Parc de la Tête d'Or

Overview

The Parc de la Tête d'Or is Lyon's beloved urban oasis — a 117-hectare English-style park on the left bank of the Rhône. It is one of the largest urban parks in France, comparable in size to London's Hyde Park, and is free to enter year-round.

Highlights

• The Lake: A 16-hectare artificial lake at the park's center with pedal boats and a small island accessible by footbridge.
• Botanical Garden: A world-class collection of over 15,000 plant species, including magnificent Victorian greenhouses sheltering tropical and alpine flora.
• Free Zoo: Home to over 400 animals including giraffes, elephants, red pandas, and a large primate house — entirely free.

History

Designed by landscape architects Denis and Eugène Bühler and opened in 1857, the park is named after a golden head of Christ (tête d'or) that legend says was buried somewhere within its grounds by the Crusaders. The Botanical Garden dates to 1857 and the zoo was established in 1858.

Visitor Tips

• Jogging: The 4.2 km loop around the lake is Lyon's most popular running route.
• Rose Garden: Visit the Roseraie in June when 60,000 rose bushes are in full bloom — it's spectacular.
• Duration: 2–3 hours for a full visit.