Quick Answer
The fastest and most recommended way for most travelers is the direct Rhônexpress tram, taking 30 minutes for about €16.70 (one-way). The cheapest option is the TCL public bus 47 at only €2, but it takes an hour and requires a change. For door-to-door service, a taxi costs a fixed €55-€75 and takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Rhônexpress Tram: The Fast & Direct Rail Link
The Rhônexpress is a dedicated tram-train service connecting Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport directly to Lyon's city center. It is the primary recommendation for balance of speed, convenience, and cost.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Facts
- Find the Station: Located between Terminal 1 and the TGV station. Follow the green "Rhônexpress" signs.
- Buy a Ticket: Use vending machines at the station, the official app, or book online in advance. Options include single, return, or group tickets.
- Board the Tram: Trams depart every 15 minutes from approximately 4:25 AM to 12:30 AM. The journey is non-stop.
- Arrive at Perrache: The final stop is "Gare de Lyon-Perrache," located directly underneath the main train station.
| Journey Time | Frequency | One-Way Fare (Adult) | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Every 15 mins | €16.70 (€30.20 return) *Online discounts sometimes available |
~4:25 AM - 12:30 AM |
Pros: Extremely reliable, immune to road traffic, spacious luggage areas, free WiFi, direct to Perrache.
Cons: More expensive than standard public transport. Not the absolute cheapest option.
Public Bus & Metro: The Budget-Friendly Choice
For the most economical transfer, use the local TCL network. This requires at least one change but costs a fraction of the Rhônexpress.
Primary Route: Bus 47 + Metro/Tram
Bus Line 47 connects the airport to Lyon's main metro hub, Lyon Part-Dieu.
- Cost: A single TCL ticket is €2 (valid for 1 hour across bus, tram, metro, funicular).
- Bus Journey: Takes about 30-40 minutes to Part-Dieu. Find the stop outside Terminal 1.
- Then to Perrache: From Part-Dieu, take:
- Tram T1 (Direction: Perrache) for a ~15 min direct ride.
- Or Metro Line B (to Charpennes) then switch to Line A (to Perrache).
Total Door-to-Door Time: 60-75 minutes.
Best For: Solo travelers on a tight budget, those with light luggage, and those familiar with public transit. Consider the TCL Day Pass if you'll use more transport later.
Alternative: Bus 27 to Vaulx-en-Velin
A less common option, connecting to Metro Line A. Useful if your final destination is on that line, but adds more travel time to Perrache.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
For groups, those with heavy luggage, or late-night arrivals, a direct road transfer is the most convenient but costly option.
Taxis (Official Airport Taxis)
Taxis are available 24/7 at designated ranks outside Terminal 1 and the TGV station.
- Fare: A fixed price applies to any destination within Lyon's urban area.
- Day Rate (7am-7pm): Approx. €55 - €65.
- Night/Sunday/Holiday Rate: Approx. €65 - €75.
- Journey Time: 25 to 40 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic (the A42/A6 motorway can be congested).
- Key Advice: Always confirm the fixed price with the driver before getting in. The meter should not be running for this fixed fare.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
Services like KiwiTaxi or SunTransfer offer pre-paid, meet-and-greet services. Pros: Driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign, fixed price paid in advance, often similar or slightly higher than taxi rates, ideal for families/groups. Cons: More expensive than public transport.
Renting a Car at Lyon Airport
Renting a car is only recommended if you are continuing a journey outside Lyon. For simply reaching Perrache Station, it is not advisable due to cost, traffic, and expensive/potentially difficult parking at Perrache.
- Rental Desks: All major companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, etc.) are located in the Halles between Terminal 1 and the TGV station.
- Drive to Perrache: Follow signs for "Lyon Centre" via the A42/A6 motorways. Expect tolls.
- Parking at Perrache: The station has a large but often busy underground parking lot (Parking Indigo Perrache). Rates are approximately €25-€35 for 24 hours.
Cost & Time Comparison: Lyon Airport to Perrache
Use this table to quickly compare all your options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Key Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhônexpress Tram | 30 min | €16.70 | Fast, direct, reliable, luggage-friendly. | Most travelers (Best Overall) |
| Public Bus + Metro | 60-75 min | €2 | Requires change(s), subject to traffic, less luggage space. | Budget travelers (Cheapest) |
| Taxi (Fixed Fare) | 25-40 min | €55-€75 | Door-to-door, price varies by time of day, traffic-dependent. | Groups, late arrivals, heavy luggage. |
| Private Transfer | 25-40 min | €60-€85 | Pre-booked, meet & greet, fixed price. | Families, first-time visitors, stress-free arrival. |
| Rental Car | 25-40 min | €30-€70+ (rental + fuel + toll + parking) | High total cost, traffic stress, parking challenges. | Only if touring beyond Lyon immediately. |
Traveler Tips & Insider Advice
Luggage Strategy
If you have very heavy or oversized luggage (e.g., ski equipment, large boxes), the Rhônexpress or a taxi are your best bets. The Rhônexpress has ample space, while buses can be cramped during peak hours.
Navigating Lyon Part-Dieu
If your journey involves changing at Part-Dieu (a massive station), allow extra time. The walk from the bus stops to the metro/tram lines can be 5-10 minutes. Follow signs for "Métro" or "Tramway".
Arriving Late at Night
Your options shrink significantly after the last Rhônexpress (~00:30). Pre-booking a private transfer is the most reliable plan for flights landing after 11:30 PM. Taxis are available but may have queues.
Buying Tickets in Advance
For the Rhônexpress, purchasing online can save you time at the machine and occasionally offers a small discount. For TCL public transport, consider the "Ticket Liberté" pack of 10 journeys for €17 if you'll be using trams/metro in Lyon.
Weekend & Holiday Travel
Public transport may run on reduced schedules on Sundays and French public holidays. Always check the latest timetables on the TCL website or app. Taxi night rates apply on Sundays.
FAQs: Lyon-Saint Exupéry to Perrache Station
What is the fastest way to get from Lyon Airport to Perrache Station?
The Rhônexpress tram is the fastest direct public transport option, taking exactly 30 minutes from LYS Terminal 1 to Lyon Perrache. Driving or a taxi can be faster (approx. 25-30 mins) without traffic, but during rush hour, the dedicated tram line is more reliable.
What is the cheapest way to get from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to the city center?
The cheapest option is the TCL public bus line 47, which costs only €2 (with a valid TCL ticket). However, it takes about 1 hour and does not go directly to Perrache Station; you will need to change at Lyon Part-Dieu. For a direct route to Perrache, the Rhônexpress, while more expensive, offers the best value for speed and convenience.
Is there a direct train from Lyon Airport to Perrache Station?
No, there is no direct mainline train service. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is served by high-speed TGV trains, but these go to other French cities, not into Lyon itself. The dedicated Rhônexpress tram is the direct rail link that connects the airport to Lyon's city center, terminating at Perrache Station.
Where do I catch the Rhônexpress tram at the airport?
The Rhônexpress station is located between Terminal 1 and the TGV train station at LYS. Clear signs (with the green Rhônexpress logo) direct you from both terminals. From Terminal 1, it's a short indoor walk. From Terminal 2 or 3, you can take the free inter-terminal shuttle to the TGV station area.
How much does a taxi cost from Lyon Airport to Perrache?
A fixed-price taxi from LYS to any address within Lyon's city center (which includes Perrache) costs approximately €55 to €65 during the day (7am-7pm). At night, on Sundays, or on holidays, the fixed fare rises to around €65 to €75. Always confirm the fixed price with the driver before departing.
I arrive late at night. What are my transport options?
Options are limited after public transport ends (around 12:30 AM for the last Rhônexpress). Your main options are: 1) Taxi: Available 24/7 outside both terminals. 2) Pre-booked Private Transfer: Reliable for late arrivals. 3) Night Bus: TCL bus line 47 has limited night service; check current schedules. It's highly recommended to book a transfer in advance for late-night arrivals.
Is it easy to travel with large luggage on the Rhônexpress?
Yes, the Rhônexpress trams are designed for airport travelers. They feature: Dedicated luggage racks, wide aisles, and level boarding from the platform. There are no luggage restrictions in terms of size or weight for standard suitcases, making it a very convenient option compared to regular trams or buses.
Should I buy my Rhônexpress ticket in advance?
While you can buy tickets at the airport station, buying online in advance is recommended. It guarantees your spot during peak times (though trains rarely sell out), often gives access to small online discounts, and saves time at the vending machines. E-tickets can be shown on your smartphone.