The Ultimate Guide to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Overview of Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS), named after the famed French aviator and author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, is one of France's busiest airports and a key hub for travel in southeastern France. Located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) east of Lyon’s city center, it serves as a gateway to Lyon, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, and popular destinations like the French Alps. Renowned for its efficiency and modern facilities, LYS is a hub for Air France and a major base for low-cost carriers like easyJet.

• Location: Colombier-Saugnieu, Lyon, France

• IATA Code: LYS

• ICAO Code: LFLL

• Opened: 1975

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 11 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, integrated into one building)

History of Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport

Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport opened in 1975 to replace the older Lyon-Bron Airport, which could no longer handle modern passenger aircraft. Named after Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in 2000, the airport has undergone significant expansions and upgrades, including the construction of the futuristic Gare TGV station designed by Santiago Calatrava, connecting the airport to France’s high-speed rail network.

Terminal Layout at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport

Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport has two terminals integrated into a single building for ease of navigation.

1. Terminal 1

• Overview:

  • Handles most international and non-Schengen flights.

• Key Features:

  • Modern check-in areas and security facilities.

  • Duty-free shopping and dining options.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Emirates, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and others.

2. Terminal 2

• Overview:

  • Dedicated primarily to Schengen and domestic flights.

• Key Features:

  • Compact design for efficient boarding and arrivals.

  • Family-friendly amenities and business lounges.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Air France, easyJet, and other European carriers.

Integrated Design

• Passengers can move seamlessly between the terminals, as they are part of a single complex.

Transportation Options to and from LYS

1. Rhône Express Tram

• Details:

  • A high-speed tram service connecting the airport to Lyon Part-Dieu train station.

• Travel Time: ~30 minutes.

• Cost: €16.30 (one-way adult ticket).

2. TGV Train Station (Gare TGV)

• Details:

  • High-speed trains connect the airport to major French cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lille.

• Advantages:

  • Convenient for long-distance travel, reducing the need for additional ground transport.

3. Public Buses

• Details:

  • Local bus routes connect the airport to surrounding areas and Lyon’s public transport network.

• Travel Time: ~45 minutes to Lyon city center.

• Cost: Starting at €2.50.

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel Time: ~25-35 minutes to Lyon city center.

  • Cost: ~€50-70, depending on traffic.

• Rideshare:

  • Uber and Bolt operate at designated pickup zones.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and more.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of both terminals.

Parking at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P0, P1)

• Details:

  • Close to the terminal, ideal for quick drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at €4/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (P5, P6)

• Details:

  • Budget-friendly options located farther from the terminal, with shuttle services.

• Cost: Starting at €10/day.

3. Premium Parking (P2, P3)

• Details:

  • Reserved spaces near the terminal entrances with valet services.

• Cost: Starting at €25/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations are available in select parking areas.

  • Fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at LYS

• Local French Cuisine:

  • L’Atelier des Chefs: Traditional French dishes like croque monsieur and quiche.

  • Paul: A popular bakery offering sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

• International Options:

  • Starbucks: Coffee and light snacks for travelers on the go.

  • Burger King: Quick and familiar fast-food meals.

Shopping at LYS

• Duty-Free:

  • Wide selection of perfumes, cosmetics, and alcohol.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Longchamp, L’Occitane en Provence, and Swarovski.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like "Terres Lyonnaises" offer wines, gourmet foods, and regional souvenirs.

• Essentials:

  • Relay for books, magazines, and travel accessories.

Lounges at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport

1. Mont Blanc Lounge (Terminal 1)

• Access: Available to premium passengers and Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Complimentary food, beverages, and Wi-Fi.

  • Relaxation areas and business workstations.

2. Confluence Lounge (Terminal 2)

• Access: Open to all passengers for a fee or through airline memberships.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating.

  • Panoramic runway views.

Nearby Hotels

1. NH Lyon Airport

• Distance: Located directly opposite the terminal.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, fitness center, and on-site dining.

2. Moxy Lyon Airport

• Distance: A 5-minute walk from the terminals.

• Features:

  • Trendy and affordable, with a vibrant social atmosphere.

3. Kyriad Lyon Saint-Exupéry

• Distance: 10 minutes by car or shuttle.

• Features:

  • Comfortable accommodations with free airport shuttle service.

Top Tips for Travelers at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Use the Rhône Express: The fastest way to reach Lyon city center.

3. Try Local Cuisine: Sample French pastries or a Lyonnaise salad at airport restaurants.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the airport.

5. Shop for Regional Products: Pick up wine, cheese, or gourmet items as souvenirs.

Future Developments at LYS

• Terminal Expansion: Plans to increase passenger capacity with new gates and enhanced facilities.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy and eco-friendly airport operations.

• Improved Connectivity: Enhancements to public transport links and road access.

Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport combines modern convenience with French hospitality, making it an ideal gateway to the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and beyond. Whether you're exploring Lyon or connecting to another destination, LYS ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.