4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Barcelona
Cheapest price
$137
Average price
$137
Fastest journey
4 h 48 m
Average duration
4 h 48 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
531 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lyon to Barcelona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Barcelona will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $137.
Of the 1 trains that leave Lyon for Barcelona on Wed, Dec 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Dec 31 the direct trains cover the 531 km distance in an average of 4 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 48 m .
On Wed, Dec 31 the slowest trains will take 4 h 48 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.
0974209742Lyon - BarcelonaCompare AVE, TGV INOUI
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lyon to Barcelona
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Barcelona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a flight costs an average of €36.
Distance: 329 miles (531 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€119 Average price | €48 Average price Cheapest | €139 Average price |
5h 35m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Lyon to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Barcelona trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, December 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09742 | On time 1:35 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 4h48 | 6:23 PM Barcelona Sants | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lyon to Barcelona 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.
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Why should you book Lyon to Barcelona trains with Omio?
AVE as well as TGV INOUI, Renfe and Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Lyon to Barcelona. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lyon to Barcelona.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of TGV INOUI, Renfe and Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Lyon to Barcelona.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lyon to Barcelona.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While AVE tickets can be bought on AVE's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of TGV INOUI, Renfe and Renfe Viajeros to help you choose the right option for your journey from Lyon to Barcelona.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lyon to Barcelona.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lyon to Barcelona?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Barcelona
France
Spain
Trains from Lyon to Barcelona run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $68 (€54) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:20, the last at 22:32. The fastest train covers the 329 miles (531 km) distance in 3h 21m.
Distance 329 miles (531 km) |
Average train duration 5h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $68 (€54) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 21m |
First train 02:20 |
Last train 22:32 |
Train companies: AVE, TGV INOUI, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros from Lyon to Barcelona trainsAVE, TGV INOUI, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Lyon and Barcelona from $29 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
TGV INOUI
Renfe
Renfe Viajeros
Lyon To Barcelona By Train With Renfe's AVE Internacional
Introduction
I took the Renfe AVE Internacional from Lyon to Barcelona because I wanted a relaxing journey, and with Renfe I'm always certain of an excellent trip. Boarding at Lyon Part-Dieu and arriving at Barcelona Sants, Renfe delivers comfort, polished service and wide windows that make the ~5-hour ride a pleasure. For me, the stretch after Montpellier, skimming inland lagoons and coastal plains, was the highlight of the trip!
Route Overview
The train from Lyon to Barcelona covers around 690 km and typically takes about 5 hours. This cross-border Renfe AVE Internacional service connects France and Spain directly, avoiding airport queues or long motorway drives. The route competes well with flying, offering central station departures and smooth city-centre arrivals. Compared with the bus, it saves several hours and adds the comfort of generous legroom, reliable service, and scenic stretches along southern France’s coastline.
Transportation Experience
I booked a First Class AVE train ticket on Omio about a month in advance for €74. The booking was processed instantly, and I received a mobile ticket for easy check-in. Lyon Part-Dieu has a compact yet busy concourse with shops, cafés and restaurants, so arriving early gives time to grab coffee or a snack before departure. Staff checked tickets before access to the platform, and the boarding process was calm and well organised, setting a relaxed tone for the journey.
Route Details
Departure & Arrival Stations
Lyon Part-Dieu sits right in the heart of the city, and you can connect easily to Lyon’s buses, trams, and metro network. If you’re flying in, the Rhônexpress tram takes you straight from the airport to the station in about 30 minutes. You’ll find cafés, restaurants, shops, and luggage lockers here, so it’s easy to grab a bite or relax before boarding.
Barcelona Sants is Barcelona’s main rail hub. It connects directly to the L1 and L5 metro lines, as well as city and long-distance buses, placing you within minutes of the entire city and its surroundings. There are also plenty of nearby cafés and shops if you need a quick refresh before heading out to explore.
Schedule & Frequency
Renfe AVE trains on this international route run once daily in each direction, departing at 2:33 PM. The journey takes about 5 hours, making it easy to travel between Lyon and Barcelona and still have part of the evening free once you arrive. The schedule is reliable and ideal if you prefer daytime travel without early starts or late-night arrivals.
Onboard Experience & Services
Traveling in First Class felt calm, comfortable, and extremely relaxing. The seats recline and provide enough legroom to stretch comfortably. Each seat has a reading light and a fold-down tray, and the cabin stayed quiet, which made it easy to read or nap.
Renfe provides Wi-Fi via the PlayRENFE platform, where you can stream films, TV series, newspapers, documentaries, and even language courses! Connection quality may drop briefly in rural stretches and tunnels, but overall, the Wi-Fi and the PlayRENFE app are extremely reliable.
The bar car is worth visiting. I enjoyed a fresh pastry and a coffee served with tidy presentation and friendly service. For luggage, there are overhead racks and larger stacks at the ends of the carriage. Included in the purchase price of my ticket, I was allowed up to three bags, each up to 25 kg max.
As for scenery, the landscape after Montpellier is the standout highlight. The line runs alongside inland lagoons that reflect the sky and create long, peaceful vistas. Because the windows are large and the ride smooth, those views feel cinematic rather than just a blur.
Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown
Book at least four weeks in advance to find the best fares and to secure your preferred First Class seats. I booked through Omio and received my mobile ticket immediately, which made the process quick and stress-free.
Budget breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Class AVE ticket | €74 | purchased one month ahead |
| Coffee and pastry | €6.10 | from the AVE bar car |
| Total | €80.10 |
Top Tips & Personal Recommendations
These are my top tips to make the most of your train trip from Lyon to Barcelona.
- Arrive early at Lyon Part-Dieu: Give yourself time to relax, grab a coffee, or browse the shops before departure.
- Choose the left-hand side: Sit on the left after Montpellier for the best Mediterranean views.
- Bring your passport or ID: Although there’s no border control between France and Spain, you’ll need identification if railway staff perform checks on this international service.
- Use the PlayRENFE app: Download it before boarding to enjoy movies and music while you travel.
- Visit the bar car: Treat yourself because the food, drinks, and service are worth the stop.
Conclusion
The Renfe AVE Internacional train from Lyon to Barcelona turns travel into a comfortable chance to relax and enjoy ever-changing but always beautiful landscapes. With First Class comfort, PlayRENFE entertainment, and a friendly, attentive crew, the trip combines service and scenery beautifully. If you plan to travel this corridor, sit back, relax, and let the journey set the tone for your time in Barcelona. Plan your journey today.
About the Author: Paulo Monteiro
- Job Title: Travel Creator and Rail Writer
- Bio: Paulo Monteiro is a European rail specialist and creator of travel videos and guides. He documents first-hand train journeys across Europe and focuses on onboard comfort, practical tips, and scenic moments.
Train tickets from Lyon to Barcelona: when to book to save $
The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:
- Buying your train ticket from Lyon - Barcelona 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 69% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
- If you book a ticket Lyon - Barcelona with 2 months in advance you save up to about 61% compared to the initial price.
- By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 69%.
- On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.
FAQs: Trains from Lyon to Barcelona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lyon to Barcelona
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
- Free unlimited WiFi.
- Luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk.
- Alto Café
- Paul
- Paul The Café
- Starbucks
- Exki
- Sushi Shop
- Carrefour
- Complimentary personalized care is available.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon
- Mercure Lyon Center
- ibis Styles Lyon Center
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
- Located in the station's main hall.
- Metro lines: A, B, C, D
- Tram lines: T4, K240, T3, K100
- Bus lines: 2960, C2, C3, C6, C9
- Train lines: TGV, TGV Lyria, TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER, Intercités, Eurostar, AVE
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with access from Avenue Jean Jaurès.
- Le Jean Moulin
- Brasserie de l'Est
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- €0.50
- Ibis Lyon Centre
- Hotel des Facultés
- Comfort Suites Rive Gauche Lyon Centre
- Located in the main hall
- 100 places, covered
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for regional and local trains
- Hall 2: access to metro and tramway connections
- Metro: Line B
- Tramway: Line T2
- Bus: Several lines available
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Hotspots in and near restaurants.
- Staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00.
- McDonald’s
- Caffe di Fiore
- Ars Café
- Café de l'Estació
- Café de l’Estació Deli
- Lavazza
- Como
- Peter's
- Tutti Frutti
- Enrique Tomás
- & many more
- All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
- Apartments Eixample
- Apartment Guell
- Sweet Inn Callao
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Located in various locations inside the station.
- Metro lines: L3, L5
- Bus lines: A1, A2
- Train lines: AVE, Alvia, Euromed, Talgo, Trenhotel, TGV, Avant, Intercity, R1, R2, R2 Nord, R2 Sud, R3, R4, RG1, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17
More options for your journey from Lyon to Barcelona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barcelona and Lyon
Most popular train connections to Barcelona
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