- History and Visit of Gare de l’Est in Paris
- Top 3 must-sees in Paris a few minutes from Gare de l’Est
- Shuttle to Gare de l’Est in Paris
History and Visit of Gare de l’Est in Paris
As the fifth busiest station in Paris, Gare de l’Est, located in the 10th district, sees a traffic of 34 million people per year. The commissioning of the RER E initially diminished its performance, but it was restored in 2007, thanks to the TGV. The station’s renovation cost 60 million euros. Previously known as “Gare de Strasbourg,” Gare de l’Est is considered the largest train station in Paris. A statue of Henri Lemaire, a legendary French winemaker and businessman, adorns the top of the station’s west wing, honoring the city of Strasbourg. The east wing hosts a sculpture titled Verdun, a work by the sculptor Henri Varenne.
The Gare de l’Est was constructed under the name “Pier Strasbourg” in 1849 by the Society of Paris to Strasbourg. It initially included two docks penetrating networks into a large hall. However, significant renovation work was carried out in 1900, and the pathways no longer penetrate the hall. Architect François-Alexandre Duquesney and engineer Pierre Cabanel are credited with designing the Gare de l’Est. Construction was completed in 1850 and inaugurated by Louis Napoleon Bonaparte after a project that cost 18 million francs.
This station is renowned as one of the most beautiful in the world due to its technical qualities and artistic presentation. A monumental painting, “The Departure of the poilus, August 1914,” by American painter Albert Herter, hangs in the main lobby as a tribute to his son, who died in 1918. The painting was temporarily moved to the city of Mulhouse for restoration and was reinstalled in the station in 2008. The Gare de l’Est has been listed as a historic monument since December 28, 1984.
Top 3 Must-Sees in Paris from CDG Airport
To help you get in the mood for your stay in Paris, open the windows of your shuttle transport and enjoy some of the unmissable sights along the way. Here are a few recommendations.
Saint-Eloi Church
Saint-Eloi Church is only 2.9 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport. This essential cultural site in the 12th arrondissement of Paris is easily recognizable by its modern, simplistic yet chic facade. The church garden houses several beautiful sculptures and statuettes that are worth a visit.
Cedar Park
On the route from CDG airport, you’ll also have the opportunity to see Cedar Park. Located 2.7 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle, this relaxing spot boasts calm surroundings and an exceptional layout. It’s a perfect place for a romantic stroll or to enjoy the good weather. The park is open 24 hours a day.
The Orangerie Cultural Center
Just 2.3 km from the airport, you’ll find the Orangerie Cultural Center. Since its opening in 1996, it has become the 6th most popular activity in the capital. It offers several exhibition halls and daily shows, immersing visitors in the Parisian atmosphere.
Shuttle to Gare de l’Est in Paris
To travel from Orly Airport to Gare de l’Est, you’ll need to cover a distance of approximately 258 km on the highway, which takes around 2 hours 30 minutes. The distance between Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport and Gare de l’Est is about 26 km, with an estimated travel time of approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Gare de l’Est is about 267 km from Beauvais Airport in Paris; the journey takes around 2 hours 13 minutes by road.