Train service
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV 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.
SJ
SJ is Sweden’s state-owned train operator, running high-speed, regional, and long-distance services across the country and into neighboring nations.
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 is valid for travel from Stockholm to Lyon, as it allows travel across multiple countries in Europe, including both Sweden and France. However, if the traveler is a resident of Sweden, the Interrail Global Pass cannot be used for the portion of the trip within Sweden. The Interrail One Country Pass is not applicable for this journey since it only covers travel within a single country. The Eurail Pass is also valid for this journey from Stockholm 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 Gare Part-Dieu or Gare de Lyon-Perrache, which are the city's main railway stations. To get around Lyon using local transportation, you have several efficient options. The Lyon Metro is a quick and reliable way to navigate the city, with four lines (A, B, C, and D) covering key areas. Line A runs from Perrache to Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie, Line B connects Charpennes to Oullins, Line C links Hôtel de Ville to Cuire, and Line D travels between Gare de Vaise and Gare de Vénissieux. Trams are another convenient option, with five main lines (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5) extending the metro's reach. The T1 tram connects Debourg to IUT Feyssine, T2 links Perrache to Saint-Priest, T3 runs from Part-Dieu to Meyzieu, T4 travels between La Doua and Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux, and T5 connects Grange Blanche to Eurexpo.
For bus travel, TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais) operates an extensive network that covers the entire metropolitan area. You can also use taxis, which are readily available throughout Lyon. They can be hailed on the street, booked via phone, or found at taxi stands, especially around train stations and popular areas. Ridesharing services like Uber are also present in Lyon, providing a convenient alternative to taxis with the added benefit of cashless payment and ride tracking via a mobile app.
Tickets for metro, tram, and bus services are integrated, allowing you to use the same ticket across different modes of public transport. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines in stations, at some newsagents, or via the TCL mobile app. It's worth noting that tickets must be validated in the machines before boarding. A variety of ticket options are available, including single-journey tickets, day passes, and multi-day passes, catering to different travel needs.
Onward connections
Lyon, a major hub in France's rail network, offers several popular train connections both domestically and internationally. Domestically, the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) provides high-speed services from Lyon Part-Dieu, the city's main station, to Paris, with the journey taking about two hours. Other key domestic connections include Marseille, which is approximately 1.5 hours away, and the journey to Nice passing through Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. Routes to the west of France include Bordeaux and Nantes. Lyon is also well-connected to cities such as Strasbourg and Lille, offering convenient options for travelers heading in those directions.
Internationally, Lyon provides direct train services to several key European destinations. The TGV Lyria connects Lyon with Geneva in about two hours, making Switzerland easily accessible. Additionally, the same service extends to other Swiss cities such as Lausanne and Zurich. The Italian cities of Milan and Turin can be reached via the high-speed Frecciarossa trains, which travel through the scenic routes of the Alps. For travel to Spain, while direct trains may not always be available, a transfer via Paris or a connection in Avignon can facilitate access to Barcelona and beyond using the French and Spanish high-speed rail networks. These connections make Lyon an ideal starting point for exploring the region by train.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Lyon is during the spring months of April to June and the early autumn months of September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for strolling through the city's beautiful streets and parks. Spring is especially charming as floral blooms add vibrancy to the cityscape and the outdoor terraces start buzzing with activity. Early autumn offers a respite from the summer heat and a display of beautiful autumn colors. In terms of fluctuations in price, these shoulder seasons often provide a more affordable experience as they fall between the peak tourist seasons. Summer in Lyon tends to be hotter and busier, leading to higher accommodation costs and more crowded attractions. Additionally, significant events like the Fête des Lumières in early December draw large crowds but can also be a delightful time to visit, offering a unique spectacle despite higher prices. For train travelers, arriving in Lyon during the shoulder seasons can ensure a more relaxed and cost-effective experience while still offering plenty of cultural activities, events, and scenic beauty.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Stockholm to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, prices are dynamic. Demand impacts ticket costs. Peak travel times increase prices. Booking in advance often lowers costs. Discounts may apply for early purchases. Weekend travel usually costs more. Length of stay can affect prices. Special events raise demand. Seat class influences ticket price. Rail company policies play a role. Currency exchange rates may impact costs. Operating costs affect pricing.
What trains run from Stockholm to Lyon?
Traveling from Stockholm to Lyon involves multiple train operators. SJ provides services from Stockholm. Deutsche Bahn operates trains connecting through Germany. SNCF operates trains in France to Lyon. Flixbus offers bus services that can complement the journey. There is no direct train between Stockholm and Lyon.
How long does the train from Stockholm to Lyon take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Stockholm to Lyon takes 20 to 26 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Stockholm to Lyon?
Travel during weekdays to avoid crowds. Prices are usually lower on weekdays. Early morning trains are less crowded. Demand is higher during holidays. Off-peak seasons offer better availability. Book in advance for best pricing.
What’s the best route or train to take from Stockholm to Lyon?
No direct train services operate on this route. Deutsche Bahn and Flixbus operate direct bus services. Travelers can create connecting journeys by combining SJ services departing from Stockholm with SNCF, Renfe, Ouigo, or Trenitalia services arriving in Lyon.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Stockholm to Lyon?
According to EveryRail, the Interrail Global Pass and the Eurail Global Pass both cover the route from Stockholm to Lyon. The Interrail Global Pass is for EU or eligible European residents. The Eurail Global Pass is for non-EU residents. Neither a One Country Pass nor any pass not specified in the context apply to this route.