La Défense

La Défense metro station

La Défense metro station is located in the business district of the same name, to the west of Paris, France. It is one of the most important stations in the Paris public transport network, and also serves as a major interchange between the metro, the RER (Réseau Express Régional) and numerous buses.

La Défense station is served by several transport lines, making it a focal point for many travelers. More specifically, it is the terminus or one of the transit stations for lines 1, 2 and 6 of the Paris metro, as well as for line A of the RER.

La Défense station is particularly busy due to the presence of the eponymous business district, home to numerous companies, skyscrapers and shopping centers. It offers residents, workers and visitors easy access to this very active area of the Paris region.

Due to its importance and strategic location, La Défense station is also often used as a landmark to get to various tourist and cultural sites in Paris, such as the Arc de Triomphe or the Champs-Élysées, which are easily accessible from this station.

La Défense is a station with a special configuration: it has two parallel half-stations separated by the La Défense transport hub. The arrival platform is narrower than the departure platform, and slightly higher.

The ceiling, on which a red lighting strip hangs, is covered with black fireproof flock. The white ceramic tiles are flat and square, covering the pedestals. The advertising frames are white and cylindrical, as in the “Ouï-dire” style, and the station name is inscribed in Parisine font on enameled plates placed only on the platform pedestals. The platforms are equipped with landing doors and red “sit-stand” benches in the “Ouï-dire” style for the departure platform only.

The station has eight entrances.

Inauguration of the station

La Défense metro station was inaugurated in 1992.

Where does the name come from ?

La Défense metro station takes its name from the business district in which it is located. The La Défense district, meanwhile, takes its name from the statue of La Défense in Paris. The statue, also known as La Défense de Paris 1870-1871, was erected in 1883 to commemorate the defense of Paris during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.

The La Défense district grew up around this statue and became a major business and financial center, characterized by skyscrapers, offices, shopping malls and modern public spaces. The metro station was named in reference to this emblematic district and its importance to the economy and business of the Paris region.

Where to go from La Défense ?

From La Défense metro station, you can get to many interesting places in and around Paris, thanks to its excellent connectivity with different modes of transport. Here are a few suggestions of popular destinations accessible from this station:

1. Arc de Triomphe: You can take metro line 1 from La Défense and get off at Charles de Gaulle – Étoile station, which is located right next to the Arc de Triomphe. The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’s most emblematic monuments, and offers a breathtaking view of the city from its summit.
2. Champs-Élysées: Still taking line 1 from La Défense, you can get off at the Charles de Gaulle – Étoile station to access the Champs-Élysées avenue. This famous avenue is renowned for its stores, cafés, theaters and lively nightlife.
3. Musée du Louvre: Take line 1 from La Défense to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre station. From here, you’re close to the world-famous Musée du Louvre, home to world-famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa.
4. Latin Quarter: Take line 1 to Châtelet station to explore the Latin Quarter, known for its lively student life, picturesque streets, cafés, bookshops and monuments such as the Pantheon.
5. Disneyland Paris: You can take the RER A from La Défense station and get off at Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy station, which is the main stop for the Disneyland Paris theme park. It’s an ideal excursion for families and fun lovers alike.

These destinations are just a few of the many possibilities available from the La Défense metro station. As Paris is a city rich in attractions, museums, historical and cultural districts, you’ll be spoiled for choice when exploring the French capital from this station.

Many public transport lines pass through this metro station: RER A, transiliens L and U, tramway T2, RATP buses 73, 14, 144, 159, 174, 178, 258, 275, 276, 278 and 360.

What’s nearby ?

La Défense metro station is located in a dynamic business district, and nearby you’ll find a variety of attractions, facilities and amenities. Here’s what you can find near the station:

1. The La Défense district: The station itself is in the heart of the La Défense business district, where you’ll find numerous skyscrapers, company headquarters, shopping centers, restaurants and hotels. It’s an ideal location for business, shopping and lively city life.
2. Grande Arche de La Défense: Right next to the metro station, you’ll see the Grande Arche de La Défense, an imposing arch-shaped structure that is one of La Défense’s most emblematic symbols. You can climb to the top of the arch for a panoramic view of Paris.
3. CNIT: The Centre des Nouvelles Industries et Technologies (CNIT) is a convention and exhibition center located near La Défense station. It hosts professional events, exhibitions, shows and trade fairs throughout the year.
4. Parc de la Défense: If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Parc de la Défense offers a peaceful green space nearby. You can stroll, jog or simply relax in this well-kept park.
5. Les Quatre Temps: The Les Quatre Temps shopping center is one of the largest in the Paris region and is just a stone’s throw from La Défense station. Here you’ll find a wide selection of stores, restaurants, cinemas and other entertainment.
6. Esplanade de La Défense: Walk from the metro station to Esplanade de La Défense, a vast public square where events, art exhibitions and open-air concerts are often held. It’s a lively place where people gather to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

These attractions and amenities near La Défense metro station offer a variety of experiences, whether shopping, relaxing or exploring modern architecture.