The Most Beautiful Parisian Train Stations

The Most Beautiful Parisian Train Stations

By Marina Vitale on Unsplash

Paris is a city that’s truly a feast for the eyes. Everything comprising the ville lumière seems to have a certain aesthetic appeal. From the rooftops to the underground, the beauty of Parisian architecture and design is impossible to deny – even in the city’s train stations! Here are some of the most beautiful Parisian train stations you’re likely to discover during your visit.

Gare du Nord

Located in the bustling 10th arrondissement, the Gare du Nord is one of the city’s most prominent train stations. If you’re taking a train to Northern Europe, or the Eurostar to London, this is where you’ll leave from. There’s also RER and train service to the city’s suburbs, or banlieues.

Despite being the busiest train station in Europe, Gare du Nord is arguably one of the most beautiful. Built in 1866, the station has a distinct 19th-century style – both inside and out. Outside, impressive neoclassical façades are decorated with 23 statues, each representing one of the cities served by the train routes. But the most stunning feature in my opinion is the glass-paneled interior ceiling which allows the natural light to play beautifully over the station. This also makes for an unforgettable departure if you manage to catch the sunset.

Its location in Paris’ 10th district means that Gare du Nord is just a quick hop from  Montmartre. This charming neighborhood is known for its winding cobbled streets, classic architecture and of course,  sites like the Moulin Rouge and the Sacré-Coeur Cathedral. Want to visit all the best spots with a local guide? Join our guided walking tour of Montmartre!

By Paul Fleury on Unsplash

Gare de l’Est

Just one metro station away from Gare du Nord is another beautiful Parisian train station, the Gare de l’Est. And as you may have guessed from the name, this train station serves destinations in Eastern Europe. Despite being one of the most important (and busiest) European train stations, this wasn’t always the case. Constructed in 1849, Gare de l’Est originally had only one train route running between Paris and Strasbourg!

By 1883, the station had expanded significantly and actually saw the historical first departure of the Orient Express to Istanbul that same year. By the late 1800s, Gare de l’Est had doubled in size, and Haussmann completely changed the architectural style of the station, resulting in the beautiful and very ‘Parisian’ look we see today. Grand arches, impressive stonework, high ceilings and large, intricate windows adorn the station inside and out.

By Hugh Llewelyn on Wikimedia Commons

Gare de Lyon

While smaller than the other beautiful Parisian train stations, Gare de Lyon has its own impressive features. Situated in the quieter 12th arrondissement, Gare de Lyon serves destinations in the South and Western portions of France, and most notably offers TGV trains to Lyon.

Like most other train stations in Paris, Gare de Lyon was constructed in the mid 19th century and features architecture typical of the period. It was actually built for the 1900 World’s Fair!

But there are a couple distinct features that set Gare de Lyon apart from the rest. The historic clocktower for one, which rises high above the city and still has the original clock. And it’s worth mentioning hat the station is famous for its dining options; particularly Le Train Bleu restaurant. The fine dining restaurant has been serving up eloquent takes on French classics (in a stunning Art Nouveau setting) since it opened back in 1900.

By Jordan Plihal

Well, now you know about some of the most beautiful Parisian train stations. i hope you’ll get the chance to visit some of them and explore some of the surrounding regions in France!

See you soon in Paris!