Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) to Vieux Lyon is by taking the Rhônexpress train to Lyon Part-Dieu station (29 minutes), followed by a short 5-minute metro ride on Line D. The total cost is around €16.90 – €18.40 per adult (combined ticket) and the total journey time is approximately 45 to 55 minutes. This option offers the ideal balance of speed, convenience, and reasonable cost, delivering you directly to the heart of the historic district.
By Train: Rhônexpress & Metro – The Recommended Route
This is the most efficient and popular method. The dedicated Rhônexpress shuttle connects the airport terminals to Lyon's central Part-Dieu business district. From there, the city's excellent metro network provides a seamless connection to Vieux Lyon.
Step-by-Step Guide: Airport Terminal to Vieux Lyon Metro
- Find the Station: Follow clear signs for “Rhônexpress” from either Terminal 1 or 2. The station is located within the airport complex.
- Buy Your Ticket: Purchase at the station kiosks, online in advance, or via the official app. Key Tip: Buy the combined “Rhônexpress + TCL” ticket (€18.40 as of 2024) for unlimited travel on the Rhônexpress and all Lyon public transport (metro, bus, tram) for 90 minutes. A standard one-way Rhônexpress-only ticket is €16.90.
- Board the Train: Trains run from 04:25 to 00:00, every 15 minutes during the day. The ride is smooth and takes exactly 29 minutes to Part-Dieu.
- Navigate Part-Dieu Station: Disembark and follow signs for the Metro (Métro). You need Line D (Direction: Gare de Vaise). The walk takes 3-5 minutes.
- Take Metro Line D: It’s just two stops from Part-Dieu to Vieux Lyon station (about 5 minutes).
- Arrive: Exit the metro, and you are directly beneath the hill of Fourvière and at the entrance to the traboules (hidden passageways) of the Old Town.
Alternative Train Options (Not Typically Recommended)
While the TGV high-speed trains also stop at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport station, these are for long-distance travel to other French cities (Paris, Marseille) and do not go to central Lyon. Do not board a TGV expecting to get to the city center.
| Route | Vehicle | To Which Station? | Best For... | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended Route | Rhônexpress + Metro D | Vieux Lyon (Metro Station) | Most travelers, best balance | 45-55 min | €18.40 |
| Budget Public Transport | Bus 47 + Tram T3 + Metro D | Vieux Lyon (Metro Station) | Extreme budget, no luggage | 70-90 min | €2.00 |
| Direct Door-to-Door | Taxi / Private Car | Your hotel in Vieux Lyon | Late arrivals, groups, heavy luggage | 30-50 min | €50-€70+ |
By Air: Is Flying an Option?
For the journey from the airport to the city center, flying is not a relevant option. Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) is your arrival airport.
Important Perspective: When planning your trip to Lyon from another European city, consider the total "door-to-door" time. For example, a flight from London to Lyon takes ~1.5 hours, but you must add:
- Travel to departure airport (1-2 hours)
- Check-in & security (1-2 hours)
- Flight time (1.5 hours)
- Immigration/baggage claim (30 min)
- Travel from LYS to Vieux Lyon (45-55 min)
By Bus & Public Transport – The Budget Choice
This is the cheapest method, but it requires patience, multiple changes, and is not suitable for those with more than hand luggage.
Option A: Regional Bus + Tram + Metro (Most Complex)
Operated by TCL, Lyon's public network.
- Take Bus 47 from the airport (outside Terminal 1) towards "Laurent Bonnevay."
- Alight at "Laurent Bonnevay" station (approx. 25-30 mins).
- Transfer to Tram T3 towards "Part-Dieu - Villette."
- Alight at "Part-Dieu - Vivier Merle" and walk to Part-Dieu metro station.
- Take Metro Line D (Direction: Gare de Vaise) to Vieux Lyon.
Option B: Private Airport Shuttle Bus (Simpler)
Companies like Lyons Shuttle offer shared or private minibus transfers. You book online, are met at arrivals, and driven to your hotel.
- Pros: Door-to-door, no changes, good for small groups.
- Cons: More expensive than the train (€25-€35 per person shared), journey time depends on other drop-offs.
- Best For: Travelers who find the train confusing or have an awkward hotel location.
By Taxi & Private Transfer – Maximum Convenience
This is the most straightforward but also the most expensive option.
Taxis
Official taxi ranks are located outside Terminals 1 and 2. Important: The fare from the airport to Lyon city center (which includes Vieux Lyon) is a fixed rate.
- Day Rate (06:00 – 19:00): Approximately €50 – €55.
- Night Rate (19:00 – 06:00): Approximately €60 – €70.
- Journey Time: 30 to 50 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic, especially during rush hour.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
Services like those booked via Kiwitaxi or Suntransfers offer a pre-paid, fixed price. A driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign.
- Pros: No price surprises, often more comfortable vehicles, ideal for families or groups of 4+ where cost can be split.
- Cons: Typically more expensive than a regular taxi (€70-€100+).
- When to Choose This: Late-night/very early morning arrivals, large groups (4+), travelers with mobility issues or excessive luggage, or for a stress-free start to a special trip.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: Best & Cheapest Options
Below is a definitive comparison to help you decide at a glance. All prices are for a single adult, one-way journey (2024 estimates).
| Transport Method | Total Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Number of Changes | Best For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhônexpress + Metro | 45 – 55 min | €18.40 (combined ticket) | 1 (Train to Metro) | Most travelers, first-time visitors, standard luggage. | BEST OVERALL – Optimal speed/cost balance. |
| Public Bus (TCL) + Tram + Metro | 70 – 90 min | €2.00 – €4.00 | 2-3 | Solo backpackers on an extreme budget, no checked luggage. | CHEAPEST – But slow and complex. |
| Shared/Private Shuttle Bus | 45 – 75 min* | €25 – €60 | 0 (door-to-door) | Small groups, those wary of public transport. | CONVENIENT MID-RANGE – *Time depends on other stops. |
| Taxi (Official) | 30 – 50 min* | €50 – €70 | 0 (door-to-door) | Groups of 3-4, late arrivals, lots of luggage. | MOST CONVENIENT – *Heavily traffic-dependent. |
| Pre-booked Private Car | 30 – 50 min* | €70 – €120+ | 0 (door-to-door) | Families, luxury travel, corporate trips. | PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR – Fixed price, max comfort. |
Money-Saving Tip: If staying in Lyon for several days, the Lyon City Card includes a one-way Rhônexpress ticket and unlimited public transport, which can offer significant savings.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond the schedules and fares, here’s what you really need to know for a smooth journey.
Navigating Part-Dieu Station (The Key Hub)
Part-Dieu is one of France's largest train stations and can feel overwhelming. Don't panic.
- The Connection: When you get off the Rhônexpress, you will be on the lower level. Look for blue signs with a white "M" for Métro. You'll walk through a commercial gallery (La Rue Intérieure) to reach the metro concourse.
- Buying Metro Tickets: If you didn't buy the combined ticket, use the yellow TCL ticket machines in the metro area. Select English language. A single ticket is €2. Validate it at the metro gate.
- Peak Hours: Between 7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM, the station and metro are packed with commuters. Allow extra time and be prepared for crowds.
Luggage Strategy
- Light is Right: The Rhônexpress+Metro route is manageable with a rolling suitcase and a backpack per person. More than that becomes a hassle on escalators and in crowded metro cars.
- Heavy Luggage Solution: If you have multiple large bags, seriously consider a taxi or private transfer. The cost may be worth the saved stress.
- Luggage Storage: If you arrive before your hotel check-in, you can store bags at the airport or at Part-Dieu station for a few hours for a fee.
Practical Planning Tips for Your Trip
- Book in Advance Online: You can buy Rhônexpress tickets online for a small discount and to skip the ticket line. The combined "Rhônexpress + TCL" ticket is also available online.
- Validate Your TCL Ticket: If using a paper TCL ticket (metro/bus/tram), you MUST validate it in the orange machines at metro entrances or on board buses/trams. An unvalidated ticket is considered invalid and subject to a fine.
- Weekend & Holiday Service: Public transport (TCL) runs on a reduced frequency on Sundays and public holidays. The Rhônexpress schedule remains largely consistent.
- First/Last Trains: Always double-check the last departure time for your arrival day, especially for late flights. Missing the last Rhônexpress (around midnight) leaves you with only taxis or complex night bus routes.
- Accessibility: The Rhônexpress and newer metro trains (Line D) are accessible. Stations have elevators. If you require assistance, contact the transport providers in advance.
FAQs: Lyon Airport to Old Town Transport
What is the fastest way to get from Lyon Airport to Vieux Lyon?
The absolute fastest way is to take the Rhônexpress train to Lyon Part-Dieu station (29 mins), then transfer to Metro Line D towards Gare de Vaise. Alight at the Vieux Lyon station. The total journey can be as quick as 45-50 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Lyon Airport to Vieux Lyon?
No, there is no single direct train. The dedicated Rhônexpress train takes you to Lyon Part-Dieu, which is the main railway hub. From there, you must take a 5-minute metro ride on Line D to reach Vieux Lyon station. The connection is very straightforward and well-signposted.
How much is a taxi from Lyon-Saint Exupéry to Vieux Lyon?
A licensed taxi fare to Vieux Lyon is a fixed rate of approximately €50-€70, depending on traffic and time of day (higher at night). The journey takes 30-50 minutes. We recommend using the official taxi ranks; avoid unlicensed drivers soliciting inside the terminal.
What is the cheapest way to travel from LYS airport to the Old Town?
The cheapest option is the public bus (TCL line 47) to Lyon's eastern suburbs, then transferring to the tram and metro. The total single fare is just €2. However, this takes 70-90 minutes with multiple changes and is not recommended with luggage. For the best value combining speed and cost, the Rhônexpress + Metro combo is superior.
Can I use my JR Pass for travel from Lyon Airport?
No, the JR Pass is only valid for Japan Rail trains in Japan. In Lyon, France, you need to purchase separate tickets for the Rhônexpress train and the TCL metro/bus network. Consider a Lyon City Card if you plan to use public transport extensively during your stay.
I arrive late at night. How do I get to Vieux Lyon?
The last Rhônexpress train departs around midnight. If you arrive later, your only public option is a night bus (Noctambus), but it involves complex changes. For late-night arrivals, especially with luggage, pre-booking a private transfer or taking a licensed taxi from the rank is strongly advised for safety and convenience.
Is it easy to travel with large luggage on the Rhônexpress and metro?
Yes, the Rhônexpress train has dedicated luggage racks. Lyon's newer metro trains (like on Line D) also have multi-purpose areas. However, stations like Part-Dieu involve escalators and corridors. If you have very heavy or multiple bags, consider the taxi option or a luggage delivery service from the airport to your hotel.
Should I fly or take the train from another European city to Lyon?
For distances under 500km (e.g., from Paris, Geneva, Milan), the high-speed train (TGV) to Lyon Part-Dieu station is often faster and more sustainable when you factor in airport transit and security. Compare total "door-to-door" time and cost. For longer distances, flying into Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) is likely more efficient.