This weekend, the hunt is on in Lyon for the best place to watch the July 14th fireworks. Shot from Fourvière hill at around 10:30 pm, the show can still be seen from many spots! So where’s the best place to get a clear view? Here’s a list of the best places to make the most of the show!
1. The classic Quais de Saône and Place Bellecour
They had to be there, because anyone who doesn’t experience that intense moment when they’re glued to a complete stranger on the quayside or in the square, watching the fireworks, is not a Lyonnais. These are the two key spots on July 14th, where at 1:30 pm “bruncheurs” come to lay down their towels by the water’s edge to wait under the full sun until 10:40 pm. These two places are always packed, but they’re still a great place to enjoy the July 14th celebrations between the Saône and Rhône rivers. Note also that the Guillotière bridge is also one of the most (over)popular spots.
The idea: Go to the quays de Saône, Saint-Vincent, and opt for a “side” view.
2. Place Rouville in the 1st district and the Grande Côte garden
Let’s keep the momentum going and head up the slopes from the Quais Saint-Vincent. Take in the view from Place Rouville at the start of the slopes. It’s still not from the front, but it’s still an optimal place to admire the lights. You can also take an early evening break in the better-known Grande Côte garden to enjoy the show.
The idea: Finally, all the little places on the slopes of the Croix-Rousse should be taken into account. You can enjoy breathtaking views from a few streets and other vantage points. Make room for yourself!
3. Rue de la Navarre
La Mulatière, a district that Lyon’s city dwellers only visit on July 14th. Busy but not overcrowded, rue de la Navarre has its regulars. Ignored all year round, it has become a must-see meeting point for fireworks. Strictly opposite the slopes of the Croix-Rousse, this street is undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy the celebrations without being trampled.
4. Go and have a bite to eat!
Between the barges on the Rhône and the buvette Saint-Antoine on the banks of the Saône, you can enhance the show with a meal and a drink. A privileged setting and a place of choice: unobstructed views, comfortable seating and not oppressed, enough to make everyone want to reserve a table! Please note: Maybe some places are closing now! Don’t forget to ask.
The idea: Les Bâteaux-Lyonnais offer a 1-hour walking tour with a glass of champagne on the day to make the most of the fireworks. Expect to pay around €30 per adult.
5. Give priority to your friends’ balconies
Come on, Gab’, invite your mates to your place so they can watch the show! Yes, some of us have the privilege of having this buddy Gab’ who has a great view of Fourvière, but who hesitates about the invitation because of housework the next day. So Gab’ this year you take off your carpet, buy paper plates and cutlery, and use only ecocups.
The idea: Don’t empty your glass bin and let your buddies do it. They’re bound to ask you if you want help with something: just hand them that damn bag, always far too heavy and filled to the brim. They’ll empty all the empty bottles from the party, and throw away your tomato sauce jar in the process!
