Paris’ Global Startup Hub

Located in the 13th arrondissement, Station F is the world’s largest startup campus and a symbol of Paris’ thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Spanning 34,000 square meters, the campus houses thousands of entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and creative minds in a single location.

Its futuristic design, inspired by industrial architecture, retains elements of the former railway freight depot it occupies, blending historical industrial heritage with cutting-edge innovation.

Station F isn’t just a workspace; it’s a vibrant ecosystem where startups, investors, and creative professionals converge.

Visitors can tour the campus, attend public events, or participate in conferences, workshops, and networking sessions. Its open-plan design includes co-working spaces, meeting rooms, event halls, and incubators for diverse industries ranging from tech and AI to fashion and gastronomy.

Cafés, restaurants, and communal areas encourage collaboration and creativity. The campus is an emblem of Paris’ modern identity, representing innovation, sustainability, and global entrepreneurial spirit.

History of Station F in Paris, France

Station F occupies the site of the Halle Freyssinet, a historic 1920s freight depot designed by engineer Eugène Freyssinet.

Originally used for rail transport, the site became obsolete in the late 20th century, leaving a vast industrial shell in need of revitalization.

Visionary entrepreneur Xavier Niel spearheaded the project to convert the space into a startup campus, with the goal of positioning Paris as a global innovation hub.

Construction and renovation began in 2015, and Station F officially opened in 2017. The project preserved the building’s iconic vaulted ceilings, exposed steel beams, and industrial aesthetics while integrating modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable design.

Since its opening, Station F has hosted thousands of startups, accelerators, and public tech events, becoming a landmark destination for innovation tourism and a symbol of France’s entrepreneurial ambitions on the world stage.

Tourist Information

While Station F is primarily a working campus, parts of the facility are open to visitors, particularly during public events, tech expos, and guided tours.

Access to the main campus is usually free, but workshops, seminars, and private incubator programs may require registration and fees ranging from €20–€150 depending on the event.

Visitors are encouraged to book tours in advance to gain a comprehensive understanding of the campus and its startups.

Guided tours highlight Station F’s design, history, and operations, offering insights into France’s tech scene.

Many visitors combine the experience with a stroll along the Seine nearby, exploring the 13th arrondissement’s street art, cafés, and riverfront paths.

Comfortable shoes and a curiosity for innovation are recommended, as the campus covers extensive ground with multiple sections dedicated to different industries and initiatives.

Popular Sights in the Area

Station F is situated near several attractions that make it an engaging stop for tourists exploring Paris’ modern and cultural districts. The Bercy Village shopping and dining complex is nearby, offering boutique stores, restaurants, and seasonal events.

The Seine River and its walking paths provide scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere for a post-visit stroll.

The 13th arrondissement is also famous for its extensive street art murals, particularly around Boulevard Vincent Auriol, which are accessible from Station F on foot.

The nearby Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, Paris’ national library, is an architectural and cultural landmark.

Together, these sites provide visitors with a diverse experience, blending innovation, culture, and leisurely exploration within a short distance from the campus.

Travel Information

Station F is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro station is Chevaleret on Line 6, and several bus lines, including 61 and 89, service the area.

Bicycles are also a convenient option, with Paris Vélib’ stations nearby. Parking is available but limited, making public transportation the preferred option for visitors.

The campus is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and spacious pathways.

Its central location in the 13th arrondissement connects it conveniently to other major Parisian landmarks, making it easy to combine a visit with nearby attractions such as the Seine banks or Bercy Village.

Tips for Travellers

Visitors to Station F should plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the campus and attending any public events or exhibitions.

Tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs will find the guided tours particularly informative, providing insight into the startup ecosystem, incubators, and co-working facilities.

Photography is encouraged, but it is important to respect private office areas and workspace privacy. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the campus spans multiple halls and floors.

Combining a visit with nearby dining, street art exploration, or a walk along the Seine enhances the experience. For those attending conferences or workshops, early registration is advisable to secure spots in popular sessions.

Restaurants and Cafés near Station F in Paris, France

Within a one-mile radius of Station F, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options. Le Train Bleu Café, near the Seine, offers classic French bistro fare in a cozy setting.

Café Maure, located along Boulevard Vincent Auriol, is known for light meals, pastries, and coffee perfect for a quick break.

For heartier meals, Restaurant Les Grands Voisins offers farm-to-table dining with seasonal ingredients and communal seating.

Café A provides a modern twist on traditional French cuisine, ideal for a relaxing lunch after touring the campus.

Many of these venues align with the innovative and sustainable ethos of Station F, using locally sourced ingredients and eco-conscious practices.

Hotels near Station F in Paris, France

Several accommodations are conveniently located for visitors to Station F. CitizenM Paris Gare de Lyon offers modern, tech-forward rooms with excellent connectivity to the campus.

Hôtel Le 10 Bis provides a boutique experience in the 13th arrondissement with stylish rooms and easy access to public transport.

For longer stays or larger groups, Residhome Appart Hotel Paris-Place d’Italie offers self-catering apartments, combining comfort and convenience for visitors attending workshops or conferences.

Staying nearby allows early arrival for tours and events, as well as easy exploration of the surrounding 13th arrondissement’s cultural sites, restaurants, and street art.

Our review of Station F in Paris, France

Station F stands as a modern emblem of Paris’ entrepreneurial spirit, blending historical architecture with cutting-edge innovation.

Its vast co-working spaces, incubators, and event halls attract thousands of startups, investors, and innovators from around the world, making it a unique destination for tourism and professional engagement alike.

Visitors can experience the campus through guided tours, workshops, and public events, gaining insight into the city’s thriving tech scene.

The surrounding 13th arrondissement, with its street art, cafés, and Seine waterfront, complements the campus experience. Nearby restaurants and hotels make it easy to plan a full day around the visit, whether for leisure, inspiration, or professional networking.

Station F exemplifies the fusion of history, modernity, and global connectivity, offering a compelling, immersive experience for any visitor to Paris interested in innovation and contemporary urban culture.