George V

George V metro station

George V is a metro station in Paris, France. It is on line 1 of the Paris metro, which crosses the city from east to west. The George V station is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, near the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

George V station is named after George V (1865-1936), King of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, who reigned from 1910 to 1936. It was opened on August 13, 1900 as part of the first Paris metro line, linking Porte de Vincennes to Porte Maillot.

George V station features architecture typical of late 19th-century Parisian stations. It has side platforms and white ceramic vaults, decorated with floral motifs. Access to the station is via staircases, and it is equipped with elevators to facilitate accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

George V is a standard-configuration station, with two 90-meter platforms separated by the central metro tracks, and an elliptical vault. A 15-meter-long crypt, whose ceiling rests on closely spaced pillars, has extended the station at its western end since the line was converted to six-car trains in the 1960s. The decoration is in the style used for the majority of metro stations, combined with the specific features of this line since its automation: the lighting strips are white and rounded in the “Gaudin” style of the “Renouveau du métro” of the 2000s, and beveled white ceramic tiles cover the pedestals, vault, spandrels and corridor outlets. The crypt’s vault is painted white, while its columns are covered in small, dark tiles. The advertising frames are in white ceramic, and the station name is inscribed in Parisine font on backlit panels, most of which are incorporated into wood-trimmed boxes. The platforms are equipped with green “Akiko” seats and half-height landing doors.

The station has two entrances.

Inauguration of the station

George V station was inaugurated on August 13, 1900. It opened as part of the first line of the Paris metro, also known as line 1, which initially linked Porte de Vincennes to Porte Maillot. The construction of the Paris metro was a major project launched at the end of the 19th century, and line 1 was the first to go into service. Since its opening, George V station has continued to operate and serve passengers on this line.

Where does the name come from ?

George V station takes its name from George V, who was King of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. George Frederick Ernest Albert, his full name, was born on June 3, 1865 and died on January 20, 1936. He ruled the United Kingdom from 1910 until his death in 1936.

When the Paris metro was being built, it was common practice to name stations after historical figures, places or events. George V station, for example, was named in honor of King George V of the United Kingdom.

It should be noted that this station is not the only one named after a foreign personality in the Paris metro. Many other stations bear famous names, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt, Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, and many others, in tribute to national and international personalities who have left their mark on history.

Where to go from George V ?

From George V station, located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, you can reach several destinations using public transport. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Champs-Élysées : George V station is close to the Champs-Élysées avenue, one of Paris’ most famous thoroughfares. You can walk from the station to discover the many stores, restaurants, cinemas and sights along this iconic avenue.
2. Arc de Triomphe: Continuing along the Champs-Élysées avenue, you’ll reach the Arc de Triomphe, one of Paris’ most emblematic monuments. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and explore the surrounding area, including Avenue de la Grande Armée and Place de l’Étoile.
3. Trocadéro and Eiffel Tower: You can take metro line 6 from George V station to Trocadéro station. It’s the ideal place to admire the Eiffel Tower and take some great photos. You can also visit the nearby Musée de l’Homme and Musée National de la Marine.
4. Musée du Louvre: Take metro line 1 from George V station and get off at Louvre-Rivoli station. From here, you’re close to the famous Louvre Museum, home to a vast collection of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
5. La Défense district: If you want to get to the La Défense business district, take line 1 from George V station to La Défense station. Here you’ll find numerous skyscrapers, the Les Quatre Temps shopping center and the Arche de la Défense.

These are just a few of the many destinations within easy reach of George V station. As Paris is well served by public transport, you can explore many other districts and attractions using the metro, buses and RER.

Many public transport lines pass through this metro station: RATP buses 73, N11 and N24.

What’s nearby ?

The George V station is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to several attractions and interesting sites. Here are some of the places you can find near the George V station:

1. Avenue des Champs-Élysées: George V station is just a few steps from Avenue des Champs-Élysées, one of Paris’ most famous thoroughfares. This avenue is lined with luxury stores, restaurants, cinemas, theaters and landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe.
2. Arc de Triomphe: Continuing down the Champs-Élysées from George V station, you’ll reach the Arc de Triomphe in just a few minutes. It’s one of the most emblematic symbols of Paris, offering a panoramic view of the city from its summit.
3. Palais de l’Élysée: Not far from George V station is the Palais de l’Élysée, the official residence of the President of the French Republic. Although not open to the public, you can admire its architecture and imposing gates from the outside.
4. Grand Palais and Petit Palais: Just a short walk from George V station are the Grand Palais and Petit Palais. The Grand Palais is a magnificent building housing temporary exhibitions, while the Petit Palais is a fine arts museum with a varied collection of works of art.
5. Musée Jacquemart-André: Close to George V station is the Musée Jacquemart-André, housed in a 19th-century mansion. The museum houses a collection of works of art, furniture and decorative objects, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Parisian aristocratic life.
6. Parc Monceau: If you want to relax and enjoy a bit of greenery, Parc Monceau is just a short walk from George V station. This picturesque park boasts beautiful scenery, statues, pavilions and children’s play areas.

These suggestions are just a sample of the many sights and attractions within easy reach of the George V station. Paris’s 8th arrondissement is packed with stores, restaurants, museums and other places of interest to discover.

Anecdotes

• In 1964, the legendary Beatles came to Paris for a series of concerts. During their stay, they stayed at the Hôtel George V, which is located near the station of the same name. The hotel is renowned for its luxury and prestige, and it was here that the Beatles stayed during their visit to the French capital.
• During their visit to Paris, Beatles fans gathered outside the George V Hotel to try and catch a glimpse of their idols. The crowd was so large that the police had to intervene to maintain order. The band members were very popular at the time, attracting a great deal of attention wherever they went.
• This anecdote illustrates the international popularity of the Beatles and their immense cultural impact, as well as the fact that George V station is located in a prestigious and attractive area for celebrities and visitors to Paris.
• On September 19, 2022, RATP replaces half the nameplates on the platforms, for one day, to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, whose funeral takes place on the same day. The station was thus renamed “Elizabeth II”, the British sovereign being the granddaughter of King George V, who was honored at the station. The Queen’s name appears in capital letters, with the words “1926 – 2022” written below in smaller type, all on a black background as a sign of mourning, instead of the usual midnight blue of the name signs.