Parc de la Tête d’Or: Lake, Zoo and Rose Garden — 117 Free Hectares in the Heart of Lyon
Lyon’s green lung, the Parc de la Tête d’Or stretches across 117 hectares in the heart of the city. Lake, zoo, international rose garden, botanical greenhouses and picnic areas: this is where Lyonnais come for a breath of nature just minutes from the centre. Entry is entirely free.
What to See and Do
The Lake and Boat Rides
The centrepiece of the park, the 16-hectare lake is perfect for a lakeside stroll or boat hire (fee applies, seasonal). Its shaded banks are ideal for a picnic or reading in the sun. Pedalos and small boats are also available in summer.
The Zoo — Free Entry
One of the rare free zoos in France: giraffes, rhinos, lions, bears, flamingos… The Tête d’Or zoo hosts animals from many species across several themed spaces, including the African Plains and the Forests of Asia. Great for families, open year-round.
The International Rose Garden
Inaugurated in 1964, the international rose garden brings together over 60,000 rose bushes representing more than 350 cultivars. One of the most important in Europe. Peak blooming season runs from late May to mid-July. Free entry.
The Botanical Greenhouses
The grand Victorian-era greenhouses shelter remarkable tropical collections: carnivorous plants, cacti, giant ferns and exotic flowers. An unexpected change of scenery in the middle of Lyon.
Cycling and Walking
The park has wide lanes open to cyclists. Vélo’v (Lyon’s bike-sharing service) docking stations are available near the park entrances.
Getting Here from the Hotel
By Metro
Metro Line A: Perrache → Masséna (6 stops, about 12 minutes), then a 10-minute walk to the main park entrance.
By Tram
Trams T1 or T4: stop Condorcet, right at one of the park entrances.
Practical Tips
- Entry: completely free (zoo included)
- Open year-round: hours vary by season
- Best season: May–July for the rose garden in bloom; year-round for the zoo
- Recommended duration: 2 to 3 hours (a half-day with a picnic is even better)
- What to bring: a picnic in summer — the lawns are open to the public
