In Paris, the train stations can be much larger and somewhat confusing. If you're unfamiliar with the station in Paris, you should arrive from 45 – 60 minutes before departure time. Just like in an airport, there are arrival and departure boards.
People Also Ask
Arriving at the StationPlan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).
Check-in for Eurostar journeys opens an hour and 15 minutes before departure. We recommend that you arrive at least 90 minutes prior to your train leaving so you can have a stress-free check-in.
Plan your journey online, here. With one of the busiest underground systems in Europe (and the world!) it's best to travel on the metro outside of commuter hours, which are from 08.00-10.00 and 17.00-20.00. By avoiding the rush means you're more likely to have an easier journey and perhaps get a seat, too.
Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).
Pack all of your luggage so that you can easily have everything you'll need with you. Make sure that you can quickly pack the things that you might need to put in at the last available second. Make sure to have a good breakfast, lunch or dinner before you start your journey.
How early should travelers arrive at the station? Rail Europe Inc. recommends arriving at the station at least 30 minutes prior to the train departure time. This allows enough time to clear any security check and board the train.
When travelling on our trains (except to and from London), just look for your train on the departure board and head straight to the platform. For stress-free boarding, we recommend that you arrive in the station 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time of your train.
Aim to be at Gare Du Nord a minimum of 15 min before departure if you will be taking a THALYS train; all Thalys passengers now have to pass through security checks. Prior to the confirmation of the specific voie (platform/track) that a Thalys service will be departing from, you can join the queue for Thalys departures.
What is the recommended layover time for international flights? For international layover flights booked on one airline, two hours is often recommended to make your connection. If your connecting flight leaves from a notoriously busy airport, it may be necessary to arrange a layover that's at least three hours long.
Métro. The Metro is the easiest, least expensive and quickest way to go out and to get home. Fourteen lines crisscross Greater Paris, from east to west and north to south. Good to know: As part of certain celebrations and events (New Year's Eve, Fête de la Musique, etc.), the Metro is open—and free—most of the night.
Trains average 20 km/h (12.4 mph) with a maximum of 70 km/h (43 mph) on all but the automated driverless trains of Line 14, which average 40 km/h (25 mph) and reach 80 km/h (50 mph).