Limoges Airport (LIG) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
LIG
ICAO Code
LFBL
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport quick facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Aéroport International de Limoges Bellegarde, 87100 Limoges, France |
| Website | www.aeroportlimoges.com |
| Airlines | Ryanair, Volotea, Chalair |
| Terminals | 1 main passenger terminal |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 300,000 (fluctuates with seasonal routes) |
| Hub for | Volotea base (seasonal) |
| Phone Number | +33 5 55 43 30 30 |
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport (LIG) serves the historic city of Limoges and the broader Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. As a compact international gateway, the airport connects central France with destinations across the United Kingdom, Spain, and North Africa, alongside key domestic routes. With its single terminal, navigating this airport is refreshingly simple, making it a stress-free start or end to your journey through the heart of the Limousin.
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Terminal Map and Layout
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport features a single, well-organized passenger terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. This linear layout puts arrivals and departures in close proximity, eliminating the need for shuttles, trains, or long walks between gates.
The ground level houses the arrivals hall with baggage claim, car rental counters, and the information desk. The upper level is dedicated to departures, featuring the check-in desks, security checkpoint, and boarding gates. After clearing security, all gates are accessible within a two-minute walk. The compact design means that arriving 60 to 90 minutes before a flight is perfectly adequate.
Navigating Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Terminals
Main Terminal
All airlines operate from this single terminal. Chalair, Ryanair, and Volotea flights depart from gates on the upper level. The departures area includes a small selection of shops, a café-bar, and restrooms. Recent improvements have modernized the waiting areas with comfortable seating and large windows offering views of the runway and the Limousin countryside. The terminal provides complimentary WiFi and a dedicated business corner. Access to gates is straightforward; once you are through security, you remain in the single departure lounge until boarding is announced.
Transportation to and from Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Reaching Limoges city center from the airport is quick and straightforward. Located just 8 kilometers from the center of Limoges, the airport is well-connected by road and a dedicated bus service.
Getting to and from Limoges – Bellegarde Airport by Car
The airport sits just off the N520, providing easy access to the A20 motorway. Driving to central Limoges typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, though the morning rush hour between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM can add a few extra minutes to your trip. The route is well-signposted, and you will pass several fuel stations on the N520, which is handy for returning a rental car.
Getting to and from Limoges – Bellegarde Airport by Rideshare or Taxi
Taxis are available directly outside the arrivals hall. While Uber operates in Limoges, availability can be limited during off-peak hours and it is often easier to find a local taxi at the designated rank. A trip to Limoges city center costs approximately $25 to $35 and takes around 15 minutes. Most taxi drivers accept cash and cards, but confirming with the driver before the journey begins is sensible. For private hire vehicles, pre-booking a service like Transfeero ensures a fixed price starting from around $32 with a meet-and-greet option.
Getting to and from Limoges – Bellegarde Airport by Public Transportation
The TCL bus network operates the Line 26 service, connecting the airport with Limoges city center and the main train station. The bus stop is located right outside the terminal. This is a reliable and economical option, although the frequency is limited.
| Route | First Bus/Train | Last Bus/Train | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Line 26 (Airport to City Center) | Varies (typically from 7:00 AM) | Varies (typically until 7:00 PM) | 3 times per day (Mon-Sat) | $2.00 |
To use the bus, board at the airport stop and validate your ticket on board. The journey to Pl. W. Churchill in the city center takes about 14 minutes. Since the service does not run frequently, checking the latest schedule on the TCL website is essential before relying on this option, especially outside of weekday business hours.
Key Amenities at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
ATMs
A cash machine is available in the public area of the terminal, near the arrivals hall. It dispenses Euros. Withdrawing a small amount for immediate use is practical, though most businesses at the airport accept card payments.
Lost and Found
Lost property is managed by the airport information desk. If you discover you have lost an item after leaving the airport, you should call the main airport switchboard at +33 5 55 43 30 30 with a description of the missing article and your travel details.
Luggage services
Standard luggage carts are available in the terminal. There is no luggage wrapping or left-luggage storage service at this airport, so plan accordingly if you need to store bags.
Pets
Guide and assistance dogs are permitted throughout the terminal. For pets travelling on flights, you must follow the specific regulations of your airline. There is a small grassy area outside the terminal that serves as a pet relief spot before security.
Showers
There are no public shower facilities or lounges offering showers at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport.
Currency Exchange
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport does not have a dedicated currency exchange bureau. The ATM is the best option for obtaining euros upon arrival.
Smoking Area
As with all French airports, smoking is strictly forbidden inside the terminal. A designated outdoor smoking zone is located just outside the terminal entrance.
Terminal building features
The terminal is a modern, single-story structure with a light and airy feel. Its manageable size means you will not feel rushed or overwhelmed, and the large windows provide pleasant views of the Combes runway and surrounding greenery.
WiFi
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport offers free, unlimited WiFi throughout the terminal. Connect to the "Aeroport Limoges" network, accept the terms of use, and you will be online immediately. Charging stations with standard EU power sockets are available in the departure lounge near the seating areas.
Other Amenities
- Information Desk: Located in the arrivals hall, staffed during operational hours to assist with transport and general queries.
- Medical Services: A first-aid point is located within the terminal. Contact the information desk for assistance.
- Chapel/Prayer Rooms: A quiet multi-faith room is not currently available. The terminal environment is generally calm, but there is no dedicated space.
Airport Lounges at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport is a small regional airport and does not feature large, branded airline lounges like those found in major international hubs. Instead, a comfortable general waiting area serves all passengers. The focus here is on a simple, calm pre-flight experience.
Airline Lounges at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Departure Lounge Waiting Area
- Location: After security, covering all gates.
- Standout features: Leather-padded seating, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the apron, free WiFi, and a small cafe corner where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Despite the lack of a private lounge, the space is rarely overcrowded and provides a relaxed atmosphere.
- How to access: Open to all departing passengers with a valid boarding pass.
Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges
There are no credit card-affiliated lounges at this airport.
Priority Pass Lounges at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Priority Pass has no participating lounge or restaurant venue at this airport. The general departure lounge is where all passengers wait for their flights.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departure Lounge | Post-Security, all gates | Boarding pass only | Free | Seating, WiFi, cafe, runway views |
Other Airports in the Region
Brive–Souillac Airport (BVE)
- Distance to city center: 100 km (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes drive).
- Best for: Travellers heading south into the Dordogne Valley and Lot region.
- Unique advantages: A modern terminal with connections to Paris and seasonal flights to London; smaller crowds and faster security than Limoges.
- Recommended for: Access to Rocamadour, Sarlat, and the prehistoric caves of the region.
Poitiers–Biard Airport (PIS)
- Distance to city center: 130 km (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes drive).
- Best for: Northern parts of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and the Loire Valley.
- Unique advantages: Ryanair hub with direct flights to London Stansted and other UK destinations; a quiet, efficient single-terminal layout.
- Recommended for: Futuroscope theme park visitors and those exploring Châteaux country.
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Overview
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport has been serving the Limousin region for decades, evolving from a simple airfield into the international airport it is today. Officially named Aéroport International de Limoges Bellegarde, it sits on a 140-hectare site at an elevation of 396 meters, roughly 8 kilometers from Limoges city center. Operated by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Limoges and Haute-Vienne, it is a civilian airport that functions as a vital link between rural central France and the rest of Europe. It handles around 300,000 passengers in a typical year. With a single runway (03/21) and a single terminal, it embodies the charm and efficiency of regional French aviation.
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Postal Code
Aéroport International de Limoges Bellegarde
87100 Limoges
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
France
Duty Free and Shopping at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Duty-free shopping at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport is limited because flights are primarily to EU destinations, or the UK where duty-free rules apply to specific goods. The shopping experience is therefore focused on regional produce. You will find a small boutique selling local Limousin specialties, perfect for last-minute gifts. A café-bar offers a place to grab a coffee, a croissant, or a light sandwich before your flight, creating a relaxed bistro-like atmosphere rather than a bustling commercial centre. For a wider range of souvenirs, the shops in Limoges city centre are a better bet, but the quality of edible gifts at the airport is excellent.
💡 Tip to know: The best airport purchase is a bottle of local walnut liqueur or some vacuum-packed Limousin ham.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Limousin Beef Jerky | Regional Food | $12 - $18 |
| Local Walnut Wine | Alcohol | $15 - $25 |
| Limoges Porcelain Box | Giftware | $40 - $150+ |
| French Sweets (Bonbons) | Confectionery | $8 - $15 |
Security Wait Times Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Security lines are generally very manageable. Due to the single terminal and smaller flight schedules, bottlenecks are rare. At peak times, like an early morning Ryanair departure to London, you might wait a little longer, but the process is overwhelmingly fast-paced and efficient.
| Terminal | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal | 5-15 minutes | 5:00 AM - 7:00 AM (for early UK departures) |
Peak travel periods include Friday evenings, Sunday afternoons, and European school holidays in July and August. Standard EU security rules apply: liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less, placed in a clear plastic bag, and laptops need to be taken out of their cases. TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are US-specific programs and do not operate here.
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
- Departures drop-off zone: A dedicated drop-off area is located directly in front of the terminal building. Parking here is strictly limited to passenger drop-off only, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes.
- Arrivals pick-up zone: Short-term parking is right opposite the terminal, making it the easiest place to pick up arriving passengers. The first 15 minutes are free, giving you a comfortable window to meet someone at the arrivals gate without rushing.
- Cell phone lot: A formal cell phone waiting lot is not available. However, given the free first 15 minutes in the main car park, this area serves the same purpose effectively.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
The airport is a seasonal base for Volotea and hosts scheduled flights from several major low-cost carriers.
- Ryanair: The dominant carrier, offering the most routes. Flights connect Limoges to several UK destinations including London Stansted (up to 6 times per week), Manchester, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and East Midlands. They also operate a direct service to Marrakech, Morocco.
- Volotea: Uses Limoges as a base for its domestic French route to Paris Orly and seasonally expands with Spanish routes to Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Mahon, and Malaga.
- Chalair: Operates a vital domestic connection to Lyon, a crucial hub for business travellers and international connections.
Winter schedules are usually slimmer, with a focus on the Paris and Lyon links, while summer brings a surge in leisure routes to the sun and the UK.
Getting to and from Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
The airport's location just minutes from the A20 motorway makes road transfer the dominant method of onward travel.
Car Rental at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Car rental is the most popular choice for arriving passengers, giving the freedom to explore the Limousin countryside. Major international agencies and local firms operate from counters directly across the road from the terminal.
On-airport rental companies include Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt. The counters are all located in the arrivals area. A pre-booked economy car in high season can start from around $30-$40 per day. Booking your vehicle well in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months when demand can outstrip supply. With a car, you can easily reach Saint-Junien in 20 minutes, Oradour-sur-Glane in 25 minutes, or the Dordogne in under two hours. This is the best way to explore the region's hilltop villages and natural parks.
💡 Tip to know: Manual transmission is standard in France. Automatic cars are available but cost more and must be requested when booking.
Limoges – Bellegarde Airport Taxi Services
Official taxis are lined up outside the arrivals hall. The service is regulated, but meters are not always used for airport runs; a fixed price is often agreed upon.
- To Limoges City Center: $25 - $35
- To Limoges-Bénédictins Train Station: $25 - $35
It is advisable to confirm the price with the driver before setting off. Cash is preferred, but most now carry a card reader.
Private Car Services at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
For a premium experience, private chauffeur services like Transfeero offer a meet-and-greet service with flight monitoring. A driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall with a name board. Fares are fixed, and the vehicle is guaranteed. This option is excellent for business travellers or families with young children and luggage.
Bus Services at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
The TCL bus line 26 connects the airport to Place Winston Churchill in the city center. The bus stop is right outside the terminal. The service runs three times a day, Monday to Saturday. A single ticket costs about $2.00. While the most economical option, its limited schedule means it is not convenient for most flight times. It is effective for travellers flying during the middle of the day.
Hotel Shuttles
Most hotels in central Limoges do not operate dedicated airport shuttles due to the short distance. The Mercure Limoges Centre and Best Western Plus Hôtel Richelieu are popular choices, but you will typically need to take a taxi or the bus. A few rural B&Bs and hotels might offer a pickup service by prior arrangement.
Parking at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
The airport's parking situation is simple, with one main outdoor car park directly opposite the terminal.
- Short-Term Parking: Incredibly practical. The first 15 minutes are free, covering pick-ups and quick drop-offs. An hour costs roughly $1.50, making it an affordable option for longer goodbyes.
- Long-Term Parking: The same car park serves long-term stays. The daily rate is approximately $13.00. The car park is open 24/7 and has a capacity of 320 spaces. Security is good; it's right by the terminal, well-lit, and under regular patrol.
- Payment Methods: Payment machines in the terminal accept cash and major credit/debit cards. Contactless payment is widely supported.
- Electric Vehicle Charging: Electric vehicle charging stations are not yet a standard feature. It is best to arrive with a sufficient charge if you are driving an EV.
Places to explore near Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Limoges City Center (8 km / 15-minute drive)
Famed for its porcelain and enamel, the city centre has the Quartier de la Boucherie, a picturesque medieval butchers' district, and the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Étienne.
Oradour-sur-Glane (25 km / 25-minute drive)
A profoundly moving memorial site, the preserved ruins of a village destroyed in World War II stand as a silent testament to its history. The Centre de la Mémoire museum provides essential context.
Saint-Junien (20 km / 20-minute drive)
A charming town on the Vienne River known for its leather glove-making heritage, with a scenic medieval bridge and bustling local market.
Parc Naturel Régional Périgord-Limousin (40 km / 40-minute drive)
A haven for nature lovers, this regional park offers dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and quiet trails perfect for hiking and cycling. The drive itself, through rolling French countryside, is a delight.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Limoges
Limoges has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters.
- Spring (March-May): 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F). The countryside bursts into green. A beautiful time for hiking, though April showers are common.
- Summer (June-August): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Warm and generally pleasant, this is peak tourist season. Flight routes to Spain and the UK are at their most frequent.
- Autumn (September-November): 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Cooler and often very wet, but the autumn colours in the forests are spectacular. Chestnut season is a highlight for local food.
- Winter (December-February): 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Cold and damp with occasional frosts. The airport's schedule is leanest during this period, though the Christmas markets in Limoges are magical.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrival Time: Arrive 90 minutes before an international flight and 60 minutes before a domestic flight. This provides ample time for parking, check-in, and the short security line.
- Flight Status: Keep an eye on the official airport website for real-time arrival and departure information, as small airport schedules can change due to weather.
- Packing Advice: Layers are key year-round. Even in summer, a light jacket is useful for evenings. Pack a raincoat regardless of the season.
- Currency: France uses the Euro (€). Cash is handy for small village purchases, but contactless cards are universally accepted in Limoges and at the airport.
- Language: French is the official language. A simple "Bonjour" (Hello) and "Merci" (Thank you) goes a long way. English is spoken at the rental car counters and by some taxi drivers.
- Driver License Requirements: Renters from the UK and EU need their standard photocard license. Renters from outside the EU should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Fuel Stations: Several 24/7 self-service petrol stations are located on the N520 ring road and the nearby A20 motorway exits, perfect for refuelling a rental car before return. The nearest is just a 3-minute drive from the terminal.
About the City
Limoges, the capital of the Haute-Vienne, is a city forged in fire. For centuries, its kilns have produced some of the world's finest porcelain, a legacy you can explore at the Musée National Adrien Dubouché. The city is also the heart of the Limousin beef region, and its food markets are a feast for the senses. With a population of around 130,000, it provides the amenities of a city with the friendly atmosphere of a country town. Visitors should sample the local cherry clafoutis, flaky apple and potato tourte, and, of course, the impossibly tender Limousin beef. It is a superb base for journeys into rural France.
Start Your Journey at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport
Touching down at Limoges – Bellegarde Airport drops you straight into the authentic heart of France. It is a gateway where the car rental desk is a few steps from the plane, and the unspoiled countryside begins right outside the parking lot. To make the most of this beautiful region, having your own set of wheels is the key to unlocking hidden châteaux and quiet villages. Book your rental car today and start your adventure the moment you land.
Frequently Asked Questions about Limoges Airport (LIG) Airport
Everything you need to know before traveling through Limoges Airport (LIG)
Other Airports in France
Complete guides for airports across France
- Beauvais Airport Guide IATA: BVA Beauvais
- Bergerac Airport Guide IATA: EGC Bergerac
- Beziers Airport Guide IATA: BZR Beziers
- Biarritz Airport Guide IATA: BIQ Biarritz
- Bordeaux Airport Guide IATA: BOD Bordeaux
- Brest Airport Guide IATA: BES Brest
- Brive Airport Guide IATA: BVE Brive
- Caen Airport Guide IATA: CFR Caen
- Cannes Airport Guide IATA: CEQ Cannes
- Carcassonne Airport Guide IATA: CCF Carcassonne
- Clermont Ferrand Airport Guide IATA: CFE Clermont Ferrand
- Figari Airport Guide IATA: FSC Figari
Explore More Car Rental Locations Across France
Find the best car rental deals at these popular locations
- Car Rental Aix En Provence Downtown Aix En Provence
- Car Rental Alencon Downtown Alencon
- Car Rental Angers Downtown Angers
- Car Rental Angouleme Downtown Angouleme
- Car Rental Annecy Downtown Annecy
- Car Rental Arles Downtown Arles
- Car Rental Avignon Downtown Avignon
- Car Rental Beauvais Airport Beauvais
- Car Rental Beauvais Downtown Beauvais
- Car Rental Bergerac Airport Bergerac
- Car Rental Bergerac Downtown Bergerac
- Car Rental Beziers Airport Beziers
- Car Rental Beziers Downtown Beziers
- Car Rental Biarritz Airport Biarritz
- Car Rental Biarritz Downtown Biarritz
- Car Rental Bordeaux Airport Bordeaux
- Car Rental Bordeaux Downtown Bordeaux
- Car Rental Brest Airport Brest
- Car Rental Brest Downtown Brest
- Car Rental Brive Airport Brive
- Car Rental Brive Downtown Brive
- Car Rental Caen Airport Caen
- Car Rental Caen Downtown Caen
- Car Rental Calais Downtown Calais
- Car Rental Cannes Airport Cannes
- Car Rental Cannes Downtown Cannes
- Car Rental Carcassonne Airport Carcassonne
- Car Rental Carcassonne Downtown Carcassonne
- Car Rental Chambery Downtown Chambery
- Car Rental Cherbourg Downtown Cherbourg