Lyon Required Information
France International Travel Information.
Lyon, in line with the rest of France, uses the euro (EUR, €) as its official currency. Both coins (€1, €2, and cents) and banknotes (€5 to €500) are in circulation and are widely accepted throughout the city for everyday transactions.
In Lyon, as in the rest of France, the standard power outlets are Type C and Type E, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. If your devices use a different plug type or voltage, you may need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter to use them safely.
Lyon has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system operated by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais). It includes metro, trams, buses, and funiculars, making it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas. Tickets are valid across all modes of transport and can be purchased at stations, via mobile apps, or kiosks. For visitors, day passes or multi-day cards offer good value and convenience. The network runs frequently and is generally safe, clean, and reliable.
Lyon is well-connected to various European countries via an extensive rail network. High-speed TGV and international trains link Lyon to major cities such as Paris, Brussels, Geneva, Milan, and Barcelona. For instance, the journey from Paris to Lyon takes approximately two hours, while trips from Geneva and Milan are also direct and efficient. Lyon’s main train stations, Part-Dieu and Perrache, are centrally located and serve as hubs for both domestic and international routes. Booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure the best fares, with options available through platforms like SNCF Connect and Rail Europe.
To travel to Lyon, France, you’ll need to determine the appropriate visa based on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. For stays up to 90 days—such as tourism, business, or attending a conference—a short-stay Schengen visa is typically required. For stays longer than 90 days, such as for study or work, a long-stay visa is necessary.
The application process involves completing an online form via the official France-Visas portal, gathering the required documents, and attending an in-person appointment to submit your application and biometric data. It’s advisable to apply well in advance, as processing times can vary.France-Visas
To determine whether you need a visa and identify the appropriate type, you can use the Visa Wizard on the France-Visas website.
It’s important for you to be aware of the rules surrounding medications. If you take prescription drugs, be sure to bring enough for your stay, along with a copy of the prescription and the generic names of the medications. Some medicines that are common in other countries may be considered controlled substances in France and could require special documentation. It’s recommended to carry medications in their original packaging and bring a doctor’s note, especially for items like injectables or large quantities. While pharmacies are widely available in Lyon, certain medications may only be dispensed with a prescription. Having travel health insurance is also advisable, as medical care, though excellent, can be costly for visitors.
The Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), is the city’s main international airport. It offers direct flights from many European cities and connecting flights from major hubs worldwide. The airport is located about 25 km from the city center and is easily accessible by train, tram (Rhônexpress), taxi, or rental car. International travelers should check visa requirements, airline regulations, and any health-related entry rules before flying. Booking flights in advance and arriving early for international departures is strongly recommended.
Lyon is a bike-friendly city offering various options for travelers to explore on two wheels. The city’s public bike-sharing system, Vélo’v, provides over 4,000 bicycles, including electric bikes, available at 350 stations across Lyon and Villeurbanne. This system allows for easy online booking and payment, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.