If you’re traveling to Lyon by train, it’s important to know about all the Lyon train stations.
(Yes, there is more than one!)
I’ve visited Lyon several times, always arriving by train. And I love using the train to take day trips from Lyon and explore more wonderful places in France.
I’ve got all the information you need about Lyon’s train stations, from Part-Dieu to Perrache to the Lyon Saint Exupéry TGV station at the airport. I even cover some smaller stations that you may use for regional trips.
Ready to explore Lyon by train? Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
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Lyon Part-Dieu Station
The Lyon Part-Dieu station is the main hub of the city’s rail network. It’s a crossroads for national and regional trains, including high-speed TGV connections that can whisk you across France.
La Part-Dieu offers easy access to the city center, public transportation, and even a high-speed tram to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport.
Lyon Part-Dieu was inaugurated in 1978 as a companion to the older Gare des Brotteaux, which it eventually replaced.
(Note: The Gare des Brotteaux is no longer in use, but it’s a gorgeous train station, so check it out if you’re in the neighborhood! It’s the image in the post introduction.)
Gare Part-Dieu enables high-speed train travel to major cities in France like Paris and Marseille and international destinations such as London, Brussels, and Barcelona. (I took the direct train from Barcelona to Lyon last month.)
You can travel from Paris to Lyon in just two hours on the TGV. It’s an easy, scenic journey from the Lyon Part-Dieu station to the Gare de Lyon Paris train station.
Tip: If you’re using translation apps, this station may display as ‘Part God’ since ‘Dieu’ is the French word for ‘God’. This caught me by surprise!
Facilities at Lyon Part-Dieu
Lyon Part-Dieu station boasts extensive facilities ensuring a comfortable travel experience. You’ll find ticket counters, various shops, and eateries across the concourse.
Services provided include:
- Travel Information: Detailed screens and staffed counters to assist with your journey.
- Tickets and Reservations: Purchase tickets for the TGV, ICE, regional trains, and the lower-cost OUIGO service.
- Shopping and Dining: A selection of stores and restaurants catering to your needs.
- Left Luggage: Securely store your bags at the left luggage facilities so you can explore the city hands-free.
- Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating and lounging spaces.
For passengers with reduced mobility, there are dedicated services to assist with your transit.
Rental car services are located just outside of the station. And there are many top-rated hotels near Lyon Part-Dieu if you arrive late or need to catch an early train.
Transportation Connections
Your transit options at Lyon Part-Dieu station are as follows:
- Local Transit: Connect to Lyon’s public transit network with Metro Line B, tram lines T1, T3, T4, and multiple bus services.
- Rhônexpress: A shuttle service directly linking the station to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. (Use the Villette/Villeurbanne exit — the Rhônexpress station is just outside the exit. No need to buy tickets in advance!)
- Taxis: Readily available outside the station for more direct travel.
- Regional Trains: Arrive or depart to nearby cities such as Grenoble and Geneva.
- High-Speed Trains: Access to major cities via TGV and ICE.
Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV
The Lyon Saint Exupéry TGV station is just steps away from the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, providing easy access for travelers flying to Lyon.
The Gare Saint Exupery, originally named Satolas, opened in 1994. This station is notable for its unique and dramatic architecture, designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. (I think it’s one of the best photo spots in Lyon!)
This station was built to serve the TGV (train à grande vitesse), France’s prestigious high-speed train system.
From here, you can travel directly to the Paris Charles de Gaulle airport or other destinations across France such as Grenoble, Lille, Avignon, and Arles.
If you’re heading into the city center, it’s easy to take the Rhônexpress high-speed tram to the Lyon Part-Dieu train station.
Tip: When booking TGV tickets to Lyon, always check whether you will travel to Part-Dieu or Lyon Saint-Exupéry.
Lyon Perrache Station
While most travelers to Lyon are familiar with the Lyon Part-Dieu and St Exupéry stations, you might not have heard of Perrache.
I just returned from my third trip to Lyon, and this was the first time I traveled through the Perrache station.I only discovered it when I took a day trip to from Lyon to Vienne since the best train options for my schedule departed from Perrache.
Located in the Presqu’île neighborhood, the Lyon-Perrache Station is the closest to the city center. It connects you with many transport options, including regional and high-speed trains. It’s an important part of the national rail service offered by SNCF.
Inaugurated in 1857, Lyon Perrache is one of the oldest railway stations in Lyon. The station’s proximity to the heart of Lyon allows quick access to shopping, dining, and cultural sites.
There are plenty of public transportation options available from the Lyon-Perrache stations. You can access the T1 and T2 trams from this station, and Perrache is also the endpoint for the Metro A line.
This makes it very easy to get to Lyon’s top attractions!
(Tip: Many TGV trains to Paris Gare de Lyon will stop at both Lyon-Perrache and Lyon Part-Dieu. Choose the station that is most convenient for you.)
Lyon Jean-Macé Station
Lyon Jean-Macé Station is a smaller station in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement that connects you to the local and regional transport network.
The station was established in the 1970s.
From here, you have access to both TER regional trains and Tram lines, which link to wider destinations. This provides easy options for transferring to other modes of transport, such as the Lyon Metro.
High-speed trains don’t stop at the Gare Jean-Macé, but you can take a quick ride to the Perrache or Part-Dieu stations to access TGV lines.
Tip: If you are passing through this station, be sure to pop outside. You won’t want to miss the fabulous murals decorating the walls along Avenue Berthelot!
Lyon Saint-Paul Station
You’ll find the charming Saint-Paul station located at the northern end of historic Vieux Lyon.
Dating from 1873, the station is notable for its elegant architecture. While it’s not a high-traffic station, Gare Lyon Saint-Paul provides TER regional train services to the city’s western suburbs.
On my most recent trip to Lyon, I stayed at an Airbnb in Vieux Lyon and walked past this gorgeous building several times a day. It’s conveniently located next to a bus stop and one of my favorite bakeries.
From the Saint-Paul station, it’s easy to explore the famous traboules of Lyon and wander the quaint cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Be sure to take some time to enjoy lunch at a traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon!
Connections to Other Destinations
Lyon, your gateway to iconic French and European cities, offers an impressive network through its main train stations: Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache. These hubs are pivotal in the country’s railway system.
Lyon Part-Dieu, situated in the city’s business district, is now the primary station for TGV (high-speed trains) connections. Lyon Perrache serves mostly regional trains (TER).
High-Speed TGV Services:
- Paris to Lyon: a rapid 2-hour journey
- Lyon to Marseille: speeding through to the Mediterranean coast
- Lyon to Lille: connecting the North and South
Regional TER Services:
- Lyon to Dijon, Annecy, Grenoble, and Avignon: scenic routes through diverse landscapes
International Destinations:
- Lyon to Barcelona: bask in Spanish culture
- Lyon to Geneva: venture into Switzerland
You’ve got more than trains at your disposal; both stations interlink with local Lyon transport. The Rhônexpress tramway zips you from Part-Dieu to the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, while the metro and tram services offer city-wide coverage.
With these connections, your travel possibilities are endless, whether you’re exploring France’s national gems or embarking on international adventures.
Practical Tips for Lyon Train Travel
As you navigate the train stations in Lyon, knowing the ins and outs of ticketing and amenities will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Ticketing and Schedules
- Buying Tickets: You can purchase your train tickets at any Lyon station either from manned ticket counters or self-service machines. It’s advisable to check the schedules in advance, which are available on the SNCF website and the station’s noticeboards. Save time by using the SNCF app for real-time updates.
- Types of Trains: Make sure you’re aware of the train you need: the TGV for high-speed journeys, TER for regional trips, and ICE for international travels. Your train’s platform number will be displayed on departure boards.
Types of Train Services:
- TGV: Connects with major cities across France and Europe at high speeds. (Look for TGV Inoui)
- TER: Serves the local and regional routes in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
- Renfe: This high-speed train connects Lyon to Barcelona (I took this trip last month – it’s great to have a direct train option from Spain!)
Tip: While you can buy same-day tickets for regional trains, you should buy your TGV tickets in advance. Seat reservations are required and may sell out!
Lyon Train Stations Map
Need a little help figuring out where to find these train stations in Lyon? Here’s a map of the Lyon train stations to help get you oriented:
Train Stations in Lyon France FAQ
Lyon boasts several key train stations. Lyon Part-Dieu is the primary hub for national and international trains, including TGV (high-speed) services.
Gare Lyon Perrache is another central station, offering regional and some long-distance services. Gare de Lyon Saint-Exupéry, connected to the airport, is an important part of the city’s rail network.
Your journey around Lyon’s train stations will be easier if you use available station maps and follow the clear signage (don’t worry, it’s in both French and English). Station staff and information desks are ready to help if you need assistance.
The Rhônexpress high-speed tram is your best choice to travel from Lyon Part-Dieu station to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. It offers a direct and reliable service, taking approximately 30 minutes. The tram station is easily accessible just outside the Part-Dieu station.
TGV trains depart from Lyon Part-Dieu, the primary station for high-speed train services connecting Lyon with other cities in France and beyond. You can also catch TGV trains from the Lyon Perrache and Lyon Saint-Exupéry stations.
Lyon Part Dieu train station is located at 5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France.
Positioned in the heart of Lyon’s business district, the station is the heart of Lyon’s rail network transport. It provides access to a vast array of regional and international destinations.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re traveling through the Part-Dieu, St. Exupery, or Perrache stations, traveling to Lyon by train is a breeze.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Lyon, whether you’re interested in exploring Roman ruins, visiting museums, or enjoying Lyon’s famous gastronomy.
Check out these posts to help you make the most of your trip to Lyon! (And, bon voyage!)
Are you ready to book your trip to Lyon?
Looking for the top picks for your trip to Lyon? Here are some of the best tours, hotels, and more to help you plan the perfect vacation!
Top Tours and Experiences in Lyon
- Old Town Walking Food Tour (Vieux Lyon sightseeing + tasty local favorites)
- E-Bike Tour of Lyon (A fun & easy way to see Lyon’s top sights!)
- French Pastry-Making Class (Perfect for those who love to cook!)
- Beaujolais Golden Stones Wine Tour (The best day trip for wine lovers)
- Lyon City Card (Amazing value! I buy this every time I visit Lyon)
Top Hotels in Lyon
- Villa Florentine (Fabulous 5-star hotel in Vieux Lyon)
- Cour des Loges (Amazing 5-star hotel in the heart of Vieux Lyon)
- Hôtel Bayard Bellecour (Highly rated budget-friendly hotel)
Lisa Garrett
Lisa Garrett is the founder of Travel to Lyon.
She has explored Lyon with her husband (Chris) as well as on solo trips to France. She has visited Lyon many times, including a 2-week stay last spring (unseasonally cold for a Phoenix girl!). Whether you’re interested in food, history, or culture, Lisa’s tips will help you plan the perfect trip to Lyon!
Learn more about Lisa!
