Théâtre des Célestins - white and brown concrete building during daytime
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Théâtre des Célestins

4.6
·2k reviews·Lyon, France

A stunning 19th-century neo-Baroque theater in Lyon, known for its ornate red-and-gold interior and intimate atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings during performance season

Experience the magic of live theater

CrowdMedium
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Théâtre des Célestins - white and brown concrete building during daytime

Théâtre des Célestins

Best Time

Evenings during performance season

Experience the magic of live theater

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning 19th-century neo-Baroque theater in Lyon, known for its ornate red-and-gold interior and intimate atmosphere.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The place is beautiful and the staff welcoming; I will return to Les Célestins when in Lyon."

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TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance on the official website. Avoid disappointment!

🚶 Arrive Early for Ambiance

Soak in the historic square and admire the ornate facade before the show begins. A truly magical start!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Neo-Baroque Interior

Ornate Neo-Baroque Interior

Main Auditorium

Step into a world of red and gold! The lavishly decorated interior offers a stunning visual feast, making every seat a good one.

Historic Facade and Square

Historic Facade and Square

Exterior

Admire the grand facade of this 19th-century gem, a beautiful landmark in its welcoming square.

Intimate Performance Space

Intimate Performance Space

Auditorium

Experience performances in a human-sized venue where excellent views and acoustics are guaranteed from every seat.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Théâtre des Célestins is a beloved venue. For popular performances, especially during festivals or special events, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats and avoid disappointment. Check their official website for schedules and ticketing information.

Arrive Early for Ambiance

The theater's ornate facade and historic square setting are part of the experience. Arriving a bit early allows you to soak in the atmosphere, admire the architecture, and find your seats without rushing. It's a great opportunity to appreciate the building's rich history.

Best Times

When
Evenings during performance season
Why
Experience the magic of live theater
Crowd
Medium
When
During Fête des Lumières
Why
Unique light installations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Théâtre des Célestins, Lyon - Fête des lumières

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance on the official website. Avoid disappointment!

🚶 Arrive Early for Ambiance

Soak in the historic square and admire the ornate facade before the show begins. A truly magical start!

🎶 Check for Special Events

The theater hosts various events, including rehearsals and festivals like Fête des Lumières. Keep an eye out!

💺 Great Views from All Seats

Enjoy excellent sightlines and acoustics regardless of where you're seated in this intimate venue.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance on the official website. Avoid disappointment!

🚶 Arrive Early for Ambiance

Soak in the historic square and admire the ornate facade before the show begins. A truly magical start!

🎶 Check for Special Events

The theater hosts various events, including rehearsals and festivals like Fête des Lumières. Keep an eye out!

💺 Great Views from All Seats

Enjoy excellent sightlines and acoustics regardless of where you're seated in this intimate venue.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Théâtre des Célestins for its stunning beauty and intimate atmosphere, noting that every seat offers a good view. The staff are frequently described as welcoming, contributing to a positive overall experience. While some may not connect with every performance, the venue itself is a significant draw, with many eager to return.

"Fabulous theater! My first Biennale starts from here for a public rehearsal. The historical building is well preserved and very welcoming in front of a square. The size is human for a good view from any seat."

hahparis

"I've been twice now; the first play I saw was just not my thing but it was still a great experience for the place is beautiful and the staff welcoming. I absolutely loved the second play I watched: Melancolikea. I will return to Les Célestins when in Lyon."

Raphaëlle C

"Our university took us to visit and learn the history of this Theatre and I must say, we were welcomed very well. The place is beautiful and Im eager to book a ticket for a show."

Navya Samaddar

What People Like

Beautiful historic building
Intimate venue size
Welcoming staff

What People Dislike

Performance not to taste

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Théâtre des Célestins is centrally located in Lyon. You can easily reach it by public transport, including metro lines A and C to the 'Hôtel de Ville - Louis Pradel' station, which is a short walk away. Several bus lines also serve the area. Parking can be challenging in the city center, so public transport is often the most convenient option.

While there are parking garages in the vicinity, such as the Hôtel de Ville garage, they can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during showtimes. It's advisable to check parking availability and rates in advance or opt for public transportation.

Yes, the Théâtre des Célestins is within walking distance of many central Lyon landmarks, including Place des Terreaux and the Presqu'île district. It's a pleasant stroll through the city's historic streets.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the Théâtre des Célestins official website, at the theater's box office during opening hours, or through authorized ticket vendors. Booking online in advance is recommended for popular performances.

The box office hours typically vary, but it's usually open in the afternoons on weekdays and sometimes on Saturdays. It's best to check the theater's official website for the most up-to-date information on box office opening times.

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the performance. It's worth inquiring at the box office or checking the theater's website for any special offers or concession rates.

For popular shows, it's unlikely to find tickets on the day of the performance. However, for less in-demand shows, there might be last-minute availability. It's always best to book in advance to guarantee entry.

Latecomers are generally not admitted until a suitable break in the performance to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. It's crucial to arrive on time or a few minutes early.

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

There isn't a strict dress code, but many patrons dress smart-casual for performances. Dressing a bit more formally can enhance the experience of attending a show in such a beautiful, historic venue.

The theater hosts a diverse range of performances, including plays, musicals, dance, and sometimes concerts. They are known for showcasing both classic and contemporary works.

The theater strives to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, such as seating arrangements or assistance, to ensure a comfortable visit.

Photography and videography are generally not permitted inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. However, you might be able to take photos of the interior before the show or during intermissions, but it's best to check with staff.

The theater is named after a former Celestine convent on the site. The current building, designed by Gaspard André, opened in 1877 and is a fine example of neo-Baroque architecture, preserving its historical charm.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The theater itself typically does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there are usually bars available for pre-show drinks or intermissions. The surrounding area, particularly Place des Terreaux and the Presqu'île, offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes to choose from.

Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the auditorium. There are usually bars where you can purchase refreshments to consume before the show or during the interval.

The area around the theater is brimming with dining options. You can find traditional Lyonnaise bouchons, French bistros, and international cuisine. Exploring Place des Terreaux or the nearby streets will offer plenty of choices for every palate and budget.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Théâtre des Célestins is a historic venue, it can be a wonderful experience for families, especially if the performance is suitable for children. The intimate size means kids can often see and hear well from their seats. It's a great opportunity to introduce younger ones to the magic of live theater in a beautiful setting.

When planning a family visit, check the theater's program for age recommendations. Some productions might be specifically geared towards younger audiences. Arriving a little early allows children to take in the grandeur of the building without feeling rushed. Consider booking seats closer to the aisles for easier access.

🏛️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Théâtre des Célestins is a must-visit. Its neo-Baroque design and 19th-century origins offer a rich historical context. The building's transformation from a former convent site to a grand theater is a story in itself.

Take time to admire the ornate facade and the lavishly decorated interior, particularly the red-and-gold auditorium. Even if you don't attend a performance, a guided tour or simply appreciating the exterior can be a rewarding experience. The theater's preservation efforts ensure that its historical charm is maintained for future generations.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Architecture

The Théâtre des Célestins stands on a site with a rich past, originally occupied by a Celestine convent until its suppression in 1779. The current magnificent building, a testament to 19th-century architectural grandeur, was designed by Gaspard André and opened its doors in 1877. It's a prime example of neo-Baroque style, characterized by its ornate facade and opulent interior.

The theater's interior is a visual spectacle, adorned with red and gold detailing, creating an atmosphere of elegance and theatricality. Visitors often remark on the beauty of the main auditorium, noting that its human-sized scale ensures excellent views and acoustics from virtually any seat. This intimate setting contributes significantly to the overall immersive experience of attending a performance.

During special events like the Fête des Lumières, the theater's exterior becomes a canvas for stunning light installations, transforming the historic facade into a breathtaking spectacle. This blend of historical preservation and contemporary artistic expression makes the Théâtre des Célestins a truly unique cultural landmark in Lyon.

Experiencing a Performance

Attending a show at the Théâtre des Célestins offers a memorable cultural experience. The venue is celebrated for its excellent acoustics and sightlines, ensuring that audiences can fully appreciate the performances, whether it's a dramatic play, a captivating dance, or a musical performance. The intimate size of the auditorium fosters a strong connection between the performers and the audience.

Visitors frequently praise the welcoming staff and the overall pleasant atmosphere of the theater. Many express a desire to return after their first visit, highlighting the quality of the productions and the charm of the venue itself. The experience is often described as both beautiful and engaging, making it a highlight for those visiting Lyon.

While the theater is a historical gem, it also embraces contemporary arts. It's advisable to check the current season's program for a diverse range of plays and performances. Booking tickets in advance is a wise strategy, especially for popular shows, to ensure you don't miss out on experiencing this exquisite Lyonnaise institution.

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