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How to Get to Lyon from the UK

Compare driving, ferry, and flight options

Ferry Port

Calais

850 km, 8-9 hours

Airport

Lyon-Saint Exupéry

From Calais

8-9 hours

Est. Tolls

£55-£70

About Lyon

France's second city and undisputed food capital sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Renaissance old town, traboules (hidden passageways), and bouchon restaurants serving Lyonnaise cuisine. It's also a gateway to the Alps and wine regions of Beaujolais and Burgundy.

Best for

FoodCity breaksWineAlps gateway

Tips for Getting to Lyon

Lyon is far enough south that flying becomes very competitive — check direct flights from the UK.

If driving from Calais, the A26/A5/A31/A6 route through Champagne and Burgundy is the most direct.

Tolls from Calais to Lyon total around £55-£70 on the autoroute — a significant cost to factor in.

Consider breaking the journey near Reims or Dijon, both are excellent overnight stop options with great food and wine.

Fill up at supermarket fuel stations (Leclerc, Carrefour) — motorway services charge 15-20% more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fly or drive to Lyon from the UK?

Flying is often more practical for Lyon. Direct flights from London, Manchester, Bristol and other UK airports are frequent and affordable. Driving from Calais takes 8-9 hours and costs £55-£70 in tolls alone, plus fuel.

Where should I stop if driving to Lyon?

Reims (champagne capital) or Dijon (Burgundy) are natural halfway stops from Calais to Lyon. Both cities offer excellent food, wine, and accommodation options.