Aelia Duty Free sits just past security in Terminal 2
Right after security in Terminal 2 at Lyon Saint-Exupéry, Aelia Duty Free is the first big shop you hit before most gates. It focuses on the usual duty-free mix: cosmetics, perfume, liquor, chocolate, and a smaller section of local French products. Pricing is standard airport-duty-free level rather than bargain-bin, but you can sometimes beat downtown prices on spirits and premium fragrance sets.
Expect the strongest offers on 1L bottles of whisky, cognac, and vodka, with promo tags and multi-buy deals clearly marked in euros. The beauty section leans hard on big brands you recognize from TV ads, with travel sets and miniatures near the front. If you want French souvenirs, look for boxed Lyon pralines and regional wine labels around one central aisle instead of hunting all over the store.
Aelia Duty Free in Terminal 2 usually opens from early-morning first departures through the last evening flights, roughly 06:00 to 21:30, though times slide a bit with the schedule. Lines at the single main checkout can back up for 5–10 minutes during the 07:00–09:00 bank of flights. Liquids bought here are sealed in STEB bags, which helps if you’re connecting onward through another EU airport.
One useful trick: if you spot something you like on the way to your gate in Terminal 2, take a quick photo of the shelf price and promo sign. If you change your mind closer to boarding, you can show staff at the register to confirm it matches the current deal before you pay.