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- Lyon : our pick of peaceful spots to eat outdoors
Lyon : our pick of peaceful spots to eat outdoors
Whether it’s a salad, sandwich, pizza or picnic, it’s always tastier in beautiful surroundings !
Bons plans
Last updated date : 12/05/2025
Do you feel like a change of scenery to savour your salad or sandwich? Are you looking for a haven of calm in the heart of Lyon, to take your lunch break away from the crowds and noise? Make the most of the fine weather to slip into some of Lyon’s most peaceful spots.

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Fourvière
Here is a place that we are particularly fond of: the ancient theatre! Perched on the tiered seats rising above the stage in a breathtaking, timeless decor, you have a commanding view over Lyon. You are close to the city and its history, yet disconnected from the world. In this unique place, your break can naturally extend into a session of reading in the sun or quiet contemplation…
Museum
Lugdunum - Musée et Théâtres romains
17 rue Cléberg - 69005 Lyon 5ème
On the hillside just below, alongside the exit of the funicular station ‘Minimes Théâtres Romains’, the André Malraux garden with its classical fountains and mouldings, its benches and shaded spots, is a refreshing place to take a quiet break, at least on days when the two neighbouring schools are closed.
On the way down to Vieux-Lyon (Old Lyon), the Belvédère garden, located just above Villa Florentine on Montée du Chemin Neuf, is also a lovely spot for a break away from the bustle. Not only does it offer shade, it also boasts an uninterrupted view of Lyon.
Vieux Lyon
In the old town, you will find an archaeological garden just behind Lyon Cathedral. This tranquil space has a view of the side of the edifice and the remains of the church of Sainte-Croix and the baptistery. Soak up the history.
Historic site and monument
Jardin Archéologique
rue des Estrées - 69005 Lyon 5èmePresqu'île, right in the centre of Lyon
On the peninsula between the two rivers, Place des Célestins is one of the prettiest spots to take a break in the city centre. A short walk from Bellecour, people come here to enjoy the calm on one of the many benches with a view of the theatre’s facade and the water feature. This secluded little square is lined with old buildings, restaurants with terraces, shops, and magnolias that blossom pink and white in spring. Before leaving, take a look through the periscope standing in the middle of the square. With its timber decking, this square is a fine example of past and present coming together in harmony. It is an oasis of calm in Lyon’s busy city centre, perfect for families to take a break.
Historic site and monument
Les Célestins - Théâtre de Lyon
place des Célestins - 69002 Lyon 2ème
A little bit further along the Presqu’île, towards Lyon’s 1st district, Place de la Bourse is also a rather pleasant spot for a sandwich, opposite the splendid Palais du Commerce. Between its rows of boxwood shrubs in pots and trees in blossom, the benches are quickly taken at peak times.

Croix-Rousse
After buying your lunchtime provisions at the market or in the district’s many food shops, several options are open to you: if it’s a panoramic vista you’re after, opt for one of the benches at Parc du Gros Caillou.
If you want to feel the laid-back vibe of the Croix-Rousse, make your way to Place des Tapis or Place Colbert, where you may get to watch a game of pétanque (a variety of boules) while you eat.
For a garden with protected natural assets, choose Jardin des Chartreux, which overlooks the river Saône below. The lawn, benches, old trees (including rare species) and magnolias come together to create a lovely setting, dotted with busts of famous local figures.
Park and garden
Jardin des Chartreux - Clos St Benoît
36 cours Général Giraud - 69001 Lyon 1erConfluence
At Place Général Delfosse on Quai Rambaud, near the events venue L’Embarcadère, the tiered rows of the open-air theatre offer a fine vantage point over the Saône, and a charming spot for a bite outdoors. A little further south on the riverbank, you will find a slightly wilder environment at Ouagadougou garden, near the old dock. In this modern district, the garden and its pond provide tranquil surroundings where you can spot coypus, ducks and moorhens. What’s more, the garden of the Musée des Confluences is also a delightful place to take in the relaxing ambience of the Confluence.
Left bank of the Rhône
You are probably familiar with Tête d’Or Park and the riverbanks already. But have you ever parked your posterior on one of the benches at Place Maréchal Lyautey, where you can peacefully chew your sandwich as you listen to the sound of metal balls clinking from a game of boule lyonnaise? It’s an experience not to be missed!
And have you ever taken a stroll along the paths of Général Charles Delestraint garden (just off Quai Augagneur), and enjoyed a salad on a bench in the shade, at a stone’s throw from the Prefecture but away from the busy banks of the Rhône?
Between Part-Dieu and Montchat, make your way to Sisley Park, formerly the grounds of a nineteenth-century mansion. Its lawns, tall trees and paths lined with benches beckon you for a lovely, quiet lunch break in the city centre.
In Monplaisir, you will find the garden of the Institut Lumière, the place where the Lumière brothers created their marvellous inventions. This peaceful, shaded garden is a delightful place to stop. What’s more, at the neighbouring Place Ambroise Courtois, a market is held almost every day where you can pick up some provisions for your picnic.
With our suggestions in mind, all that’s left for you to do is choose your perfect picnic spot !

DÉCOUVRIR
Les meilleurs points de vue sur Lyon
Vous voulez profiter d'une balade et vous en mettre plein la vue ? Voici quelques uns des meilleurs panoramas sur Lyon !