Arras railway station, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a key railway hub and a witness to the evolution of transport in France. Inaugurated in 1846, the station has stood the test of time, adapting to the needs of its users. In this article, we look at the station’s history, the main lines that pass through it and the importance of the TGV.
Creation date and history
Arras railway station was built in the 19th century, at a time when the rail industry was developing, marking the beginning of its rich history. Over the decades, the station underwent various transformations and upgrades to meet the growing demands of transport and mobility. During the First World War, the station unfortunately suffered extensive damage and had to be partly rebuilt. Today, it is a key element of the Hauts-de-France rail network, underlining its importance and resilience over time.
The main lines
Arras station is served by several lines, some of which are of great importance in the region and beyond. Here are the main lines that pass through Arras station:
- Paris – Lille line : This line links the French capital with Lille, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region.
Thousands of travelers use it every day for business or pleasure ; - Arras – Douai line : This regional line links Arras with Douai, passing through several towns and villages in the region ;
- Arras – Dunkerque line : This line crosses the Pas-de-Calais department and connects with Dunkerque, a major port city on the Opal Coast.
The TGV: A major asset for Arras
Since the opening of the LGV Nord high-speed rail link in 1993, Arras station has been served by high-speed trains (TGV), providing a link between Paris and Lille in just one hour. The arrival of the TGV has been a major asset for the region, considerably improving accessibility and strengthening links between the various cities of Northern France. Arras station is also an important stopover for TGV trains linking France to Belgium, Germany and the UK via the Channel Tunnel. Thanks to these links, Arras station plays an active role in the economic and tourist development of the Hauts-de-France region.
Place Foch and the Arras war memorial opposite the station
The Arras war memorial, inaugurated on November 22, 1931, pays tribute to the victims of the First World War, and later to those of the Second. Located on Place Foch, opposite the SNCF railway station, it was designed by marble mason Félix-Alexandre Desruelles, who was selected in a competition held in May 1928. The monument features an espalier column reminiscent of Mesopotamian temples, and is decorated with high reliefs depicting the daily lives of soldiers at the front and civilians during the war. It also highlights women’s participation in the war effort and in their daily activities. Damaged during the Second World War (see our story on the Battle of Arras), the monument still bears the scars of the fighting.
It was partially restored in 1958 and again in May 2007. A plaque commemorating the victims of racist and anti-Semitic persecution and crimes against humanity committed under the de facto authority known as the “French State Government” (1940-1944) has recently been added. The Arras war memorial, and that of the Faubourg D’Amiens military cemetery, bear witness to the legacy of past conflicts and the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by civilian and military victims.
The war memorial in Place Foch
How do I get to Arras station ?
How to get to Arras stationThere are several options available, depending on your starting point and preferences :
By car
If you choose to get to Arras station by car, you can use a GPS or mapping application to determine the quickest and most convenient route. The station is located at the following address: Place du Foch, 62000 Arras, France. Pay parking lots are available close to the station to park your vehicle during your journey.
By public transport
Arras station is served by several Artis bus routes, making it easy to get to and from various parts of the city and surrounding area. Public transport applications are available to help you plan your journey.
By cab or VTC
If you prefer a more comfortable and direct means of transport, you can opt for a cab or a VTC (chauffeur-driven transport vehicle). Numerous cab and VTC services are available in Arras, and you can book your journey in advance or by visiting one of the cab ranks located in town.
On foot or by bike
If you live close to Arras station, you can also get there on foot or by bike. Pedestrian and cycling facilities are available in the vicinity of the station to facilitate safe access.
R.C.
