- History and visit Gare de Lyon in Paris
- Discover the surroundings of Gare de Lyon in Paris
- Shuttle to Gare de Lyon in Paris
History and visit Gare de Lyon in Paris
Gare de Lyon, named after its location on rue de Lyon, is situated on Place Louis Armand, in the 12th arrondissement. The main entrance opens onto rue de Lyon, which leads to Place de la Bastille and Boulevard as Didelot. It is one of the seven terminal stations of the SNCF network in Paris. With a passenger traffic of 83 million per year, it ranks as the third busiest station in Paris and the first for long-distance trains. The station was initially constructed on August 12, 1849, and was originally called « Embarcadère du chemin de fer de Paris à Montereau ». Over time, passenger traffic continuously grew, leading to the expansion of the station multiple times. Currently, the station is anticipated to expand with a new canopy covering an area of over 4400m² to accommodate an additional 10 million passengers per year. The architectural work of Marius Toudoire, Gare de Lyon, is known for its beautiful façade, various statues, and a 67 m high clock tower. With 22 tracks, it serves the vast quarter of Eastern Central and South-eastern France, including cities like Belfort, Montbéliard, Besançon, Dijon, Lyon, Grenoble, Valence, Avignon, Saint-Etienne, Marseille, Toulon, Nice, Montpellier, and Mulhouse. International lines originate and terminate here, connecting to Geneva, Lausanne, Neuchâtel, Berne, Basel, Switzerland, and Italy. The facade, roof, and mural room are classified as historical monuments. The station’s legendary restaurant, noted for its Second Empire style and Lyon cuisine, is situated on the first floor of the facade. Le Train Bleu is also a renowned historical monument of France.
Discover the surroundings of Gare de Lyon in Paris
Gare de Lyon is not only one of Paris’s busiest train stations but also a gateway to some of the city’s most intriguing areas. Located in the 12th arrondissement, it’s surrounded by a variety of cultural and leisure activities that captivate tourists and locals alike.
Just a short walk from the station, the Seine River offers scenic paths and the opportunity to explore riverside attractions. Along these banks, the historical and beautiful Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité, home to Notre-Dame Cathedral, provide a picturesque escape from the urban rush. Boat tours frequently depart nearby, offering a unique view of the city’s landmarks from the water.
Adjacent to Gare de Lyon is the vibrant Bercy Village, a charming spot known for its trendy shops, cafes, and a park that hosts various events throughout the year. The area is perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere away from the more crowded parts of Paris.
The Opéra Bastille, located within a few minutes’ walk, is a modern opera house that stands as a symbol of French architecture and cultural sophistication. Here, visitors can enjoy world-class operas and ballets in a contemporary setting.
For a taste of local life, the Marché d’Aligre, a daily open-air market nearby, offers everything from fresh produce to antiques, showcasing the diverse culinary and cultural heritage of the region.
To explore these attractions and more, consider booking a shuttle taxi to Parisian train stations, ensuring a convenient and stress-free experience as you discover the area around Gare de Lyon.
Shuttle to Gare de Lyon in Paris
Traveling from Paris airports to Gare de Lyon offers various transportation options. From Orly Airport, Gare de Lyon is 17.1 km away, approximately 30 km from Charles de Gaulle, and significantly further, at 98.8 km, from Beauvais Tille Airport. When considering your choice, taxis, although direct, can be costly and affected by traffic. Public transport like the RER and metro provides a more economical route but may be cumbersome with heavy luggage or after a long flight. For a reliable and stress-free alternative, consider booking a shuttle from CDG, ensuring a comfortable ride to your destination without the unpredictability of taxi fares or the difficulties of public transit. For further convenience from Orly, explore our dedicated shuttles, or enjoy a tailored journey with our private vehicle services to navigate Paris with ease.