Quick Answer
Best Overall: The Rhônexpress tram-train is the fastest and most reliable dedicated transfer, taking 30 minutes to Lyon Part-Dieu, plus a 5-minute metro to Bellecour. Cost: €16.70 one-way.
Cheapest: TCL Public Bus 47 + Metro costs only €2.00 but takes about 1 hour with a transfer.
Most Convenient (Door-to-Door): A taxi has a fixed fare of €55-€65 to Bellecour, taking 30-50 minutes.
Tram-Train: Rhônexpress (The Dedicated Airport Link)
The Rhônexpress is a dedicated tram-train service connecting Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) directly to Lyon's central Part-Dieu station. It's the official recommended transfer for speed and frequency.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details
- Find the Station: Follow signs for “Rhônexpress” from the airport arrivals halls (Terminals 1 & 2). The station is located between the two terminals.
- Buy a Ticket: Purchase at vending machines, the ticket office, or online in advance. Options:
- One-Way: €16.70 (Adult)
- Round-Trip: €32.40 (Valid for 30 days)
- Group & Family Tickets: Discounts available for 4+ people.
- Board the Train: Services run every 15 minutes during the day, every 30 minutes early morning/late night. Journey time is a consistent 30 minutes.
- Arrive at Part-Dieu: Disembark at Lyon Part-Dieu, the city's main business and transport hub.
- Connect to Bellecour: Inside Part-Dieu station, follow signs for Metro Line B (direction « Stade de Gerland »). Take it for just 2 stops (approx. 5 mins) to « Place Bellecour ».
Pros: Very frequent, reliable, unaffected by road traffic, spacious luggage racks, free Wi-Fi on board.
Cons: Not the cheapest option, requires a short metro transfer to reach Bellecour specifically.
Bus & Public Transport (The Budget Option)
For the absolute lowest cost, Lyon's integrated public transport network (TCL) serves the airport. This involves a combination of bus and metro.
Two Main Public Transport Routes:
| Route | Steps | Cost (per person) | Total Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus 47 + Metro | 1. Take Bus 47 from LYS to « Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie ». 2. Transfer to Metro Line A (direction « Perrache »). 3. Ride to « Bellecour » station. |
€2.00 (Single TCL ticket, valid 1 hour with transfers) | ~60-75 minutes | Solo travelers, extreme budget travelers, those not in a rush. |
| Tram T3 (from nearby) | 1. Take a local shuttle (free) from LYS to « Grange Blanche » or « Meyzieu Z.I. ». 2. Board Tram T3 towards Part-Dieu or Debourg. 3. Connect to Metro at « Part-Dieu » or « Gare Part-Dieu Villette ». |
€2.00 (TCL ticket) | ~70-90 minutes | Those exploring eastern Lyon, very flexible travelers. |
Critical Tips:
- Buy tickets from TCL vending machines at the airport bus station or use a contactless bank card directly on board (where available).
- The €2.00 ticket is valid for unlimited travel within 1 hour across bus, tram, and metro, including your necessary transfers.
- Bus 47 frequency is lower than Rhônexpress (every 20-30 mins). Check schedules on the official TCL website.
- Not recommended for those with heavy luggage or late at night due to longer travel time and potential waiting.
Taxi & Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Convenience)
Taxis and private transfers offer a stress-free, direct journey to your hotel or Bellecour Square, but at a premium price.
Official Airport Taxis
Taxi ranks are located outside Terminal 1 (Hall 2) and Terminal 2. The fare to Bellecour is fixed by law:
- Day Rate (7:00 AM - 7:00 PM): €55 - €65
- Night/Weekend/Holiday Rate: €65 - €75
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
For greater reliability, comfort, or for groups, booking a private transfer in advance is advisable. Services like Sunny Shuttle or Uber/Bolt operate at LYS.
- Standard Sedan (1-4 people): €50 - €70 (similar to taxi, but price is locked in).
- Minivan (5-8 people): €70 - €100.
- Key Advantage: Your driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign, helps with luggage, and provides a guaranteed price.
When to Choose This: Late-night/early-morning flights, traveling with young children or a lot of luggage, in a group of 3-4+ where cost per person becomes comparable to train, or if your final destination is not near a metro station.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison Table
Use this table to make a quick decision based on your priorities: budget, speed, or ease.
| Option | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Total Time to Bellecour | Transfers | Best For | Rating (Value) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhônexpress + Metro | €16.70 + €2.00 = €18.70 | ~35-40 mins | 1 (Train to Metro) | Most travelers, speed seekers, reliable schedule | ★★★★★ (Best Overall) |
| TCL Bus 47 + Metro | €2.00 | ~60-75 mins | 1 (Bus to Metro) | Solo/backpackers, extreme budget | ★★★☆☆ (Best Price) |
| Taxi (Official) | €55 - €75 (Fixed) | 30 - 50 mins (Traffic Dependent) | 0 (Direct) | Families/groups (3-4+), late night, heavy luggage | ★★★☆☆ (Most Convenient) |
| Rideshare (Uber/Bolt) | €45 - €70 (Variable) | 30 - 50 mins (Traffic Dependent) | 0 (Direct) | Tech-savvy travelers, price comparison | ★★★☆☆ |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | €50 - €100+ | 30 - 50 mins | 0 (Direct, Meet & Greet) | Groups, first-time visitors, luxury/premium service | ★★★★☆ (Premium) |
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Essential Advice for a Smooth Transfer
- Luggage Strategy: If you have bulky suitcases, the Rhônexpress with its dedicated racks is easier than the public bus. For a truly hands-free arrival, consider luggage delivery services that can send your bags from the airport to your hotel.
- Navigating Part-Dieu Station: This is a large, multi-level station. When transferring from Rhônexpress to the Metro (Line B), allow an extra 5-10 minutes to walk and find the correct platform, especially during peak hours.
- Mobile Tickets & Apps: Download the "TCL" app for real-time public transport schedules and to buy digital tickets. The "Rhônexpress" app allows mobile ticketing and provides live departure times.
- Weekend & Holiday Travel: Public transport (TCL) runs on reduced frequency on Sundays and holidays. Taxi surcharges apply. Always check schedules in advance.
- If Your Flight is Delayed: Don't panic. The Rhônexpress runs until past midnight. If you miss the last one, your only options are taxi/rideshare. Travel insurance that covers missed pre-booked transfers is wise.
- First/Last Resort: If all else fails, the airport has several car rental agencies and a long-term parking facility if you decide to drive.
FAQs: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to City Center
What is the fastest way to get from Lyon Airport to Lyon city center?
The Rhônexpress tram-train is the fastest dedicated airport transfer, taking exactly 30 minutes non-stop from LYS to Lyon Part-Dieu station. From there, it's a quick 5-minute metro ride to Bellecour.
What is the cheapest way to get from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to Lyon?
The public bus line 47 operated by TCL is the cheapest option at €2.00 per ticket. However, it takes about 1 hour and requires a connection at "Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie" station to reach the city center.
How much is a taxi from Lyon Airport to Place Bellecour?
A taxi from LYS to Bellecour Square costs a fixed fare of €55-€65 for the day rate (7am-7pm). The night/weekend/holiday rate is higher, around €65-€75. The journey takes 30-50 minutes depending on traffic.
Can I use the Rhônexpress tram-train late at night or very early in the morning?
No. The Rhônexpress does not operate 24/7. Its first departure from the airport is around 4:25 AM and the last departure is around midnight (00:20 AM). For flights outside these hours, you must rely on taxi, pre-booked shuttle, or night bus (if available).
Is there a direct train from Lyon Airport to Bellecour?
There is no single direct service. The Rhônexpress goes directly to Part-Dieu station. From there, you must take Metro Line B (direction « Stade de Gerland ») for 2 stops to « Place Bellecour ». The connection is very easy and takes about 5 minutes.
Is the Rhônexpress covered by the Lyon City Card or other travel passes?
No, the Rhônexpress requires a separate ticket. It is not included in the Lyon City Card, TCL network passes, or French national rail passes. You must buy a specific Rhônexpress ticket (€16.70 one-way, €32.40 round-trip).
Which is better for a family of 4: Rhônexpress or a taxi?
Cost-wise, they can be similar. 4 Rhônexpress tickets cost €66.80. A taxi has a fixed fare of €55-€65, potentially cheaper and door-to-door. For ease with luggage and young children, a pre-booked private minivan transfer might offer the best balance of comfort and value.
Where do I buy Rhônexpress tickets and can I buy them in advance?
You can buy tickets: 1) At the airport station from vending machines or the ticket office, 2) Online in advance via their official website (often with a small discount), 3) On board from the conductor (cash or card). Buying online is recommended for guaranteed seats during peak times.