Traveling by train from Montpellier to Lyon is fast and convenient. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fastest Option: Direct TGV trains take about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Stations: Trains depart from Montpellier Saint-Roch (city center) or Montpellier Sud de France (outskirts) and arrive at Lyon Part-Dieu.
- Ticket Prices: TGV fares start at $21.60 (2nd class) and $43.20 (1st class) when booked early. Regional TER trains have fixed pricing.
- Train Types:
- TGV INOUI: High-speed, with WiFi, power outlets, and dining options.
- TER Regional: Slower, more stops, but flexible boarding.
- Booking Tips: Book TGV tickets up to 4 months ahead for the best deals. TER tickets don’t require advance booking.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | TGV INOUI | TER Regional |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | High-speed (1h 35m) | Slower (2+ hours) |
| Pricing | Dynamic, starts at $21.60 | Fixed pricing |
| Reservations | Required | Not required |
| Amenities | WiFi, dining, power outlets | Basic seating |
Plan ahead to save money and enjoy a smooth trip between Montpellier and Lyon.
Train Classes and Fares
Standard Class Features
Traveling in standard class (2nd class) on TGV trains offers a comfortable experience. Seats come with power outlets, free WiFi, and access to a café-bar car where you can grab drinks and light meals. Tickets for standard class start at €20 when booked in advance.
First Class Features
First class takes comfort up a notch with wider seats and extra legroom. Fares start at €40 for early bookings. In addition to these perks, there are several discount options available for different traveler groups.
Discount Tickets
If you’re looking to save, there are discounts for youth, seniors, and children, provided you have valid identification. Children can even travel for free as long as they don’t need their own seat.
Pricing for TER regional trains stays consistent no matter when you book. On the other hand, TGV fares fluctuate – booking early often means paying less. Traveling during off-peak hours or mid-week can also help you find better deals.
Train Companies and Services
France offers a variety of train operators to make your journey between Montpellier and Lyon both efficient and comfortable. SNCF Voyageurs oversees these services, providing two main options tailored to different travel preferences [2].
TGV INOUI Services
TGV INOUI delivers high-speed travel, reaching up to 200 mph on France’s dedicated rail lines. These trains are equipped with features that prioritize comfort and convenience:
- Free WiFi: Stay connected throughout your trip.
- Power Outlets: Every seat comes with access to electrical outlets.
- Dining Car: Coach 4 or 14 includes a buffet car offering meals and drinks.
- Family-Friendly Spaces: Nursery areas are available for passengers with babies.
- Pet Policy: You can bring pets onboard for a $7.60 fee.
The train’s interior includes adjustable seats, folding tables, and designated luggage storage areas. For first-class passengers, there’s the added perk of meal service delivered directly to your seat.
TER Regional Services
TER (Transport Express Régional) trains provide a slower, regional alternative with several perks:
- Flexible Boarding: No need for advance reservations or check-ins.
- Stable Pricing: Ticket prices remain the same, no matter when you book.
- Open Seating: Choose any available seat when you board.
While TER trains make more stops and run at lower speeds, they offer greater flexibility with their schedules and consistent pricing.
Up next: dive into route options and station specifics to finalize your travel plans.
Routes and Stations
Direct vs. Transfer Routes
You have two main options for traveling: direct high-speed routes or itineraries with one transfer. TGV trains run non-stop between Montpellier Saint-Roch and Lyon Part Dieu, offering a quick and straightforward trip. If you’re open to a transfer, you can choose routes that require switching trains at an intermediate station.
Base fares for direct TGV routes start at about $21.60 for 2nd class and $43.20 for 1st class, though prices can vary depending on demand and how early you book. Now, let’s take a closer look at the stations you’ll encounter.
Station Guide
Montpellier Saint-Roch is centrally located and packed with useful amenities. Travelers can access left luggage services, a travel information desk, a first-class lounge, a tourist center, car rentals, and taxis. The station is fully accessible with step-free access throughout.
Montpellier also has a secondary station: Montpellier Sud de France. This station is situated on the outskirts of the city and is about a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Odysseum tram stop.
How to Buy Tickets
Where to Book
You can get tickets for the Montpellier–Lyon route through multiple channels: SNCF Connect, station ticket counters, or authorized agencies. The SNCF Connect website and mobile app make it easy to book tickets in various languages [3]. Other options include self-service kiosks at stations or calling 3635 (service available in French).
Current Prices
Ticket prices depend on how far in advance you book:
| Booking Time | 2nd Class | 1st Class |
|---|---|---|
| 4 months ahead | $21.60 | $43.20 |
| 1 month ahead | $32.40 – $54.00 | $64.80 – $86.40 |
| Same day | Up to $124.20 | Up to $162.00 |
Prices for TGV tickets increase as the travel date approaches, while TER fares stay the same. To save money, aim to book up to 4 months in advance when tickets are first released. Currently, tickets are available for travel between July 2025 and December 2025 [3].
Booking through official channels ensures access to all fare types and allows you to compare prices across different departure times easily.
Ways to Save Money
Looking to save on your journey from Montpellier to Lyon? Here are some practical tips to help you cut costs.
Rail Pass Options
Rail passes are great if you’re traveling extensively, but they’re not the best choice for a single trip within France. If you’re planning multiple journeys, consider these discount cards:
| Pass Type | Best For | Savings Potential |
|---|---|---|
| MAX Jeune | Ages 16–27 | Up to 30% off |
| MAX Senior | Ages 60+ | Up to 30% off |
| MAX Actif | Frequent travelers | Up to 45% off |
| Carte Avantage | Occasional travelers | Up to 30% off |
You can combine rail pass benefits with these discount cards to save even more.
Discount Cards and Fare Strategies
If rail passes aren’t your thing, SNCF offers other ways to save. Here are some effective strategies:
- Book Early: Secure your tickets 3–5 months in advance. Check official platforms for current booking windows [3][4].
- Travel Off-Peak: Fares are often cheaper during early mornings, late evenings, or weekdays.
- Watch for Promotions: Seasonal deals during school breaks or national holidays can lead to extra savings.
For frequent travelers, discount cards can provide consistent savings. However, if you’re just making an occasional trip between Montpellier and Lyon, focus on booking early and staying flexible with your travel times [4].
Train Times and Duration
Daily Schedule
Trains connecting Montpellier Saint-Roch and Lyon Part Dieu run at various intervals throughout the day, depending on peak and off-peak times. During busier hours, trains may depart every hour, while off-peak periods typically see departures every two hours. For instance, there’s an afternoon train leaving around 2:50 PM (14:50) with a quick transfer at Lyon Part Dieu, making it convenient for mid-afternoon travelers. Plan your trip around these schedules to match your preferred departure time.
Journey Duration
Direct TGV trains cover the distance in about 1 hour and 35 minutes. If your route includes a transfer, the journey might take over 2 hours. Be sure to consult the latest timetables for accurate schedule information.
Extra Costs and Rules
When planning your trip, don’t overlook these extra costs and important rules.
Seat Booking Fees
On the Montpellier–Lyon route, many services require seat reservations. If you’re traveling with a rail pass or using budget services, you might face extra charges for these reservations. Check the fare details during booking to see if separate reservation fees apply.
Ticket Changes
If you need to modify your TGV INOUI ticket within 6 days of departure, there’s a fee of about $20.50 (around €19) per person [5]. OUIGO tickets, while non-refundable, can still be changed up to 30 minutes before departure for a similar fee of $20.50 (around €19) per passenger [5]. Flexibility for TER Regional tickets depends on the specific region. Exchanges or cancellations can be handled through the SNCF Connect website or app, as long as they meet the fare conditions [5].
Luggage Rules
For most SNCF trains, including TGV INOUI services, there aren’t strict weight limits, as long as you can handle and store your bags yourself. Make sure your luggage fits in the designated storage areas and is clearly labeled with your contact information.
OUIGO trains, however, charge about $5.40 (around €5) for each full-sized suitcase. Transporting commercial goods is not allowed, and oversized items may be turned away. Always label your luggage with your name, phone number, and email address to avoid any issues.
Quick Planning Guide
Book Your Tickets: Head to the SNCF Connect website or app to secure your tickets [3]. For TGV services, booking up to 4 months in advance can help you snag the best prices [1].
Pick Your Station: Montpellier offers two options: Montpellier Saint-Roch, located in the city center, and Montpellier Sud de France, situated on the outskirts. Choose the one that works best for your plans.
Choose Your Train:
- TGV INOUI: High-speed travel with dynamic pricing. Booking early often means lower fares.
- TER Regional: Fixed pricing and flexible boarding make this a steady option throughout the year.
Save Money: TER trains offer consistent pricing all year round, so you don’t have to worry about fluctuating costs.
Prepare for Travel:
- Tickets and ID: Keep your ticket handy – either on your phone or printed – and bring matching identification.
- Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure for TGV trains and 10 minutes for TER services.
- Connections: If your trip involves a transfer, give yourself plenty of time, especially if switching between stations.
Double-check all travel details before setting out to ensure a smooth journey.
