Esplanade de La Défense

Esplanade de La Défense metro station

The Esplanade de la Défense metro station is located in the La Défense district of Paris, France. It is part of the RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) public transport network, and is served by metro line 1.

Esplanade de la Défense station is located close to the Grande Arche de la Défense, a famous monument and business center in the La Défense business district. It is one of the main gateways to this business district, and is heavily used by workers, residents and visitors alike.

The station has a central platform due to its narrow width, which was built in originally one of the two tubes of the A14 freeway (which tunnels under La Défense). There is also a slight difference in width between the western end of the platform, where access is gained, and the eastern end, which is narrower and has a lower ceiling covered with black fireproof flock. Lighting is provided by fluorescent tubes. Large flat white tiles cover the vertical jambs. The advertising frames are metal, and the station name is written in Parisine font on enameled plates on the platform only. The platform is equipped with yellow “Akiko” seats and landing doors.

The station has two entrances.

Inauguration of the station

The Esplanade de la Défense metro station was inaugurated on April 1, 1992.

Where does the name come from ?

The Esplanade de la Défense metro station takes its name from its geographical location, near the Grande Arche de la Défense. Esplanade refers to the open, unobstructed space in front of the Grande Arche, an emblematic feature of the La Défense business district in Paris. The term “Défense” refers to the business district itself, which is characterized by the presence of numerous companies, financial institutions and corporate headquarters. Thus, the station’s name highlights its close link with this important business center and its associated public space.

Where to go from Esplanade de la Défense ?

From the Esplanade de la Défense metro station, you can get to various places of interest in and around Paris. Here are a few suggestions:

1. La Grande Arche de la Défense: As its name suggests, the station is directly connected to the Grande Arche de la Défense. You can take the direct access from the station to explore this iconic monument. You can climb to the top of the Grande Arche to enjoy a panoramic view of Paris.
2. Champs-Élysées : Take metro line 1 from Esplanade de la Défense and get off at Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station to access the Champs-Élysées avenue. You can stroll along this famous shopping street, visiting boutiques, cafés and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
3. Louvre: From Esplanade de la Défense station, take line 1 to Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre station to visit one of the world’s most renowned museums, the Louvre. Here you can admire artistic masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
4. Eiffel Tower: Get off at Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station and transfer to metro line 6 to reach Bir-Hakeim station. From here, you can walk to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most emblematic symbols of Paris.
5. La Défense: If you’re already at Esplanade de la Défense, you can also explore the district itself. It’s home to modern skyscrapers, shopping centers, green spaces and art installations. You can take a stroll along the esplanade, enjoy the view of the modern buildings and discover the many restaurants and boutiques in the area.

These are just a few of the many possibilities. Paris offers a wealth of sights, museums, charming neighborhoods and historic sites, all within easy reach of the Esplanade de la Défense station.

Many public transport lines pass through this metro station: RATP buses 73, 157, 158, 174, 175 and 176.

What’s nearby?

Near the Esplanade de la Défense metro station, you’ll find a number of attractions, facilities and points of interest. Here are just a few examples:

1. La Grande Arche de la Défense: This is one of the main attractions in the area, located right next to the station. The Grande Arche is a modern, imposing monument, offering panoramic views of Paris from its roof.
2. Les Quatre Temps: This is a huge shopping mall just a stone’s throw from the station. Les Quatre Temps is home to numerous stores, luxury boutiques, restaurants, cinemas and other entertainment facilities.
3. Cnit : The Cnit (Centre des nouvelles industries et technologies) is a convention and exhibition center located close to the station. It regularly hosts events, fairs and exhibitions.
4. Parvis de La Défense: This is a vast esplanade in front of the Grande Arche. It’s an open, lively space, where events, open-air exhibitions and shows often take place.
5. Jardins de l’Arche: These landscaped gardens offer a pleasant green space for strolling and relaxing. Located close to the station, they offer a green escape from the urban environment of La Défense.
6. U Arena: This is a multi-purpose auditorium located just a few minutes’ walk from the station. It hosts concerts, sporting events and other shows.
7. La Défense Seine-Arche: This is the La Défense business district itself, home to numerous skyscrapers, offices, corporate headquarters and financial institutions. You can stroll through the district to admire the modern architecture and dynamic atmosphere.

These points of interest offer a variety of activities, entertainment, shopping and relaxation within easy reach of the Esplanade de la Défense station.