How to get from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Vieux Lyon

Getting from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) to the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon is straightforward once you choose between the fast Rhônexpress tram, the cheaper TCL tram+bus combo, or a door-to-door taxi/private transfer straight to your hotel or apartment in the Old Town.

At A Glance (Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Vieux Lyon)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: Rhônexpress + metro is usually quickest and avoids traffic, ideal for first-time visitors or tight schedules.
• Cheapest / Most Economical: TCL tram T3 + bus 47 + metro is the lowest-cost fully public-transport option if you are happy to change vehicles.
• Most Comfortable Door-to-Door: Taxi or ride-hailing drops you directly at your hotel or apartment in Vieux Lyon with no transfers.
• Least Hassle with Kids or Big Luggage: Pre-booked private transfer with meet-and-greet in arrivals.
• Best for Road Trips: Car rental if you plan to explore Beaujolais, the Alps or the Rhône valley after Lyon.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Decide public transport vs private car: If you are staying near a metro station, public transport is efficient. For late-night arrivals, families or lots of luggage, consider a taxi or pre-booked transfer on GetYourGuide or Welcome Pickups.
• Look at combo passes: The Lyon City Card with airport transfer on GetYourGuide or Trip.com includes Rhônexpress plus unlimited Lyon public transport and museum entries.
• Check latest prices and schedules: For Rhônexpress and TCL, always confirm times and fares on the official sites before you travel, then compare with curated guides like Klook’s Lyon airport transfer overview.
• Use local transport smartly: Once in town, Lyon’s metros, trams and buses make most journeys easy from Vieux Lyon. Consider a Lyon City Card or day ticket if you expect to ride often.
• Store luggage if your room is not ready: Drop bags near Vieux Lyon or Part-Dieu using Radical Storage in Lyon, including a location right in Vieux Lyon.
• Plan onward wheels: If you want a scooter or bike once in the city, compare rentals on BikesBooking (scooters) or BikesBooking (bicycles).
• Book accommodation early: For peak dates, reserve hotels or apartments around Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île on Booking.com, checking for easy metro or tram access.

🚈 Option #1 — Rhônexpress Tram + Metro (Fastest, Most Predictable)

Fast No traffic Higher cost

• Overview: Rhônexpress is an express tram-train linking Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Lyon Part-Dieu in about 29 minutes, running every 15–20 minutes for most of the day. From Part-Dieu you connect to metro B then metro D to reach Vieux Lyon–Cathédrale Saint-Jean.
• How to book (with price): Standard one-way fares are typically around €16–€26 depending on age, time and whether you purchase online in advance. Buy tickets on the official Rhônexpress website, via their app, from machines at the airport station, or as part of a Lyon City Card with airport transfer on GetYourGuide or Trip.com.
• Pros: Fastest public option; independent of road traffic; comfortable rolling stock with luggage space; simple single transfer in the city.
• Cons: More expensive than regular TCL public transport; requires a metro change at Part-Dieu; tickets are separate from standard TCL fares unless using a Lyon City Card bundle.
• Official info: Full details on Rhônexpress and metro route info on TCL.

Step-by-step: Rhônexpress Tram + Metro

1. On arrival, follow signs in the terminal for “Gare / Trains / Rhônexpress” to reach the combined TGV and Rhônexpress station connected to the airport.
2. Buy your Rhônexpress ticket from a machine or online in advance via the official site or bundle it with museum and transport benefits using a Lyon City Card with airport transfer.
3. Board the Rhônexpress for “Lyon Part-Dieu”. The ride takes about 29 minutes with onboard luggage racks and Wi‑Fi.
4. At Part-Dieu, follow signs for Metro B and ride two stops to Saxe-Gambetta, then change to Metro D (direction “Gare de Vaise”) and ride to Vieux Lyon–Cathédrale Saint-Jean.
5. Exit the station and you are in the heart of Vieux Lyon, steps from the cathedral and Renaissance streets. From here you can walk to most hotels and guesthouses, or join a walking tour booked on GetYourGuide.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rhônexpress / Metro D)

• From the terminals to Rhônexpress: The airport station is connected by covered walkways from Terminals 1 and 2. Just follow the red Rhônexpress signs; the platforms are clearly marked.
• At Part-Dieu: When you arrive at Part-Dieu station, signs for the metro are well indicated; allow 5–10 minutes to walk from the Rhônexpress platform to the Metro B entrance.
• Vieux Lyon station exits: At Vieux Lyon–Cathédrale Saint-Jean, choose the exit for “Cathédrale Saint-Jean” to emerge directly in the Old Town, or the funicular side if you are heading up Fourvière hill.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚊 Option #2 — TCL Tram T3 + Bus 47 + Metro (Cheapest Public Route)

Very low cost Regular service More transfers

• Overview: Using the TCL network, you can reach the airport (and therefore return to the city) on tram T3 plus bus 47, then continue by metro B and D to Vieux Lyon. This route is slower than Rhônexpress but much cheaper.
• How it works: From Lyon city the official guidance is to take tram T3 to Meyzieu ZI then bus 47 to “Aéroport Saint Exupéry”; in reverse, you use bus 47 and T3 heading back toward Part-Dieu. From Part-Dieu you join the metro as above.
• How to book (with price): A single TCL ticket usually costs around €2–€3 and is valid for 1 hour of travel across trams, buses and metro (check current rules). You can buy tickets from machines, via contactless payment, or with the TCL app as described on the Lyon Airport TCL bus page and the TCL airport guide.
• Pros: Cheapest way to connect airport and city using regular public transport; good if you already have a TCL pass or Lyon City Card (for the city segments).
• Cons: Multiple changes and longer journey; luggage can be awkward at busy times; schedules less frequent than Rhônexpress and may not align perfectly with flights.

Step-by-step: TCL Budget Route

1. From Lyon Part-Dieu (city centre), board tram T3 in the direction of Meyzieu ZI. Validate your TCL ticket or contactless card.
2. Alight at Meyzieu ZI and transfer to bus 47 heading to Aéroport Saint Exupéry, as listed in the TCL instructions.
3. For the inbound trip from the airport, board bus 47 toward Meyzieu ZI, then change to tram T3 back toward Part-Dieu.
4. At Part-Dieu, switch to Metro B to Saxe-Gambetta, then Metro D (direction “Gare de Vaise”) to Vieux Lyon–Cathédrale Saint-Jean.
5. Walk from Vieux Lyon station to your accommodation; many places are within 5–10 minutes on foot.

Getting to the main embarking points (T3 / Bus 47 / Metro D)

• At the airport: Bus 47 stops are located in the ground transport area signposted from arrivals; follow the bus icons and look for the 47 stand for Meyzieu ZI.
• At Meyzieu ZI: The transfer between tram T3 and bus 47 is straightforward; check platform displays and allow a little buffer time for the connection.
• At Part-Dieu: Tram T3 and metro B/D connections involve a short indoor walk; follow the TCL wayfinding signs (colour-coded lines).
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #3 — Airport Taxi / Ride-Hailing (Door-to-Door Comfort)

No transfers 24/7 Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Licensed taxis or app-based ride-hailing (such as Uber, Bolt or Free Now) pick you up curbside at Lyon Saint-Exupéry and drive you directly to your accommodation in Vieux Lyon.
• How to book (with price): Official airport taxis queue outside arrivals; fares to central Lyon typically range from about €50–€80 depending on traffic, time of day and exact address. For app bookings, estimate fares and request a car through the likes of Uber, or pre-arrange a car-style transfer on GetTransfer.
• Pros: True door-to-door service; no dragging luggage between platforms; available late at night when public transport is sparse.
• Cons: Can be significantly more expensive than public transport; journey time varies with traffic, especially during rush hours around the ring roads and tunnels.
• Who it suits best: Families with kids, travelers with multiple suitcases, business travelers on expense accounts, or anyone arriving very late/early.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Ride-Hailing

1. After clearing customs, follow the “Taxis” signs to the official taxi rank outside your arrival terminal. Join the queue and state your destination (for example, “Vieux Lyon, near Cathédrale Saint-Jean”).
2. If using an app like Uber or Bolt, connect to airport Wi‑Fi or mobile data, then set “Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport” as your pickup and your exact hotel/apartment address in Vieux Lyon as the destination.
3. Check the estimated fare and car type, then confirm; your driver will meet you at a designated rideshare pickup point, often near the taxi rank.
4. Ride into the city; the drive to Vieux Lyon normally takes around 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
5. Get dropped off at your door, then explore the neighbourhood or, if you have time, join a walking tour of Vieux Lyon to get oriented.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taxi / Ride-Hailing Pickups)

• Airport taxi ranks: Clearly signed outside arrivals. Official taxis display pricing information; if in doubt, confirm an approximate fare before departing.
• Ride-hailing pickup zones: Apps will indicate the exact pickup area (often a numbered zone). Follow the route shown in the app and look for your car’s plate number.
• Drop-off in Vieux Lyon: Many streets are narrow or partly pedestrianized. Your driver may drop you at the nearest main street; expect a short walk down cobbled lanes to your accommodation.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Pre-booked Private Transfer (Low-Hassle Arrival)

Meet-and-greet Fixed price Must prebook

• Overview: A driver meets you in the arrivals hall with a sign, helps with luggage and drives you straight to your address in Vieux Lyon. Prices are fixed when you book, so you avoid meter surprises or surge pricing.
• How to book (with price): Expect roughly €60–€120 per vehicle depending on car type and group size. Compare options like private transfers on GetYourGuide, dedicated pick-ups through Welcome Pickups Lyon, or advance bookings with GetTransfer.
• Pros: Easiest option after a long flight; English-speaking drivers often available; child seats can be requested in advance; great for groups splitting the cost.
• Cons: More expensive than public transport; must manage changes if your flight is disrupted (most operators allow you to share flight details for monitoring).

Step-by-step: Private Transfer

1. Before you travel, book your transfer online and provide your flight number, arrival time and accommodation address in Vieux Lyon.
2. Receive confirmation with your driver or company contact details. Some services like Welcome Pickups let you chat with your driver in advance via their app.
3. On arrival, clear immigration and baggage claim, then look for your driver in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name or following the meeting instructions from the provider.
4. Walk together to the car park and load your luggage. If needed, confirm the child seats or special requests you arranged.
5. Relax on the drive into the city and get dropped off directly at your accommodation in Vieux Lyon.

Getting to the main embarking points (Private Transfer Meeting Points)

• Arrivals hall meeting spots: Each terminal has clearly defined meeting zones. Your provider will specify where they wait (for example, near the main exit doors or a particular café).
• Car parks and access roads: Private transfer drivers typically park in short-stay car parks or dedicated lanes; simply follow their lead once you meet.
• Drop-off in Vieux Lyon: Confirm with your driver if your street is fully accessible; if not, ask to be dropped as close as possible, such as near Place Saint-Jean or Quai Romain Rolland.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #5 — Self-Drive / Car Rental (For Road-Trip Plans)

Flexible Great for onward travel Parking & traffic

• Overview: Renting a car at Lyon Saint-Exupéry works well if you are heading into the countryside or continuing to the Alps, Beaujolais or Provence. Driving just between the airport and Vieux Lyon is possible but not always ideal due to one-way streets and limited parking.
• How to book (with price): Small cars often start around €40–€70 per day excluding fuel and tolls. Compare offers from major brands at the airport via Booking.com Car Rental at LYS. For two-wheel exploring once in the city, you can also look at scooter hire or bike hire on BikesBooking.
• Pros: Full freedom to explore regions beyond Lyon at your own pace; convenient if you have lots of luggage and plan to leave the city soon after arrival.
• Cons: City traffic, low-emission zones and narrow Old Town streets make driving in Vieux Lyon stressful; parking can be expensive and scarce.

Step-by-step: Car Rental

1. Reserve your car online before you travel using aggregators like Booking.com Car Rental, choosing pickup at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport.
2. On arrival, follow “Car Rental” signs to the counters, complete paperwork and inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before leaving the lot.
3. Set your GPS to your accommodation in Vieux Lyon (or a nearby car park such as Saint-Jean or Saint-Georges). Consider parking outside the Old Town and walking in.
4. Drive into the city following the ring roads and river quays; allow extra time during rush hour.
5. Park in a secure car park and explore Vieux Lyon on foot, using public transport for inner-city trips to avoid congestion.

Getting to the main embarking points (Car Rental Car Parks)

• Car rental pick-up areas: All major rental desks are grouped at or near the terminals; staff will direct you to the multilevel car parks where vehicles are stored.
• Parking near Vieux Lyon: Use underground or supervised car parks near the Old Town rather than trying to squeeze into street parking.
• Returning the car: Leave extra time to refuel before heading back to the airport; follow signage for “Location de voitures” when returning the vehicle.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Vieux Lyon)

How long does it take to get from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Vieux Lyon?
For most travelers, expect about 45–60 minutes with Rhônexpress + metro, 60–75 minutes with the TCL budget route, and around 30–45 minutes by taxi or private car depending on traffic.

What is the easiest option with luggage or kids?
A pre-booked private transfer or airport taxi/ride-hail is usually easiest: no stairs, no platform changes and you are dropped directly at your door. Rhônexpress is also quite luggage-friendly if you are comfortable changing once to the metro.

What is the cheapest way to reach Vieux Lyon from the airport?
Using the TCL tram T3 + bus 47 + metro route with a standard TCL ticket is typically the lowest-cost option. It is slower and requires more changes, so it is best if you are traveling light and not arriving very late at night.

Can I use a Lyon City Card for this trip?
A standard Lyon City Card covers unlimited TCL public transport within the city (metros, trams, buses) but not Rhônexpress by default. However, dedicated packages like the Lyon City Card with Airport Transfer on GetYourGuide or Trip.com add Rhônexpress rides between the airport and city centre.

Where can I store my luggage if I arrive before check-in?
If you want to explore before checking in, use city luggage storage such as Radical Storage near Vieux Lyon Cathedral or options around Part-Dieu listed on Radical Storage Lyon.

• useful references:
• https://www.lyonaeroports.com/en/access-transports
• https://www.rhonexpress.fr/en_GB/
• https://www.tcl.fr/en/help/tcl-network/how-do-i-get-lyon-saint-exupery-airport
• https://en.lyon-france.com/

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on August 9, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

Found this post useful? Give it a thumbs up or share it with someone below. Contact us if you want to help improve this post or if you found an error.




0 likes

Related posts:

How to get from Paris to Lyon How to get from Montmartre to Paris Saint-Lazare Station How to get from Da Nang to Quy Nhon How to get from Paris to Nice