with modern buildings and a walking path

Discovering Tour Part-Dieu: Lyon’s Iconic Skyscraper
Practical Visitor Guide: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Cultural and Architectural Significance
Visiting Lyon’s Part-Dieu District: Attractions and Tips
Summary and References

Discovering Tour Part-Dieu: Lyon’s Iconic Skyscraper

History and Urban Vision

Tour Part-Dieu was constructed as part of Lyon’s transformative urban renewal in the 1970s, under Mayor Louis Pradel’s leadership. The project envisioned the creation of a “second center” for the city, complementing the historic districts of Fourvière and La Croix-Rousse (Tribune de Lyon). The Part-Dieu area was thus redeveloped from military barracks and railway land into a business and commercial hub, anchored by the new shopping center and the Tour Part-Dieu skyscraper.

Architectural Design and Symbolism

The tower’s design by Araldo Cossutta and Stéphane du Château is a masterful blend of modernist style with cultural references. Its cylindrical form and the glass pyramid atop echo Lyon’s Renaissance towers and the medieval Tour Rose, while its height—nearly matching the Basilica of Fourvière—symbolizes the city’s dialogue between tradition and innovation (Wikipedia; Monuments de Lyon).

The nickname “Le Crayon” is inspired by its pencil-like silhouette, now an integral part of Lyon’s visual identity.

Economic and Urban Impact

Originally named Tour du Crédit Lyonnais, the tower played a pivotal role in catalyzing the growth of Part-Dieu into a major economic center (Architecte France). Its direct integration with the shopping center and proximity to the train station solidified the area as a nexus for commerce, transportation, and administration.

Renovations and Modernization

To meet modern standards, the tower has undergone several renovations, notably in the 2010s. Upgrades include improved accessibility, revamped office spaces, and sustainability features, with the Radisson Blu hotel now occupying the uppermost floors (Lyon Part-Dieu).

Practical Visitor Guide: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Radisson Blu Hotel & Restaurant (32nd Floor): Open daily, typically from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Hours may vary during events or renovations, so always confirm on the Radisson Blu website or by contacting the hotel directly.
General Public Access: The tower itself is not open for general public tours. Access to panoramic views is available to restaurant patrons or hotel guests (Visiter Lyon).

Tickets

Observation/Restaurant Access: No separate ticket is required; access is granted to those with a dining reservation or as hotel guests.
Shopping Center: Westfield La Part-Dieu is free to enter and open to all.

Accessibility

The tower, hotel, and shopping center are fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and ground-level amenities (Holidify).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Key Sites

Westfield La Part-Dieu Shopping Center: Over 300 shops, a variety of restaurants, and entertainment options (Dabbling in Jetlag). Open Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays.
Lyon Part-Dieu Train Station: Lyon’s main train hub, providing connections across France and Europe (seat61.com).
Auditorium Maurice Ravel: Home to the Orchestre National de Lyon, with performances and cultural events.
Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: Renowned food market nearby, open daily except Mondays.

Getting There

Train: Arrive at Gare Part-Dieu.
Metro: Line B to Part-Dieu station.
Tram: Lines T1, T3, T4.
Bus: Multiple lines stop at or near the district.
Airport: Rhônexpress tram links Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to Part-Dieu in ~30 minutes.

Travel Tips

Best Views: For stunning photos of the tower, head to Fourvière hill or the Rhône riverbanks, especially at sunset.
Crowds: Visit during weekdays for a vibrant business atmosphere; weekends are more relaxed.
Safety: The area is safe and well-patrolled, but standard precautions apply.

Cultural and Architectural Significance

Tour Part-Dieu is both a symbol of Lyon’s modern ambitions and a bridge to its historical legacy. Its construction marked a turning point in urban planning, inspiring subsequent high-rise projects such as Tour Incity and Tour Oxygène. The tower’s silhouette and its relationship with other city landmarks, notably the Basilica of Fourvière, highlight Lyon’s unique balance between past and present (Monuments de Lyon; Tribune de Lyon).

Visiting Lyon’s Part-Dieu District: Attractions and Tips

Overview

Part-Dieu is a bustling business and shopping district, home to major companies, hotels, and cultural venues. Recent urban upgrades have added green spaces, pedestrian zones, and improved facilities (e-a-a.com).

Highlights

Accommodation: Options range from the Radisson Blu atop Tour Part-Dieu to Ibis, Mercure, and other international hotels.
Cultural Venues: Besides the auditorium and library, the district often hosts music festivals and public events (lyonsecret.com).
Transport: Excellent connectivity to the rest of Lyon and beyond, including the historic quarters and regional destinations.
Shopping & Dining: Westfield La Part-Dieu and the surrounding streets offer unmatched retail and culinary variety.

Practical Tips

Navigation: The district is pedestrian-friendly with clear signage and maps.
Accessibility: Fully accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Visitor Services: Information points, luggage storage, and multilingual support are available.

Summary and Call to Action

Tour Part-Dieu stands as a powerful symbol of Lyon’s modernity, architectural ambition, and economic vitality. Its iconic silhouette, strategic urban context, and integration with the lively Part-Dieu district make it a must-see for travelers, business visitors, and architecture enthusiasts alike (Tribune de Lyon; Monuments de Lyon).

To experience Lyon’s contemporary spirit and enjoy panoramic city views, consider booking a meal at the Radisson Blu restaurant or exploring the shopping center and nearby attractions. For the best experience, check schedules in advance, explore guided district tours, and use the Audiala app for real-time updates, exclusive offers, and additional travel resources.

Begin planning your journey today, and immerse yourself in the dynamic blend of history and innovation that characterizes Lyon’s Part-Dieu.