Top things to do in Lyon with kids 🧸
Are you tired of the crowds in some of France’s most popular destinations? Are you looking for a child-friendly way to enjoy the many delights of French culture and gastronomy with your whole family?
Welcome to Lyon! This incredible city has ranked as one of the best cities to live in on multiple occasions. With history spanning centuries, it’ll surely take your breath away and keep your family entertained.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the best things to do with kids in Lyon!
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#1 Dive into ancient history 📜
A great way to experience Lyon’s ancient roots with your kids is to explore the city’s ancient amphitheaters: the Amphitheater of the Three Gauls and the Odeon of Lyon on Fourvière Hill, Lyon’s birthplace and the center of the ancient Roman city.
You’ll find that this is an incredibly educational visit that sparks the imagination of any young visitor traveling with you. And if you and your family just crave more parts of the ancient world, another great thing to do in Lyon with kids is the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière. There, you’ll get to experience artwork, weapons, coins and other artefacts that bring the fascinating ancient world to life.
MEININGER tip: As both attractions are in the same area, you can combine your visit to the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière with the Odeon of Lyon.
#2 Travel back to the Middle Ages ⚔️ ️
The Middle Ages and the Renaissance are also historical periods that left a mark on this great French city which you can explore with your kids on foot in Vieux Lyon—the city’s old town, a UNESCO heritage site, and one of the largest and best-preserved Renaissance districts in modern Europe!
How about taking the kids on a journey back in time through the Traboules, Lyon’s secret network? Traboules (from the Latin word transambulare meaning “to cross”) are a type of secret covered passageways connected with the city of Lyon, but also located in other French cities. In Lyon, they were originally used by silk manufacturers and other kinds of merchants to transport their products during the 4th century AD.
Keep in mind that medieval Lyon was a little labyrinth and getting in and out of town was a challenge. You and your little ones can get on an adventurous quest to find the Traboules as one of the most fun activities. It’s estimated that there are 400 of these passages in Lyon, however only around 40 are open to the public. How many can you and your kids find? 🕵️♀️ 🔎
#3 Learn about silk weaving 🧶
Visit the Croix Rousse district which is going to take you and your family on yet another trip back in time focusing on the art of silk weaving; plus, you’ll get spectacular city views! La Maison des Canuts is a 19th century building that will guide you through the city’s long history with this art form: from its middle-age origins up to its decline and revival in the 18th century as well as its many weaving techniques developed there.
The kids will particularly enjoy watching real-life silk wavers work. Make it happen in nearby Atelier De Tissage Mattelon, a silk-weaving atelier where the old production methods and machines are still very much in use.
#4 Enjoy the greenery 🌳
Similarly, to many other French cities, Lyon is famous for its beautiful parks and open spaces. A must-see when traveling to Lyon with kids is the Parc de la Tête d’Or which features a rose garden, a Zoo and a lot of open space for kids to run around, play and have fun on sunny days. Lyon is a family-friendly city and offers you and your family a chance to rent bikes or take a segways tour if you want a more active way to explore the city.
#5 Festival of Lights 🎆
Did you know the art of cinema was born in Lyon? Yes, that’s right, by one of its most celebrated sons: Louis Lumiere. “Lumiere” means literally “light” in French and the city itself is known as “the city of lights”.
Lyon hosts a yearly festival of lights, Fête des Lumières, an event so beautiful and family-friendly that’s been copied by numerous European cities including Barcelona and Berlin. The Festival of Lights is what Lyon is most famous for and it’s hugely popular with families. Its various extravagant light projections will definitely capture your attention and excite your little ones.
#6 Time for food🍴
Are you ready for a delicious food adventure? Lyon is France’s gastronomical capital. The city’s restaurants are known for adapting their menus based on what is currently available at the markets; that’s something you can experience with your kids and maybe even teach them about seasonality while enjoying delicious meals together.
#7 How to get there ✈️
Getting to Lyon is easy. There’s a high-speed train connection from Paris that takes you there in less than two hours as well as direct train connections from several large European cities including London, Brussels, Geneva and Frankfurt. You can also fly or drive there.
Want to learn more about the city? Check out our article on the 5 most interesting fun facts about Lyon!
Discovering Lyon with kids: FAQs
What are the best kid-friendly attractions in Lyon?
Lyon has plenty of exciting spots for families traveling with kids. Start your adventure at Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, where children can enjoy a free zoo, botanical gardens, and large playgrounds. Don’t miss the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum filled with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity. Another favorite is Mini World Lyon, a captivating miniature park featuring tiny models of famous landmarks and lively scenes. Whether your kids love nature, animals, or hands-on learning, Lyon offers fun experiences for all ages.
Where can I find outdoor activities for kids in Lyon?
Lyon is full of outdoor fun for kids. Parc de la Tête d'Or is a must-visit with its wide open spaces, playgrounds, and free zoo. For more adventure, explore the banks of the Rhône River, where your family can walk or rent bikes and scooters. The Fourvière Hill area also has beautiful gardens and panoramic views—perfect for a family picnic. If you're visiting in warmer months, look out for public splash parks and open-air festivals tailored to younger visitors.
Are there museums in Lyon suitable for children?
Yes! One of the top picks is Musée des Confluences. It’s not your typical museum—it’s packed with fascinating, interactive exhibits covering science, history, and nature. Another fun option is Mini World Lyon, where children can marvel at detailed miniature cities and animated scenes. Many museums in Lyon also offer family-friendly workshops and special activities designed just for kids, so you can combine learning with entertainment.
Is Lyon Zoo free to visit with kids?
Yes, Lyon Zoo—located inside Parc de la Tête d'Or—is free for everyone, making it a great budget-friendly option for families. Your kids can see a wide variety of animals, from giraffes to monkeys, without any entrance fee. Besides the zoo, the park also offers playgrounds, a lake, and botanical gardens, so you can easily spend the whole day outdoors without breaking the bank.
What family-friendly restaurants are there in Lyon?
Lyon is famous for its food, and many restaurants are welcoming to families. You’ll find casual eateries serving classic French dishes as well as international options like pizza and burgers that kids usually enjoy. Look for "bouchons lyonnais" that offer relaxed atmospheres and simple menus. Some places even provide high chairs and kids’ menus. Near popular family spots like Parc de la Tête d'Or, you’ll also find cafés and bistros perfect for a relaxed meal with children.
Is Lyon easy to explore with a stroller?
Yes, Lyon is generally stroller-friendly. Most of the city’s sidewalks and public transport are accessible, especially in flat areas like the Presqu'île and Parc de la Tête d'Or. You might encounter some cobblestone streets in Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) or uphill paths on Fourvière Hill, which could be a bit tricky with a stroller. However, buses and trams are equipped for easy access, and many attractions have stroller-friendly entrances and facilities.
Where can I stay in Lyon with my family?
MEININGER Hotel Lyon Centre Berthelot is a perfect choice for families visiting Lyon. It offers comfortable, budget-friendly rooms with flexible options to suit parents and kids. You'll enjoy hotel-quality service such as a guest kitchen, game zone, and friendly staff ready to assist. Plus, the hotel’s central location makes it easy to reach Lyon’s main family attractions.
Is Lyon safe for families with children?
Yes, Lyon is considered a safe city for families traveling with children. Like any big city, it’s always best to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Popular tourist spots, public parks, and family attractions are well-maintained and safe for visitors. Public transportation is reliable, and many areas are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to move around with kids. As always, keeping an eye on personal belongings helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Where to stay in Lyon?
A great accommodation option for families in Lyon is the MEININGER Hotel Lyon Centre Berthelot.
Located right next to the Jean Macet train station, you can access it very easily. Stay with us and enjoy our comfy private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, perfect for all families!
Address: Rue Professeur Zimmermann 7, 69007 Lyon, France
