Landmark · Quinze-Vingts
Paris Gare de Lyon
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Gare de Lyon is one of Paris's major railway stations, renowned for its magnificent Belle Époque architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The station's most iconic feature is the grand clock tower, visible from afar, and the vast departure hall with its ornate ceilings and chandeliers. Inside, the legendary Le Train Bleu restaurant offers a glimpse into early 20th-century luxury dining with its gilded interiors and frescoes. Beyond its architectural beauty, the station serves as a hub for high-speed TGV trains to southern France and Italy, making it a bustling crossroads of travelers. Visitors can admire the station's exterior, explore the historic buffet, or simply watch the trains come and go in this quintessentially Parisian setting.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the ornate facade and the 64-meter-high clock tower.
- Dine or have a drink at Le Train Bleu, a stunning Belle Époque restaurant with frescoes and gold leaf.
- Visit the station's interior hall with its grand staircase and intricate mosaics.
- Watch the departure boards for TGV trains to destinations like Marseille and Nice.
- Explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Jardin de Reuilly and the Opéra Bastille.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Paris Gare de Lyon
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Paris Gare de Lyon with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inParis Gare du Nord Luggage Storage4.6★ · 22 travelers~24 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →
Most bookedLyon Old Town Food Tour with 5 French Delicacies & Fine Wine4.9★ · 691 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$126 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleDiscover Lyon in an Unusual Way4.9★ · 214 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$58 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Le Train Bleu is expensive but worth a visit for the ambiance; you can also just have a coffee.
- Photography is allowed inside the station and restaurant, but avoid using flash in the restaurant.
- If you're catching a train, arrive at least 30 minutes early to navigate the large station.
- The station has multiple levels; check the departure boards for your platform number.
A bit of history
Opened in 1900 for the Exposition Universelle, Gare de Lyon was designed by architect Marius Toudoire. Its famous clock tower stands 67 meters tall, and the station has been a listed historical monument since 1984.
Common questions
Can I visit Le Train Bleu without dining?
Yes, you can enter the restaurant to look around, but staff may ask you to leave if it's busy. It's best to have a drink or meal.
Is there a fee to enter the station?
No, the station is a public space and free to enter.
What is the best way to see the clock tower?
The tower is best viewed from outside the station, especially from the Rue de Lyon side.
Are there luggage storage facilities?
Yes, there are luggage lockers and a left-luggage office in the station.
How far is it from Notre-Dame?
About 2.5 km (1.5 miles), a 30-minute walk or 10-minute metro ride.
Is the station open 24/7?
The station is open 24 hours, but shops and restaurants have limited hours. Le Train Bleu is open for lunch and dinner.
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