Camping near Lyon
A holiday without camping isn't a real holiday, is it? Even when visiting Lyon, it's easy to choose a campsite, especially as it offers something for everyone. We recommend Camping des Barolles** in Saint-Genis-Laval, less than 15 km from the centre of Lyon. Situated in the middle of nature, you can go hiking in the mountains and take part in activities such as tennis, fitness and bowling.
Camping de Lyon**** is located 12 kilometres from the town, in the commune of Dardilly, and finally, Pollionnay is home to the Luère** campsite, a little over 20 kilometres away.
Walking in the city
It is very fashionable at the moment, I named the city walk. Ideal in Lyon, as you can walk around and discover the four main districts (Presqu'Ile, Croix Rousse, Vieux Lyon and Fourvière) and even in one day. Remember that these historic sites have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites since 1998.
Fourvière is the oldest hill in Lyon as the city's foundations were started here by the Romans in 43 BC. You will discover the two ancient theatres, the Lugdunum museum where the archaeological discoveries of the city are exposed, as well as the Fourvière basilica and its Byzantine influences. You must admire the view from the top of the hill or the sunset and go back down through the magnificent gardens of Rosaire. You won't regret it.
The Vieux-Lyon district is the most touristic, you will enjoy walking through the medieval architecture, the cobbled streets and the souvenir shops. To entertain the children, go to La Maison de Guignol, Lyon's emblematic character, where puppet shows are performed all year round. The traboules of Vieux-Lyon will enchant the whole family: secret passages through apartment buildings and linking two streets together. You will end your visit of the district with the Cathedral of Saint-Jean, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the city.
Once a working class area that worked with silk (canuts), the Croix-Rousse has now become an artists' district where you can find a lot of "street art". You can admire the fresco of the Canuts. The city is full of painted walls and the trompe-l'oeil are often impressive. Finally, it is highly recommended to go and admire the panorama at the top of the Gros Caillou in this same sector.
The Presqu'île is the last of Lyon's four districts to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will explore the famous Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe. It is in the rue Mercière that you will enjoy Lyon's nightly entertainment. Discover also the Place des Terreaux, then the Hôtel de Ville and the Fine Arts Museum for the beauty of their typical architecture. Finally, the fresco of the Lyonnais (another trompe-l'oeil wall) will not leave you indifferent.
The urban walk continues in the famous Tête d'Or park in Lyon, created the same year as Central Park in New York, it is considered the lungs of the city.
Cruise on the Rhône
Then, to rest your legs and if you stay several days, the cruise on the Rhône and the Saône to see Lyon from another angle will please both parents and children. Another way, more summery and more fun for the children certainly, to explore the emblematic monuments of the city of lights. A magnificent 1.5 hour trip on the water to travel through the history of the city.
Relaxation day for all
Finally, to reward your children for their exemplary behaviour... A day at the Grand Parc de Miribel Jonage is a must! On the programme: zip lines, mountain biking, tennis, but also beach, swimming, aqua park, canoeing, etc., especially as their parents will certainly enjoy themselves too!