romantic french trains

by Sharon Santoni
What is it about travelling by train that feels so romantic?
For our trip down south we chose to use the high speed train rather than drive or take a plane.  This meant leaving from the Gare de Lyon, where I was unable to resist taking pictures of the legendary restaurant Le Train Bleu.
 
Perched on the first floor, overlooking the platforms busy with travellers, this elegant hide away takes you back in time.
Hand painted ceilings, comfortable seats and impeccably laid out tables…… too chic to be part of a railway station.
[blank]
[blank]
[blank]
[blank]
[blank]

28 comments

Sarah August 19, 2011 - 10:35 am

I've eaten there a few times, and even taken the boys there. They were terribly impressed. It's a haven for me when I'm feeling battered. The staff are so respectful and the food is delicious (if pricey).

In fact, having a 'Train Bleu' is now synonymous for me and a friend with going out for a much-needed morale-boosting meal. I love that place.

Reply
Ange August 19, 2011 - 10:42 am

I too love the Train Bleu although I didn't make it to the Gare de Lyon this time… Maybe next time 🙂

Reply
Barbara August 19, 2011 - 10:55 am

I have fallen in love…….Le Train Bleu is where we will for surely be stopping for a refreshment next time we are in Paris!! Thank you for your truly amazing pictures! I just adore this!!

BP

Reply
vignette design August 19, 2011 - 12:34 pm

Love it! Thank you for sharing these fabulous photos. Ahh, I miss Paris!

Reply
Nancy August 19, 2011 - 1:26 pm

Oh my. I didn't know about this jewel. How did I miss it? I've certainly been to the train station. Oh well. One more reason to return to Paris. 🙂

Reply
Fay August 19, 2011 - 3:38 pm

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Sharon one of my favourites too thankyou for the reminder
On my last visit i bought the original pewter chargers so every breakfsat Im sitting in le train Bleu I know im such an old romantic !!!!

enjoy your day Love fay xxx

Reply
La Dolfina August 19, 2011 - 3:48 pm

These beautiful pictures brought back wonderful memories of our meal there when my son was 8 years old. That place is truly amazing!!
Thanks for the memories 🙂
Been loving your LOOT SHOOTS

Reply
southerninspiration August 19, 2011 - 4:04 pm

I'm with Nancy…yet another reason to return…what a gem!
Suzanne

Reply
Bienvenue chez French Girl in Seattle... August 19, 2011 - 4:53 pm

I may have mentioned this on another blog so hope you don't mind if I say this again: I, too, love Le Train Bleu. The place will never be the same to me, however, now that I have seen the hilarious "seafood-degustation scene" in the movie "Mr Bean's Holiday." They shot that scene inside the venerable restaurant and the French waiter is played by a superb actor, Jean Rochefort. The movie is set mostly in France and takes you from Paris to the French Riviera. Highly recommend. Has anyone seen this? Veronique aka French Girl in Seattle

Reply
hostess of the humble bungalow August 19, 2011 - 5:00 pm

Oh that is an amazing looking restaurant. It must be heavenly to dine there before hopping on the train. The decor is so rich and the attention to detail leaves me breathless….

Reply
Tamra August 19, 2011 - 5:25 pm

Be still my heart!! I could lay on the floor and just stare at the ceiling all day!

Reply
Amy August 19, 2011 - 5:30 pm

I don't think I'd want to leave this gorgeous place to get on my train, no matter where it was headed! (They need a harpist playing in that restaurant…I'd certainly be willing!)

Reply
Lorrie August 19, 2011 - 5:46 pm

Another place to add to my list of places to visit in Paris. What stunning decor.

Reply
Mariette's Back to Basics August 19, 2011 - 5:58 pm

Dearest Sharon,

This train station of Lyon is incredible! That one still can find a place like this in the 21st century is a blessing. It does transform you to a more tranquil and romantic time…
Love to you and have a great weekend!

Mariette

Reply
Slavica at Seductively French August 19, 2011 - 5:58 pm

unreal! only in France!

Reply
Ainosofia August 19, 2011 - 6:07 pm

<3

Reply
Sami August 19, 2011 - 6:12 pm

I have not been to Paris and never felt deprived until now. I could cry.

Reply
Darla August 19, 2011 - 9:47 pm

Very nice. I haven't been on a train for many years. I think I see you and your green and pink bag in the next to the last photo on the left, 🙂

Reply
Sandy August 19, 2011 - 11:19 pm

I've passed through the station but not in the restaurant.. Amazing!
Sandy

Reply
Pamela Terry and Edward August 20, 2011 - 4:17 am

The only way to travel.

Reply
5th and State August 20, 2011 - 5:00 am

such beauty at every turn when living in france. and i and no doubt many are grateful for your sharing
xo
debra

Reply
Suzi August 20, 2011 - 7:49 am

I have often seen reference to this wonderful restaurant.
I left Gare de Lyon recently and was looking for it. Unfortunately I didnt discover it as I had luggage and a few travel worries. I wish I had taken the time for a bite to eat x

Reply
under spanish moss August 20, 2011 - 3:46 pm

J'adore le train Bleu! My heavens, this is so gorgeous and romantic. Not that we need romance on a train but this gorgeous train with wine we would be definitly up for!

Have a wonderful rested weekend!!!!

XO,
Renee and Angela

Reply
Erica - HiP Paris August 20, 2011 - 4:57 pm

So pretty, I have been meaning to try this resto for ages! Hope all is well.

Erica

Reply
De tout, de rien August 22, 2011 - 4:40 am

Oh. How. Civilized. Sheer perfection in the decor, which leads me to think that the food must be equally good. Sigh, such elegance.

Reply
Looking Glass August 23, 2011 - 9:58 am

Wow! So romantic!

~ Clare x

Reply
lord robert January 18, 2012 - 11:18 pm

How much time is recommended to really enjoy a lunch before departure?

Reply
JamesOneil April 17, 2023 - 11:04 am

Very similar head and eyes to our beloved Libbey

Goldens are the best..shhh don’t let my cockers hear that. hehe

Reply

Leave a Comment