What is the fastest way to get from Geneva to Lyon?
The quickest way to travel from Geneva to Lyon is by train, as it takes only 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach your destination.
Are there direct planes from Geneva to Lyon?
Although both cities have an airport, there are no direct flights from Geneva to Lyon due to the short distance between them.
What is the easiest way to get from Geneva to Lyon?
The most seamless way to travel from Geneva to Lyon is with a private car service like Daytrip. With Daytrip, you don’t have to worry about getting to the bus or train station or dealing with potential delays. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation at your chosen time. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes, but you can extend your journey by making stops along the way, allowing you to explore more and potentially reduce the need for additional day trips
Can you do a day trip from Geneva to Lyon?
Since the journey from Geneva to Lyon takes under 2 hours, you can easily fit in a day trip to Lyon. However, to fully explore Lyon, it is recommended that you stay for at least two days.
Is the train from Geneva to Lyon scenic?
Although you will enjoy some scenic views during the train ride, the journey from Geneva to Lyon is not considered one of the most picturesque routes.
How much is a train from Geneva to Lyon?
The cheapest tickets for the train operated by TGV Lyria cost $42 (€39).
Despite being France’s third-largest city, Lyon often doesn’t rank among the top destinations travelers consider when visiting France. However, with Geneva being relatively close to Lyon and the two cities being well-connected, a sort of invisible bridge connects them. And there is no better way to travel from Geneva to Lyon than by a private car service like Daytrip which will take you on a unique journey.
“Why unique?” you may ask. Daytrip allows you to tailor your trip to your desires by adding whichever sightseeing stops you wish to explore as you approach Lyon. There are plenty of places to explore before you reach Lyon—the well-preserved medieval Nyon Castle, the picturesque town of Annecy, situated beside one of Europe's purest lakes, Chartreuse Cellars, to degustate their liqueurs, or wander around the charming town of Perouges. And these are just a few options, so be sure to check out all the stops when booking your trip!
About Lyon
Lyon, just like other cities in France, has gone through many ups and downs throughout its history. The city was founded during the Roman period in 43 BC when it was officially named Lugdunum.
Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, the sanctuary Notre-Dame de Fourviere in Lyon became a popular pilgrimage center. Unfortunately, in the 14th century, the Black Death struck Lyon, sweeping away approximately one-fourth to one-half of the city's population. This had long-term effects on the city's growth, but Lyon eventually recovered.
In the 15th century, Lyon started producing silk, which marked a new beginning. As of the 16th century, it became one of the main silk trade centers, which significantly helped its growth. Today, the textile industry continues to play a vital role in Lyon's economy.
In 1998, Lyon was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with approximately 10% of the city recognized for its historical and architectural value. Some of the landmarks can be found in the Old Town of Lyon, such as Saint-Jean Cathedral or the iconic traboules which are unique passageways that were used by silk weavers.
Given the importance of silk to the city's growth, the silk weavers' neighborhood of Croix-Rousse is also UNESCO-listed. Additionally, La Maison des Canuts, now a museum dedicated to Lyon’s silk industry, is located in this historic district.
Lyon is worth exploring not only because of its rich historical and cultural heritage but also because it is renowned as the gastronomic capital of France. From the traditional cuisine to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, you will find a rich culinary scene.
From Geneva to Lyon: travel tips
Before you begin your journey from Geneva to Lyon, here are two must-know travel tips:
Get the Lyon City Card
Purchasing the Lyon City Card is a great way to save money if you plan to visit 27 museums and major attractions, as well as take guided tours or enjoy a sightseeing cruise. The card comes in four options: 24, 48, 72, or 96 hours. Additionally, if you’re traveling with children aged 4 to 15, the card is available at a discounted rate.
The Lyon City Card also gives free access to public transport (tram, bus, metro, or even funicular), and you can even choose a card that includes a transfer to the airport.
Book restaurants in advance
As Lyon is renowned for its exceptional cuisine and exquisite restaurants, it is highly advisable to make reservations in advance, particularly for the most popular dining spots. Additionally, consider checking if the restaurant you plan to visit is hosting any special events or offering seasonal dishes.
How to get from Geneva to Lyon
Although the cities are relatively close to each other, with a distance of just 93 miles (150 km), there are several transfer methods available from Geneva to Lyon. Here are some of the main transportation options you can choose for your journey:
From Geneva to Lyon by bus
Bus is a great option for those looking to save. One of the most popular bus companies operating between Geneva and Lyon is Flixbux. The cheapest tickets cost around $15 (€14) and typically the travel time is from 2 to 2.5 hours.
From Geneva to Lyon by train
If you are planning to travel by train, choose TGV Lyria which seamlessly connects France and Switzerland. Be aware that these trains don't depart every single day and if they do, there is just one train per day. Depending on the day you travel, the ticket prices start from $42 (€39) to $82 (€76) for the 2nd class. With these comfortable trains, you will reach Lyon in 1 hour and 40 minutes.
From Geneva to Lyon by private car service
However, if you are looking for not only a comfortable but reliable and flexible way to travel from Geneva to Lyon, Daytrip’s private car service is for you. With Daytrip, you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or getting to the bus or train station, as your personal driver will pick you up from your address. If you travel with kids, you can also request child seats. Daytrip is also pet-friendly, so feel free to take your four-legged friend on your next journey.
What makes Daytrip stand out from the rest is that you are allowed to add sightseeing stops to your trip. Start your journey by exploring the medieval Nyon Castle, then enter France and explore the charming town of Annecy and its pure lake. Since you are not driving, you can take a break at the Chartreuse Cellars for a liqueur tasting and then have a walk around Perouges, one of the most beautiful medieval towns. If you choose a straightforward journey without any sightseeing stops, the drive takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Things to do when you get to Lyon
Once you arrive in Lyon, you might be unsure where to start. We're here not only to take you from Geneva to Lyon but also to offer recommendations for must-see attractions and activities. Here are some highlights that will surely enhance your trip:
Get lost in the traboules
One of the best ways to delve into Lyon’s history and understand the significance of its silk industry is by exploring its famed traboules. You can discover hundreds of these hidden corridors in both the Old Town and the Croix-Rousse neighborhood. These unique passageways, hidden within the historic buildings of Lyon, form a labyrinth that connects one street to another. As you explore each traboule, you will encounter unique architectural details, such as intricate spiral staircases, inner courtyards, and arched ceilings.
The traboules were also used during World War II as escape routes for the French Resistance. If you want to learn more in-depth about these passageways, consider joining a guided tour.
Admire the city from above
When in Lyon, visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a must. Often compared to an upside-down elephant for its unique form, this impressive basilica is known for its ceiling covered in mosaics and stunning stained glass windows. It is set on top of a hill, allowing you to soak in the best panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, you can take the Fourvière funicular to access the basilica.
Go on a boat tour
If you're looking to explore Lyon from a different perspective, consider taking a sightseeing boat cruise along the Rhone and Saone Rivers. For a truly relaxing experience, you might opt for a cruise that includes brunch or dinner.
Savor the local cuisine
With Lyon being France’s gastronomic capital, trying its local cuisine is something you simply can’t miss. Here are some of the best dishes that originated in Lyon:
Quenelle: a traditional dish from the 19th century. It consists of soft dumplings made from fish or meat combined with breadcrumbs and eggs.
Cervelle de canut: given Lyon’s rich history in silk production, it's only fitting that there’s a specialty dedicated to silk. Known as ‘silk weavers' brains,’ this dish consists of fresh cheese mixed with herbs and garlic. It is often served as a dip or spread to complement other dishes.
Tarte à la praliné: this famous pastry originated in the 17th century. It is a tart made with caramelized ground almonds coated in pink sugar.
When is the best time to visit Lyon
The best months to visit Lyon are May and September, when you can enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Late spring and early fall offer the perfect conditions for outdoor activities, such as sightseeing cruises along the river or dining at one of Lyon’s many charming outdoor restaurants.
If you plan to attend the annual Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières) and don’t mind cooler temperatures, December is an excellent time to experience Lyon in a festive light. The festival takes place on December 8th, so be sure to book your accommodation and transport well in advance.
沿途参观这些景点
Nyon Castle
This sturdy medieval castle houses a fragile treasure - the town’s porcelain museum. Handle with Care
Annecy
This ancient city’s magical old town, filled with canals, flowers, and stately buildings is truly a historic gem. Pearl of the Alps
Chambery
Once the capital of Savoy, this hidden gem combines the serene atmosphere of an alpine village with medieval glory. An Italian in France
Chartreuse Cellars
Learn the secrets of this medieval alchemical ‘Elixir of Long Life’ that has become one of the world’s premier liqueurs. The Secret to Long Life
Perouges
One of the most beautiful villages in France, Perogues developed in the 14th and 15th centuries around local wine-making and weaving industries. Grown from Wine
Sanctuaire d'Ars
Learn about the generous work of St. John Vianney in the museum and shrine housed in a Romantic basilica. Doing God's Work
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