So you’ve just landed at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) and you’re wondering how to get into the city without breaking the bank or wasting too much time? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a budget traveler or someone who just wants to get to their hotel as fast as possible, Lyon has some solid transport options to cover you. Let’s break them all down in plain, simple terms.
A Quick Overview of Lyon Airport
Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport is located about 25 km (roughly 20 miles) southeast of Lyon’s city center. It’s well connected to the city thanks to a dedicated express tram, local buses, taxis, and more. No matter your budget or schedule, there’s something that works for you.
Option 1: Rhônexpress
If getting to the city quickly is your top priority, the Rhônexpress is your best friend. This express tram runs on a dedicated track straight from the airport to Lyon Part-Dieu station, one of the city’s two main railway hubs, in under 30 minutes. No traffic jams, no detours. Just smooth, reliable travel.
Key Details:
- Journey time: Under 30 minutes to Part-Dieu
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes during peak hours (6am–9pm), every 30 minutes early morning and late evening
- Operating hours: From 5:00am at the airport, last service at midnight
- Ticket price: €16 online / €17.10 at airport machines (adult, one-way)
- Youth fare (ages 12–25): €10.50
- Children under 12: Often travel free
You can buy tickets through the Rhônexpress app, their website, or the ticket machines at the airport. Buying online in advance almost always saves you a bit of money.
Intermediate Stops Worth Knowing
The Rhônexpress doesn’t just stop at Part-Dieu. It also stops at:
- Meyzieu ZI: connects to Tram T3 (eastern suburbs)
- Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie: connects to Metro Line A, which takes you deep into the city center (stops include Hôtel de Ville, Cordeliers, Bellecour, and Perrache)
So if your destination is the historic city center rather than Part-Dieu, hop off at Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie and jump on Metro Line A.
One thing to note for France travelers:
Strikes (yes, they happen) can occasionally disrupt service. It’s always a good idea to check the Rhônexpress website or news before your trip.
Option 2: TCL Bus Line 47 + Tram T3
If saving money matters more than saving time, Bus Line 47 is hands down the most affordable way to get from the airport to the city center. A single TCL ticket costs just €2.10, compared to €16+ for Rhônexpress. That’s a massive difference, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
How It Works:
- Take Bus 47 from the airport toward Meyzieu ZI terminus (~30–40 minutes)
- At Meyzieu ZI, transfer to Tram T3
- Tram T3 takes you to Part-Dieu Villette and the Metro Line B connection
Total travel time to the city center is roughly 50–60 minutes, longer than Rhônexpress, but perfectly manageable.
Key Details:
- Journey time: 50–60 minutes total
- Operating hours: Daily, 5:45am to 8:45pm
- Ticket price: €2.10 (valid across the TCL network, including the tram)
- On the bus (cash): €2.50
- Where to buy: From the driver, via the TCL app, or using the on-board card terminal
Your single TCL ticket is valid for one hour across the network, which covers the bus and tram portions of your journey. If your journey extends beyond an hour or involves additional connections, you may need a second ticket.
Option 3: Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available directly in front of the terminal buildings. The fare from the airport to the city center typically runs between €45 and €75, depending on traffic and time of day. Night fares tend to be higher.
Keep in mind that a taxi won’t necessarily be faster than Rhônexpress during rush hour, Lyon traffic can be unpredictable. But if you have a lot of luggage, are traveling with young kids, or just want door-to-door service, it’s a convenient choice.
Option 4: Car Rental and Car-Sharing
All major car rental brands are available directly at the airport, so you can have a vehicle ready the moment you land. For something more flexible and eco-friendly, Lyon Airport also offers car-sharing services like Leo&go and Drivalia (100% electric). A carsharing terminal is even available at the exit of the SNCF station.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Option | Time to Center | Cost (Adult, One-Way) | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhônexpress | ~30 min | €16–€17.10 | Every 15–30 min | Speed and convenience |
| Bus 47 + Tram T3 | ~50–60 min | €2.10 | Frequent daytime | Budget travelers |
| Taxi | ~40 min (good traffic) | €45–€75 | On demand | Door-to-door comfort |
Pro Tips Before You Go
- Best value overall: Take Rhônexpress to Part-Dieu or Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie, then connect to TCL metro or tram to reach your final destination.
- Cheapest route: Bus 47 + Tram T3, no contest.
- Traveling light and on a schedule? Rhônexpress wins every time.
- Avoid peak-hour delays: Bus Line 47 can be affected by road traffic, so give yourself extra buffer time during morning and evening rush hours.
People Discussion on Reddit
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! If you’re visiting Lyon for a few days, the Lyon City Card with Airport Transfer is worth looking into. It bundles Rhônexpress return tickets with unlimited TCL transport, free entry to 23 museums, and discounts on tours, opera, and theatre. Compared to buying everything separately, it can save you a significant amount.
Rhônexpress is the fastest option, getting you to Lyon Part-Dieu in under 30 minutes with no traffic delays.
Bus Line 47 combined with Tram T3 costs just €2.10 total and is the most budget-friendly route, though it takes around 50–60 minutes.
Yes. Your Rhônexpress ticket only covers the express tram portion. You’ll need a separate TCL ticket (€2.10) to continue on the metro or tram network.
The last Rhônexpress departs at midnight in both directions, so late arrivals and early departures are generally well covered.
Getting from Lyon Airport to the city center is genuinely straightforward. The Rhônexpress is the star of the show, fast, frequent, WiFi-equipped, and with good luggage space. But if you’re watching your wallet, Bus 47 + Tram T3 does the job for a fraction of the price.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll be in one of France’s most beautiful and food-obsessed cities before you know it. Bon voyage and bon appétit!
