Find Marseille to Lyon bus tickets
Why Choose Bus from Marseille to Lyon
Traveling from Marseille to Lyon offers a variety of transportation options, making it essential to choose the right one for your journey. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of bus travel, in particular, can enhance your travel experience significantly.
💰 Cost-Effective Travel
pros
- Bus tickets range from €25 to €39, making it an affordable option compared to train fares which can often exceed €50.
- With frequent departures, you can find a bus that fits your budget and schedule without long waits.
cons
- Despite its affordability, the bus may not always be the fastest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.
🛎️ Convenient Departures and Arrivals
pros
- Buses depart from Marseille - St-Charles Bus Station, which is centrally located, providing easy access for travelers.
- Arriving in Lyon at Perrache Bus Station puts you right in the heart of the city, making it convenient to explore.
cons
- While the stations are well-positioned, the bus journey may involve additional transfers if your final destination is not near the bus station.
⭐ Scenic Journey
pros
- The route from Marseille to Lyon is picturesque, providing views of the countryside that you might miss when flying or taking a train.
- Bus travel allows for scheduled stops, letting travelers stretch or grab food while enjoying the landscape.
cons
- The extended travel time can lead to less overall time spent at your destination compared to quicker modes of transport.
highlights:
Keep in mind that bus travel can take longer compared to trains and flights, potentially impacting your itinerary.
Bus travel enhances budget-friendly options for the route from Marseille to Lyon.
Central station locations in both cities make travel extremely convenient.
The scenic views along the journey provide a unique travel experience.
Bus Options from Marseille to Lyon
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | BlaBlaCar Bus | Marseille - St-Charles Bus Station, Marseille | Lyon - Perrache Bus Station, Lyon | 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00 | 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:40, 16:40, 17:40, 18:40, 19:40, 20:40, 21:40 | Hourly | 3h 40m | € 25-39 | |
| Connecting | BlaBlaBus | Marseille - St-Charles Bus Station, Marseille | Lyon - Perrache Bus Station, Lyon | 07:00, 08:00, 08:30, 09:00 | 12:03, 13:03, 13:30, 14:03 | Twice daily | 5h 3m | € 30-45 | Valence |
Comparison of Bus Operators from Marseille to Lyon
When traveling between Marseille and Lyon, comparing various bus operators is crucial for finding the best options to suit your needs. Key criteria such as price, pricing policies, amenities, baggage allowance, and accessibility factors come into play in order to enhance travel comfort and affordability. Below is a comprehensive comparison of operators servicing this route.
| Criteria | BlaBlaCar Bus | FlixBus | Eurolines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | € 25 - € 39 | € 30 - € 45 | € 35 - € 50 |
| pricing policies | |||
| refund policy | Refunds are allowed up to 24 hours before departure. | Non-refundable tickets unless canceled 48 hours in advance. | Fully refundable if canceled 72 hours before; otherwise, tickets are non-refundable. |
| Ticket Changes | Ticket changes are allowed with a fee of €5 per change. | Tickets can be changed for a fee of €2 if done 15 minutes before departure. | Changes can be made for free until 24 hours before departure. |
| discounts | Student discounts available, along with seasonal promotions. | Family and children discounts available. | Loyalty program offers discounts for frequent travelers. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Restroom on board | Free Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Snack service | Comfortable seating, Air conditioning, Watch movies on board |
| baggage allowance | |||
| free allowance | One piece of standard luggage (up to 20kg) and one cabin bag (up to 7kg). | One large piece (up to 30kg) and one smaller carry-on. | Two pieces of luggage (total weight not exceeding 30kg). |
| Additional Fees | €10 for each additional item of luggage. | €15 for additional or oversized luggage. | €12 for any extra piece of luggage. |
| accessibility | Buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and designated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility. | Most buses feature low floors and accessible seating options for those with disabilities. | Fully accessible buses, equipped with ramps and accessible restroom facilities. |
When selecting a bus operator for the Marseille to Lyon route, consider your budget, the importance of amenities, and your needs regarding baggage and accessibility. BlaBlaCar Bus offers a great mix of affordability and amenities, while FlixBus stands out with a wider range of discounts. Eurolines might be a suitable option for those looking for flexibility in ticketing and additional comforts. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific travel requirements.
Bus Stops and Stations from Marseille to Lyon
Understanding the bus stops and stations between Marseille and Lyon is essential for a seamless travel experience.
Main Bus Stations in Marseille
Gare Routière de Marseille
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with comfortable seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the station
- Food and beverage options including cafés and vending machines
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features including ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: Marseille metro (M1, M2), local buses, and regional ter trains
- Taxi and rideshare services are readily available in front of the station
- Parking facilities available for private vehicles with short-term and long-term options
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your bus departure time to allow for check-in and boarding
- Be aware of security checks for large bags and sensitive items
- Avoid peak hours (early morning and late afternoon) to avoid crowding
- Explore nearby amenities such as cafés and shops if you have spare time before your departure
Main Bus Stations in Lyon
Gare Routière de Lyon
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with ample seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage available
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Variety of food options including bakeries and snack bars
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Fully accessible with ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
- Public transportation options: Lyon metro (M,B, and D lines), local trams, and buses
- Taxis and rideshare services are easy to find at the designated pickup points
- A multi-level parking facility for private vehicle parking
- Try to arrive at least 20 minutes before the end of your journey to account for any local transfers
- Keep an eye on your belongings as the station can get busy
- Consider avoiding peak travel times, especially Fridays and Sundays, for a smoother arrival
- There are excellent eateries nearby for a quick meal or coffee after your arrival
En Route Stops
Aix-en-Provence
facilities
- Restrooms
- Snack kiosks
- Limited seating area
Avignon
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting area with seating
- Cafés available
Orange
facilities
- Restrooms
- No waiting area, but a quick stop for passenger drop-off
Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and their amenities will greatly enhance your travel experience between Marseille and Lyon. Plan ahead and enjoy your journey!
Travel Tips
⛰ Plan for Scenic Viewpoints
The bus route from Marseille to Lyon offers stunning scenic views, particularly as you travel through the lush Provence region. Make sure to sit on the left side of the bus for the best landscapes, especially around the vineyards and rolling hills near Avignon.
📍 Bring Local Snacks
Local specialties such as 'calissons' from Aix-en-Provence or 'panisse' from Marseille make for tasty snacks during your journey. Picking up some treats before you board adds to the experience and gives you a taste of the region.
🚍 Check for Festivals
Lyon is known for its festivals, especially the Fête des Lumières in December. If traveling around this time, book in advance as the buses can fill up quickly due to the influx of visitors. Enjoy the local festivities if you're passing through!
🎭 Comfort First
Choose a bus service that offers comfortable seating and amenities, such as Wi-Fi and power outlets. Companies like FlixBus provide these options, ensuring a pleasant ride as you travel the approximately 3-hour journey.
🏛 Explore Stops Along the Way
Consider planned stops in cities like Avignon or Orange during your trip. Many bus services allow for short breaks, giving you the opportunity to stretch your legs and explore famous sites like the Palais des Papes in Avignon.