Palette cart at La Part-Dieu shopping center in 2019

Westfield La Part Dieu

Westfield La Part-Dieu Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Lyon’s Urban Landmark

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Westfield La Part-Dieu, situated in the dynamic heart of Lyon, is more than just a shopping center—it is a symbol of the city’s urban renewal, blending retail, culture, sustainability, and community. As one of Europe’s largest and most innovative urban shopping centers, Westfield La Part-Dieu invites visitors to explore a multifaceted experience. Its recent transformation, orchestrated by the Dutch architectural firm MVRDV, has preserved the iconic 1970s concrete façade while introducing expansive light-filled atriums, panoramic rooftop gardens, and a vibrant mix of international brands, local boutiques, and gourmet dining (MVRDV project page; e-architect).

This guide covers essential information for your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, key events, and tips for exploring both Westfield La Part-Dieu and the city’s nearby historical attractions.

Escalator under repair at La Part-dieu shopping mall

Escalator under repair at La Part-dieu shopping center

Vehicle near Part-Dieu shopping center in Lyon

Interior view of Part-Dieu shopping center with modern architecture and shopping areas

Interior view of the Part-Dieu shopping center with shops and people

Interior view of La Part-Dieu shopping center with modern architecture and shoppers

Construction machinery in front of a shopping center on Boulevard Vivier Merle in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Renovation of the storefront at a shopping center on Boulevard Vivier Merle in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Ground markings for social distancing in queues at the 2nd floor of La Part-Dieu shopping center in Lyon

View of La Part-Dieu train station from the 4th-floor terrace of La Part-Dieu shopping center in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

View from the 4th floor terrace of La Part-Dieu shopping center overlooking the construction of To-Lyon tower

New staircase at Centre commercial de la Part-Dieu in Lyon

Rooftop view of La Part-Dieu shopping center in Lyon with city skyline

Installation of a metal structure next to a shopping center in Lyon 7e

Lego store interior with colorful brick displays at Part-Dieu shopping center in 2019

Parking lot of Centre Commercial La Part-Dieu shopping mall in Lyon, France

Rooftop of La Part-Dieu shopping center exterior texture in winter

Rue de Bonnel street view from pedestrian bridge near shopping center in Lyon

Christmas tree at La Part-Dieu shopping center in Lyon, nearly two stories tall

Starbucks coffee shop at La Part-Dieu shopping center in 2019

Coffee roasting machine in a La Part-Dieu shopping center store

Waffle Factory storefront at La Part-Dieu mall

About Westfield La Part-Dieu
Visitor Information
Architectural and Historical Overview
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Cultural Events and Sustainability Initiatives
Nearby Attractions and Lyon Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Recommendations
Sources

About Westfield La Part-Dieu

Westfield La Part-Dieu stands as a modern urban hub, seamlessly integrating shopping, leisure, and culture. Its prime location, directly adjacent to Lyon’s main railway station (Part-Dieu), makes it exceptionally accessible via public transport (Westfield official site; Public Transport in Lyon). The center boasts over 300 shops, diverse restaurants, and a multi-level rooftop park—providing panoramic city views and tranquil green spaces amidst the urban bustle.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Sundays: Closed (except for select stores and restaurants during special events; opening hours may vary between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM)
Note: Hours may change on public holidays or during seasonal events. Always consult the official website for current details.

Tickets and Entry

Entry to Westfield La Part-Dieu and its rooftop park is free.
Certain special events, exhibitions, or guided tours may require ticket purchase or advance registration.

Accessibility

Elevators, ramps, and wide corridors throughout the center
Accessible restrooms and baby-changing facilities
Reserved parking for visitors with reduced mobility
Multilingual signage and staff
Family rooms and assistance available upon request

Getting There

By Public Transport: Direct access via Gare Part-Dieu (main railway station), metro, tram, and bus lines (TCL network)
By Car: Underground parking with over 3,000 spaces. Parking discounts may be available with store validation.
By Bicycle: Bike parking facilities on-site

Parking Facilities

Ample underground and surface parking
Spaces reserved for people with disabilities and families
Bike parking supporting sustainable access

Architectural and Historical Overview

Originally constructed in the early 1970s, Westfield La Part-Dieu was a hallmark of car-centric urban planning. Its recent renovation, led by MVRDV, emphasizes openness, sustainability, and integration with the city. Key features include:

Retention and brightening of the concrete façade, maximizing the reuse of existing materials (Archello)
Expansive windows and open atriums, flooding the interior with natural light
Addition of 32,000 m² of new space without increasing the building’s footprint
Creation of a vast, multi-level rooftop park featuring green spaces, cafés, playgrounds, and panoramic city views

The transformation has made Westfield La Part-Dieu a porous, pedestrian-friendly, and environmentally conscious urban landmark.

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or early afternoons are less crowded. Evenings and weekends are livelier, with more open restaurants and events.
Navigation: Use multiple entrances and clear wayfinding signage. Digital directories and interactive maps are available.
Rooftop Park: Accessible by stairs or elevator, offering a peaceful retreat and unique vantage point over Lyon.
Dining and Shopping: Enjoy a diverse mix of global brands, local boutiques, and gourmet eateries.
Family-Friendly: Dedicated play areas, family rooms, and regularly scheduled children’s activities

Cultural Events and Sustainability Initiatives

Cultural Events

Westfield La Part-Dieu serves as an urban cultural hub, regularly hosting:

Annual Westfield Good Festival: Focused on sustainability, featuring workshops, upcycling, honey tastings, and ethical fashion shows (Le Bonbon)
Immersive Exhibitions: Past highlights include masterpieces from the Louvre (Le Progrès), scientific adventures, and art experiences
Workshops and Family Activities: Upcycling, DIY, urban gardening, composting, and educational games

Sustainability Initiatives

Over 7,000 m² of green rooftops and urban “hill” with 80+ trees
Rooftop beekeeping supporting biodiversity and offering honey tastings
Waste management partnerships for composting and recycling
Promotion of ethical retail practices and responsible consumption

Nearby Attractions and Lyon Historical Sites

Enhance your visit by exploring Lyon’s rich heritage:

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Iconic hilltop church with panoramic views
Vieux Lyon: UNESCO-listed Renaissance old town
Parc de la Tête d’Or: Urban park with a zoo and botanical gardens
Roman Theatres of Fourvière and Presqu’île District: Historic sites and museums

For comprehensive city information, consult the Lyon Tourism Office or use the Audiala app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Closed Sundays, except for special events.

Q: Is entry free?
A: Yes, entry to both the center and rooftop park is free. Some events may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours highlighting architecture, culture, and sustainability are occasionally offered—check the official site for schedules.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, with ample spaces for all visitors, including dedicated spots for people with disabilities.

Q: How accessible is the center?
A: Fully accessible with elevators, ramps, accessible toilets, and family facilities.

Summary and Final Recommendations

Westfield La Part-Dieu is an outstanding example of urban revitalization, merging innovative architecture, sustainability, and community engagement. Whether you seek shopping, cultural events, green spaces, or simply a taste of Lyon’s vibrant urban life, this center delivers a fulfilling experience for locals and tourists alike. With excellent public transport links, comprehensive visitor services, and proximity to major city landmarks, Westfield La Part-Dieu is a must-visit on any Lyon itinerary.

Plan ahead by checking the latest opening hours and event schedules on the official website. For personalized guides and updates, download the Audiala app.