View of two truncated ridges during the construction of the second Croix-Rousse tunnel

Tunnel De La Croix Rousse

Tunnel de la Croix-Rousse Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled beneath Lyon’s historic Croix-Rousse hill, the Tunnel de la Croix-Rousse is a testament to the city’s engineering prowess, urban evolution, and commitment to blending heritage with innovation. Spanning 1,782 meters and connecting the Rhône and Saône riverbanks, the tunnel not only serves as a vital transportation artery but also stands as a unique landmark integrating art, sustainable mobility, and local history. This comprehensive guide delves into its fascinating origins, modern features, visitor information, and the surrounding attractions that make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Lyon (archives-lyon.fr; welovelyon.com; visiterlyon.com).

Ventilation shaft plaque number 4 at Croix-Rousse tunnel in Lyon

Urban orchard above the Croix-Rousse tunnel in Lyon with residential buildings

Illuminated pedestrian and cyclist tunnel entrance on the Rhône side in Lyon

Entrance of the Croix-Rousse soft modes tunnel in Lyon 1er

Patrol and rescue truck stationed outside the Croix-Rousse tunnel in Lyon, France

Construction work at the eastern entrance of the Croix-Rousse Tunnel near the Rhône in July 2013

Cross-Rousse Tunnel entrance in Lyon, France

Historical Background and Construction
Modernization and the Soft Mobility Tunnel
The Mystery of the “Fishbone” Galleries
Visitor Information
What to Expect: Features and Experiences
Special Events and Multimedia Installations
Nearby Attractions
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Background and Construction

Early Proposals and Urban Challenges

The concept of a tunnel under Croix-Rousse originated in 1845, conceived as a railway passage but left unrealized for nearly a century due to shifting urban priorities. By the early 20th century, Lyon’s rapid growth and the convergence of major national roads at its center caused severe congestion, prompting renewed interest in a tunnel solution (archives-lyon.fr; fr.wikipedia.org; tribunedelyon.fr).

The rise of automobile use in the 1930s intensified the need for an east-west crossing. After several false starts, the project took shape in 1937 under the leadership of city engineer Lucien Chadenson and bridges-and-roads engineer Antoine Thiollière. Their design was quickly adopted, aiming for a tunnel to connect the beltway directly to a new riverbank highway (welovelyon.com).

Construction: Engineering Feats and Wartime Delays

Work commenced in 1939, but World War II and occupation significantly hampered progress. Excavation took place between 1940 and 1948, requiring immense resources: 125,000 kilograms of explosives, 15,000 cubic meters of timber, and 15,000 tonnes of cement, all handled by a workforce of around 300 laborers (archives-lyon.fr). The tunnel was dug 80 meters beneath the Croix-Rousse plateau, with vertical ventilation shafts added between 1949 and 1952.

A notable event was the dismantling and relocation of the Saint-Charles de Serin church, which blocked the tunnel’s Saône entrance (fr.wikipedia.org).

Inauguration and Impact

The tunnel was inaugurated on April 19, 1952, by Mayor Édouard Herriot. At 1,782 meters long and 14.6 meters wide, it was designed to accommodate two double lanes of traffic and up to 4,000 vehicles per hour (en.wikipedia.org; welovelyon.com). The opening was a major event, and traffic soon reached record numbers, especially after the Jean de Lattre de Tassigny bridge opened in 1958 (archives-lyon.fr).

Modernization and the Soft Mobility Tunnel

Renovation and Safety Upgrades

Decades of heavy use revealed the need for modernization. In 1999, a central divider was installed. A major renovation in 2012–2013 addressed asbestos removal, resurfacing, modern drainage, and new safety systems, including emergency exits every 150 meters (tunnel-online.info).

The Second Tunnel: Embracing Sustainable Mobility

In December 2013, a parallel “soft mobility” tunnel opened, dedicated to pedestrians, cyclists, and buses (fr.wikipedia.org; tribunedelyon.fr; welovelyon.com). This tunnel, about 10 meters wide, is climate-controlled and features artful lighting, multimedia projections, and a safe, comfortable path for non-motorized users. It also serves as an emergency passage for the main tunnel.

The Mystery of the “Fishbone” Galleries

During construction, workers discovered a labyrinth of 32 parallel underground galleries known as the “arêtes de poisson” (“fishbone” tunnels) beneath Croix-Rousse (visitonslyon.com; thisislyon.fr). These enigmatic structures, possibly of Roman or medieval origin, remain closed to the public but contribute to the area’s mysterious underground allure (lyon-france.net).

Visitor Information

Hours & Access

Vehicular Tunnel: Open 24/7 for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes (buses and exceptions allowed).
Soft Mobility Tunnel: Open daily, generally from early morning until late evening; check local signage for any changes due to maintenance or special events (visiterlyon.com).
Maintenance Closures: Both tunnels may close periodically for scheduled maintenance.

Accessibility

The pedestrian and cyclist tunnel is fully accessible, with smooth surfaces and ramps suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Elevators and clear signage are available at entrances.

Tickets & Fees

Entry: Free of charge for all users (vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians).

Directions

Entrances: Avenue Birmingham (4th arrondissement, near Pont Clémenceau) and Pont de Lattre de Tassigny (1st arrondissement).
Public Transport: Bus lines C6, 2, and 45 stop at Saint Charles, close to both entrances.

Safety

Emergency call points, video surveillance, and clear lane markings.
Cyclists and pedestrians must remain in their designated lanes.

What to Expect: Features and Experiences

Layout and Design

Vehicular Tunnel: Two double lanes with a central divider. Speed limit is 50 km/h (30 km/h in wet weather).
Soft Mobility Tunnel: Three lanes—central pedestrian walkway, bicycle lane, and bus lane. Climate-controlled and illuminated.

Art and Multimedia Installations

The soft mobility tunnel features rotating multimedia projections inspired by Lyon’s cinematic legacy. These change regularly and are especially elaborate during the Fête des Lumières (themostbeautifulplacesineurope.wordpress.com).

Special Events and Multimedia Installations

Fête des Lumières (December): The tunnel is transformed with spectacular light shows, animations, and interactive displays, attracting large crowds.
Year-Round: Regular multimedia displays provide cultural and artistic experiences for all visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Croix-Rousse District: Explore historic silk-weavers’ workshops, colorful murals, and traboules (hidden passageways) (nationalgeographic.com).
Presqu’île and Vieux Lyon: Access vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural sites.
Saint-Charles de Serin Church: Rebuilt after tunnel construction, located near the Saône entrance.

Tips for Visitors

Plan for Events: Evenings and festival periods offer the most vibrant experiences.
Dress Comfortably: The tunnel is climate-controlled, but comfortable shoes make the walk or cycle more enjoyable.
Photography: The tunnel’s art and lighting provide excellent photo opportunities; be mindful of others.
Public Transport: Utilize bus or metro to avoid parking challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Tunnel de la Croix-Rousse visiting hours?
A: The vehicular tunnel operates 24/7; the soft mobility tunnel is open daily, typically from early morning to late evening.

Q: Do I need a ticket to enter?
A: No, access is free for all users.

Q: Is the tunnel accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the soft mobility tunnel is fully accessible.

Q: Can I cycle through the tunnel?
A: Yes, there is a dedicated bike lane.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not inside the tunnel, but nearby guided tours often include the Croix-Rousse district and its history.

Q: Are the fishbone tunnels open to visitors?
A: No, they are closed to the public.

Conclusion

The Tunnel de la Croix-Rousse is more than just a thoroughfare—it is a living symbol of Lyon’s ability to unite history, innovation, and sustainable urban life. With free access, immersive art, and a pivotal role in the city’s infrastructure, it offers visitors and locals alike a unique perspective on Lyon’s past and future. Whether passing through or exploring in depth, don’t miss this iconic urban landmark. For the latest updates, event information, and guided experiences, consider downloading the Audiala app and exploring Lyon’s broader historical treasures.