How many platforms does Gare de Lyon have?

Decoding Gare de Lyon: More Than Just a Beautiful Facade

Gare de Lyon, with its iconic clock tower and ornate facade, is more than just a beautiful landmark in Paris. It’s a bustling transport hub, a gateway to southeastern France, and a surprisingly complex network of platforms. Understanding this network can save travelers precious time and minimize confusion when navigating this grand station.

While the grandeur of the main halls captures the eye, the platform layout is where the true functionality of Gare de Lyon lies. Forget a simple numerical progression – this station boasts a two-part system. The magnificent Hall 1, steeped in history and architectural splendor, houses platforms designated by letters, running from A to N. This totals 14 mainline platforms within the historic hall. Adjacent, the more modern Hall 2 offers a more conventional numerical system, with platforms numbered 5 through 23. This seemingly odd numbering isn’t a mistake; it brings the total number of mainline platforms in Hall 2 to 18.

Combining these two distinct halls, Gare de Lyon offers a grand total of 32 mainline platforms serving destinations across France and beyond. But the story doesn’t end there. Beneath the hustle and bustle of the main halls lies another layer of transport: the RER. Four dedicated platforms serve the RER A and D lines, providing crucial connections within the Île-de-France region and adding another dimension to Gare de Lyon’s connectivity.

So, the next time you find yourself amidst the grandeur of Gare de Lyon, remember that its 32 mainline platforms across two halls, complemented by four subterranean RER platforms, are the real engine driving this iconic station. This understanding will empower you to navigate its complexities with confidence and embark on your journey seamlessly.