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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Burgundy And The Rhone, France

Essential Preparations

Careful planning simplifies your journey. Review this timeline to stay on track.

Comprehensive Timeline

A structured approach to your pre-trip activities.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

Verify your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your intended trip end date. Some countries have strict passport validity rules.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. If a Schengen visa applies, apply for it well in advance, as processing times vary.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights, especially for peak season or Fête des Lumières in December. Early booking generally secures better prices.

2

-2 Months Before

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive travel insurance. This policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage. World Nomads is an option.

Internal Trains

Book any internal train tickets, especially for TGV trains, as prices often rise closer to the travel date.

Special Reservations

Reserve special dining experiences or popular tours, especially if they have limited availability.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Vaccinations

Verify recommended vaccinations with your doctor. Your routine immunizations should be current.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to drive in France and are not an EU citizen.

App Downloads

Download useful apps like TCL for public transport, SNCF Connect for trains, Google Maps for navigation, and translation apps.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain bookings benefit greatly from early acquisition.

Critical Pre-Booking

  • International and TGV train tickets.
  • Accommodation during peak season or Fête des Lumières.
  • Popular restaurants (especially Michelin-starred or specific bouchons).
  • Guided wine tours often sell out.

Home Preparation

Before You Go

  • Secure doors and windows.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet or plant care.
  • Notify emergency contacts of your travel plans.

General Advice

Focus on gaining a good grasp of Lyon's public transport system, local dining customs, and attractions to maximize your time.

Packing Essentials

  • Pack essential prescription medications.
  • Include a basic travel first aid kit.
  • Charge all electronic devices and pack required adapters (Like an European adapter).
  • Organize travel documents, creating both physical and digital copies.

Financial Checks

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Exchange some local currency (Euros) or verify ATM card readiness for international withdrawals.
  • Check mobile banking apps for international features.
  • Consider setting up travel alerts.

Last-Minute Confirmations

  • Reconfirm flight or train times for any last-minute changes.
  • Complete online check-in if available for your flight.
  • Secure your home before departure.
  • Confirm airport transfers, like Rhônexpress schedules.

Important Reminder

A well-planned itinerary and completed checklist ensure smooth travel.

Arrival Checklist

These initial steps facilitate a smooth entry into Lyon.

Immediate Actions Upon Arrival

  • Clear Immigration and Customs

    Have your passport and any required visa ready.

  • Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your baggage from the claim area.

  • Locate Transfer

    Find your pre-planned airport transfer. The Rhônexpress is typically the most straightforward option from LYS.

Initial Orientation

  • Navigate to Accommodation

    Use Google Maps or a physical map to find your way.

  • Familiarize with TCL

    Locate the nearest metro or tram station and understand ticket acquisition.

  • Get Local Currency

    Find the nearest ATM or currency exchange for Euros to cover immediate expenses.

Getting to Your Stay

Airport Express

The Rhônexpress offers rapid transfer from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to Part-Dieu station.

It is a direct and efficient service.

City Transit

From Part-Dieu, transfer to the metro or a local bus.

The TCL network covers the entire city.

Direct Transfer

Taxis or VTC services offer direct transport to your door.

Convenient for those with heavy luggage.

Initial Navigation

Following your pre-planned route for transport from your entry point to your accommodation streamlines your arrival process. Utilize public transport apps for real-time guidance.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make for a smooth exit from Lyon.

Souvenir Considerations

  • If you acquired bulky souvenirs, like wine or large artisan crafts, determine if they need to be checked baggage or shipped home.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations and duty-free limits on items like alcohol.
  • Consider proper packing materials for fragile items.
  • Shipping services are available for larger purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Non-EU residents can claim VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds on eligible purchases above a certain amount (typically €100-€175 per store).
  • Ask for a "détaxe" form at the point of purchase in participating stores.
  • Present your purchases, passport, and the completed form to customs at your final EU departure point before checking your luggage.
  • Follow the instructions for getting the form stamped and arranging your refund. This often uses a PABLO machine at the airport.

Departure Timing

Allocate enough time for airport or train station procedures.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • For international flights from LYS:Arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure.
  • For Schengen flights or TGV trains:Arrive at least 2 hours for flights.
  • For TGV trains:Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Boarding typically concludes:A few minutes before departure.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight or train details.
  • Pack your bags efficiently, liquids complying with airline regulations if carrying on.
  • Verify all necessary documents for your return journey, including boarding passes and passports.
  • Double-check your accommodation for forgotten items.

Smooth Exit

Organized departure preparation ensures a stress-free transition.

Confirming all details and knowing procedures streamline your journey home. Remember to complete any VAT refund steps before security.