Table des matières:
Getting Around Lyon Without a Car
Lyon’s public transportation network, operated by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais), is one of the most efficient in France. Whether you’re a tourist visiting Vieux Lyon or a new resident commuting to Part-Dieu, understanding how to use public transportation in Lyon will save you time, money, and stress. This guide covers everything from buying tickets to navigating the metro, tram, bus, funicular, and bike-share systems.
Overview of Lyon’s TCL Network
The TCL network includes 4 metro lines, 7 tram lines, over 130 bus routes, 2 funiculars, and a trolleybus system. It connects all major districts, including the Presqu’île, Croix-Rousse, Villeurbanne, and the airport. The network operates from around 5:00 AM to midnight, with some lines running later on weekends.
Metro Lines
Lyon’s metro is the backbone of the system. It’s fast, frequent, and easy to use.
- Line A (Red): Perrache to Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie
- Line B (Blue): Charpennes to Gare d’Oullins
- Line C (Orange): Hôtel de Ville to Cuire (funicular-like steep section)
- Line D (Green): Gare de Vaise to Gare de Vénissieux (fully automated)
Tram and Bus
Trams are ideal for cross-city journeys. Buses cover areas not served by rail. Both are integrated with the metro, so one ticket works for all.
Funiculars
Two funiculars connect the Old Town (Vieux Lyon) to the Basilica of Fourvière and the St-Just area. They are part of the TCL network and accept standard tickets.
How to Buy Tickets and Passes
You can purchase tickets at metro stations (vending machines or ticket offices), some tram stops, and select tabacs (newsagents). The official TCL app (TCL) also allows mobile ticketing.
Ticket Types and Prices
| Ticket Type | Price (2025) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Single ticket | €1.90 | 1 hour transfer between modes |
| Book of 10 tickets (carnet) | €17.30 | Same as single, 10 uses |
| Day pass (24h) | €5.80 | Unlimited travel for 24 hours |
| Group day pass (up to 4 people) | €11.60 | Unlimited travel for the group |
| Weekly pass (Liberte) | €19.00 | Unlimited travel Mon-Sun |
Contactless Payment
Since 2023, you can tap your contactless bank card or smartphone directly on the validator. This is the easiest way to pay-as-you-go. The system automatically caps daily charges at the price of a day pass.
Step-by-Step: How to Ride the Metro
- Buy or validate a ticket. If using a paper ticket, validate it at the gate. Contactless users tap their card on the validator.
- Check the direction. Metro signs show the terminus station. For example, Line A has two directions: Perrache and Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie.
- Board the train. Doors open automatically. Mind the gap.
- Stay alert for stops. Announcements are in French and English. Digital screens show the next station.
- Exit. Doors open automatically. Follow the sortie signs.
Using Trams and Buses
Trams and buses operate similarly. Validate your ticket on board (look for the validator near the doors). For trams, you can also validate at the stop before boarding. Always validate, even if you have a pass – inspectors do random checks and fines are steep (€50+).
Night Buses (Pleine Lune)
After midnight, a network of night buses (lines N1 to N8) covers major routes. They run every 30-60 minutes. Standard tickets are valid.
How to Use the Funicular to Fourvière
The Funicular F1 goes from Vieux Lyon to Fourvière. It’s a short ride but steep. Use your metro ticket or pass. The station is inside the Vieux Lyon metro stop (exit Saint-Jean).
Bike and Scooter Options
Lyon has a bike-share system called Vélo’v, with stations across the city. Rentals start at €1.80 for a single trip or €5 for a day pass. Electric scooters (Lime, Dott) are also available but cannot be parked anywhere – use designated zones.
How to Plan Your Route
Use the TCL app or Google Maps for real-time schedules. The app shows live departures, disruptions, and the best route. For example, from Part-Dieu to Bellecour, take Metro B to Saxe-Gambetta, then change to D.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not validating your ticket: Always validate or you risk a fine.
- Using the wrong ticket: Airport express (Rhônexpress) requires a separate ticket (€16.10 one-way).
- Boarding without a ticket: You can buy at vending machines, but have one before boarding.
- Ignoring the 1-hour transfer limit: You can change lines within 1 hour, but not go back.
- Forgetting to tap out: Not required on TCL, but needed for Rhônexpress.
Accessibility Information
All metro lines except Line C are accessible for wheelchairs. Trams and buses are low-floor. Visual and audio announcements are available. For assistance, contact TCL in advance.
Traveling to and from Lyon Airport (LYS)
The Rhônexpress tram connects Lyon Part-Dieu to the airport in 30 minutes. It’s not part of the TCL network, so you need a specific ticket (€16.10). Alternatively, bus 47 from Meyzieu (T3 tram terminus) is cheaper but slower.
Practical Tips for Tourists
- Buy a day pass if you plan 3+ trips per day.
- Use the funicular for a great view of the city.
- Avoid rush hour (8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) on lines A and D.
- Keep your ticket until you exit – inspectors may check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same ticket for metro, tram, and bus?
Yes, a single ticket allows transfers between all TCL modes (metro, tram, bus, funicular) within 1 hour of validation. You cannot use it for return trips.
How do I buy a TCL ticket with my phone?
Download the TCL app, create an account, and purchase tickets. You’ll receive a QR code to scan at the validator. Alternatively, use Apple Pay or Google Pay with your contactless card.
Is Lyon public transportation safe at night?
Generally yes, but stay aware in less crowded stations. Night buses have cameras and are well-lit. Metro lines close around midnight; after that, use night buses or taxis.
What is the best ticket for a 3-day visit?
A 3-day pass doesn’t exist, but you can buy three 24-hour passes (€5.80 each) or a weekly pass (€19) if you arrive on Monday. The weekly pass is valid Monday to Sunday.
Do children need a ticket?
Children under 4 travel free. From 4 to 11, they pay reduced fare (€0.90 per single ticket). From 12, adult fares apply.
How do I get from Lyon to the airport using public transport?
Take Rhônexpress from Part-Dieu (€16.10, 30 min) or bus 47 from Meyzieu (€1.90, 45 min). The bus is cheaper but less frequent.
Next Steps: Start Exploring Lyon
Now you know how to use public transportation in Lyon, grab a ticket and explore. Start with the metro to Bellecour, then take the funicular to Fourvière for panoramic views. Use the TCL app for real-time help, and remember to validate every time. Bon voyage!
Photo by Javier Gómez on Unsplash
Thanks for the step-by-step metro guide. One thing: do I need to validate my contactless card only once per trip, or each time I transfer?
You need to tap your contactless card each time you enter a new mode or station. The system tracks transfers and automatically applies the best fare, capping at the day pass price.
I noticed the single ticket allows 1-hour transfer between modes. Does that include the funicular?
Yes, the 1-hour transfer applies to all TCL modes: metro, tram, bus, funicular, and trolleybus. Just make sure to validate each time you switch.
I’m planning to use contactless payment. Does it work for the funicular too?
Yes, contactless works on all TCL services, including funiculars. Just tap your card or phone on the validator at the station entrance or on board.
Great guide! I’m visiting Lyon next month and was wondering if the TCL app works with foreign credit cards?
Yes, the TCL app accepts international credit cards as long as they are Visa or Mastercard. Just download the app, create an account, and you can purchase tickets directly.
Is the funicular from Vieux Lyon to Fourvière included in the day pass?
Absolutely. The funiculars are part of the TCL network, so any valid ticket or pass (including the day pass) works for them.
What about late-night service? I read that some lines run later on weekends. Which ones?
On weekends, metro lines A, B, and D run until about 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights. Trams and buses have reduced late-night service, so check the TCL app for specific schedules.
This is very helpful! Quick question: can I buy the carnet of 10 tickets at any metro station vending machine?
Yes, all metro station vending machines sell the carnet. Look for the ‘carnet de 10 tickets’ option on the screen. You can also buy them at tabacs.