Le Train Bleu travel guide

Le Train Bleu, an iconic restaurant located in the Gare de Lyon railway station in Paris, has been a symbol of elegance and grandeur since it first opened its doors in 1901. Originally named 'Buffet de la Gare de Lyon,' it was rebranded to Le Train Bleu in 1963, a nod to the famous luxury train that once traveled from Calais to the Côte d'Azur.

The restaurant was commissioned as part of the 1900 Exposition Universelle, designed to showcase French art, culture, and cuisine to the world. Its lavish Belle Époque interior, featuring opulent chandeliers, gilded moldings, and over 40 frescoes depicting various French landscapes, was crafted by some of the era's most esteemed artists, including François Flameng and Henri Gervex.

Le Train Bleu has hosted an array of distinguished guests over the years, from Coco Chanel to Jean Cocteau, cementing its status as a cultural and historical landmark. Today, it continues to offer a luxurious dining experience, blending its rich history with exquisite French cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Le Train Bleu stands out for its opulent Belle Époque interior, which transports diners back to the elegance and grandeur of early 20th-century Paris. The restaurant's walls and ceilings are adorned with intricate frescoes and elaborate moldings, featuring over 40 paintings depicting French landscapes and historical events, creating a museum-like ambiance. The lavish chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and plush seating further enhance its luxurious atmosphere.

Each dining table is meticulously set with fine china and crystal, emphasizing the attention to detail that characterizes Le Train Bleu. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu that blends traditional French cuisine with modern culinary techniques, ensuring that each dish is a work of art. The service is impeccable, with staff dressed in period uniforms, adding to the nostalgic charm.

Le Train Bleu also boasts a wine list that features an extensive selection of French wines, curated to complement its gourmet offerings. Its location within the Gare de Lyon adds another layer of uniqueness, allowing diners to enjoy a meal while observing the hustle and bustle of one of Paris's major train stations. The juxtaposition of the timeless elegance of Le Train Bleu with the modernity of the station creates a truly unparalleled dining experience.

Le Train Bleu's opulent interior has made it a popular film location, featuring in movies like 'Nikita' and 'The Da Vinci Code.' The restaurant boasts over 41 paintings, each depicting a different region of France, offering diners a visual journey through the country. Remarkably, the establishment was originally named 'Buffet de la Gare de Lyon' before adopting its current moniker in 1963, inspired by the luxurious 'Blue Train' that once traveled from Calais to the French Riviera. Le Train Bleu also serves a unique beef dish called 'Entrecôte 1900,' prepared using a secret recipe unchanged since the restaurant's opening. Additionally, the establishment champions sustainability, sourcing ingredients locally and prioritizing eco-friendly practices.

Located in the dynamic 12th arrondissement of Paris, the popular Le Train Bleu is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Paris and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

The best time to explore Le Train Bleu, the iconic restaurant nestled within Gare de Lyon in Paris, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons. These periods offer milder weather, making it pleasant to enjoy the restaurant's elegant ambiance and gourmet delicacies. Springtime in Paris is particularly enchanting as the city is in full bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit.

Fall, on the other hand, brings a crispness to the air and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience. Summer months, while bustling with activity, can be quite crowded and hot, potentially detracting from the overall charm. Winter, though less crowded, offers a cozy atmosphere, especially around Christmas when the city is adorned with festive decorations.

Additionally, visiting during off-peak hours, such as late afternoon or early evening, can further enhance your experience by avoiding the typical meal-time rush. Plan your visit around these favorable seasons and times to fully immerse yourself in the exquisite setting and culinary delights of Le Train Bleu.

Le Train Bleu is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 13.9 miles (22.3 km) away from Paris. From there, you can easily reach Le Train Bleu by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Le Train Bleu, which is located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Le Train Bleu, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pl. Louis-Armand, 75012 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Le Train Bleu!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Le Train Bleu and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

Conveniently explore Le Train Bleu and plenty more captivating attractions in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Le Train Bleu and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Paris has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Le Train Bleu below.

Aside from Le Train Bleu, Paris is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Paris, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 320,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. Like Eiffel Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 260,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This museum and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 190,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.