Paris-Nord to Paris-Lyon by Metro/RER

Smooth transfer tips

• Transferring from Paris-Nord to Paris-Lyon is much easier by RER than by Metro. (The RER is network of suburban trains running through Paris, located next to the Metro).
• There are escalators and lifts to take you to and from the platforms. Don't struggle up the first stairs you see – take a moment to look for the escalator or lift, or ask someone. The French for "escalator" is "escalator" and "lift" is "ascenseur."
• To save time, buy your Metro/RER tickets in advance from the Eurostar travel centre at St Pancras, or on board from the train cafe-bar (the Metro/RER ticket machines at Paris-Nord sometimes have queues up to 15 minutes long). On Eurostar, tickets are sold in sets of 10 (called a carnet) costing £12.20. At the travel centre a carnet costs £11.50. The tickets are valid indefinitely and can be used for any RER or Metro journey.
• The ticket entry gates on the Metro can be a bit narrow to enter with a wide suitcase. Look for the wide-entry gate, which has a button that you press for it to open.

More questions? See our Paris Metro FAQ page.

Paris-Nord to Paris-Lyon by Pr-booked Taxi

How it works

1. You advance book with a Parisien taxi company (see below), using a simple email form or by phone (they speak English). The taxis can carry skis and snowboards.
2. The taxi driver waits at the end of your platform with a placard with your name on it.
3. You drive from Paris-Nord to Paris-Lyon, which takes about 20-25 minutes. All the drivers speak English.
4. The taxi drops you at the station, or if you prefer, a restaurant opposite the station. The taxi driver can help you all the way to the train platform if you wish.

Time required

Allow 40 minutes in total for this change, although it may take less than that. (On weekdays 5-7pm and Friday and Saturday evenings, allow one hour, due to traffic). If in doubt, consult the taxi company first.

What it costs  

 *depends on time of day

Taxi Rank

The taxi rank at Gare du Nord is located just outside the station, next to Platform 1.

When you arrive by Eurostar, the taxi rank is just 50 metres to your right.

Taxis arrive constantly and you will rarely have to wait for more than 10 minutes.

Most taxis can carry skis or snowboards for an additional charge of €2. There is also a selection of larger vehicles which can carry 5, 6 or 7 people.

Regular taxi fares:

Gare du Nord – Gare de l’Est, €12 - €15

Gare du Nord – Gare du Lyon, €15 - €20

Gare du Nord – Gare d’Austerlitz, €15 - €20