| Avg. journey time | 2h 41m |
| Trains per day | 9 |
| Fare range | €15.00 - €115.00 |
| Distance | 252km |
| Train operators |
| First train departs at | 05:22 |
| Last train departs at | 20:02 |
| Fastest route | 1h 51m |
| Changes | Direct |
| Origin Station | Montpellier |
| Destination Station | Lyon |
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
TGV is the high-speed train service of the SNCF company. It connects the major cities of France at speeds of up to 320 km/h. All TGV trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection, power sockets and removable shelves. Two comfort classes are offered – First Class and Second Class, with more flexible train tickets and access to the Grand Voyageur lounge in some stations.
Renfe-SNCF trains are the result of a collaboration between France and Spain to bring the two countries together via a network of high-speed trains. There are two comfort classes – Turista (or Second Class) and Preferente (or First Class). Both classes have power sockets and comfortable seating. Luggage security checks are in force at all Spanish stations before boarding. It's also advisable to travel with your identity card for border control.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Montpellier to Lyon by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guide to check when European train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time between Montpellier and Lyon is 2 hours and 41 minutes and the fastest journey time is 1 hour and 51 minutes. On an average weekday, there are 16 trains per day travelling from Montpellier to Lyon. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use our journey planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The first train from Montpellier to Lyon departs at 05:22. The last train from Montpellier to Lyon departs at 20:02. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services. Alternatively, some popular routes may run throughout the night at a reduced frequency. There may also be less services on weekends and holidays; use our journey planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Montpellier to Lyon without having to change trains. There are 9 direct trains from Montpellier to Lyon. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.