Paris Gare de Lyon is one of the six large mainline railway termini in Paris, France.

• Location: It is situated in the 12th arrondissement, on the Right Bank of the Seine River in southeastern Paris .
• Primary Function: The station is a major hub for high-speed trains (TGV) and regional services, primarily serving destinations in southeastern France, Switzerland, and Italy . It is also the starting point for France's first high-speed rail line, the TGV Sud-Est .
• Distinctive Features: The station is renowned for its iconic clock tower and the historic, opulent "Le Train Bleu" restaurant located within .
• Connections: It offers connections to the Paris Métro (Lines 1 and 14) and the RER regional express network (Lines A and D) .

Paris Gare de Lyon is one of the six large mainline railway termini in Paris, serving a vast network of TGV, Intercités, and regional trains, primarily to southeastern France, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. It's a multi-level station known for its iconic clock tower and the historic "Le Train Bleu" restaurant.

Here's a breakdown of its layout:

Paris Gare de Lyon Station Layout

1. Overview & General Structure

Gare de Lyon is a large, multi-level station designed to handle a high volume of passengers. It's broadly divided into:

• Two main platform halls for mainline trains (Hall 1 and Hall 2/Voûtes).
• A large central concourse connecting these halls and main entrances.
• Deep underground levels for Metro and RER lines, connected by extensive pedestrian corridors.

2. Mainline Platform Levels

The station features two distinct sets of platforms for mainline trains:

a) Hall 1 (Ground Level - "Grandes Lignes")

• Platforms: Generally identified by letters (e.g., Platforms A to N). These are the older, longer platforms.
• Services: Primarily serves TGV (high-speed trains to destinations like Marseille, Nice, Lyon, Geneva, Barcelona, Milan) and some Intercités and TER (regional) services.
• Access: Directly accessible from the main station concourse at street level. These platforms are typically covered by the historic train shed.
• Features: Often where the longest trains depart, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and amenities on the main concourse.

b) Hall 2 (Upper Level - "Voûtes" / "Souterrain")

• Platforms: Generally identified by numbers (e.g., Platforms 5 to 23). These are newer and typically shorter than those in Hall 1.
• Services: Also serves TGV (including some Ouigo services), and other mainline trains, often those with shorter train compositions.
• Access: Located above Hall 1 and the main concourse. Access is primarily via escalators and elevators from the main concourse.
• Features: Covered by modern arched ceilings ("voûtes"). Despite being called "souterrain" (underground) in some signage, this level is still above the true underground Metro/RER lines and often partially above ground level relative to the street.

3. Main Concourse & Public Areas

• Central Hub: A vast open area that acts as the primary connection point between Hall 1, Hall 2 (via escalators/lifts), and the main entrances.
• Services:
  • Ticket Offices: SNCF (national rail) ticket windows and self-service machines.
  • Information Desks: For train information and tourist assistance.
  • Departure/Arrival Boards: Large electronic displays showing train times and platform assignments.
  • Shops & Restaurants: Numerous options ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals (including the famous Le Train Bleu restaurant, located on the first floor above the main concourse, offering panoramic views).
  • Waiting Areas: Seating is available, though can be limited during peak times.
  • Restrooms & Luggage Storage (Consignes): Facilities are available (often paid).
  • Lounges: Grand Voyageur TGV INOUI lounge for eligible passengers.

4. Entrances & Exits

• Place Diderot (Main Entrance): The iconic entrance directly under the clock tower, facing the square. This is the grandest entrance and provides direct access to the main concourse and Hall 1 platforms.
• Rue de Bercy Entrance: Located on the east side of the station, offering direct access to the main concourse and a convenient connection to some bus lines and hotels.
• Rue de Chalon Entrance: On the west side, also leading to the main concourse.
• Underground Connections: Numerous exits lead directly into the Metro and RER complexes.

5. Metro & RER Levels (Deep Underground)

Gare de Lyon is a major interchange for Paris's public transport system:

a) Metro

• Line 1: (Yellow Line) Connects eastern and western Paris (e.g., Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Bastille).
• Line 14: (Purple Line, Météor) A modern, automated line providing fast connections to Gare Saint-Lazare and Olympiades.
• Access: Both Metro lines are deep underground, connected to the main station concourse via long pedestrian corridors, escalators, and moving walkways. Transfers can involve significant walking distances.

b) RER (Réseau Express Régional)

• RER Line A: (Red Line) A major east-west suburban line, connecting key areas like La Défense, Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, Châtelet-Les Halles, and Disneyland Paris.
• RER Line D: (Green Line) A major north-south suburban line, connecting destinations like Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, and Melun.
• Access: RER platforms are even deeper than the Metro lines, requiring further travel via escalators and long underground corridors from the main station. The RER platforms are generally separate from the Metro platforms.

6. Bus, Taxi & Tram Connections

• Bus Stops: Numerous RATP city bus lines stop around the perimeter of the station, particularly on Place Diderot, Rue de Bercy, and Rue de Chalon.
• Noctilien (Night Buses): Stops are also located around the station for overnight service.
• Taxi Ranks: Designated taxi stands are available at various points around the station, typically near the main entrances.
• Tramway T4: While not directly at the station, the T4 tram line is accessible via a short walk from the station to the "Gare de Lyon" stop on Avenue Daumesnil.

7. Key Landmarks & Features

• Clock Tower: The iconic square tower with four large clocks, visible from afar and a major meeting point.
• Le Train Bleu Restaurant: A stunning, opulent restaurant on the first floor, offering a historical and luxurious dining experience.
• Frescoes & Architecture: The station itself is a beautiful example of Belle Époque architecture, particularly in Hall 1 and around the main concourse.

8. Accessibility

• Gare de Lyon, being a historic station, can be challenging due to its multiple levels and long corridors for Metro/RER connections.
• However, efforts have been made to improve accessibility with elevators and escalators connecting all main levels.
• "Accès Plus" service: SNCF provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility; it's advisable to book this in advance.
• Moving walkways are installed in the longer underground corridors connecting to the Metro/RER.

Navigation Tips:

• Arrive Early: Especially if you have large luggage or need to connect to Metro/RER, as walking distances can be significant.
• Check Boards: Always confirm your platform (voie) on the electronic departure boards, as platforms are typically only announced 20-30 minutes before departure.
• Follow Signs: Signs are generally clear for platforms, Metro, and RER, but pay attention to colors and line numbers.
• Mind Your Belongings: Like any major transport hub, be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on escalators.

This comprehensive overview should help you navigate Paris Gare de Lyon effectively!

Gare de Lyon is one of Paris's major international and national railway hubs, offering a comprehensive range of services and facilities to cater to the needs of travelers.

Here's a breakdown:

Services & Amenities

• Information & Ticketing:
  • SNCF Information Desks: For train schedules, destinations, and general inquiries.
  • Ticket Counters: For purchasing tickets, making reservations, and collecting pre-booked tickets.
  • Self-Service Ticket Machines: Available in multiple languages for quick ticket purchases and collections.
  • Lost & Found Office (Objets Trouvés): For reporting and retrieving lost items.
• Food & Drink:
  • Le Train Bleu Restaurant: An iconic, historic, and opulent restaurant located within the station, offering gourmet dining.
  • Restaurants: Various sit-down restaurants offering different cuisines.
  • Cafes & Bakeries: Numerous options like Starbucks, Paul, Costa Coffee, and local patisseries for coffee, pastries, and light meals.
  • Fast Food: International chains and local options.
  • Takeaway & Kiosks: Selling snacks, sandwiches, drinks, and convenience items.
• Shopping:
  • Newsagents & Bookstores (e.g., Relay): For newspapers, magazines, books, and travel essentials.
  • Fashion & Accessories: Boutiques selling clothing, jewelry, and travel accessories.
  • Souvenir & Gift Shops: For Parisian souvenirs and gifts.
  • Pharmacies: For health and beauty products, over-the-counter medication.
  • Convenience Stores: For last-minute groceries or travel items.
• Luggage Services:
  • Automatic Luggage Lockers (Consignes Automatiques): Self-service lockers of various sizes for short-term baggage storage.
  • Luggage Trolleys: Available for transporting heavy bags.
• Accessibility Services:
  • Accès Plus (Access Plus) Service: Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities. Booking in advance is recommended.
  • Accessible Toilets: Designed for wheelchair users.
  • Ramps and Lifts: Throughout the station to connect different levels and platforms.
• Connectivity & Digital:
  • Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the station.
  • Charging Points: For electronic devices (often found in waiting areas or specific charging zones).
• Financial Services:
  • ATMs (Distributeurs de Billets): Multiple cash machines from various banks.
  • Currency Exchange: Sometimes available, though less common than ATMs.
• Comfort & Rest:
  • Public Toilets: Pay-per-use, with baby changing facilities often included.
  • Waiting Areas: Seating areas throughout the station.
  • SNCF Grand Voyageur Lounge: A private lounge for eligible first-class ticket holders or loyalty program members, offering refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a calmer environment.
  • Nursery/Baby Changing Facilities: Dedicated spaces for parents with infants.
• Other Services:
  • Car Rental Desks: Major rental companies have offices within or near the station.
  • Police Station (Police ferroviaire): Railway police presence for security and emergencies.
  • Photo Booths: For passport-style photos.

Facilities

• Platforms (Quais): Numerous platforms serving TGV, RER, Metro, and regional trains.
• Ticketing Halls: Multiple areas dedicated to ticket purchase and information.
• Underground Connections: Extensive underground passages connecting to the Metro (Lines 1 and 14) and RER (Lines A and D) networks.
• Taxi Ranks: Dedicated areas outside the main exits for taxis.
• Bus Stops: Numerous bus lines serving the city and surrounding areas, directly accessible from the station exits.
• Car Parks (P-Parking): Underground parking facilities available for short-term and long-term parking.
• Drop-off/Pick-up Zones: Designated areas for quick passenger drop-off and pick-up.
• Lifts (Ascenseurs) & Escalators: Throughout the station to facilitate movement between floors and platforms.
• Iconic Clock Tower: A prominent architectural feature of the station.
• Security: CCTV surveillance and security personnel.

Note: The availability of specific shops or services may change over time. It's always a good idea to check the official SNCF or Gare de Lyon website for the most current information if you're looking for something very specific.

Train stations like Paris Gare de Lyon don't have "office hours" in the traditional sense, but rather operating hours for various services within the station. These hours can vary slightly, especially on public holidays.

Below is a general guide to the operating hours for common services at Paris Gare de Lyon. Always check official SNCF sources for the most current information before your travel.

Office Hours & Services at Paris Gare de Lyon

General Station Access

• The main station concourses are generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• However, access to specific platforms (especially for night trains) or certain areas of the station might be restricted during very late or early hours.

Ticket Sales & Information (SNCF Boutique / Guichets)

• Daily: Typically from early morning (e.g., 05:30 - 06:00) until late evening (e.g., 21:00 - 22:00).
• Hours can vary slightly on weekends and public holidays.
• Automated Ticket Machines: Available 24/7 throughout the station for purchasing tickets for most domestic and some international routes (credit card required).

Left Luggage (Consigne Automatique / Lockers)

• Location: Usually on Level -1 or Level -2 (follow signs for "Consignes").
• Hours: Generally 06:00 - 23:45 daily.
• Important: Access to this area might close slightly before the last retrieval time. Always check the posted signs at the Consigne location for exact daily hours.

Lost & Found (Service Objets Trouvés)

• Location: Often in a dedicated office within the station.
• Hours: Typically Monday to Friday, with more limited hours (e.g., 09:00 - 17:00 or 09:00 - 18:00). Often closed or with very restricted hours on weekends and public holidays.
• Note: If you lose something on a train, it's often best to contact SNCF customer service directly or report it online.

Information Desk (Accueil)

• Hours: Similar to ticket counters, generally early morning to late evening.
• For general station information, directions, and assistance.

Shops & Restaurants

• Vary widely:
  • Many larger food outlets (e.g., fast food, cafes) open very early (e.g., 05:00) and close very late (e.g., 23:00 - 00:00).
  • Retail shops usually follow standard commercial hours (e.g., 08:00/09:00 to 20:00/21:00).

Important Notes & Disclaimer

• Verify: These hours are estimates and general guidelines. They are subject to change due to public holidays, special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances.
• Official Source: Always check the official SNCF website (sncf-connect.com or gares-sncf.com) or the Gare de Lyon mobile app for the most current and precise information before your travel.
• On-Site: Look for posted signs and electronic displays within the station upon arrival for the most up-to-date hours for specific services.

Paris Gare de Lyon is a major transport hub, but it's also situated in an interesting part of Paris, the 12th arrondissement, with several attractions within walking distance or a short metro ride.

Here are some points of interest near Paris Gare de Lyon:

Points of Interest Within Walking Distance (5-20 minutes)

• Gare de Lyon Clock Tower & Architecture:
  • The station itself is a landmark! Take a moment to admire its grand architecture, especially the iconic clock tower that dominates the façade.
• Le Train Bleu Restaurant:
  • Located inside Gare de Lyon, this opulent restaurant is a historic monument in itself. Even if you don't dine, it's worth peeking inside to see the stunning Belle Époque décor, frescoes, and gilded details. A truly unique experience.
  • Website for Le Train Bleu
• Coulée Verte René-Dumont (Promenade Plantée):
  • An elevated park built on an old railway line, this urban oasis starts just behind the Gare de Lyon. It offers a unique green walk above the city streets, lined with trees, flowers, and art installations. It's a fantastic escape from the urban hustle.
  • Viaduc des Arts: Below the Coulée Verte, the arches of the former railway viaduct house artisan workshops, galleries, and boutiques.
• Bassin de l'Arsenal:
  • A picturesque marina connecting the Canal Saint-Martin to the River Seine. It's a lovely spot for a stroll, watching boats, or having a drink at one of the waterside cafés.
• Rue Crémieux:
  • A charming, pedestrianized street famous for its pastel-colored houses, often compared to Portobello Road in London. It's very popular for photos, but remember it's a residential street, so be respectful of the residents.
• Jardin des Plantes:
  • Just across the Seine (via Pont d'Austerlitz), this beautiful botanical garden is home to the Natural History Museum, several galleries (like the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution), a small zoo (Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes), and stunning themed gardens.
  • Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle: Within the Jardin des Plantes, offering fascinating exhibits on evolution, paleontology, and geology.

Points of Interest - Short Metro or RER Ride (1-3 stops)

• Place de la Bastille & Opéra Bastille:
  • A significant historical square, once home to the infamous Bastille prison. Today, it features the Colonne de Juillet monument. The modern Opéra Bastille is a major venue for opera and ballet. (Metro Line 1 or 5 to Bastille, or a 15-minute walk).
• Bercy Village & Parc de Bercy:
  • Bercy Village is a charming pedestrian area with shops, restaurants, and a cinema, housed in beautifully renovated 19th-century wine warehouses.
  • Adjacent to it, Parc de Bercy offers lovely green spaces, themed gardens, and fountains, perfect for a relaxing break. (Metro Line 14 to Cour Saint-Émilion, or RER C to Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, then a short walk).
• Île Saint-Louis & Notre-Dame (Exterior View):
  • A short metro ride (Line 1 to Hôtel de Ville, then walk, or RER C to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame) or a pleasant walk along the Seine will bring you to the charming Île Saint-Louis, known for its historic mansions, quaint streets, and famous Berthillon ice cream. From here, you can get beautiful views of Notre-Dame Cathedral (currently undergoing restoration, but the exterior can be admired).
• Palais de la Porte Dorée:
  • Houses the Musée national de l'histoire de l'immigration (National Museum of Immigration History) and a fascinating Aquarium Tropical. The building itself is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. (Metro Line 8 to Porte Dorée).

Practical Tips

• Transportation: Gare de Lyon is served by Metro lines 1 and 14, as well as RER lines A and D, making it very easy to reach other parts of Paris quickly.
• Food: Besides Le Train Bleu, there are numerous brasseries, cafés, and bakeries in the immediate vicinity of the station and along the nearby streets (e.g., Rue de Lyon, Avenue Daumesnil).
• Time: Allow varying amounts of time depending on your interest. Some places are quick photo stops, while others (like Jardin des Plantes or a visit to a museum) can take hours.

Enjoy exploring the area around Gare de Lyon!