Discover the Best Ways to Travel from Paris to Lyon

Lyon, a gem among France's top cities, is renowned for its exquisite museums, culinary excellence, and picturesque old town. Despite being 426 kilometers away, getting to Lyon from Paris is convenient and fast.

The high-speed TGV train whisks passengers from Paris to Lyon in roughly two hours, making a day trip feasible. However, other modes of transport like driving or taking a bus might be preferable depending on your itinerary or budget.

Explore our guide for the best travel options from Paris to Lyon that align with your preferences.

1. From Paris to Lyon by Train

The fastest and most convenient route from Paris to Lyon is by TGV, France's high-speed train, reaching speeds of 270 km/h. Departing from Paris' bustling Gare de Lyon, the TGV takes you directly to Lyon's city center without stops or transfers.

From Gare de Lyon, the TGV reaches Lyon's Part Dieu station in just over two hours, with another service arriving at Perrache station shortly thereafter. Both stations offer quick access to Lyon's historic areas, with Part Dieu being a short ride to Vieux Lyon and Perrache even closer to the Presqu'île district.

With frequent daily services, the TGV operates from early morning until evening, providing flexibility for travelers. Additionally, Gare de Lyon is home to the iconic Le Train Bleu restaurant, a historic dining venue with a lavish Belle Epoque decor.

2. From Paris to Lyon by Car

Driving from Paris to Lyon offers the chance to explore the scenic Burgundy region. The journey takes about five hours, but the best trips include stops at places like Beaune and Mâcon, which are conveniently located along the A6 highway.

Detours worth considering include the riverside town of Auxerre, the medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, and the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. Dijon, the regional capital, is just a 35-minute detour and is known for its UNESCO-listed historic center and cultural sites.

After arriving in Lyon by car, you might want to explore nearby attractions such as Vienne, Pérouges, and the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval estate, all within easy driving distance.

3. From Paris to Lyon by Bus

For those looking to save money, the bus is a cost-effective alternative, typically half the price of a TGV ticket. However, the journey exceeds five hours, departing from the less central Paris Bercy station.

FlixBus operates services from Paris Bercy or Pont de Levallois station to Lyon's Perrache station, with departures roughly every hour from morning until after midnight, arriving in Lyon 5.5 to 6.5 hours later.