How to Get to Alpe d’Huez From Paris [2025–2026 Guide]
Travel from Paris to Alpe d’Huez in 5 hrs by train + bus (€90–€150), 1 hr 10 mins flight + transfers (5–6 hrs total, €120–€220), or 7–8 hrs by car (€100–€160) in 2025–2026.
The best way from Paris to Alpe d’Huez is by train to Grenoble (3 hrs) + bus/transfer (2 hrs), total 5 hrs, €90–€150. Driving takes 7–8 hrs (€100–€160), while flights take 5–6 hrs including transfers.
🚄 Train + Bus: Paris to Alpe d’Huez
The most popular option combines a high-speed train (TGV) with a regional bus transfer.
- Step 1: TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon → Grenoble (3 hrs)
- Step 2: Bus or shuttle from Grenoble → Alpe d’Huez (2 hrs)
- Total Duration: ~5 hrs
- Cost: €90–€150 round trip
- Frequency: Multiple daily trains + seasonal ski shuttles in winter
Why choose train + bus?
- Fast and comfortable journey
- Direct connections during ski season
- Eco-friendly alternative to flying
✈️ Flying from Paris to Alpe d’Huez
Alpe d’Huez has no direct airport, but nearby options connect well with Paris.
- Flight Duration: 1 hr 10 mins (Paris → Grenoble or Lyon)
- Transfer: 2–3 hrs by bus, car, or private transfer from airport to Alpe d’Huez
- Total Duration: 5–6 hrs (flight + transfer)
- Cost: €120–€220 round trip
- Airports: Grenoble Alpes-Isère (GNB), Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS), or Geneva (GVA)
Why fly?
- Useful for long-haul travelers already arriving in Paris
- Multiple daily flights in ski season
- Good if you want to minimize train travel
🚗 Driving from Paris to Alpe d’Huez
A flexible option, especially for groups or those with ski equipment.
- Distance: ~630 km (390 miles)
- Duration: 7–8 hrs via A6 → A48 → Grenoble → Alpe d’Huez
- Cost: €100–€160 (fuel + tolls)
- Parking: Available at Alpe d’Huez, some hotels offer free parking
Why drive?
- Scenic drive through Burgundy and Rhône-Alpes
- Stops possible in Lyon, Grenoble, or French villages
- Best for families with gear or multiple passengers
🚌 Bus from Paris to Alpe d’Huez
Longer but affordable.
- Duration: 9–11 hrs (seasonal services)
- Operators: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus (Paris → Grenoble) + shuttle to Alpe d’Huez
- Cost: €50–€90 one way
- Convenience: Overnight buses available
Why take the bus?
- Cheapest option
- Overnight travel saves on accommodation
- Comfortable coaches with WiFi and rest stops
🌸 Best Time to Visit Alpe d’Huez
- Winter (Dec–Mar): Ski season, best snow conditions, lively après-ski
- Spring (Apr–May): Softer snow, fewer crowds
- Summer (Jun–Sep): Hiking, cycling (Tour de France often passes here)
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): Quiet season, limited services
🗺️ Travel Summary Table
| Travel Mode | Duration | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Bus | ~5 hrs | €90–€150 | Fastest, most convenient for skiers |
| Flight + Transfer | 5–6 hrs | €120–€220 | Best for long-haul or connecting flights |
| Car | 7–8 hrs (630 km) | €100–€160 | Flexible, great for families or groups |
| Bus | 9–11 hrs | €50–€90 | Cheapest but slowest option |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to reach Alpe d’Huez from Paris?
The TGV to Grenoble (3 hrs) + bus (2 hrs), total ~5 hrs, is the fastest option.
Q2: How far is Alpe d’Huez from Paris by car?
About 630 km (390 miles), taking 7–8 hrs of driving.
Q3: Can I fly directly to Alpe d’Huez?
No, the nearest airports are Grenoble, Lyon, and Geneva, followed by a 2–3 hr transfer.
Q4: How much is the bus from Grenoble to Alpe d’Huez?
It costs around €15–€20, with seasonal ski shuttles available.
Q5: Is Alpe d’Huez only for skiing?
No, it’s also famous for summer cycling, hiking, and mountain activities.