London
United Kingdom
950 km
9-11 hours driving
Lyon
France
Distance
950 km
Drive Time
9-11 hours
Est. Fuel
£75-£95
Est. Tolls
£55-£70
Route Overview
London to Lyon is around 950 km via the Eurotunnel and the A6 autoroute through Burgundy. This is a full day's drive that typically needs an overnight stop, though it's manageable in one go for experienced drivers.
Best crossing option
Eurotunnel or Dover-Calais ferry
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £260-£365 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £210-£305 |
| 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
The A6 autoroute through Burgundy is scenic and well-maintained, but tolls add up quickly.
Lyon's Part-Dieu and Perrache areas have affordable parking garages if you're staying centrally.
Consider stopping in Reims or Dijon to break up the journey — both cities are worth exploring.
Lyon is France's gastronomic capital — book ahead at traditional bouchons for authentic local cuisine.
Driving through Lyon during rush hour (7-9am, 5-8pm) can add significant time — plan around it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from London to Lyon?
The cheapest driving option is the Dover-Calais ferry combined with the A6 autoroute, costing around £210-£305 one way. Flying from London to Lyon can be cheaper for 1-2 people, with budget fares from £50-£100 per person return. Driving is better value for families.
How long does it take to drive from London to Lyon?
The journey takes 9-11 hours of driving time plus the Channel crossing. From Calais, the route through Reims and Dijon on the A26/A6 is the most direct, taking around 7-8 hours of French driving.
What is parking like in Lyon?
Lyon has several affordable parking garages near the centre, particularly around Part-Dieu and Perrache. Expect to pay £12-£20 per day. Street parking in the old town (Vieux Lyon) is very limited. Park and Ride options on the metro lines are the cheapest at around £3-£5 per day.
Get an exact cost for London to Lyon
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare London → Lyon