Val-de-Marne: discover the world’s most beautiful railway station just a stone’s throw from Paris

Val-de-Marne has just been awarded an honorary title. The most beautiful railway station in the world is located here, according to an architectural award. This choice highlights a more human and legible form of mobility.

The world’s most beautiful railway station in Val-de-Marne

The Prix Versailles 2025 awards a world title to transportation architecture. The winning station carries an urban and social message. The jury values aesthetics, but also everyday use. It therefore looks at accessibility, light and sustainability.

Villejuif – Gustave Roussy station wins the 2025 title in the stations and stations category. Located at the foot of Europe’s leading cancer research center, it links line 14 to the future line 15, simplifying thousands of journeys.

The project focuses on clear paths and volumes. Spaces are bathed in natural light thanks to large atriums. The PRM walkways are continuous, with gentle slopes and elevators. In short, the passengerexperience is paramount, from curb to platform.

“Transportation architecture must first serve everyday life.”

How a station changes a region

Shops and services are already bustling around the site. In this way, the station creates an attractive hub for patients and carers. Journey times to Paris-Sud will drop significantly. As a result, residents gain in time, health and peace of mind.

The project is part of the Grand Paris Express, managed by the Société du Grand Paris. All local players are keeping a close eye on progress. Coordination is limiting nuisance and ensuring safety in the vicinity. On the other hand, test phases sometimes require temporary closures.

• Schedules and ridership: anticipate morning and evening peaks.
• Connections: locate bus and bike exits.
• Accessibility: elevators, ramps and toilets marked on plan.
• Useful services: ATMs, cash machines, basic shops.
• Traffic info: activate personalized alerts on your app.

Design and data for a Grand Paris Express station

The new network will include around 200 km of automatic metro. Nearly 68 stations will be built within the next decade. As part of this, each station will be given a clear identity and robust wayfinding. So passengers know where they’re going, and how to get there.

The choice of materials is aimed at sobriety and durability. Daylight reduces energy consumption and stress. Information is legible, with pictograms and reinforced contrasts. From now on, maintenance is planned right from the design stage.

In terms of climate, natural ventilation and heat recovery are making headway. The shading also protects against heatwaves and heavy rain. The station becomes a safe shelter, without neglecting the surrounding city. In short, performance is measured as much in comfort as in kWh.

Saint-Denis Pleyel, another flagship station

Saint-Denis Pleyel station, designed by Kengo Kuma, is already home to line 14 and will connect lines 15, 16 and 17. Now open since June 2024, it will eventually serve 4 automatic metro lines and form a northern gateway to Greater Paris.

Its vast hall facilitates circulation and light. As a result, orientation is quick and easy, even at peak times. Woodwork and finishes add warmth and a sense of place. As a result, comfort is maintained despite heavy traffic.

Find your way around and enjoy your station every day

Before you leave, check your timetable and connections on your app. This way, you’ll be able to anticipate traffic and enjoy greater peace of mind. Allow a few minutes for complex connections. On the other hand, don’t hesitate to ask the agents for help when in doubt.

Elevators and podotactile strips provide safe access for the frail. There are also quiet waiting areas near the entrances. Keep hydrated in summer and covered up on the platforms in winter. So your journey remains comfortable and safe.

The gradual roll-out continues throughout the Paris region network. Successive openings will bring new direct connections. Local residents follow these milestones as they transform local life. In short, rapid metros link jobs, healthcare and leisure seamlessly.

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