A Guide to Lyon Airport Ski Transfers
Situated approximately 20 kilometres east of the city, Lyon Saint-Exupery Airport is the fourth-busiest airport in France. Each year, 8.5 million people use Lyon Airport, with many of those during the winter months transferring on to France’s excellent ski resorts.
A good number of international and low-cost European airlines have regular flights to Lyon, including Aer Lingus, Air France, British Airways, EasyJet, FlyBe and Wizz Air.
The airport offers excellent onward travel options, with fast rail access and well-connected road networks—perfect for smooth Lyon transfers to nearby resorts. Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes take approximately 2 hours, while the Three Valleys resorts are approximately 2.5 hours drive away.
Our Partners
We work with some of France’s most experienced providers for our Lyon Airport transfers. All of our partners are reliable, responsible and experts in their local area. You’ll also find plenty of positive feedback from their customers, giving you peace of mind when you reserve through us. Learn more about the fully insured and licensed companies we work with by clicking the link below.
Why Book Through Snowcompare?
With so many transfer providers to choose from, picking the right one isn’t always straightforward. Prices vary wildly, as does what’s included with your transfer. That’s why, here at Snowcompare, we’ve made it our mission to compare trusted providers side-by-side so you get the best deal with no hidden surprises.
You can relax knowing your booking is made through a UK-based company and an English-speaking support team is only a call away. That way, if anything goes wrong with your journey, you’ll get the support you need to get your holiday back on track. Join the thousands of customers who have booked (and loved!) their ski transfers through Snowcompare and plan your next ski adventure today.
Popular Lyon Transfer Ski Routes
See our most popular Lyon Airport transfer routes to find out more information about your journey – including price, distance, drive time, FAQs, and more.
Alpe d’Huez
Alpe d’Huez is famous for its sunshine and varied terrain, offering something for skiers of all abilities. With one of the longest ski runs in the world, it’s a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Les Arcs/La Plagne
Part of the vast Paradiski area, Les Arcs and La Plagne are linked by the Vanoise Express cable car, providing access to over 400 km of runs and a wide choice of villages to stay in.
Courchevel
A key part of the Three Valleys, Courchevel blends luxury with top-tier skiing. Its well-groomed pistes and charming alpine villages make it a favourite for families and jet-setters alike.
Chamonix
Chamonix is a legendary destination for advanced skiers and mountaineers. Set at the foot of Mont Blanc, it offers challenging terrain and a vibrant town full of history and atmosphere.
Val d’Isère
Val d’Isère combines classic alpine charm with serious skiing credentials. Its high-altitude slopes and lively après-ski scene make it a favourite among international visitors.
Val Thorens
Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, offering exceptional snow reliability and access to the extensive Three Valleys ski area. Great for both beginners and seasoned pros.
Lyon Airport Ski Transfers FAQs
How long is the transfer from Lyon airport to the main ski resorts?
Lyon Airport is a popular choice for many holidaymakers. That’s because its location at the foothills of the Alps means it’s well within reach of France’s top ski destinations. Most of the region’s top ski resorts are only a few hours’ drive away, with most within a three-hour trip. Here’s a summary of transfer times and distances to a few of the most popular resorts:
| RESORT | APPROXIMATE TRANSFER TIME | DISTANCE |
| Alpe d’Huez | 1h 50m | 148km |
| Chamonix | 2h 15m | 221km |
| Courchevel | 2h 20m | 188km |
| Val Thorens | 2h 15m | 193km |
| Les Arcs | 2h 5m | 190km |
| Val d’Isere | 2h 45m | 221km |
| Tignes | 2h 40m | 219km |
Want to book a direct transfer? Browse our routes from Lyon to Val Thorens, Courchevel, Tignes, Val d’Isère, and more.
What are the closest ski resorts to Lyon airport?
You’ll find several of France’s most popular ski resorts within a few hours’ drive of Lyon Airport. Among the closest are:
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- Alpe d’Huez – One of the most well-known ski resorts in the region, offering a variety of terrain and activities.
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- Les Deux Alpes – Another popular location, known for its high peaks, long ski season and diverse slopes.
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- Grand Massif – A snow-sure ski area made up of five resorts: Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, Samoëns and Sixt Fer à Cheval.
Avoriaz, Morzine, Tignes, Val Thorens and Val d’Isère are all within easy reach of the airport, too!
What types of Lyon airport transfers are available?
Lyon Airport offers several transfer options for skiers passing through on their way to the Alps. From shared shuttle buses to private transfers and luxury options, whatever you choose, a transfer will get you to the slopes with minimum fuss. And you can count on Snowcompare to help you find the best value with fully licensed, local companies.
Can I bring my ski equipment with me on my Lyon airport transfer?
Absolutely! Many skiers prefer to bring their equipment on holiday with them, and transfer providers know this. Whether you’re travelling with skis, snowboards or extra winter gear, your driver will make sure there’s plenty of space for everyone. Make sure to mention you’re bringing your gear when you book your transfer—this helps the provider find the right vehicle and avoid any capacity issues. It doesn’t cost extra to bring your skis with you, but it’s worth letting them know when you book.
Do I need to pre-book my Lyon airport ski transfers?
Yes, we strongly recommend pre-booking your Lyon transfer, especially during the peak season. Arranging transfers before your flight lands guarantees availability, helps avoid delays and ensures your driver will be ready. At Snowcompare, we’ll help you find a trusted provider with zero financial risk. Don’t just take our word for it—check out our customer reviews and see why travellers trust us for their ski transfers.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Most transfer services from Lyon Airport will track your flight in real time, meaning they’re well ahead of any delays or cancellations. By giving your driver the correct flight number, they can adjust your pick-up time for a smoother transfer. Some providers may include a short waiting time at no extra cost, with a small fee if the delay is longer. Check the terms and conditions of your provider for peace of mind.
Can I get a train from Lyon airport to ski resorts in the Alps?
While Lyon airport is home to a train station that links directly to destinations in and around the Alps, most travellers decide against this option. If you’re travelling in a group, a door-to-door transfer offers the most cost-effective means of reaching your accommodation. It’ll also save you from having to cart around your ski gear on public transport.
Lyon Airport Ski Transfers Blogs
