Gare De Vaise Gérard Collomb

Gare De Vaise – Gérard Collomb Visiting Guide: Tickets, Hours, History & Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Gare de Vaise – Gérard Collomb, located in Lyon’s 9th arrondissement, stands as a vital gateway between the city’s storied industrial heritage and its dynamic, modern identity. As the northwestern terminus of Metro Line D, the station is more than a transit hub; it is a landmark reflecting Lyon’s urban regeneration, honoring the visionary former mayor Gérard Collomb. Renamed in 2024, the station not only connects commuters and travelers to the heart of Lyon but also offers seamless access to historical and cultural sites, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city (petitelyonnaise.com; Wikipedia).

This guide provides a detailed overview of Gare de Vaise – Gérard Collomb: its historical evolution, practical visitor information, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a local or an international visitor, this resource will help you navigate the station and discover the urban and cultural richness of the Vaise district.

Historical Overview

From Industrial Origins to Modern Hub

The Vaise neighborhood, annexed to Lyon in 1853, was once known as the “quartier de l’Industrie.” The area’s transformation began with the 1828 construction of the “gare d’eau de Vaise,” a major river port facilitating Saône navigation and trade. The district was at the forefront of technological innovation, notably with the 1783 pyroscaphe steam boat (tribunedelyon.fr). The railway station opened in 1854, making Vaise a transportation nexus.

World War II bombings in 1944 severely damaged the area, leading to major post-war redevelopments. By the late 20th century, the original river port was buried to make way for new infrastructure. Since the 1990s, Vaise has seen a resurgence as a mixed-use business and residential district, supported by improved public transport, including the opening of Metro Line D’s terminus at Gare de Vaise in 1997 (petitelyonnaise.com).

The Gérard Collomb Legacy

Gérard Collomb (1947–2023), mayor of Lyon and president of the Greater Lyon community, left a profound mark on the city. Starting his political career in the 9th arrondissement in 1995, Collomb spearheaded the regeneration of Vaise, attracting major companies and investing in public infrastructure, parks, and cultural venues. The renaming of the station in 2024 honors his impact on the city’s transformation (lyonmag.com; Tribune de Lyon).

Visitor Information

Location & Accessibility

Address: 12 Rue du 24 Mars 1852, Lyon 9th arrondissement
Metro: Terminus of Metro Line D
Regional Rail: SNCF Gare de Lyon-Vaise (TER Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
Bus: Over 20 TCL lines including C6, C14, 31, 40, plus night services (Moovit)
Taxi & Bike: Taxi ranks and Vélo’v bike stations available

Station Layout & Facilities

Structure: Multimodal hub with metro platforms underground, regional train platforms and bus interchange at ground level (en.visiterlyon.com)
Entrances: Main access on Rue du 24 Mars 1852, secondary access from Place de Paris and bus terminal
Accessibility: Step-free access, elevators, ramps, tactile paving, audio announcements
Amenities: Ticket machines, counters, information desks, waiting areas, accessible restrooms, shops, cafés, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, CCTV surveillance (SNCF Gares & Connexions)

Operating Hours

Station Building: 07:15 to 19:00 daily (closed major public holidays)
Metro Services: 5:00 AM to ~12:30 AM (extended hours on weekends)
Bus/Regional Trains: Schedules vary; check real-time info via TCL or SNCF apps

Ticketing

Metro/Bus/Tram: Unified TCL tickets; available at machines/counters or via TCL app
Regional Trains: TER tickets from SNCF kiosks or SNCF Gares & Connexions
Pricing: Metro/bus tickets from €1.90; regional fares vary by distance

Getting Around & Connections

Metro Line D: Direct access to Bellecour, Saxe-Gambetta, Grange Blanche, and more (lyonmetro.fr)
Regional Rail: Destinations include Villefranche-sur-Saône, Roanne, and links to Lyon Part-Dieu and Perrache for national/international trains
Buses: Over 20 lines serve the station, including night buses and regional connections
Nearby Metro Stations: Valmy, Gorge de Loup, Hénon, Croix-Rousse, Cuire
Parking: Public lots nearby for short- and long-term stays

Nearby Attractions

Fort de Vaise: Historic fortress hosting exhibitions and events
Église Notre-Dame de l’Annonciation: Rebuilt post-WWII, a local landmark
Château de la Jayère: A short distance away
Parc du Vallon: Popular green space for relaxation
Saône Riverbanks: Scenic promenades within walking distance
Place de Paris: Vibrant square with cafés and shops
Cultural Venues: Théâtre Nouvelle Génération, galleries, and community events

Tips for Visitors

Best Visiting Time: Early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience
Multilingual Info: Signage in French and English; tourist brochures available
Real-Time Info: Use TCL or Moovit apps for live departures and route planning
Photo Spots: Historic façade and Place de Paris
Safety: Well-monitored, but usual city precautions apply
Local Etiquette: Stand right on escalators, greet staff and shopkeepers

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Gare de Vaise – Gérard Collomb?
Station is open 07:15–19:00 daily (building), with metro operating from 5:00 AM to ~12:30 AM.

How do I buy tickets?
TCL machines/counters for metro and bus, SNCF kiosks for regional trains, or via official apps.

Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and assistance available.

Are there guided tours starting at the station?
While the station itself does not offer tours, local operators provide walking tours of Vaise and nearby historic sites.

What attractions are close to the station?
Fort de Vaise, Saône riverbanks, Place de Paris, and more cultural venues are within walking distance.

Cultural and Urban Significance

The renaming of the station in June 2024 not only pays tribute to Gérard Collomb’s transformative vision but also cements the station’s role in Lyon’s social and civic life. The station is a linchpin in the city’s integrated transport network, demonstrating Lyon’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility, economic growth, and social cohesion (Tribune de Lyon; Lyon Capitale).