- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Lyon
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$213
Average price
$213
Fastest journey
5 h 37 m
Average duration
5 h 37 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
636 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Lyon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Lyon will cost around $213 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $213.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Essen for Lyon on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 636 km distance in an average of 5 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 37 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 37 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:33 AM5h37Essen12:10 PMLyon$2131One-way0 transfers
- 6:33 AM5h37Essen12:10 PMLyon$2131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Lyon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 41m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $145.
Distance: 395 miles (636 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$206 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $221 Average price | $152 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration Fastest 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 26m Average total duration 12h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 50m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Lyon is a bus with an average price of $36.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Lyon:
A bus is $170 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Lyon costing on average $206.
A bus is $184 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Lyon costing on average $221.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Lyon is by train with an average journey time of 5h 41m.
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 50m.
Bus takes on average 12h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Lyon including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 55m sooner (5h 41m by train vs 8h 36m by car). Tickets start at around $206 compared to roughly $152 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Lyon train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Lyon trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:33 AM Essen | 5h37 | 12:10 PM Lyon | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Lyon by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Lyon
Belgium
France
Trains from Essen to Lyon run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $150 but you can travel from only $33 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:38, the last at 16:04. The fastest train covers the 395 miles (636 km) distance in 5h 37m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $33
Distance 395 miles (636 km) |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $150 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 5h 37m |
First train 6:38 AM |
Last train 4:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $33
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Lyon trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Lyon from $33. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 58m
Cheapest Price
$278
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lyon
Things to do in Lyon
Discover the best of Lyon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lyon trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Cinéma et Miniature
Museum of cinema miniatures and film props in Vieux Lyon. Popular for detailed sets, special-effects history, and family-friendly exhibits.
- Must visit
Musée des Confluences
Excellent free natural history and ethnography museum with fossils, animals, and global cultures. A strong local favorite, especially for families.
- Must visit
Vieux Lyon
Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes, traboules, courtyards, and major monuments. Essential for atmosphere, history, and walking exploration.
- Must visit
Presqu'île
Central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône, packed with elegant streets, squares, shopping, and many of Lyon’s classic city views.
- Must visit
La Croix-Rousse
Historic silk-workers’ hill district with stairways, murals, markets, and hidden passageways. Great for local character and city panoramas.
Quenelles De Brochet
Pike dumplings in a rich crayfish sauce. A Lyon classic from traditional bouchons, prized for its delicate fish texture and luxurious sauce.
Salade Lyonnaise
Crisp salad of frisée, bacon lardons, croutons, and a poached egg. A staple Lyonnaise bistro dish that reflects the city's hearty cooking style.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cervelle De Canut
Slow-cooked onions with vinegar, often served warm or chilled. This old Lyonnais side dish is traditional in bouchons and pairs well with charcuterie.
L'Auberge Du Pont De Collonges
Refined dining by Paul Bocuse, known for polished French cuisine and iconic Lyon dishes in an elegant, historic dining room.
Le Musée
Well-known traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon, praised for generous Lyonnais specialties and a lively old-city atmosphere.
Café Comptoir Abel
Historic bouchon near Place Bellecour serving quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and classic regional fare in a warm traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while public transport is good value for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Lyon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Lyon by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lyon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Lyon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $150, while the average price is around $206.
The train from Essen to Lyon takes 5h 37m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Lyon is 395 miles (636 km).
The first train from Essen to Lyon leaves at 6:38 AM.
The last train from Essen to Lyon leaves at 4:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Lyon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Lyon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Lyon.
The train station in Essen that goes to Lyon is Antwerp-Central, which connects to Lyon Part Dieu.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Lyon is by bus, with a cost of around $33.
The train journey from Essen to Lyon offers scenic views, particularly when passing through the rolling hills of the German countryside and the picturesque landscapes of the French region, including sections near the Rhine River and the vineyards of eastern France.
A day trip from Essen to Lyon is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 37m and there is only 1 train per day, covering a distance of 395 miles (636 km).
In Lyon, you can explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an indoor market offering gourmet food, take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône, and discover the secret passageways of the traboules in Vieux Lyon. Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon or visit the Institut Lumière for cinema history. Don't miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views, Vieux Lyon for its Renaissance architecture, Parc de la Tête d'Or with its zoo and botanical garden, the Musée des Confluences, or the bustling Place Bellecour.
For a fulfilling experience in Lyon, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore key attractions such as Vieux Lyon, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Musée des Confluences, while also enjoying the city's renowned gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Lyon.
Since both Essen and Lyon are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Lyon include Annecy, Saint-Étienne, Avignon, Grenoble, Perouges.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lyon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist spots, and markets. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy zones ensures a safer visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Lyon
Most Essen to Lyon trains use the Antwerpen Centraal to Lyon Part Dieu station pair, with some services arriving at Lyon-Perrache. Use this guide to compare Essen and Lyon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Lyon
Which Lyon station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Lyon most often arrive at Lyon Part Dieu. Some services arrive at Lyon-Perrache, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Lyon arrival station.
Lyon Part Dieu5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France+33 184943635 
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon Part Dieu from Lyon city centre
Lyon Part Dieu is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX75 · 25m · $4 · every ~1 min
Lyon Part Dieu train station facilities and services
Lyon Part Dieu has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Alto Café, Paul, Paul The Café, Starbucks, Exki, Sushi Shop, Carrefour
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free unlimited WiFi. ATMs are located in the station's main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45, Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45, Sun: 06:45 - 21:45. Information desks are located in the station's main hall. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon Part Dieu: Complimentary personalized care is available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon, Mercure Lyon Center, ibis Styles Lyon Center.
Lyon-Perrache14 cours de Verdun, 69002 Lyon, France+33 72401062
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon-Perrache from Lyon city centre
Lyon-Perrache is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN734 · 10m · $1
Jd397 · 24m
Lyon-Perrache train station facilities and services
Lyon-Perrache has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: PAUL
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION.". ATMs are aTM machine is located in Hall Level 2 in front of the PAUL bakery.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 18:00. Information desks are information services are available at the ticket office, located in Hall Level 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon-Perrache: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon-Perrache: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon-Perrache: Hearing, mobility, and visual disability assistance. Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Mercure Lyon Centre Chateau Perrache, Hotel De Normandie, InterContinental Lyon-Hotel Dieu.
Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGVRue de Grèce, 69125 Colombier-Saugnieu, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV from Lyon city centre
Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV is 3 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRx · 32m · $20 · every ~8 min
BusS766, 776, 787, N760, N1759, 1776, 1624, N746, 1779, S1736, 1606, 1787, 1676 · 36m · $2 · every ~1 min
Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV train station facilities and services
Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Moxy Lyon Airport, NH Lyon Airport Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Moxy Lyon Airport, NH Lyon Airport, Ibis Budget Aéroport Lyon Saint Exupéry.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Lyon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lyon and Essen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
