Getting to Paris by Train

Traveling by train is a common travel option for people living in and visiting Europe. Trains are very efficient, always on time, and can reach a lot of places. Paris is no exception. With six train stations, each specializing in a different region, you can easily get to Paris from just about anywhere in Europe.

History

Trains have been used to connect cities in France since the 1880s. The modern French Rail system, TGV was not started until the 1970s. These trains are amongst the fastest trains in the world. This makes trains a very popular and fast way to get around France, and all of Europe.

Paris Nord Train Station

Paris Nord , located in the 10^th arrondissement of Paris, has been a running train station since 1864. The station has continued to expand throughout the years and is now considered to be the busiest train station in all of Europe. The station has access to both the Metro and the RER commuter train. For longer journeys, Paris Nord Train Station's trains go to the Netherlands, Belgium, Northern Germany and the United Kingdom. Taking the train from the UK is especially exciting because of the high speed Eurostar trains that go through the Chunnel. Because of this it has never been easier to get from the UK to France. Often times flights are cheaper to London than any other part of Europe, therefore it may be cost effective to fly to London and take the train to Paris Nord Train Station.

Paris Lyon Train Station

If your train goes into  Paris Lyon, it is probably a TGV train, on of France's high speed trains. This station is located in the 12^th arrondissement of Paris. The Metro and RER both have stops at Paris Lyon Train Station, as do six different bus lines. The station has various shops and places to eat, such as Upper Crust, which is France sounds very appealing. The trains leaving from Paris Lyon Train Station are headed to Switzerland, Italy, central and south west France, as well as Spain.

Paris Est Train Station

Paris Est Train station, like it's neighbor Paris Nord Train Station is located in the 10^th arrondissement. In fact, it only takes a few minutes to walk from one station to the other. This station has been open even longer, with its first trains running in 1844. Paris Est Train Station connects Parisians and tourist to major cities such as Munich, Zurich and Vienna. In addition to Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, this station has trains that go to the eastern parts of France.

Paris Bercy Train Station

Unlike some of Paris's historical train station, Paris Bercy is highly modern. It is one of the quieter stations. Most of the trains from this station go to Italy. If you are looking for a night train this might be the place to find it. The Paris Bercy Train Station in located in the 12^th arrondissement.

Paris Montparnasse Train Station

Paris Montparnasse Train Station, which is located in the 15^th arrondissement can be reach by four different Metro lines. This station may be a popular destination for tourists because it operates TGV tours of France. In addition to tours of France most of the trains from this station will be going to various regions of France such as Brittany, Normandy, and Midi-Pyrénées. The only foreign country this station serves in Spain.

Paris Austerlitz Train Station

Another option for night owls is the Paris Austerlitz Train Station. There are night trains to Spain as well as other regions of France. This station is located in the 13^th arrondissement. It provides great access to Orly airport as well.