Place des Jacobins
A grand 19th-century square in Lyon's heart, famed for its stunning fountain and elegant architecture. A vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Place des Jacobins
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 19th-century square in Lyon's heart, famed for its stunning fountain and elegant architecture. A vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.
"The heart of Lyon's Presqu'île, a beautiful square with a magnificent fountain, perfect for photos and soaking in the city's charm."
📸 Capture the Fountain
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the fountain and surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is a great starting point. Wander through nearby streets to discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Fountain
Center of the square
A stunning centerpiece, perfect for photos and people-watching. Admire its intricate details and the lively atmosphere it creates.

Architectural Marvels
Surrounding buildings
Gaze at the elegant 19th-century architecture framing the square. Each building tells a story of Lyon's rich history and grandeur.

Vibrant Market Days
Around the square
Experience local life at its finest during market days. Browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and soak in the authentic Lyonnaise ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Travel to Lyon
Navigating Lyon's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Staying in Lyon for 2 weeks but I have little to no plans
📸 Capture the Fountain
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the fountain and surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is a great starting point. Wander through nearby streets to discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:
Traveling to Lyon for the first time in May - need suggestions
r/travel City Destination of the Week: Lyon
☕ Enjoy a Café Break
Relax at one of the many cafes surrounding the square and people-watch. :coffee:
📅 Check Market Schedules
Experience the vibrant local market atmosphere on designated days. :shopping_bags:
Help a young couple from Copenhagen
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Fountain
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the fountain and surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is a great starting point. Wander through nearby streets to discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Enjoy a Café Break
Relax at one of the many cafes surrounding the square and people-watch. :coffee:
📅 Check Market Schedules
Experience the vibrant local market atmosphere on designated days. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Place des Jacobins for its central location and beautiful fountain, making it a picturesque spot for photos and people-watching. While it's a lovely public space, some find it can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours or market days. It's considered a quintessential Lyon experience for its charm and accessibility.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place des Jacobins is centrally located in Lyon's Presqu'île district. You can easily reach it via the Lyon Metro (Line A or Line C to Cordeliers station) or various bus lines. Trams also serve nearby stops. It's a pleasant walk from many central Lyon hotels.
Absolutely! Place des Jacobins is very well-served by public transport. The Cordeliers metro station is just a short walk away, and numerous bus routes stop in the vicinity, making it convenient to reach from anywhere in Lyon.
Yes, if you're exploring the Presqu'île, Place des Jacobins is within easy walking distance of attractions like Place Bellecour and the Hôtel de Ville. It's a great spot to incorporate into a walking tour of the city center.
From Lyon Part-Dieu station, the quickest way is to take Metro Line B towards Charpennes and change at Saxe-Broussay to Line A towards Perrache, alighting at Cordeliers. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes.
While driving is possible, parking in central Lyon can be challenging and expensive. There are several underground parking garages near Place des Jacobins, such as the Cordeliers parking. However, using public transport is generally recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place des Jacobins is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no tickets or admission fees required.
As an open public space, Place des Jacobins is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and cafes will have their own operating hours.
The fountain is part of the public square and does not have a separate entrance fee. You can admire it freely as part of your visit to Place des Jacobins.
Place des Jacobins sometimes hosts events, markets, or temporary installations. It's best to check local Lyon event listings closer to your visit for any special happenings.
Yes, the square is open at night and is often beautifully lit, offering a different ambiance. Be mindful of your surroundings as you would in any urban area after dark.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) to capture the fountain and surrounding architecture. Evenings offer a lovely illuminated view.
The central fountain is a must-capture. Also, try framing shots that include the elegant 19th-century buildings surrounding the square for a sense of scale and grandeur.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, professional photography or filming may require permits, especially if it obstructs public access.
Drone usage in urban areas like Lyon is heavily regulated. It's highly unlikely you'll be able to fly a drone over Place des Jacobins due to airspace restrictions and privacy concerns.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the square and its architecture. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps!
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Place des Jacobins is surrounded by numerous cafes, brasseries, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. You can find everything from quick bites to more formal dining experiences.
You'll find classic French brasserie fare, Lyonnaise specialties like quenelles and salade Lyonnaise, as well as international options. Many cafes offer pastries and coffee.
Look for smaller cafes or bakeries for more affordable options like sandwiches or quiches. Some brasseries might offer lunch menus at reasonable prices.
Absolutely! Many restaurants in the vicinity pride themselves on serving authentic Lyonnaise dishes. Ask locals or check reviews for recommendations on the best bouchons or traditional eateries.
The square is lined with cafes perfect for a coffee break. Enjoy a café crème or an espresso while soaking in the atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendation: Combine a visit to Place des Jacobins with a stroll through the nearby Parc de la Tête d'Or, which offers a zoo, botanical gardens, and playgrounds, making for a perfect family day out in Lyon. The square serves as a convenient starting or ending point for such excursions.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Tip: Use the square as a base for exploring. You can easily hop on a metro or bus from here to visit other parts of the city, or simply wander through the surrounding streets, which are full of shops and interesting architecture.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times for photos: Aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, casting beautiful shadows and highlights. Evenings are also magical, with the square and fountain illuminated, creating a romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Lyon's Presqu'île
Historically, the square was once the site of a Dominican convent (hence 'Jacobins'). Over centuries, it transformed into the bustling public space we see today. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Lyon's many attractions, from the historic Old Town (Vieux Lyon) across the Saône to the modern shopping districts along the rivers. The energy of the square is palpable, especially during market days or when events are held there.
Key takeaway: Place des Jacobins is a prime example of Lyon's urban planning and historical evolution. Its accessibility and central position make it a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the essence of the city. Whether you're there for a quick photo, a coffee break, or to soak in the atmosphere, it offers a quintessential Lyon experience.
Architectural Grandeur and the Fountain
At the heart of the square stands its magnificent fountain, a masterpiece of sculpture and engineering. This iconic landmark is a focal point for visitors, offering a refreshing visual and auditory experience. It's a popular spot for photos, especially during the warmer months when the water adds a dynamic element to the scene. The fountain's design is often praised for its artistic merit and how it complements the surrounding architecture, creating a harmonious urban ensemble.
Pro tip: Take time to walk around the fountain and observe its details from different angles. The play of light and shadow on the water and stone can be particularly captivating in the morning or late afternoon, offering unique photographic opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit