Théâtre des Célestins, Lyon

Theatre in Lyon

Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon is one of the things to do in Lyon if you're looking for a cultural evening in a setting that feels both historic and intimate. Hidden just off Place des Célestins in the Presqu'île, the theatre draws you in with its ornate façade and warm, glowing windows, especially on performance nights when the square fills with the soft hum of people arriving. Inside, the red-and-gold auditorium, balconies, and chandelier create that classic “velvet seats and gilded curves” atmosphere, but on a scale that feels welcoming rather than overwhelming.

What happens on stage is firmly rooted in the present. The theatre is known for a lively programme of contemporary productions, inventive takes on classics, and work by French and international playwrights and directors. Even if your French is limited, the energy of the acting and the creativity of the staging make an evening here memorable, and occasional surtitled or accessible performances broaden the audience even further. It's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Lyon that lingers in the Presqu'île after dark, when the city's cultural life really comes into its own.

History and Significance of Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
Things to See and Do in Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
How to Get to Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
Practical Tips on Visiting the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
Where to Stay close to the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
Is the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon
Nearby Attractions to the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

History and Significance of Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

The story of Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon stretches back to the late 18th century, when a theatre was first established on the former site of a convent near the Saône. Over time, the building evolved with changing tastes and the growing ambitions of Lyon's cultural scene, but a major turning point came in the 19th century. After earlier structures were damaged or no longer fit for purpose, a new theatre was commissioned, and in 1881 the current building-designed by renowned architect Gaspard André-opened its doors.

André’s design embraced the spirit of grand European playhouses of the era while keeping a relatively intimate footprint. The ornate façade gave Place des Célestins a new architectural focal point, while the horseshoe-shaped auditorium, richly decorated with red velvet and gold details, created ideal acoustics and sightlines for spoken theatre. Over the decades, the theatre has survived wars, changing fashions, and the evolution of performance styles, continually adapting without losing its historic charm.

Today, Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon stands as a symbol of the city's deep attachment to the performing arts. Alongside the larger Opéra de Lyon, it forms part of a cultural ecosystem that champions both tradition and experimentation. Its focus on theatre-rather than opera or ballet-gives it a distinct identity, and its location on a quiet square just steps from some of the busiest streets of the Presqu'île makes it feel like a semi-hidden jewel in the heart of the city.

Things to See and Do in Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

The most rewarding way to experience Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon is to attend a performance. Arrive a little early to take in the approach through Place des Célestins, then step inside and let your eyes adjust to the warm glow of the foyer and staircase. Once you enter the auditorium, the layered balconies, ceiling decorations, and deep red seats set the mood before the lights even go down. Choose seats in the stalls for an immersive view, or opt for the balconies if you enjoy the feeling of looking down on the stage from a cosy perch.

On stage, you can expect a mix of contemporary plays, revisited classics, and inventive productions that often play with staging, lighting, and set design. Even if your French is rusty, you can still appreciate the visual storytelling, body language, and overall atmosphere. For some productions, surtitles or special performances make things more accessible to non-French speakers, so it’s worth checking the programme details in advance if that’s important to you.

If you happen to be in Lyon during European Heritage Days or other special events, keep an eye out for guided-tours of the theatre. These occasional visits may open up backstage areas, rehearsal spaces, and technical zones you wouldn't normally see, offering a glimpse into how productions come to life. Between show nights, you can still stop by the outside: Place des Célestins itself is a calm square with benches and trees, ideal for a short break between shopping streets and riverfront strolls.

How to Get to Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

For most international visitors, the journey starts at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), which has frequent flights from across Europe and beyond; from there, the Rhônexpress tram links to central Lyon, where you can switch to metro or tram lines that bring you to the Presqu'île and the theatre area. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lyon on Booking.com.

If you're arriving by train, Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache are the main stations. From Part-Dieu, you can take the metro or tram to reach Bellecour or Cordeliers and then walk a short distance to Place des Célestins; from Perrache, it's either a short metro ride or a pleasant stroll up through the Presqu'île to the square. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Travelling by car, follow signs to the city centre and look for underground car parks near Place Bellecour or along the Saône; from there, it's just a few minutes on foot to Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Given the central location and one-way streets, many visitors find it easier to park once and explore the area entirely on foot.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

Suggested tips: Book tickets in advance if you’re visiting in peak theatre season, and arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to enjoy the foyer and find your seat without rushing.
Best time to visit: Evening performances offer the full atmosphere, with the square and theatre softly lit; daytime is ideal for a quiet look at the exterior and a peaceful break in Place des Célestins.
Entrance fee: Varies by performance, usually from €10 to €35
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM (and 1 hour before each performance)
Closed on Sunday & Monday (except for show nights)
Official website: [display https://www.theatredescelestins.com]
How long to spend: Plan 2-3 hours for an evening performance including intervals; a quick daytime stop to see the square and façade takes 15-30 minutes.
Accessibility: The theatre provides designated seating and support for visitors with reduced mobility; it’s best to mention any needs when booking tickets to ensure suitable access.
Facilities: Inside you’ll find a ticket office, cloakroom, restrooms, and bar areas for pre-show and interval drinks; cafés and restaurants are plentiful in the surrounding streets.
Photography tip: Take exterior shots from the corners of Place des Célestins to capture the façade framed by trees and surrounding buildings; interior photography may be restricted, so respect staff guidance.
Guided tours: Occasional guided visits, especially during European Heritage Days, open up the backstage and technical areas; check the theatre’s calendar if you’d like a behind-the-scenes look.
Nearby food options: The Presqu’île around Place des Célestins is packed with bistros, wine bars, and restaurants, making it easy to combine a show with dinner or post-performance drinks.

Where to Stay close to the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

If you want to stay as close as possible, Hôtel des Célestins is just steps from Place des Célestins. It’s ideal if you like the idea of strolling out of your hotel, crossing the square, and being at the theatre door in a matter of minutes, with the rest of the Presqu’île at your feet.

For a slightly grander base still within easy walking distance, Hôtel Carlton Lyon - MGallery sits between Place des Jacobins and the Rhône. From here, you can reach Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon in a short stroll, then wander on to Bellecour, Rue de la République, and the riverbanks.

If you'd prefer to be closer to Place Bellecour and enjoy quick access to both banks of the city, Hotel Bayard Bellecour is another good option. A gentle walk brings you to Place des Célestins and the theatre, while still keeping you central for daytime sightseeing and metro connections.

Is the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon Worth Visiting?

Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy theatre or simply appreciate beautiful historic interiors. The combination of an intimate, red-and-gold auditorium, strong programming, and a quiet, elegant square just steps from the city's busiest streets makes it feel like a special find. Even if you only have time to admire the outside and pause on Place des Célestins, it adds a refined, distinctly Lyonnais note to your exploration of the Presqu'île.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (2,006)

Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon at 4 Rue Charles Dullin sits on the Presqu'île and offers a richly decorated 19th‑century performance space with an ornate facade and red‑and‑gold interior; visitors praise its welcoming, well‑preserved building, human‑scaled auditorium with good sightlines and acoustics, varied programming, and warm hospitality when attending or touring.

Ewan Baxter

3 months ago

"Lyon is an architect lovers dream city, every building is very interesting and intricate. This is a theatre with an incredible facade."

Thomas Kappenma

a month ago

"A wonderfully and richly decorated traditional theatre in the heart of Lyons presque ile. A very various selection of pieces are played here. Ireally love the decorations...."

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hahparis

2 years ago

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

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FAQs for Visiting Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

The theatre is just off Place des Célestins in the 2nd arrondissement, a short walk from Place Bellecour and the central streets of the Presqu’île.

Most productions are in French, but the acting, staging, and atmosphere are enjoyable regardless; some shows also offer surtitles or accessible performances.

There’s no strict dress code-smart-casual is common, though some people like to dress up a little for evening performances.

Aim to arrive 20-30 minutes before curtain time to find your seat, check coats if needed, and settle in without stress.

Occasionally, yes-special events like European Heritage Days or specific open days may include guided tours that allow you to explore the interior and backstage areas.

Nearby Attractions to the Célestins, Théâtre de Lyon

Opéra National de Lyon - The city's bold, glass-domed opera house further north on the Presqu'île, adding another layer to Lyon's rich performing arts scene.
Place Bellecour - Lyon's vast central square, a short walk away and a major hub for transport, shopping, and city life.
Place des Jacobins - An elegant, fountain-centred square nearby, perfect for photos and a quick café stop.
Saône River Quays - Scenic riverbanks just a few minutes away on foot, ideal for pre- or post-theatre strolls with views of Vieux Lyon.
Vieux Lyon - The Renaissance old town across the Saône, full of traboules, bouchons, and atmospheric evening streets.

The Théâtre des Célestins appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lyon!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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