Paris Canal Studio - Gare de l'Est

Getting onto the trains can be stressful here. They only announce the platform 20-30 minutes before departure, and the ticket scanners often don't work well, creating huge queues. Many people end up boarding only in the final minutes. Inside, Gare de l'Est feels more like a department store than a train station. There are some places to buy food and drinks for the journey, but far more shops selling industrial goods, many unrelated to the station. Seating is scarce and mostly out on cold, drafty platforms. Unless you're a first-class business passenger, there doesn't seem to be a warm place to wait. A regular first-class ticket won't get you into the special lounge, where you can sit warmly and have tea or coffee. There's just one café serving hot meals, and it's usually crowded with no seats. The other food stalls are in cold, draughty spots, so dress warmly in winter. Of the Paris stations, this one felt the least comfortable and convenient. Gare de l'Est is also one of France's oldest and most important rail hubs. It opened in 1849 as the end point for the Strasbourg line and grew into a major complex for trains heading east. Its neoclassical front has distinctive arcades and sculptures, reflecting the Industrial Revolution's faith in rail as a sign of progress. The building was substantially expanded in 1885 to handle more passengers.

It's a great station, clean and easy to get around, with fascinating architecture. You can find a wide range of food, books, and souvenirs.

The station has trains to northeastern France and the Alsace region, with a metro stop one level below and lockers available. There are food chains such as Starbucks inside, and plenty of cafés just outside, along with a bus station. A Carrefour Express is near the entrance, and all levels are wheelchair friendly. A nice place overall.

Gare de l'Est is a busy travel hub, so expect plenty of people, especially at peak times. There are lots of signs to help you find your way, and the train links to eastern France and Germany are convenient. It's one of Paris' oldest stations, with beautiful historic architecture to show for it. Some parts could be cleaner, but I had a good travel experience.