Westfield La Part-Dieu

A steel and glass behemoth, Westfield La Part-Dieu dominates Lyon’s skyline. Doesn’t it look like a futuristic spaceship that landed amidst the historic buildings? Westfield La Part-Dieu isn’t just a shopping mall. It’s a testament to Lyon’s ever-evolving spirit. Opened in 1975, it was one of Europe’s largest downtown shopping centers. Imagine, back then, this futuristic structure emerging in a city known for its traditional architecture. Westfield La Part-Dieu has always been more than just shops. It’s directly connected to the Lyon Part-Dieu railway station, the busiest train station in France outside of Paris. It’s a hub, a meeting place, a crossroads for travelers and locals alike. The mall underwent a major transformation between 2017 and 2023. The architect Winy Maas reimagined the space, adding a striking new look, bigger entrances, and a whole new west wing. Where a four-level car park once stood, now thrives “The Dining Experience” with new shops and restaurants. Westfield La Part-Dieu even boasts its own “Cours Oxygène,” an area added in 2010 alongside the Tour Oxygène. This stylish addition brought 11,000 more square meters of retail space, housing around 25 new shops. Today, Westfield La Part-Dieu offers a staggering 305 stores across five levels. One can find everything from high-end fashion to everyday necessities. The mall has a unique feature: a direct underground connection to the metro. It even has a dedicated fourth-floor level, partially occupied by a Carrefour hypermarket and the recently opened cinema extension. With its continuous evolution, Westfield La Part-Dieu reflects Lyon’s dynamic nature. It’s a blend of history, modernity, and commerce, all under one impressive roof. So next time you’re here, take a moment to appreciate not just the shops but the story of Westfield La Part-Dieu, a symbol of Lyon’s vibrant present and exciting future.