Even though we’re never as comfortable as we are in Lyon, we love to travel, especially in summer! And yet, as Lyonnais(es), we’re keen to reduce our impact on the environment. After all, when we say “travel”, we all too often mean planes. But nothing beats the train when you want to travel more responsibly! That’s why, at Lyon Secrète, we’ve gone in search of destinations accessible by direct train from our beautiful city. You hop on, settle in, close your eyes, and a few hours later, you’ve arrived! So, yes, sometimes it takes a little longer, but often it’s no more inconvenient than flying – no need to be at the station three hours in advance, or to take a cab across town from some godforsaken airport. That’s enough talk, now discover all the destinations abroad accessible by direct train from Lyon!
TURIN, Italy
Pizza, pasta, Lavazza… How about a vacation in Italy? Turin is an Italian getaway full of surprises! Former capital of the States of Savoy and first capital of a unified Italy, Turin is a city of elegance and architectural heritage. With its Baroque palaces, arcaded galleries and grand squares such as the Piazza San Carlo, the city blends French, Savoyard and Italian influences. On the banks of the River Po, the Parco del Valentino and the Borgo Medievale invite you to take a stroll. Higher up, the Mole Antonelliana offers a breathtaking view of the mountains. Add to all this a good espresso and aperitivo on a terrace, and you’ve got the perfect city break!
🚆Duration: 4h
MILAN, Italy
Did someone say fashion week? The capital of fashion and design, Milan seduces with its contemporary energy blended with an exceptional historical heritage. Dominated by the sumptuous Duomo, the city invites you to marvel, from Leonardo da Vinci’s fresco of The Last Supper to the elegant arcades of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Opera buffs will be delighted at La Scala, while art lovers can explore the rich collections of Brera or the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana. Fancy a stroll? Head for the bohemian Navigli district, lively day and night, or Parco Sempione. Milan is bold and elegant around every corner!
🚆Duration: 4h37
BARCELONA, Spain
Barcelona is the sea, the beach, parties and magnificent parks! What more could you ask for? You can visit La Pedrera, Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell and Casa Batlló. Whether you like cultural visits or chilling out on the beach after an all-night dance party, you’ll love Barcelona. Like the Spanish, the city is welcoming and pleasant. Although, let’s face it, it’s best to avoid high season, as the city’s assets have clearly made the rounds!
🚆Duration: 4h58
FIGUERAS, Spain
Art lovers, this is the place! Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Figueres is inextricably linked with the extravagant world of Salvador Dalí. Its Theatre-Museum, designed by the artist himself, is a unique experience. The imposing Sant Ferran fortress, the collections of the Museu de l’Empordà and the Toy Museum reveal an unsuspected cultural wealth. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, discover its typical markets and visit the Sant Pere church, the city’s oldest monument. Figueres is also an ideal starting point for discovering the charming villages of the Empordà or the beaches of the Costa Brava.
🚆Duration: 3h59
GIRONE, Spain
Less touristy (and far less expensive) than Barcelona, Girona will surprise you with its medieval charm. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the Call Jueu, climb the steps of the cathedral, stroll along the Onyar and admire its colorful facades. History buffs will love the ramparts, the Arab baths and the cinema museum. When it comes to gastronomy, head for El Celler de Can Roca, formerly the world’s best restaurant. Girona is the ideal Catalan getaway for a weekend away from it all in Lyon.
🚆Duration: 4h16
GENEVA, Switzerland
Looking for a change of scenery without leaving Europe? Just two hours from Lyon, Geneva awaits you between city and mountains. Between Lake Geneva and the Alps, the city offers a perfect balance of nature, culture and gentle living. Explore the Old Town, the bohemian district of Carouge, or admire the famous Jet d’eau. Science enthusiasts will love CERN, while modern art lovers will appreciate MAMCO. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of relaxation, head for the Bains des Pâquis! Geneva is the perfect combo for a nature and culture weekend just a stone’s throw from Lyon.
🚆Duration: 2h10
LAUSANNE, Switzerland
Three hours by direct train from Lyon, Lausanne is an ideal interlude between lake and hills. Olympic capital perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, the city charms with its medieval old town, cathedral and Olympic Museum. Strolling enthusiasts from Lyon will enjoy strolls through Ouchy, the Lavaux vineyards or the spectacular views from the heights. Less touristy than Geneva, Lausanne offers a real breath of fresh air, perfect for a slow-life getaway, without going to the ends of the earth.
🚆Duration: 3h
BRUSSELS, Belgium
In addition to its smiling inhabitants, you need to know that Brussels is packed with treasures. From the majestic Grand-Place to the Saints-Michel-et-Gudule Cathedral, via the Cinquantenaire Park and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, you’ll find plenty to do. And of course, it’s impossible to resist Belgian beers, crispy fries and fluffy waffles! The atmosphere is so friendly that it’s easy to see why Angèle sings “Bruxelles, je t’aime” (“Brussels, I love you”). And although it may seem a long way away, the Belgian capital is actually very accessible from Lyon. It’s another destination where the train more than competes with the plane!
🚆Duration: 3h53
FRANKFURT, Germany
You may know Frankfurt for its sausages… but the city has so much more to offer! Between the modern skyscrapers and half-timbered houses of its old center, it blends tradition and modernity. After a night on the train (and perhaps a little rain), you’ll find yourself immersed in a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Climb to the top of the Main Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view. Want to explore further? Use the same direct train to visit Mannheim, Karlsruhe and Baden-Baden. Culture, architecture and nightlife: Frankfurt ticks all the boxes for an out-of-this-world trip.
🚆Duration: 5h57