Birmingham
United Kingdom
1,050 km
10-12 hours driving
Lyon
France
Distance
1,050 km
Drive Time
10-12 hours
Est. Fuel
£85-£110
Est. Tolls
£55-£70
Route Overview
Birmingham to Lyon is roughly 1,050 km. The drive through England to the Channel then south through France via Reims takes 10-12 hours plus crossing time.
Best crossing option
Eurotunnel or fly + hire
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £270-£380 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £220-£320 |
| Fly + Hire | £110-£260 | £185-£440 |
Estimated costs for 2 adults, standard car. Actual prices vary by season, booking time, and vehicle. Use our calculator for personalised results.
Tips for This Route
Lyon is far enough south that flying becomes very competitive — check Birmingham Airport routes.
If driving, 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.
Lyon is France's food capital — plan to arrive hungry.
Consider breaking the journey near Reims or Dijon, both are great overnight stop options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Lyon?
Flying is often the best value. Birmingham Airport has routes to Lyon, with return flights from around £80-£150 per person. Driving costs £220+ one way including fuel, tolls, and the Channel crossing, plus you may need an overnight hotel.
How long does it take to drive from Birmingham to Lyon?
The journey takes 10-12 hours of driving plus the Channel crossing. The UK leg (Birmingham to Folkestone) is about 2.5-3 hours, then 7-9 hours through France via Reims and Dijon.
Where should I stop overnight on the drive to Lyon?
Reims and Dijon are both excellent overnight stops, roughly 4-5 hours into the French leg of the drive. Both cities have great restaurants, affordable hotels, and are worth exploring in their own right.
Get an exact cost for Birmingham to Lyon
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare Birmingham → Lyon