Tourist Office

Overview

Nestled within the monumental expanse of Place Bellecour, in the heart of Lyon, France, lies the essential Tourist Office. This central hub serves as the primary gateway for visitors eager to explore the wonders of the city. Place Bellecour itself stands as one of Europe's largest open squares without trees, an impressive pedestrian space that acts as Lyon's 'kilometer 0,' meaning all distances within the city are measured from this very point. The Tourist Office, officially known as ONLYLYON Tourist Office, occupies a well-appointed pavilion, offering a welcoming space for travelers. Here, friendly 'Lyon City Experts' are available seven days a week, typically from 9 am to 6 pm, ready to provide a wealth of information and assistance to make any stay in Lyon unforgettable.

History & Cultural Background

The history of Place Bellecour, the grand setting for the Tourist Office, stretches back to antiquity, with its grounds once serving various purposes from military encampments to vineyards during Roman times. Over centuries, this strategic location has witnessed significant transformations and name changes, including Place Royale, Place Louis-le-Grand, and even Place Napoléon, before it became the 'Bellecour' we know today. The name 'Bellecour' itself derives from 'Bella Curtis,' meaning 'beautiful court' or 'beautiful garden,' a nod to its historical lushness despite its current unplanted expanse. The square took its definitive form in the 17th century under the reign of Louis XIV. A significant cultural landmark, the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, dominates the center of the square. This statue was originally erected in 1713, famously destroyed during the French Revolution – a period when a guillotine briefly stood on this very spot – and then meticulously remade and reinstalled in 1825. The Tourist Office itself is part of an organization, ONLYLYON Tourism and Conventions, which boasts over a century of experience, having been founded in 1905 to promote Lyon as a premier destination.

What Makes It Special

The Tourist Office at Place Bellecour is more than just an information desk; it is a vital resource designed to enrich the visitor experience. It acts as a comprehensive hub where travelers can obtain essential city maps, gather personalized advice, and acquire the popular Lyon City Card. This card is a key to unlocking Lyon, offering free public transportation and access to numerous museums and attractions. The team of experts is equipped to provide assistance in multiple languages, including French, English, German, Spanish, and Italian, ensuring clear communication for international guests. Beyond practical advice, the office provides free WiFi and dedicated terminals for services like Vélo'v bike-sharing, making immediate planning and connectivity effortless. Its strategic placement within Place Bellecour, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, positions it as the natural starting point for exploring Lyon's rich history and vibrant culture. The square itself, with its distinctive red sandy surface – a historical design choice – and its role as a year-round venue for diverse events, from vibrant festivals and concerts to a winter ice rink and Ferris wheel, and even the spectacular Fête des Lumières, adds an extra layer of allure to the Tourist Office's location.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The equestrian statue of Louis XIV, a prominent feature of Place Bellecour, carries an intriguing, albeit perhaps apocryphal, tale. Legend has it that the sculptor, François-Frédéric Lemot, neglected to include stirrups on the king's horse, a detail said to have driven him to despair. While this story adds a touch of dramatic flair, it is generally considered a rumor. Adding another layer of cultural significance, a charming statue dedicated to the celebrated Lyonnais author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and his beloved character, The Little Prince, stands proudly in the western part of the square. Place Bellecour is also unique for being one of the largest open squares in Europe notably devoid of trees or permanent greenery, contributing to its grand, unencumbered feel. Despite its vastness, it functions as a lively social nexus where locals and visitors converge, creating a dynamic atmosphere. The historical meaning of 'Bellecour' – 'beautiful court' or 'beautiful garden' – offers a fascinating contrast to its current appearance, hinting at the square's evolving landscape through time.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler arriving in Lyon, a visit to the Tourist Office at Place Bellecour is an invaluable first step. It is specifically designed to be the starting point for optimizing itineraries, gaining insider knowledge from local experts, and exploring options for sustainable travel within the city. The array of services extends to booking various activities, including engaging guided tours that delve into Lyon's history, food culture, silk workshops, and the famous 'traboules,' as well as serene river cruises along the Saône and Rhône. Should accommodation be needed, the office can even assist in finding suitable lodging. Its highly accessible location, directly above the Bellecour metro station (where lines A and D intersect), makes it effortlessly reachable from any part of the city. By beginning their journey here, visitors ensure they have all the tools and information necessary to craft a personalized and memorable exploration of Lyon, transforming a visit from good to truly exceptional.