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Getting from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez

Perched at an altitude of 1,860 meters in the Isère region of the Central French Alps, lies Alpe d’Huez. With its spectacular, alpine scenery and an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, few places rival its reputation as a world-class ski destination in winter and a renowned cycling destination in summer.

While Grenoble Airport is closer by, Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LSY) is larger and typically offers a greater selection of international flights, often at lower prices. When traveling from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez, you have four main transport options. For a quick and simple journey, a Lyon Airport taxi is a reliable option. The journey covers a distance of 148 kilometers and takes just under 2 hours.

If you’re seeking an even smoother and efficient travel experience, arranging a Lyon Airport transfer is a smart choice. It combines comfort, flexibility and the extra convenience of a direct pick-up and drop-off service. 

For those looking to save costs, taking a combination of public transport and a taxi is an option. You can take a bus or train from Lyon Airport to Grenoble, then switch to a taxi for the final leg to Alpe d’Huez. The journey typically takes around 2 hours, not including waiting times.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Lyon at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY Action
Taxi €340 115min 24/7
Train + Taxi €166 130min 09:09–21:09
Bus + Taxi €220 130min 07:30–23:30
Welcome Airport Transfer €328 115min 24/7

How to take a taxi from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez

Taking a Lyon Airport taxi is one of the easiest ways to get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez. For those who prioritize comfort and ease, a taxi is an ideal mode of transport for those traveling with heavy luggage, children or in groups. The journey from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez takes 1 hour and 55 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the designated taxi rank located outside the Arrivals Hall at Lyon Airport. Licensed taxis are easily spotted with a “Taxi” or “Taxi Lyon” sign on the roof.

How much does a taxi cost from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez?

The cost of traveling from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez by taxi for up to three passengers is typically around €340 during the day. The fare increases to approximately €463 in the evening, at night, and on weekends or public holidays. Taxis are equipped with meters, so the final price may vary depending on traffic and exact route. The journey covers a distance of about 148 kilometers, offering a direct and comfortable ride.

To avoid waiting in line for a taxi and secure a fixed-rate fare that won’t be impacted by flight delays, consider booking a private Lyon Airport transfer in advance with Welcome Pickups. You’ll be met directly at arrivals by your driver and enjoy the convenience of having your vehicle waiting and ready to depart from the moment you land.

Cost

€340

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 55 Min.

Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 from Lyon Airport (LYS).

Where can I take a taxi from?

The taxi ranks a Lyon Aiprot are located out side the Arrivals Hall Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Follow the signs to the exit and you’ll see the line of taxis waiting right outside the terminal building. Licensed taxis are marked with a “Taxi” or “Taxi Lyon” sign on the roof.

Convenience

Dealing with unfamiliar public transport systems can be overwhelming, especially after a long flight. For those who prefer a more straightforward method, a taxi from Lyon Airport to Grenoble offers a convenient alternative. Though it comes at a higher cost, it ensures a quiet, private space where you can unwind and arrive in Alpe d’Huez feeling rested. The downsides are carrying your luggage to the curb and waiting for an available cab. The best option is to book online in advance with Welcome Pickups to ensure you have a ride and don’t have to wait at all. 

Editor’s Note

You can secure a private personalized ride the moment you land by pre-booking with a provider like Welcome Pickups. That way, you won’t need to wait in line for an available cab among other travelers who might have arrived at the same time as you.

Useful Tips

Not all drivers accept card payments, so it’s wise to carry cash. Remember to confirm your payment options with the taxi provider before you begin your journey.
Always ensure that the taximeter has been reset and turned on before starting your trip.
The route from Lyon to Alpe d’Huez includes toll roads, so additional charges may apply.
Always use official taxis. This ensures drivers and vehicles adhere to government regulations and are trustworthy.

How to get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez by train and taxi

While there is no direct train service all the way to Alpe d’Huez, it is possible to travel part of the journey from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez by train. From Lyon-Saint Exupéry TGV station, you can take a direct TGV inOui train to Grenoble, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes.

From Grenoble, you can then transfer to a taxi for the remainder of your journey. The drive from Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This brings your total travel time from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez to 2 hours and 22 minutes excluding wait times between connections.

How much does the train and taxi from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez cost?

The cost of a one-way ticket from Lyon Airport to Grenoble starts at around €13 per person, however prices can vary depending on demand and when you book. It is recommended to book in advance through the SNCF website or app to secure the best fare. 

The cost of a taxi from Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez for up to 4 passengers with luggage costs €155. This brings the total estimated cost of traveling from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez by train and taxi to €168. 

It is worth noting these prices are based on day time travel. The route from Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez also includes toll roads so additional charges may apply.

Cost

From €153

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 10 Min.

There are usually around 7 departures every day and you may have a wait of up to 4 hours, depending on your arrival time.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

There is a direct TVG inOui train service from Lyon St-Exupéry TGV to Grenoble from 09:10 to 22:09 on weekdays.

Where do I catch the train and taxi from?

Lyon-Saint Exupéry TGV station is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Lyon Airport, between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. After arriving at the airport, simply follow the signs for “Gare TGV” from the Arrivals Hall. Once in Grenoble, you can find the official taxi rank directly outside the Grenoble station. From there, you can hop into a taxi for the final stretch of your journey to Alpe d’Huez.

Convenience

While using public transport may slightly reduce the overall cost of your journey from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez, it often sacrifices convenience and flexibility. Train services can be infrequent, and fares tend to rise during peak travel periods. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that a taxi will be immediately available or willing to make the longer journey to Alpe d’Huez. With added toll fees and potential delays, the cost savings may be marginal, making this option less appealing for some travelers.

Editor’s Note

To ensure a smooth journey, check the train timetable ahead of time. Pre-booking both your train and taxi is recommended to secure availability.

Useful Tips

Train fares can vary depending on the time of day, so it's always a good idea to check in advance to avoid higher fees.
Occasionally, great deals are available on first-class tickets, so it’s worth checking if any are offered on the SNCF website.
Most trains offer a café service, allowing you to enjoy a snack or drink during your journey.
Train carriages are modern with power outlets and WiFi so you can relax during your train ride.
There are a limited number of trains per day, so plan your journey accordingly.

How to get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez by bus

There is one direct bus service from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez, operated by BensBus. This service runs once daily on weekdays and most Saturdays. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes in normal traffic and good weather conditions. Availability is limited, so it’s best to check the latest schedule on the BensBus website before booking.

If the direct departure doesn’t align with your flight arrival time, you can take an alternative route by bus to Grenoble, then continue to Alpe d’Huez by taxi.

Services like FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus operate regularly from Lyon Airport to Grenoble, with journey times of around 1 hour. Once you arrive at Grenoble Central Bus Station, taxis are available outside the main train station, less than 100 meters away. Bus services from Lyon Airport to Grenoble usually operate from 07:30 to 23:30.

How much is the bus from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez?

If you are able to secure a seat on the direct BensBus service, a one-way ticket costs €48 making this the cheapest transport option to get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez. 

If the direct bus isn’t available or doesn’t align with your arrival time and you need to travel via Grenoble, a one-way ticket with FlixBus from Lyon Airport to Grenoble Central Bus Station starts at €10.  From there, a taxi to Alpe d’Huez for up to four passengers with luggage typically costs €155. This brings the total estimated cost of traveling from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez by bus and taxi to around €165 per person.

Keep in mind these prices are based on daytime travel and additional charges may apply for evening or night transfers. The route from Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez includes toll roads so additional charges may apply.

Cost

€165

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 30 Min.

There is a 30-60 minute wait between Flixbus departures.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Flixbus runs between 07:30-23:30 on weekdays, 07:30-21:30 on Saturdays and 08:30-23:30 on Sundays.

Where do I get the bus from?

The bus stop at Lyon Airport is located just outside the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 1. Once you’ve cleared customs, simply follow the signposts to reach it. Tickets can be booked in advance through the FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus websites, or through the official Lyon Airport website. If you prefer to purchase tickets upon arrival, you can do so at self-service machines inside the airport. 

Convenience

If you’re able to secure a direct bus, the cost savings are considerable, and the journey, while slightly longer, is relatively straightforward. However, the infrequent service means it may not align well with your flight arrival time. If the direct option isn’t available, taking a bus to Grenoble and then transferring to a taxi adds additional steps which can lead to delays. Coordinating the availability of bus timetables, onward taxis and toll charges reduce the overall value of the savings. For some travelers, this makes the bus option less practical and more inconvenient compared to alternatives like private transfers or taxis.

Editor’s Note

Due to cost and the duration of the journey, the bus is not a highly recommended option.

Useful Tips

Book tickets in advance to ensure availability and avoid having to wait for the next available bus.
Traffic conditions can affect your journey during peak travel times, so allow extra time in your schedule to accommodate any unforeseen delays.
Flixbus vehicles offer power outlets and WiFi, so you can stay connected during your journey.
It’s a good idea to carry some cash in small notes, just in case your driver doesn’t have change.
One checked bag and one carry-on are included free of charge. Keep essentials like ID and money with you, and store larger items in the luggage compartment for a more comfortable ride.

How to get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez by private transfer

Due to its remote location, the best way to travel from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez is by private transfer. Whether your flight to Lyon was long or short, the final 148-kilometer stretch is significant and you’ll want to arrive comfortably and without any unnecessary delays. The drive from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez in a private transfer takes 1 hour and 55 minutes.

When you book your Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez transfer with Welcome Pickups, everything is taken care of in advance. You’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive price upfront, making your journey cashless, stress-free, and streamlined.

Your transfer service includes a warm meet-and-greet at the arrival gate, help with your luggage, and a professional English-speaking driver. You’ll also enjoy a mini-tour on the way to your destination, offering you an insightful introduction from a local perspective.

How much is a private transfer from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez?

One of the main advantages of booking a private transfer is that payment is all-inclusive and made in advance. This ensures complete price transparency, and the peace of mind that there will be no unexpected charges like toll road fees added on the day. 

With Welcome Pickups, a private transfer from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez for up to 3 people costs €328. For families or groups of up to 8 people, a comfortable minivan is available for €490. Larger groups of 9 can travel for €879, while transfers for 10–12 passengers are priced at €980 in total.

Booking your private transfer is easy. Just visit the Welcome Pickups website or use the Welcome Pickups app. Enter your travel details and flight number, complete your payment, and your ride is confirmed. It is worth noting that these rates apply to daytime transfers; evening or night bookings may be slightly higher.

Cost

€328

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 55 Mins.

*Book your private transfer in advance to guarantee availability.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Lyon Airport.

Where does my private transfer depart from?

Your private transfer departs from just outside the Arrivals Hall, but you won’t need to find it yourself. Your driver will meet you at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name, ready to greet you and guide you directly to your vehicle.

Convenience

For longer journeys where public transport isn’t direct and is often affected by factors like limited timetables and connections being available, a private transfer offers a reliable and immediate solution. Although it may come at a higher cost, the convenience of being met on arrival and taken the most direct route, makes it a worthwhile choice. You can relax knowing your driver will escort you to your mountain getaway quickly, comfortably, and without the complication of coordinating multiple methods of transport along the way.

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are available 24/7 and are ideal for families and groups looking to avoid long queues.

Useful Tips

It is recommended to book your transfer for at least 30 minutes after your flight’s arrival time. This allows sufficient time to clear customs and collect your luggage.
If your flight is delayed, your driver will receive real-time updates and adjust their schedule accordingly, ensuring they’re there to meet you as soon as you land.
Airport transfer drivers are highly trained and local to the area ensuring the most direct route to your accommodation is always taken.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Getting from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Lyon. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Read more

Prices

DAYTIME
€328.0
NIGHTTIME
€357.0
Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How can I get from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez?

To travel from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez, you can choose a direct taxi or private transfer, a combined train and taxi trip or a combined bus and taxi journey. 

A private taxi ride would take 1 hour and 55 minutes, while either of the other two options would take around 2 hours and 10 minutes, excluding any potential wait times. A taxi-only trip will allow you the most freedom and privacy during your journey and a totally hassle-free door-to-door ride in a Lyon Airport taxi

How far is Alpe d'Huez from Lyon Airport?

The distance from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez is 147.9 km. The commute time would be around 1 hour and 55 minutes by car or taxi.

Is there a direct bus from Lyon Airport to Alpe d'Huez?

There is only one direct late-morning bus service every Saturday operated by BensBus, taking you from Lyon Airport to Alpe d’Huez. It only runs from 23rd December 2023 to 30th March 2024.

If you’re travelling outside of that period or the daily itinerary doesn’t suit your arrival but you want to opt for a bus service to keep costs as low as possible, you can combine the Flixbus service from the airport to Grenoble, then get a taxi to complete your journey.

Olivia Campus

Olivia is a travel content creator, copywriter, and marketer for tourism boards and travel brands worldwide. A story-driven explorer with a decade of experience.

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