5 Easy Day Trips from Lyon by Train
- Feb 17
- 3 min read
Vineyards, Medieval Towns & French Life — All Under One Hour
Often overlooked as a base, Lyon is one of France’s most powerful rail hubs. Sitting at the crossroads of major north–south and east–west routes, Lyon allows you to reach wine country, medieval towns and riverside cities in under an hour — all without hiring a car.
If you’re staying in Lyon for more than a couple of nights, these five day trips are perfect for seeing more of the region while keeping one base. Each works as a relaxed, out-and-back rail journey, with time for sightseeing, lunch and an easy return to Lyon for dinner.
Pérouges: A Perfectly Preserved Medieval Village
Pérouges feels like stepping into a film set — cobbled streets, stone houses and flower-filled courtyards. Despite its beauty, it remains refreshingly calm compared to larger tourist centres.
Getting there by train
Lyon Part-Dieu → Meximieux-Pérouges
TER
Journey time: 30 minutes
15-minute uphill walk to the village
What to do when you arrive
Wander the medieval streets, climb the gate towers and enjoy the slow pace. Pérouges is about atmosphere rather than attractions.
Where to eat lunch
Hostellerie de Pérouges is famous for local dishes and the traditional galette de Pérouges.For something lighter, small cafés line the main square.
Savvy train traveller tips
Wear comfortable shoes for cobbles
Easy half-day trip
Quieter mid-week
When to go
Spring to autumn is ideal.
Vienne: Roman Ruins & Rhône Valley Charm
Vienne combines Roman heritage with a relaxed riverside feel. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding quick escapes from Lyon.
Getting there by train
Lyon Part-Dieu → Vienne
TER
Journey time: 20 minutes
What to do when you arrive
Visit the Roman theatre, Temple of Augustus and Livia, then stroll along the Rhône.
Where to eat lunch
La Table de Philippe Girardon for refined local cuisine.For casual dining, Les Trois Marches is central and reliable.
Savvy train traveller tips
No planning required — trains run constantly
Ideal short escape from city sightseeing
When to go
Excellent year-round.
Beaujolais: Vineyards Without a Car
Lyon is the gateway to Beaujolais wine country, and several villages are easily reached by train.
Getting there by train
Lyon Part-Dieu → Belleville-sur-Saône
TER
Journey time: 35–40 minutes
What to do when you arrive
Explore the town, walk into nearby vineyards or book a local tasting.
Where to eat lunch
Auberge de Clochemerle (short taxi ride) is a regional classic.
Savvy train traveller tips
TER tickets allow flexibility
Tastings require advance booking
When to go
Late spring and autumn are best.
Annecy: Alpine Beauty in Under an Hour
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy offers canals, mountains and crystal-clear lake views.
Getting there by train
Lyon Part-Dieu → Annecy
TER
Journey time: 55–60 minutes
What to do when you arrive
Explore the old town, walk the lakefront, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Where to eat lunch
Le Freti is famous for Savoyard specialities.For lakeside views, La Bicyclette Rose is relaxed and popular.
Savvy train traveller tips
Sit on the left side for lake views on arrival
Very popular in summer — go early
When to go
Late spring to early autumn.
Mâcon: Burgundy Flavours Without the Crowds
Mâcon offers wine, riverside walks and a slower pace than larger Burgundy cities.
Getting there by train
Lyon Part-Dieu → Mâcon-Ville
TER
Journey time: 40 minutes
What to do when you arrive
Explore the old town, stroll the Saône riverbanks and enjoy local wine bars.
Where to eat lunch
L’Autre Rive is a solid local choice.
Savvy train traveller tips
Ideal low-key day
Rarely crowded
When to go
Spring through autumn.
Why Lyon Is an Underrated Day-Trip Base
Lyon’s rail connections make it one of France’s most versatile bases for independent travel. With frequent regional trains and compact destinations, it’s ideal for travellers who want variety without logistical stress.
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