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Travelling from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train
Looking to travel from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train? You've come to the right place!
On average, it takes around 9 hours 32 minutes to travel from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train, the fastest services can get you there in as little as 6 hours 4 minutes though. You'll usually find 27 trains per day running along the 348 miles (560 km) route between these two destinations. You’ll need to make 1 change during the journey to Frankfurt (Main) Messe, as there currently aren't any direct services on this route. Trains on this route are usually operated by either TGV or SNCF. On board you'll find modern comfortable seating and plenty of room for luggage as standard.
Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe.
If you’re feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times.
Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train
| First train | 06:04 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 20:38 | |
| Departure station | Lyon | |
| Arrival station | Frankfurt (Main) Messe | |
| Journey time | From 6h 4m | |
| Distance | 348 miles (560 km) | |
| Frequency | 27 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe
Want to know more about your journey from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Are there direct trains from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
What's the distance between Lyon and Frankfurt (Main) Messe by train?
Who runs the trains from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
Can you travel from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe without taking a flight?
What is the best way to get to Frankfurt (Main) Messe from Lyon?
What time is the first train from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
What time is the last train from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
How often do trains go from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
Do you need to prebook train tickets from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
Is there a return trip from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe?
TGV and SNCF trains from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe
TGV
SNCF
TGV is the high-speed train service of the SNCF company. It connects the major cities of France at speeds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h). All TGV trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection, power sockets and fold-down tables. Two comfort classes are offered – First Class and Second Class, with flexible fare options available and access to the Grand Voyageur lounge in some stations.
More information
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).
More information
TGV INOUI classes from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe
Compare the different travel classes offered by TGV INOUI when travelling from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe.
Second Class
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power sockets and more.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Want to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional perks.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Onboard services on TGV INOUI
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe.
On board TGV INOUI trains, you can take up to 2 pieces of luggage measuring no more than 70 x 90 x 50 cm, plus one hand luggage measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 15 cm. If you are bringing an XL baggage (maximum 90 x 130 cm), it will replace one of the two 70 x 90 x 50 cm pieces of luggage authorised.
All your luggage must be labelled before entering the train.
All TGV INOUI trains are equipped with a café-bar carriage offering a range of food and drink to suit you at any time of day. The Bar is always situated in carriage 4 or 14 of the train. There's a range of local and responsibly sourced products on offer to whet your appetite.
TGV INOUI trains have free WiFi on board for you to use throughout your journey, allowing you to stay connected, reply to emails or even relax and enjoy what's offered on the TGV INOUI entertainment portal.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand luggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket. Bike tickets cost €10 per bike, per journey.
Small pets are allowed on board TGV INOUI trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on TGV INOUI services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a lead. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
Cheap train tickets from Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe
Book in advance
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 Lyon to Frankfurt (Main) Messe by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
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.
Choose a slower or connecting train
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!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.