- Must visit
Old Synagogue Museum
Museum in the former synagogue with the famous Erfurt Treasure. It offers rare insight into medieval Jewish life and heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Erfurt
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
Kč3357
Average ticket price on Sep 17
Kč4482
Fastest journey on Sep 17
8 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
9 h 8 m
Trains on Sep 17
3
Distance
739 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lyon to Erfurt is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Erfurt will cost around Kč4482 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only Kč3357.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 3 trains from Lyon to Erfurt, including 3 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 739 km distance in an average of 9 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 36 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 9 h 40 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.
9:01 AM9h07Lyon6:08 PMErfurtKč33571One-way0 transfers- 8:01 AM9h40Lyon5:41 PMErfurtKč47021One-way0 transfers
6:32 AM8h36Lyon3:08 PMErfurtKč53881One-way0 transfers
- 6:32 AM8h36Lyon3:08 PMErfurtKč53881One-way0 transfers
- 9:01 AM9h07Lyon6:08 PMErfurtKč33571One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM9h40Lyon5:41 PMErfurtKč47021One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Lyon to Erfurt
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of Kč1879 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 8h 56m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of Kč1879, while a train costs an average of Kč3740.
Distance: 459 miles (739 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
Kč3740 Average price | Kč1879 Average price Cheapest | Kč4788 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 56m Average total duration Fastest 8h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 23m Average total duration 16h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Lyon to Erfurt is a bus with an average price of Kč1879.
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Erfurt:
A bus is Kč1860 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Erfurt costing on average Kč3740.
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Erfurt is by train with an average journey time of 8h 26m.
Other travel options to Erfurt take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lyon and Erfurt including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Erfurt among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 20m faster (8h 26m by train vs 9h 46m by car) and roughly Kč1049 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (Kč3740 vs Kč4788). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lyon to Erfurt train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Erfurt trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:32 AM Lyon | 8h36 | 3:08 PM Erfurt | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:01 AM Lyon | 9h40 | 5:41 PM Erfurt | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:01 AM Lyon | 9h07 | 6:08 PM Erfurt | 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 Erfurt by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Erfurt
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Erfurt run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at Kč1527 but you can travel from only Kč1138 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 459 miles (739 km) distance in 7h 51m.
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 Kč1138
Distance 459 miles (739 km) |
Average train duration 8h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price Kč1527 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 51m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 days |
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 Kč1138
Train companies: TGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI from Lyon to Erfurt trainsTGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Lyon and Erfurt from Kč1138. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TGV Duration
7h 51m
Cheapest TGV Price
Kč2225
TGV frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
8h 1m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
Kč1527
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Erfurt
Things to do in Erfurt
Discover the best of Erfurt — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erfurt trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle Erfurt
Major art museum in a former packing warehouse. It presents modern and contemporary exhibitions in one of Erfurt’s most celebrated cultural venues.
- Recommended
Erfurt City Museum
City museum tracing Erfurt’s history from medieval trade to modern times. A strong introduction to the city before exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Fischmarkt
Historic main square with Gothic town hall, colorful houses, and frequent events. It is one of the best places to feel Erfurt’s civic heart.
- Must visit
Erfurt Old Town
Historic old-town area of lanes, bridges, and merchant houses. Best explored without a plan, it captures Erfurt’s preserved medieval charm.
- Recommended
Anger
Elegant shopping boulevard and tram hub with historic facades. It is ideal for people-watching and understanding the city’s commercial center.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringian grilled sausage, seasoned with marjoram and grilled over charcoal. It is Erfurt's signature street food and a protected regional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Zwiebelkuchen
A rustic onion tart with a savory filling of onions, eggs, and cream, often enjoyed in autumn with new wine in Thuringia.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
Small potato dumplings, often served with roast dishes and gravy. They are a classic Thuringian side and a staple of local home cooking.
Clara - Restaurant im Kaisersaal
Historic fine dining restaurant in the old town, known for refined Thuringian and German cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting.
Gasthaus Feuerkugel
Traditional inn near the cathedral, popular for Thuringian classics, local beer, and a warm tavern atmosphere.
Altstadtkneipe No. 1 Zum Güldenen Rade
Well-known brewery restaurant serving house beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic brewpub setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging, meals, and transit are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but pricier than many smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip cafes by rounding up and taxis by rounding up or about 10% for good service.
EVA mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €6.20
To the city center
Erfurt Hbf -> Domplatz, Erfurt
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding if they are not pre-printed with the time.
- Contactless card payment is available in many ticket machines, but onboard payment options can vary by vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Lyon to Erfurt
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lyon to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at Kč1527, while the average price is around Kč3740.
The train from Lyon to Erfurt takes 7h 51m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Lyon to Erfurt is 459 miles (739 km).
The first train from Lyon to Erfurt leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Lyon to Erfurt leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lyon to Erfurt.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Erfurt.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Erfurt.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Erfurt is Lyon Part Dieu, which connects to Erfurt Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lyon to Erfurt is by bus, with a cost of around Kč1138.
The train journey from Lyon to Erfurt offers scenic views, especially as it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of the French and German countryside, including rolling hills, charming villages, and stretches of lush greenery.
A day trip from Lyon to Erfurt is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 51m. There are 3 trains per day for this route, covering a distance of 459 miles (739 km).
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, vibrant culture, and local cuisine, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Lyon to Erfurt.
Since both Lyon and Erfurt 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 Erfurt include Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Halle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Erfurt among Omio's users.
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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Erfurt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial guides may occur, so it’s advisable to use authorized services. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated streets at night for a safer experience.
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 Lyon to Erfurt
Most Lyon to Erfurt trains use the Lyon Part Dieu to Erfurt Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Lyon and Erfurt train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lyon
Arrival train stations in Erfurt
Which Lyon station do trains to Erfurt leave from?
Trains from Lyon to Erfurt leave from Lyon Part Dieu. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Lyon city centre at 5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France.
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 · Kč78 · 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.
Which Erfurt station do trains from Lyon arrive at?
Trains from Lyon to Erfurt arrive at Erfurt Hbf. Erfurt Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Erfurt city centre.
Erfurt HbfErfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 Erfurt
City-centre transport
Getting to Erfurt Hbf from Erfurt city centre
Bus9 · 17m · every ~12 min
Tram6, 5, 1 · 5m · every ~20 min
Erfurt Hbf train station facilities and services
Erfurt Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Istanbul Grill, McDonald's, Masala, Planet Comics
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Hbf. ATMs are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Hbf. Information desks are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Krämerbrücke, Intercity Hotel, Pension am Dom, Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior.
More options for your journey from Lyon to Erfurt
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erfurt and Lyon
Most popular train connections to Erfurt
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