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.
Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, intercity, and regional trains across the country and beyond.
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
The Interrail Global Pass and Interrail One Country Pass are not valid for trips within France if the traveler is a resident of France. The Eurail Pass can be used for traveling from Montpellier to Lyon for travelers who are not residents of the European Union.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Lyon by train, you'll likely find yourself at either Part-Dieu or Perrache station, both of which are well connected to the city's local transportation network. Lyon has an efficient and extensive public transport system operated by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais), making it easy to get around the city.
For tram services, Lyon has multiple tram lines, T1 to T7, that cover various parts of the city. Trams are frequent and provide a scenic way to travel to destinations such as the Confluence district or Villeurbanne.
The metro system in Lyon comprises four lines: A, B, C, and D. Line A runs from Perrache to Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie, while Line B connects Charpennes to Oullins. Line C links Cuire to Hôtel de Ville Louis Pradel, and Line D goes from Gare de Vaise to Gare de Vénissieux. All lines are interconnected and reach key city spots.
Buses extend the reach of the metro and tram services, facilitating travel to areas not covered by rail. Night buses are available for late-night travels, offering a safe journey home after midnight.
Taxis are readily available outside train stations and throughout the city. Alternatively, ridesharing services such as Uber operate in Lyon, providing a convenient option for personalized travel, especially when public transport is less accessible.
For tickets, you can purchase single-journey tickets or day passes from TCL ticket machines located at tram stops and metro stations. If you plan to explore the city extensively, consider buying a Lyon City Card, which offers unlimited access to public transportation along with discounts on attractions.
Overall, Lyon's combination of trams, metro, buses, taxis, and ridesharing ensures you can explore the city efficiently and comfortably.
Onward connections
Lyon, a major hub in France's rail network, is well-connected domestically and internationally by train. Domestically, one of the most popular rail connections from Lyon is to Paris. The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) offers frequent high-speed services between Lyon Part-Dieu station and Paris Gare de Lyon, covering the distance in approximately two hours. Another significant domestic route is to Marseille, with direct TGV trains taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes, connecting travelers to the Mediterranean coast efficiently.
For connections to the west, Lyon is linked by high-speed trains to cities like Bordeaux and Nantes, although these routes typically require a transfer in Paris or Massy, involving a combination of TGV and Intercités services. Saying this, there are occasional direct TGV services to these cities.
Internationally, Lyon serves as a gateway to several major European destinations. The TGV Lyria operates direct trains between Lyon and Geneva, making cross-border travel to Switzerland seamless in under two hours. Furthermore, the TGV service extends to Italy, linking Lyon to Milan. These services typically take between five to six hours and offer a scenic journey through the Alps.
For travel to Germany, while there are no direct trains from Lyon, connections are typically made via Paris or Strasbourg. Finally, the AVE high-speed service connects Lyon with Barcelona in approximately five hours, showcasing a convenient option for those heading to Spain. Overall, Lyon's strategic location and efficient rail services make it an ideal starting point for both domestic and international rail travel.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lyon is generally from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's beautiful architecture and outdoor activities. Highs in the summer months range from the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius (mid-70s to upper 80s Fahrenheit), making it perfect for strolling through famous areas like Vieux Lyon or enjoying a meal in a bouchon. While summer is the high season with potential increases in accommodation prices, the atmosphere is vibrant with cultural events like the Nuits de Fourvière, featuring theater, music, and dance performances.
Spring (May and June) and early autumn (September) are particularly great, as you avoid the peak tourist crowds and can enjoy moderate weather. These months are often marked by fewer tourists, which might translate into slightly lower accommodation prices compared to peak summer holidays. Culturally, Lyon's Fête des Lumières in early December stands out as a must-experience festival, transforming the city with dazzling light displays, though this period can be busy and prices might spike. If arriving by train, these periods are ideal due to comfortable traveling conditions and ample opportunities to make the most of Lyon's seasonal offerings.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Montpellier to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from Montpellier to Lyon are dynamic. Travel dates influence costs. Booking time affects pricing. Ticket type plays a role. Demand levels impact fares. Weekend journeys may cost more. High-speed options can increase prices. Offers and discounts can reduce prices. Peak travel times elevate costs. Passenger flexibility influences rates.
What trains run from Montpellier to Lyon?
SNCF operates trains from Montpellier to Lyon. Ouigo offers train services from Montpellier to Lyon. Flixbus operates buses on the route from Montpellier to Lyon. Deutsche Bahn does not operate on this route. Renfe does not operate on this route. Trenitalia does not operate on this route.
How long does the train from Montpellier to Lyon take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Montpellier to Lyon takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Montpellier to Lyon?
Avoid peak times for less crowding. Early mornings are usually less busy. Midweek days often have lower demand. Tickets are typically cheaper during off-peak hours. Avoid weekends if seeking quieter travel. Afternoon trains might be more crowded. Book in advance for better pricing. Avoid holiday periods to minimize crowds.
What’s the best route or train to take from Montpellier to Lyon?
SNCF runs direct train services from Montpellier to Lyon. Ouigo also operates direct train services on this route. Flixbus operates direct bus services from Montpellier to Lyon.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Montpellier to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, the One Country Pass applies for travel from Montpellier to Lyon. This is because both cities are in France.