Top 5 spots in Lyon to film with a drone

Overflown by the Rhône and the Saône, dominated by the Fourvière hill and bordered by the foothills of the Monts d'Or, Lyon is one of the most photogenic playgrounds in France for drone piloting. Between UNESCO heritage, contemporary architecture and natural reliefs, the capital of Gaul offers a rare variety of scenery at such a short distance from each other. Here is our selection of the five best spots to take off, accompanied by practical advice for bringing back images worthy of a film.

1. The Parc de la Tête d’Or, the green lung of the city

The largest urban park in France, the Parc de la Tête d’Or unfolds its paths around a large lake, a renowned rose garden and botanical greenhouses. Seen from the sky, the whole creates a mosaic of greens and reflections that is particularly successful at daybreak, when the low light highlights the volumes. This is a dense urban environment: before any flight, find out about authorized areas and any local restrictions, and favor low-volume slots to respect the peace and quiet of walkers.

2. La Confluence, the modern face of Lyon

At the southern tip of the Presqu'île, the Confluence district is a manifesto of contemporary architecture, where the colorful facades of the museum and buildings designed by great architects interact with the water. The aerial shots are striking: the meeting of the Rhône and the Saône creates a natural geometry that the drone beautifully highlights. Vary the altitudes to alternate wide shots on the confluence and vertical descents on the graphic roofs.

3. Fourvière and Old Lyon, the historic heart

Listed as a world heritage site, Old Lyon offers from the air a memorable bird's-eye view of its tiled roofs, the Saint-Jean cathedral and, overlooking, the Fourvière basilica. The hill is the perfect location for cinematic tracking shots, as the drone slowly rises to reveal the sprawling city below. Be careful, however, with the density of the area and the proximity of buildings: keep your distance and adapt your trajectory.

4. The Monts d’Or, nature at the city gates

A few minutes from the center, the Monts d’Or swap the urban for open panoramas, meadows and golden stone villages. These less dense spaces lend themselves well to wider flights, with wide horizons and few obstacles. It’s the ideal terrain for practicing fluid movements and for capturing Lyon in the distance, bathed in the morning mist or the evening light.

5. The banks of the Rhône, the magic of the golden hour

At sunrise or sunset, the banks of the Rhône are ablaze with golden reflections on the water. The low-altitude tracking shots, along the quays and bridges, produce dynamic sequences that are much appreciated. Remember to spot passers-by and cyclists to maintain a clear path, and take advantage of the golden hour for warm, contrasting images.

Some advice before taking off

To take full advantage of these spots, keep a few good practices in mind:

• Systematically check the authorized flight zones and the regulations in force before each session.
• Favor quiet times, early in the morning or at the end of the day, for light and tranquility.
• Watch the weather: strong winds near hills or rivers can complicate steering.
• Respect the privacy and tranquility of people on the ground.
• Prepare your batteries and memory cards so you don't miss any of the golden hour.

In conclusion

From the Tête d'Or to the Monts d'Or, via the Confluence, Fourvière and the banks of the Rhône, Lyon has a diversity of scenery that will delight beginners and experienced pilots alike. Each spot has its atmosphere and its best time: it's up to you to compose your itinerary to bring back unique images of the city seen from the sky.

Not yet equipped? You can rent a drone from Fox Rider in a few clicks, with delivery anywhere in France and breakage and theft insurance included, then explore Lyon from the sky with peace of mind.