Weekend from Paris: seaside by train, east side

Going to the seaside without taking the car is possible and even enjoyable when you know your train stations. From Paris, several doors open towards the English Channel and the North Sea. The choice of departure station often determines the duration of the journey and comfort. Here are the real logistical basics to organize your maritime escape, focusing on the exit points from the capital.

Gare de l'Est

Gare de l'Est Rue du 8 Mai 1945, 75010 Paris Google rating: 4/5 (7456 reviews) View on Maps This station is the ideal gateway to reach the Côte d'Opale or the North. With a solid rating of 4/5 based on over 7000 reviews, it generally offers a smooth experience. The Haussmannian architecture contrasts with the modern trains heading to Calais or Lille. It’s a strategic hub if you’re aiming for the northeastern coast.

Gare de Paris Saint-Lazare

Gare de Paris Saint-Lazare 13 Rue d'Amsterdam, 75008 Paris Google rating: 3.8/5 (2648 reviews) Website: https://www.garesetconnexions.sncf/fr/gares-services/paris-saint-lazare View on Maps For those aiming for Normandy, Saint-Lazare is a must. It serves Deauville, Honfleur, and Le Havre. The rating of 3.8/5 reflects its historical importance but also its heavy traffic. Located in the 8th arrondissement, it is well connected to urban transport. The atmosphere is dynamic, perfect for an early departure to the cliffs of Étretat.

Gare du Nord

Gare du Nord 18 Rue de Dunkerque, 75010 Paris Google rating: 3.5/5 (6898 reviews) Website: https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frpno/paris-gare-du-nord View on Maps Although primarily associated with international travel, Gare du Nord also serves national destinations towards the North-Pas-de-Calais coast. With nearly 7000 reviews and a rating of 3.5/5, it’s a vast station that requires organization. The platforms are spacious, and there are many shops. Ideal if you combine a visit to Lille before heading to the beach.

Gare de Lyon

Gare de Lyon Pl. Louis Armand, 75012 Paris Google rating: 3.8/5 (7498 reviews) Website: https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frply/paris-gare-lyon View on Maps Less obvious for direct seaside access, Gare de Lyon does allow connections to some Mediterranean coasts or quick transfers. Its rating of 3.8/5 from over 7400 reviews reflects its ability to handle a huge flow. The monumental clock remains a reliable meeting point. For a long summer weekend, it’s a good starting point towards the south.

Gare Montparnasse

Gare Montparnasse 17 Bd de Vaugirard, 75015 Paris Google rating: 2.6/5 (533 reviews) View on Maps This is the key station for Brittany and the Atlantic coast. Although the Google rating is lower (2.6/5), this is often due to the complexity of the modern building rather than travel service. With only 533 reviews recorded here, it appears less commented on than the others. It directly serves cities like Saint-Malo or Dinard. The TGV Atlantique makes these destinations accessible in just a few hours.

In practice

To optimize your weekend, book your tickets in advance, especially for departures on Friday evening or Saturday morning. The Parisian stations are all connected by metro and RER. Gare de l'Est and Gare du Nord are close to each other (line 4 or 5). Saint-Lazare is accessible via lines 3, 9, 12, 13, 14 as well as RER E. Montparnasse is served by lines 4, 6, 12, 13 and RER B. Check real-time schedules via the SNCF app before you leave, as construction work may impact departure tracks.