The Lyon-St Exupéry international airport and the new TGV station are off the Grenoble autoroute, 20km to the southeast of the city. There is a regular 45-minute bus link to the town centre. The Paris to Lyon trip is actually quicker by high-speed TGV train.
Central Lyon has two train stations: the Gare de Perrache on the Presqu'île is used mainly for ordinary trains rather than TGVs, and has the gare routière alongside; La Part-Dieu TGV station is in the 3e arrondissement to the east of the Presqu'île. Some TGV trains from Paris give the option of getting off at either station, so ask when buying your ticket.
The public transportation system in Lyon is quick and efficient and comprises the metro, la ficelle (cable cars), a recently inaugurated tram system and bus. However the best way to get around the centre is often on foot. Visitors who purchase the Lyon City Card (available in 1, 2 or 3 day versions) have unlimited use of the public transport network as well as major attractions.
Lyon has recently launched "tourist taxis"; English-speaking drivers which combine speedy routes with commentaries. Test out the chauffeured cyclopolitains electric tricycles for eco-friendly trips or travel by boat taxis down the Saône and Rhône rivers.
An extensive network of motorways links Lyon directly to Geneva, the Alps, Saint-Etienne, Clermont-Ferrand, Marseille, Grenoble, Nice and Paris. Lyon is the second largest city in France, and streets are often choked with traffic. Be prepared for traffic jams upon entering the city. Driving in the old district of La Croix Rousse is definately not recommended, due to the steep and narrow one-way streets, crossing each other in a totally random manner. Best to explore this area on foot.
