The Train Hall for Gare de Lyon is an airy, light-filled space, not unlike a greenhouse — more utilitarian than the ornate head house, which featured shops. The station oozes with character, which is a nicer way to say it’s old and worn. It didn’t quite match the grandeur of the exterior with the impressive clock tower. However, it’s undergoing a renovation. I’ll be curious to see how it changes once it’s completed.

Our train to Switzerland left for Hall 2, which, while similar in architecture with the glass roof, had an annex-like feel. In both photos, the train shed is located just to the left of the image, where the trains are parked and where you board. Hall 2 was unexpectedly crowded, exacerbated by delays. Our train was delayed for over 30 minutes.

While I’m impressed with the train station architecture, besting what I’ve seen in Japan. Japan’s train system is more impressive from a transportation perspective. A higher volume of trains are on time; they run like clockwork. Gare de Lyon had an old-world feel with less frequent trains and at a leisurely pace.

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