First Impressions

As soon as I walked into Parc de la Tête d’Or, I felt like I’d found Lyon’s secret garden. It’s grand but gentle—where locals jog along tree-lined paths, kids race tiny boats across the lake, and the breeze carries the soft scent of roses. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay awhile, breathe deeper, and maybe even forget the world outside.

Getting There

The park is located in Lyon’s 6th arrondissement, just north of the city center. I arrived via Metro Line A to Masséna, then walked about 10 minutes to the entrance. You can also take a tram or rent a bike—it’s part of Lyon’s green heart and very accessible.

Tip: Go in the late morning or golden hour for soft light, fewer crowds, and a calm vibe that feels almost cinematic.

My Experience

I wandered aimlessly at first, which felt like the best decision. The lake sparkled in the sunlight, dotted with rowboats and ducks. I paused in the rose garden, which felt like something out of a French novel—quiet, fragrant, and bursting with color.

Later, I stumbled upon the free zoo, where giraffes, zebras, and deer live in surprisingly peaceful surroundings. And then there were the greenhouses—humid, lush, and full of tropical plants that made me feel like I’d been transported somewhere far more exotic.

Good to Know

• Open: Daily from ~6:30 AM to 10:30 PM (seasonal hours may vary)

• Cost: Free entry (including zoo and greenhouses!)

• Visit Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours

• Facilities: Public restrooms, playgrounds, kiosks, benches, picnic areas

Snack Break

I grabbed a crêpe and Orangina from a small kiosk near the lake and found a shaded bench to sit and watch the boats drift by. There are also nearby cafés just outside the park gates if you’re craving something more indulgent.

Personal Tips

• Bring a book, a blanket, or just your thoughts—it’s perfect for slow moments

• Wear comfy shoes—the park is huge and worth exploring in every direction

• Don’t skip the botanical greenhouses—they’re magical

• Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or anyone needing a soft reset from city buzz

Why I Loved It

⭐ 5.0/5 — “Parc de la Tête d’Or gave me exactly what I didn’t know I needed—a moment of stillness, of beauty, of gentle joy. It’s not just a park—it’s a little sanctuary.”

What You’ll Want to Capture

• Golden light on the lake at sunset

• The romantic paths of the rose garden

• Stained-glass glow inside the greenhouses

• Serene selfies under hundred-year-old trees