Train service
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.
Renfe
Renfe is Spain’s national railway operator, offering high-speed, long-distance, and regional train services with extensive domestic coverage.
Ouigo
Ouigo is SNCF’s low-cost train service offering affordable high-speed travel in France, Spain, and Belgium with simplified onboard amenities.
Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, intercity, and regional trains across the country and beyond.
SNCB
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway operator, offering domestic and international train services with flexible ticket options, including youth and senior discounts.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
For traveling by train from Brussels to Lyon, an Interrail Global Pass or an Interrail One Country Pass for France would not be valid for Belgian residents due to the rule that Interrail is not valid within one's own country. However, travelers who are residents of countries other than Belgium or France can use the Interrail Global Pass for international travel between these two countries and the Interrail One Country Pass for France once they are within French borders. Eurail, which is designed for non-EU residents, would also be valid for international travel between Brussels and Lyon.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Lyon by train, you'll likely find yourself at either Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache, the two main railway stations. From Part-Dieu, you can easily access the Lyon Metro, operated by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais), which is a key mode of transportation in the city. The metro consists of four lines: A, B, C, and D, serving central areas and some suburbs.
For additional coverage, the city boasts a comprehensive tram network with seven lines: T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, and T7. Trams are efficient and provide access to many parts of the city, complementing the metro system. Bus services further enhance public transit, offering routes across the city and to areas less served by metro and trams.
For short distances or late-night travel, taxis are readily available. You can hail a taxi on the street, find them at designated stands, or book one via phone or app. Taxis are metered, and the fare can vary depending on distance and time.
Ridesharing services such as Uber are also operational in Lyon. You can use the Uber app to book a ride, providing a convenient and sometimes more cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
To efficiently use public transportation, consider purchasing a TCL ticket or pass, which grants access to all modes of public transit within a specified time period. Single tickets, as well as daily and weekly passes, are available for purchase at ticket machines in metro and tram stations, or via the TCL mobile app.
Onward connections
Lyon is a significant hub in the European rail network, offering convenient connections to various domestic and international destinations. Domestically, Lyon is well connected to Paris via high-speed TGV trains, with frequent services taking around two hours. The TGV also provides access to major cities such as Marseille and Nice, offering picturesque journeys through the French countryside and along the Mediterranean coast.
For those traveling north, connections to Lille are available, which also serves as a gateway to northern France and Belgium. Further west, train services to Nantes and Bordeaux connect travelers to France's Atlantic regions. Within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, regional TER trains link Lyon with cities such as Grenoble, Saint-Étienne, and Chambéry, making it easy to explore the French Alps.
Internationally, Lyon connects to several key cities. TGV and Eurostar services link Lyon to London, via Lille or Paris, providing a seamless journey between the two cities. The Thello service connects Lyon to Milan, extending onwards to other Italian destinations such as Turin and Venice. Moreover, there are direct TGV services to Geneva and Zurich, enabling easy access to Switzerland.
Overall, Lyon's strategic location and excellent rail connections make it a pivotal point for both domestic and international train travel, offering efficient and scenic routes across Europe.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lyon is during the late spring months of May and June, as well as early fall in September. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for wandering around the city and exploring its historical sites. In spring, the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery, providing picturesque scenery, while autumn offers a comfortable climate and beautiful fall foliage. Prices for accommodations and train travel are typically lower compared to the peak summer months, making these periods more budget-friendly. The Fête des Lumières in December is also a notable period to visit. This vibrant festival illuminates the city with spectacular light displays and is a cultural highlight. However, this period can be crowded and more expensive. Summer months can be hot and see an influx of tourists, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions. Winter may have colder weather and shorter days, but it's generally quieter and might offer lower prices except around the festive season. Therefore, late spring and early fall provide an ideal balance of pleasant weather, affordable prices, and cultural activities, making them the best times for a visit by train.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Brussels to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from Brussels to Lyon are dynamic. Departure time affects pricing. Peak travel hours cost more. Off-peak times offer lower fares. Booking timing impacts costs. Early bookings are cheaper. Last-minute tickets are pricier. Seat class selection changes prices. First-class seats are more expensive. The day of travel matters. Weekends are costlier than weekdays. Demand fluctuations influence prices. High demand raises ticket costs. Promotional discounts may reduce prices.
What trains run from Brussels to Lyon?
SNCF operates trains from Brussels to Lyon. Benerail operates trains from Brussels to Lyon. Ouigo operates trains from Brussels to Lyon. Flixbus operates buses from Brussels to Lyon.
How long does the train from Brussels to Lyon take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Brussels to Lyon takes 3.5–4.5 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Brussels to Lyon?
Avoid weekends for fewer crowds. Midweek is usually less busy. Morning trains often cost less. Book in advance for better prices. Holiday periods see higher demand. Off-peak hours offer quieter travel. Early reservations can secure better seats. Consider special event timings. Weather may affect comfort.
What’s the best route or train to take from Brussels to Lyon?
SNCF runs direct train services from Brussels to Lyon. Flixbus operates direct bus services from Brussels to Lyon.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Brussels to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, two rail passes cover the route from Brussels to Lyon. If you are a resident of the EU or another eligible European country, the Interrail Global Pass applies because the journey is between two different countries. If you are not a resident of the EU or an eligible European country, the Eurail Global Pass applies for the same reason.