Place Bellecour: a must-see in Lyon
Climb aboard the Grande-Roue for an exceptional view
Lyon’s Ferris wheel is a must-see, promising a dizzying and unforgettable experience. Every winter, it stands proudly at the end of the Place, adding a touch of magic for young and old alike. Climb aboard and let yourself be carried to the top to admire a breathtaking panorama of Lyon and its surroundings, with the Fourvière basilica in the background.
The statues of Place Bellecour
Place Bellecour wouldn’t be what it is without its iconic statues to watch over passers-by. In the center, Louis XIV sits majestically on horseback, the “equestrian statue”, a tribute to the man nicknamed the Sun King. But that’s not all! You’ll also find statues of the Lumière brothers, inventors of cinema, and of Saint-Exupéry and his Little Prince, reminders of Lyon’s cultural influence. Each one tells its own story, and it’s up to you to meet them!
What could the Sun King be enthroned on if not a sublime horse? This equestrian statue, a veritable icon of Lyon, is a real eye-catcher with its imposing, elegant appearance. Created in the early 19th century by sculptor François-Frédéric Lemot, it symbolizes the city’s grandeur and history.
Isn’t it the perfect meeting place?
Perched discreetly on one of the walls of Place Bellecour, the stone watchman is one of Lyon’s best-kept secrets, an amusing wink for keen observers. This enigmatic figure, halfway between gargoyle and silent guardian, seems to watch over passers-by and events in the square day and night.
Created by Lyon artist Rachid Khimoune, the stone watchman is a work of urban art that adds a touch of mystery and fantasy to Bellecour. His impassive expression and piercing gaze give the impression that he knows all the city’s secrets. Children love to look for it, and adults often wonder how they missed this fascinating detail.
Still on the Place Bellecour, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry keeps watch with elegance and poetry, accompanied by his famous Little Prince. This moving statue pays tribute to one of Lyon’s most illustrious children, the writer and aviator whose works continue to enchant generations of readers around the world. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of the famous “Little Prince”, is shown sitting pensively, with his young hero standing beside him, gazing out at the horizon together. This sculpture, installed in 2000 to mark the centenary of his birth, perfectly captures the dreamy, adventurous spirit of Saint-Ex, as the Lyonnais affectionately call him.
A place for events
It’s much more than a vast space in the heart of Lyon: it’s the living theater of a thousand and one events that punctuate the life of the city. Throughout the year, it transforms and comes alive with the seasons and festivities.
In winter, the magic of Christmas invades Bellecour, with its market, its magical illuminations and, of course, its famous Ferris wheel offering a breathtaking view of Lyon. In spring, the square hosts open-air concerts, street performances and even sporting events such as the start and finish of running races.
In summer, Bellecour becomes a playground for music festivals and open-air cinema screenings. Food trucks and ice cream stands abound, creating a friendly, gourmet atmosphere. In autumn, don’t miss the Fête des Lumières, when the Place Bellecour is adorned with splendid light installations that attract visitors from all over the world.
Come aboard aboard the Lyon City Bus
The Lyon City Bus is like a cab for the curious and those who love discovery! This double-decker sightseeing bus offers a complete, personalized tour of Lyon, with panoramic views from its open roof. You can hop on and off at will at various strategic stops, including Place Bellecour, of course, but also Fourvière hill, Vieux Lyon and Parc de la Tête d’Or. A word of advice: don’t forget your camera, as the panoramic views from the top of the bus are well worth the detour!
Tofind out more: go to the tourist office!
Need expert advice on the best bouchon restaurants, must-see tours or current events? The experts at the Tourist Office are there to answer all your questions and put together a program tailored to your needs. What’s more, it’s the ideal place to find tickets for top attractions such as the Musée des Confluences, organize a themed guided tour or even book a cruise on the Saône.
Getting to Place Bellecour
Take metro line B towards “Stade de Gerland” and get off at “Saxe-Gambetta” station. Here, change to line D for “Gare de Vaise” and get off at “Bellecour” station. Place Bellecour is just a few minutes’ walk from the station.
Take streetcar T1 towards “Debourg” from Part Dieu station, and get off at “Liberté” station. Then take streetcar T2 towards “Perrache” and get off at “Perrache” station. Place Bellecour is a 10-minute walk from Perrache station.
From Perrache station, take metro line A towards “Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie” and get off at “Bellecour” station. Place Bellecour is within walking distance of the station.
Place Bellecour is a 10-minute walk from Perrache station. Leaving the station, take rue Victor Hugo, go straight on to the Guillotière bridge, then cross the bridge to reach place Bellecour.
In short, whether you choose to take the metro, streetcar or on foot, you have several convenient options for getting to Place Bellecour from Lyon’s Part Dieu and Perrache stations.