Lyon

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Transportation

Sections

1. Overview of Public Transportation in Lyon

Lyon’s public transportation system is managed by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais). It includes a network of:

  • Metro: 4 lines (A, B, C, D)
  • Trams: 7 lines (T1 to T7)
  • Buses: Over 130 lines, including night buses
  • Funiculars: 2 lines (F1 and F2) connecting the city center to the Fourvière hill and Saint-Just.

The system is reliable, clean, and well-integrated, allowing seamless transfers between different modes of transport.

2. Ticketing System

TCL uses a unified ticketing system, meaning one ticket can be used across all modes of transport (metro, tram, bus, and funiculars) within a set time period.

Types of Tickets

  • Single Ticket (€2.20): Valid for 1 hour from the time of validation. Unlimited transfers within this period.
  • 10-Ticket Booklet (€19.30): A discounted option for multiple trips.
  • Day Pass (€7.90): Unlimited travel for 24 hours.
  • Weekly Pass (€22.20): Unlimited travel for 7 consecutive days.
  • Monthly Pass (€69.40): Ideal for long-term visitors or residents.
  • Youth and Student Discounts: Reduced fares are available for those under 26 or enrolled in a local educational institution.

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Found at all metro and tram stations. Machines accept coins, credit/debit cards, and sometimes bills.
  • TCL Agencies: Located in major hubs like Part-Dieu and Bellecour.
  • Retail Outlets: Some newsstands and tobacco shops sell TCL tickets.
  • TCL App: You can purchase and validate tickets digitally via the TCL mobile app.

Validation

Tickets must be validated at the start of your journey using the machines located at station entrances or on buses/trams. Failure to validate can result in fines of up to €60.

3. Metro System

The Lyon Metro is the backbone of the city’s public transport, with 4 lines:

  • Line A (Red): Perrache ↔ Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie
  • Line B (Blue): Charpennes ↔ Gare d’Oullins
  • Line C (Orange): Hôtel de Ville ↔ Cuire
  • Line D (Green): Gare de Vaise ↔ Gare de Vénissieux (fully automated)

Schedule

  • Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to midnight (extended to 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
  • Frequency: Every 2-5 minutes during peak hours, 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours.

Accessibility

All metro stations are equipped with elevators and escalators, making them accessible for people with reduced mobility.

4. Tram System

Lyon’s tram network is modern and efficient, connecting the city center to suburban areas and key locations like the airport and major train stations.

Key Lines

  • T1: Debourg ↔ IUT Feyssine (passes through Part-Dieu and Perrache)
  • T2: Perrache ↔ Saint-Priest
  • T3: Part-Dieu ↔ Meyzieu (connects to the Rhônexpress airport tram)
  • T4: La Doua ↔ Hôpital Feyzin Vénissieux

Schedule

  • Operating Hours: 4:30 AM to midnight.
  • Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes during peak hours.

Accessibility

Trams are fully accessible, with low floors and designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers.

5. Bus System

Lyon’s bus network covers areas not served by the metro or tram. It includes standard buses, express lines, and night buses (called Pleine Lune).

Key Features

  • Express Lines: Faster connections between major hubs (e.g., C1, C2, C3).
  • Night Buses: Operate from midnight to 5:00 AM on weekends.

Schedule

  • Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to midnight (varies by line).
  • Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes during the day, less frequent in the evening.

Accessibility

Most buses are equipped with ramps and priority seating.

6. Funiculars

The funiculars are a unique feature of Lyon, providing access to the hilly areas of Fourvière and Saint-Just.

Lines

  • F1: Vieux Lyon ↔ Saint-Just
  • F2: Vieux Lyon ↔ Fourvière Basilica

Schedule

  • Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to midnight.
  • Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes.

7. Rhônexpress (Airport Tram)

The Rhônexpress connects Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to the city center (Part-Dieu station) in about 30 minutes.

Cost

  • One-way: €16.30 (online) / €17.30 (onboard).
  • Round-trip: €28.30 (online) / €30.30 (onboard).

Schedule

  • Operating Hours: 4:25 AM to midnight.
  • Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes.

8. Biking in Lyon

Lyon is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes and a public bike-sharing system called Vélo’v.

How Vélo’v Works

  • Short-Term Subscription: €1.80 for 24 hours or €5 for 7 days.
  • Long-Term Subscription: €31/year.
  • The first 30 minutes of each ride are free; after that, fees apply (€0.05/min).

Where to Rent

  • Vélo’v stations are located throughout the city, especially near metro and tram stops.

9. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

  • Taxis: Available at designated taxi stands or by phone. Fares start at €2.50, with additional charges for distance and time.
  • Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Bolt operate in Lyon and are often cheaper than taxis.

10. Local Tips and Considerations

  • Peak Hours: Public transport can get crowded during rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). Plan accordingly.
  • Sunday Service: Buses and trams run less frequently on Sundays and public holidays.
  • Safety: Lyon’s public transport is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Walking: Lyon is a walkable city, especially in the Presqu’île and Old Town areas. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring.

11. Useful Apps and Websites

  • TCL App: For real-time schedules, route planning, and ticket purchases.
  • Citymapper: A user-friendly app for navigating Lyon’s public transport.
  • Vélo’v App: To locate bike stations and check bike availability.

By familiarizing yourself with Lyon’s transportation system, you’ll find it easy to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Let me know if you need further assistance!