Lyon Weekend Activities & Things to Do

Guignol Christmas Show

Experience the classic Lyonnais puppet show, 'Guignol et le Noël Surprise' (Guignol and the Christmas Surprise).

This festive production features Guignol preparing for the end-of-year celebrations, promising a delightful and humorous story that both children and adults will enjoy. The show lasts approximately 45 minutes and is followed by a backstage visit and a chance to meet the puppeteers.

Ideal for children aged 3 and up. The short duration and interactive elements, including meeting the puppeteers, keep young ones engaged. Bathrooms are available on site. Stroller access might be limited in the historic venue; carriers are recommended for very young children. The theater is nestled in the charming Vieux-Lyon district.

Kid-Friendly Dinner

Enjoy an early, relaxed dinner at UNI Mercière, a family-favorite restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated children's play area upstairs.

They offer a Mediterranean-inspired menu with kid-friendly options.

Perfect for unwinding after the show. The upstairs play area allows kids to burn off some energy while waiting for food or after their meal. They offer a children's menu (around EUR 9.90) with pasta, steak & fries, or nuggets. High chairs are available, and the staff is trained to accommodate families. Early timing suits younger children's bedtimes.

Mini World Exploration

Dive into the magical world of miniatures at Mini World Lyon, France's largest animated miniature park.

Explore incredibly detailed miniature worlds depicting city, mountain, and countryside scenes, complete with moving vehicles, trains, and thousands of mini-inhabitants. Don't miss the dedicated Mini Lyon area and the 'Jurassic Expo' temporary exhibition.

Highly engaging for all ages, with endless details to discover. Kids will love spotting familiar characters, humorous scenes, and the day-to-night light cycles. The 'Jurassic Expo' adds extra excitement for dinosaur fans. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit. The park is fully indoor and air-conditioned, making it a great option regardless of weather. Free for children under 4.

Park Picnic Lunch

After a morning of miniatures, head to Parc de la Tête d'Or, Lyon's largest urban park, for a delightful and budget-friendly picnic lunch.

Pick up some fresh bread, local cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries from a local boulangerie or market on your way.

The park offers vast green spaces and designated picnic areas, perfect for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors. There are also snack bars and cafes within the park if you prefer to buy lunch there. Bathrooms are available throughout the park.

Zoo & Playground Fun

Spend the afternoon exploring the free Zoo de Lyon located within Parc de la Tête d'Or.

Discover over 400 animals from 64 species, including giraffes, zebras, red pandas, and monkeys. Afterwards, let the kids run wild at one of the park's many playgrounds or enjoy a traditional carousel ride.

The zoo is a fantastic free attraction for kids of all ages, offering a chance to see diverse wildlife. The playgrounds are excellent for energetic children, and the carousels and pony rides (extra cost) add to the traditional park experience. The park is vast, with wide paths suitable for strollers.

Early Bistro Dinner

Enjoy an early evening dinner at a family-friendly bistro near the park, such as Suelta, which offers Tex-Mex cuisine in a vibrant setting close to the Parc de la Tête d'Or and the Cité Internationale.

A lively spot with options that appeal to kids. It's a great place for a casual, early dinner before heading back for bedtime. In case of bad weather, it's a comfortable indoor option. They generally have a varied menu.

Roman History Fun

Embark on a journey to ancient Rome at the Lugdunum Museum.

As it's the first Sunday of the month, admission is free for all visitors! Discover the fascinating history of Roman Lyon, explore artifacts, and let children engage with the interactive elements, including a dedicated children's area where they can dress up.

Excellent for children aged 4 and up. The free entry makes it a highly budget-friendly cultural outing. Kids will enjoy the hands-on exhibits and the opportunity to imagine life in Roman times. Combine it with a walk to the adjacent Roman theaters for impressive views. Bathrooms and stroller access are available.

Riverside Lunch & Play

Enjoy a casual lunch along the banks of the Rhône.

The Berges du Rhône offers pleasant spots for a relaxed meal. Afterwards, let the kids enjoy the open spaces or playgrounds available along the river, which stretches for 5km and offers safe paths for pedestrians and scooters.

A relaxed Sunday activity. You can grab sandwiches or simple meals from a nearby bakery or a casual eatery. The wide, car-free paths are great for kids to cycle, scooter, or simply run around. Facilities like public restrooms might be sparse, so plan accordingly.

Aquarium Discovery

Conclude your weekend with an immersive visit to the Aquarium de Lyon.

Discover over 3,000 fish from 300 species across 39 ecosystems, marvel at the shark tank, and learn about marine life from rivers to oceans. The aquarium also hosts interactive activities and feeding sessions.

A perfect indoor activity for all ages, especially if the weather is cool or rainy. Kids will be fascinated by the diverse aquatic life and the engaging displays. Allow 2-3 hours for the visit. There's a snack bar available. Free parking is provided for visitors. Minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.