Introduction

As the Paris Olympics 2024 approaches, the excitement is palpable, especially for Indian fans traveling to the City of Lights to cheer for their athletes. One of the key destinations for Indian travelers will be India House, located at Parc de la Villette. This blog, brought to you by L’association Frehindi, a Paris-based organization proudly supporting the Reliance Foundation and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) with logistical assistance and volunteers, will guide you through reaching India House from the airport, nearby metro stations, and explore nearby tourist attractions, shopping complexes, eateries, famous cafes, and monuments.

Getting to Paris

From India to Paris

Flights from major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai operate frequently to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). Both airports are well-connected and offer various transportation options to the city center.

From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to India House

• By Taxi: The easiest and most convenient way to reach India House is by taxi. It takes approximately 25-30 minutes to reach Parc de la Villette and costs around €40-50.
• By RER Train and Metro: Take the RER B train from the airport to Gare du Nord station. From there, transfer to Metro Line 5 (direction Bobigny-Pablo Picasso) and get off at Porte de la Villette. Parc de la Villette is a short walk from the station.
• By Bus: The Roissybus offers direct services from CDG to Opera. From Opera, take Metro Line 7 (direction La Courneuve) and change at Gare de l’Est to Metro Line 5, getting off at Porte de la Villette.

From Orly Airport (ORY) to India House

• By Taxi: A taxi ride from Orly to Parc de la Villette takes about 30-40 minutes and costs around €35-45.
• By Orlyval and Metro: Take the Orlyval train to Antony station, transfer to the RER B train towards Paris, and then follow the same route as above from Gare du Nord.
• By Bus: Orlybus runs from Orly Airport to Denfert-Rochereau. From there, take Metro Line 4 to Gare du Nord, then switch to Metro Line 5 and get off at Porte de la Villette.
  

Reaching India House

Nearest Metro Station

• Porte de la Villette (M Line 7): This station is the closest to Parc de la Villette and India House. From the station, cross the Boom Boom Mall, pass through the Submarine Museum, and reach India House, which is located within the park.

Walking Distance

From Porte de la Villette metro station, it is a 5-minute walk to reach India House.

Location of India House
Prairie du Cercle Nord, Parc de la Villette

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: This is the largest science museum in Europe, featuring exhibits on science and technology. Located within Parc de la Villette, it’s a short walk from the station.
• Philharmonie de Paris: A stunning concert hall offering a range of musical performances, designed by architect Jean Nouvel. It’s a 10-15 minute walk through the park.
• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A beautiful public park with cliffs, waterfalls, and a lake, offering a serene environment. It’s approximately a 25-minute walk or a short metro ride away.

Nearby Monuments and How to Reach Them

• Eiffel Tower:
  • How to Reach: Take M Line 7 from Porte de la Villette to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre, then switch to M Line 1 to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, and transfer to M Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim. Walk to the Eiffel Tower from Bir-Hakeim station.
• Louvre Museum:
  • How to Reach: Take M Line 7 from Porte de la Villette directly to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral:
  • How to Reach: Take M Line 7 from Porte de la Villette to Châtelet, then a short walk to Notre-Dame.
• Arc de Triomphe:
  • How to Reach: Take M Line 7 from Porte de la Villette to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre, then transfer to M Line 1 to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile. Walk to the Arc de Triomphe from the station.
    

Nearby Malls and Shopping Complexes

• Boom Boom Mall: Located near India House and within walking distance from Porte de la Villette, Boom Boom Mall offers a variety of shopping options, including fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and souvenir shops. The mall features a vibrant food court with multiple cuisine restaurants, including an Indian restaurant, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for visitors.
• Les Halles: A large underground shopping complex offering a wide variety of stores and eateries. Take M Line 7 from Porte de la Villette to Châtelet-Les Halles.
• Centre Commercial Vill’Up: Adjacent to Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie and within a short walking distance from Porte de la Villette, featuring shops, restaurants, and a cinema.

Eateries and Famous Cafes

• Le Pavillon des Canaux: A charming café located along the Canal de l’Ourcq, perfect for brunch or a coffee break. It’s about a 15-minute walk along the canal.
• Le Trabendo: A lively music venue with a bar, located within Parc de la Villette.
• Café des Concerts: Situated near the Philharmonie de Paris, offering a great spot for a meal or drinks.

Food Chains

• McDonald’s: At 13 Avenue Jean Jaurès, a short walk from the station.
• Burger King: At 165 Avenue Jean Jaurès, also easily accessible.
• KFC: At 54 Boulevard de la Villette, accessible via a short metro ride from Porte de la Villette to Jaurès station (M Line 5).

Conclusion

Navigating Paris to reach India House at Parc de la Villette during the 2024 Olympics will be an exciting adventure. With well-connected transportation options from the airports, a comprehensive metro system, and a plethora of attractions, shopping, and dining choices nearby, your stay in Paris is bound to be memorable. Ensure you plan your journey and explore the vibrant culture and landmarks that the city has to offer. Le Frehindi is proud to support our nation and assist the Reliance Foundation and the IOA in making the Paris Olympics a smooth and enjoyable experience for all Indian fans. If you need any help, feel free to reach out to us via call/whatsapp at +33 6 01 36 09 96 or write to us at team@lefrehindi.com as Team Le Frehindi will be at your disposal throughout the event. Go Team India!