Saint-Lazare Metro Station in Paris, Hidden Heart of the City’s Transport Network

If you're planning a trip to Paris or simply curious about its famed public transport system, the Saint-Lazare Metro Station deserves a closer look. More than just a busy transit point, Saint-Lazare is a historic, artistic, and logistical marvel — and one of the best places to experience the real rhythm of Paris

What is Saint-Lazare Metro Station?
Located in the 8th arrondissement, Saint-Lazare is a major interchange hub connecting five metro lines (3, 9, 12, 13, and 14) as well as SNCF regional trains departing from Gare Saint-Lazare. It’s one of the busiest metro stations in Paris, serving over 275,000 passengers daily.
The lower level of Gare Saint-Lazare provides direct access to the Paris Metro and RER services via nearby connections.

Whether you're heading to Normandy, shopping near the Grands Boulevards, or transferring between lines, chances are you'll pass through this iconic station at some point during your stay.

A Brief History of Saint-Lazare StationSaint-Lazare holds the distinction of being one of the oldest railway terminals in Paris, with the train station dating back to 1837. The metro station opened in 1904, and has grown dramatically in scale and complexity.
Over the decades, Saint-Lazare became a vital link between the historic core of Paris and the western suburbs, adapting constantly to meet the city's changing transportation needs.

Why You Should Visit Saint-Lazare (Even If You’re Not Catching a Train)Even if you don’t have a ticket in hand, Saint-Lazare is worth a visit. Here’s why:
1. Architectural and Urban Design HighlightsFrom modern glass walkways to Haussmann-era facades, the contrast between old and new makes Saint-Lazare visually captivating. The design cleverly integrates retail, rail, and metro components into a single, flowing complex.
2. Public Art InstallationsSaint-Lazare is home to several permanent art displays, including:

“La voix lactée” by Geneviève Cadieux, installed in the metro station is a striking piece, depicting a very large close-up of a mouth with red lips, set against the sterile whiteness of the corridor connecting lines 9 and 14.
Sculptures and murals embedded in walkways that turn your commute into a cultural encounter.

3. Shopping and Dining OptionsLocated beneath and around the station is a labyrinth of shops, including boutiques, bakeries, and cafés. It's a great place to grab a croissant or pick up last-minute souvenirs before catching your train.

Tips for Navigating Saint-Lazare Metro Station Like a Local.

🚇 1. Know What’s Connected at Saint-Lazare
Saint-Lazare isn’t just a metro stop — it's a major railway station and transit hub:

Metro Lines: 3, 12, 13, and 14
SNCF trains: Normandy and suburbs
Nearby RER: A and E at Auber and Haussmann–Saint-Lazare (connected via underground walkways)

➡️ Pro tip: The complex connects 7 stations underground, so walking between lines can take 5–10 minutes.

🗺️ 2. Follow the Right Signs (and Colors)
Each metro line has a color and number. Look for these consistently:

Line 3 – Yellow
Line 12 – Green
Line 13 – Light Blue
Line 14 – Purple

➡️ Pro tip: Focus on the line number and direction (terminus station) to find your platform.

🕓 3. Avoid Peak Rush Hours
Saint-Lazare is insanely crowded during these times:

Weekdays: 8–10 AM and 5–7 PM

➡️ Pro tip: If possible, travel outside these hours for a smoother ride.

🚶‍♀️ 4. Give Yourself Time to TransferTransfers can be long and winding, especially to Line 14 or Auber RER A. It’s not unusual to walk 300–500 meters between lines.
➡️ Pro tip: If you're new or carrying luggage, allow an extra 10 minutes for transfers.

📱 5. Use Real-Time Apps
Locals swear by these apps for navigation and updates:

Citymapper – Best for real-time navigation and alternate routes
RATP App – Official Paris transport app with alerts and maps

📍 6. Entrances Matter
There are numerous station entrances, some more convenient depending on your destination:

Rue de Rome: Closest for SNCF trains
Place du Havre: Good for metro access
Passage du Havre: Great if you're coming from the shopping areas

🛍️ 7. Use the Underground Mall
Saint-Lazare station has a multi-level shopping area called “Cour de Rome” and “Cour de l’Amsterdam” — perfect for grabbing coffee, food, or last-minute essentials.
➡️ Pro tip: The mall is a shortcut to cut through the station when navigating between lines or exiting.

🧭 8. Look for “Correspondance” and “Sortie”

“Correspondance” = transfers to other metro lines
“Sortie” = exit
Exits are numbered and indicate nearby streets or landmarks

➡️ Learn your exit number before you arrive for a quicker way out.

►Official st. website

◄Saint-Lazare train st.

◄ Back to Paris metro

Hotels at Gare Saint Lazare