Free things to do in Lyon with kids: 9 outings that cost nothing (or almost)

At a glance: Lyon is one of the French cities where it’s easiest to fill a family day without spending a thing. The zoo is free, and so is the best view. The only real cost: good shoes, because it’s hilly.

People often think of Lyon as a city you visit mainly to eat (and that’s true). But between meals, there’s a lot to do for free, and most of these outings are as fun for kids as for parents. Here are our nine favourites, each with the small drawback to know about.

1. Parc de la Tête d’Or and its zoo

The great classic, and rightly so: the zoo is free. Giraffes, lions, primates, an African plain… Add the lake, the greenhouses (from outside) and huge lawns: you can spend the whole day there.

The drawback: the park is very big. With young kids, focus on one area (zoo + playgrounds) rather than trying to see everything.

2. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Entry to the basilica is free, and the esplanade has the best view of Lyon. On a clear day, you can sometimes see the Alps.

The drawback: going up costs a ticket if you take the funicular (TCL network). On foot it’s free, but the climb through the stairs and gardens is steep. Tip: take the funicular up and walk down through the Jardin du Rosaire.

3. The Roman theatres of Fourvière

A few minutes from the basilica, two ancient theatres with free access. Kids love running on the stone steps (and parents appreciate a spot to catch their breath).

The drawback: the Lugdunum museum right next door charges admission. The outdoor site is more than enough for a first visit.

4. The traboules of Old Lyon

Passageways that run through buildings from one street to another, once used by the silk workers. You push a door, cross a Renaissance courtyard and come out somewhere else: a real treasure hunt.

The drawback: people live there. Speak quietly, respect opening hours and don’t let the kids shout in the stairwells.

5. The Mur des Canuts

A giant trompe-l’œil mural in Croix-Rousse that tells the story of the neighbourhood. The game: spot the details that change between versions of the mural, which has been repainted several times over the years.

The drawback: it’s a bit out of the way. Combine it with a walk on the Croix-Rousse plateau.

6. The Rhône riverbanks

Several kilometres of landscaped promenade by the water, with playgrounds, steps to sit on and a bike path. Perfect at the end of the day.

The drawback: very busy on sunny weekends, and you need to keep an eye on little ones near the bike path.

7. The Jardin des Curiosités

A small garden hidden on the heights of Saint-Just, with one of the best views of the city. Far fewer people than at Fourvière.

The drawback: it’s small and there’s not much for kids to do. A 15-minute stop, not a full outing.

8. Place des Terreaux

The Bartholdi Fountain (by the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty), City Hall and a very lively square. Ideal for an ice-cream break between visits.

The drawback: the ice cream isn’t free.

9. Parc de Gerland

Less known than Tête d’Or, quieter, with wide open spaces for running, biking and picnicking.

The drawback: it’s in the south of the city. Worth it if you’re staying nearby or in Confluence.

What about museums?

Several Lyon museums are free for under-18s, and some have free days. Conditions change regularly: check each museum’s website before you go.

Practical info

• Getting around: the centre is walkable. For Fourvière and Croix-Rousse, the metro or funicular saves you the climb (TCL ticket required).
• Price: free, except transport and small extras on site.
• Suggested day: Fourvière + Roman theatres + Old Lyon in the morning, Tête d’Or in the afternoon.
• Best time: morning for Fourvière (light and fewer people), late afternoon for the riverbanks.

Our verdict

With a little planning, you can fill two or three days in Lyon without paying a single admission fee. Save your budget for what Lyon does best: a good meal.

Info checked on November 1, 2026. Free access can change: check before you go.