Manchester
United Kingdom
1,200 km
12-14 hours driving
Lyon
France
Distance
1,200 km
Drive Time
12-14 hours
Est. Fuel
£95-£120
Est. Tolls
£55-£70
Route Overview
Manchester to Lyon is roughly 1,200 km and typically needs an overnight stop. The route via Dover/Calais then the A6 autoroute through Burgundy takes 12-14 hours of driving plus crossing time.
Best crossing option
Fly + hire or Eurotunnel
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £280-£390 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £230-£330 |
| 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
Manchester has direct flights to Lyon — compare costs before committing to the drive.
If driving, the M6/M1/M20 route to Folkestone is the most direct path to the Channel.
Budget £50-£60 just for UK fuel (Manchester to Dover) before crossing and French costs.
Lyon sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers — parking near the centre can be challenging.
The drive through the English Midlands and southern England takes 4-5 hours before reaching the Channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Manchester to Lyon?
Flying is usually the best value. Manchester Airport has direct flights to Lyon from around £80-£140 per person return. Driving costs £230+ one way including UK fuel (£50-£60), Channel crossing, French fuel, and tolls (£55-£70), plus a likely overnight hotel.
How long does it take to drive from Manchester to Lyon?
The total drive takes 12-14 hours plus the Channel crossing. The UK leg from Manchester to Folkestone is 4-5 hours, followed by 7-9 hours through France via Reims and Dijon. An overnight stop is recommended.
Where is the best place to stop overnight between Manchester and Lyon?
In France, Reims is an excellent stop — roughly 2 hours from Calais with great restaurants and affordable hotels. Dijon is another option, about 4-5 hours from Calais and just 2 hours from Lyon. Both are on the direct route.
Get an exact cost for Manchester to Lyon
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare Manchester → Lyon