France Train Travel Tips

France is known for its fine wine, beautiful art, and lovely towns. Many people think about flying or driving, but traveling by train is often the best way to see the real France. Train travel is not just about getting from one place to another-it’s also a big part of enjoying your trip. Trains are fast, comfortable, and give you great views of the countryside. You can relax and watch the scenery instead of dealing with confusing directions or city traffic. Train stations are usually right in the center of town, making it easy to get where you want to go without the hassle of airports or busy highways.

Why take the train in France?

Main advantages of train travel

• Fast and efficient: France’s railways are advanced, with high-speed TGV trains that can travel up to 320 km/h (almost 200 mph). This means you can cross the country quickly-often faster than by car or plane when you include travel time to and from airports.
• Comfortable: Trains have roomy seats, tables, and power sockets. You can walk around, bring your own food, or buy meals on board. There are usually no strict baggage limits, so you can bring more than you could on a flight, often for free.
• Eco-friendly: Trains use less energy and produce less pollution than airplanes or cars, making them a greener way to travel.
• Convenient city-center arrivals: Major stations are located right in town, so there’s no need for extra transfers after arriving.

Scenery and culture

One of the joys of train travel in France is the beautiful views along the way. Instead of highways, you get to see vineyards, lavender fields, coastlines, and mountains from your seat. Tracks often go past places you can’t reach by car. You’ll also travel with locals, giving you a real sense of French daily life. Sometimes you can enjoy a meal with fresh bread and cheese while looking at medieval villages from the window-the journey can be as memorable as the destination.

Types of trains in France

Knowing about the different types of trains helps you pick the right one for your trip. Each type has its main use:

TGV

TGVs are the fastest trains, linking over 230 cities and sometimes going into nearby European countries. They have first and second class options, with more comfort in first class, and some even offer business class with extras. Every TGV ticket comes with a reserved seat. For cheapest prices, it’s best to book early. Power sockets and Wi-Fi are often available.

Intercités

These connect cities that the TGV might miss and often follow older, slower lines. You may or may not need a reservation, depending on the route. Trains have plenty of room for bags, toilets, and sometimes a food trolley or café.

TER

These regional trains are for everyday trips between smaller towns and cities. They don’t usually require reservations; you just get on and sit wherever you like. These trains are great for carrying luggage or bikes. You can buy the ticket at the station on the same day, or ahead of time online during holiday seasons.

OUIGO

OUIGO offers very cheap TGV tickets, mainly between Paris and a few big cities. The trade-off is fewer services: usually only second class, limited or paid Wi-Fi and sockets, strict baggage limits, and no food car. Some OUIGO stations are outside the main city centers. They’re best for travelers looking to save money and don’t mind less comfort.

Night trains

Night trains are back, offering a way to travel long distances while you sleep. They run to places like Nice, Toulouse, or the Alps. Most sleepers are shared couchettes (4-6 people), with only a few private compartments. If you book in advance, you’ll usually pay less. Night trains are handy to save on hotel costs and to travel while you rest.

Buying tickets: point-to-point vs. passes

Point-to-point tickets

These are single tickets for a specific route, day, and time. They work best if you have a clear schedule and just a few train journeys. For TGV or most Intercités services, buying in advance on the official websites is almost always cheaper. For regional TER trains, tickets have fixed prices and don’t require reservations. You can buy TER tickets last minute, but booking online saves time during busy travel periods.

Rail passes

Rail passes are good if you want more flexibility or plan to take many train trips. Here are the main types:

• France Rail Pass (Interrail One Country): For European residents, unlimited travel in France for chosen days in a month. TGV/Intercités reservations cost extra.
• Eurail Global Pass: For non-Europeans; unlimited train travel in France and 32 other European countries, with set travel days. Seat reservations for TGV and similar trains are not included in the pass price.
• Interrail Global Pass: Like the Eurail pass, but for Europeans or residents.

Passes are most useful if you’re traveling a lot in a short period, prefer flexibility, or plan to visit several countries. Point-to-point tickets are usually better if your trip uses only a few trains or is focused on regional travel.

How to choose?

• If you have lots of high-speed or long journeys in a short time, a pass may save money.
• If your plans are fixed, advance purchase tickets are often cheaper.
• Compare the total price of all your planned tickets (including reservation fees) to the price of the pass plus reservation fees.
• Check for discounts for young people, families, or seniors.

How to buy train tickets

Online

• SNCF Connect: The official website, shows all available tickets and discounts with no fees. If using discount cards, buy here.
• Trainline: Easy to use in English, shows all journeys, has a small booking fee.
• Omio: Lets you compare train, bus, and flight options; clear and user-friendly, with a small fee.

You’ll get an e-ticket to show on your phone or print out. For TGV and Intercités, book early for cheaper prices, as tickets get more expensive closer to the travel date.

At the station

• Ticket Machines: Available in all major stations, with an English option. Most accept credit cards and sometimes cash.
• Ticket Counters: Staffed offices can help with more complicated travel, but queues are common at busy times.

Buying tickets at the station is fine for regional trains, but for TGV or Intercités it’s usually more expensive and there might be no seats left on busy routes.

Using the SNCF App

The SNCF Connect app is a great tool. You can check schedules, buy and store tickets, receive updates about your journey, and check your departure platform. It’s very helpful for last-minute information, like platform numbers, which are often posted only 10-20 minutes before departure.

Finding the best fare

• Buy as early as you can-tickets for most routes go on sale 90 days in advance.
• Look for special deals and check different days/times. Traveling mid-week or during off-peak hours is usually cheaper.
• Consider discount cards if you qualify.

Do you need to reserve a seat?

Trains that need seat reservations

• All TGV trains (including OUIGO)
• Most long-distance Intercités trains
• International high-speed trains (Eurostar, etc.)
• Night trains with couchettes or sleepers

For these, you must book a seat in advance, even with a rail pass (the pass covers the fare, not the seat). For TER and most local trains, reservations aren’t needed-you just board and choose any open seat.

How to make a reservation

• Tickets bought online for a train that needs reservations will include your seat.
• Pass holders can make a reservation online or at stations, but seats for pass holders can be limited on some busy trains. Book early if you can.

Tips for a better train trip

Getting to the station

• Arrive at least 15-20 minutes early, or more if you’re new to the station. Big stations in Paris are large and busy.
• Find your train by its number, which is on your ticket and on the big departure boards (blue for departures). Platform numbers appear about 10-20 minutes before leaving-keep checking the screens.

Validating your ticket

• If you have a regional (TER) or local paper ticket bought at the station, you must stamp it (validate) in the small yellow machines before boarding. Skipping this can get you a fine.
• Online or app-based tickets don’t need validation. If unsure, ask someone or go straight to the conductor after boarding.

Luggage rules

• No strict weight limits, but you need to carry your own bags.
• TGV InOui: 1 hand luggage and 2 suitcases per person (with size limits); extra bags cost €50.
• OUIGO: strict limits on both size and number of bags, with fees for extras.
• TER: very flexible, as long as bags fit on racks.
• Keep valuables close. Pickpockets can be a problem in large stations.

Food and comfort

• Many TGV and Intercités trains have café-bars. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and drinks, even wine.
• Power outlets and Wi-Fi are available on most TGVs.
• Toilets are in every carriage, but it’s good to use the station’s restrooms before boarding. Some charge €1 but are clean.

Security

• Trains and stations are safe overall, but stay alert. Keep essential items (like your passport and phone) on you.
• Don’t leave bags unattended. They may be removed for safety.

Making connections

• Transfers between trains can be quick. Double-check your itinerary for connection times. If connections are in Paris, you may need to switch stations.

Dealing with strikes

• Strikes happen, but usually with warning. Check the SNCF site or news ahead of your travel date.
• If your train is canceled or delayed, you’ll usually get a refund or help finding another way to your destination.

Popular train routes and destinations

Main routes from Paris

• Gare du Nord: Northern France, and to London/Brussels/Amsterdam/Cologne
• Gare de l’Est: Eastern France and Germany
• Gare de Lyon: South and southeast France, plus Switzerland/Italy
• Gare Montparnasse: West/southwest, Bordeaux, Nantes, and Spain
• Gare d’Austerlitz: Loire Valley, Limoges, Toulouse, and night trains
• Gare Saint Lazare: Normandy

Most scenic train trips

• Marseille-Nice (Côte d’Azur): Stunning sea views and cliffs.
• Nice-Digne: Winding mountain route through Provence.
• Mont Blanc Express: Alpine journey with glacier and mountain views.
• Train Jaune (Pyrenees): Historic yellow train rides high in the mountains.
• InterLoire: Through the châteaux and vineyards of the Loire Valley.

Day trips from Paris

• Versailles: Just a short RER ride for the famous palace and gardens.
• Reims (Champagne): Fast TGV journey for champagne tours and the cathedral.
• Giverny: See Monet’s gardens, by train and bus.
• Mont Saint-Michel: Use a mix of TGV and bus to reach this unique island abbey.
• Loire Valley: TGV to Tours or Blois for châteaux tours.
• Rouen or Honfleur: Norman towns with history and charm.

Frequently asked questions

Is train travel in France easy?

Yes, train travel in France is straightforward and efficient. The system covers most of the country, with clear signs and helpful staff. High-speed and regular trains reach nearly all cities and many towns, and most important travel information is available in English in big stations and online.

Should you buy tickets in advance?

For TGV and most Intercités trains, buying tickets early saves money and guarantees a seat. Tickets go on sale 90-120 days before travel, and the cheapest fares run out fast. For regional TER trains, tickets are always the same price, and you don’t need to book early, but it’s helpful in busy times.

Can you take pets and bikes on trains?

• Pets: Small pets (under 6kg) travel in a carrier for about €7; bigger dogs need to be leashed and muzzled, for a flat fee. Always buy a pet ticket. If you couldn’t, talk to the train conductor as soon as you board.
• Bikes:
  • TER: Bikes are free, usually in special spaces on the train.
  • Some TGVs/Intercités: Bikes allowed for a small fee (about €10) and may need a reservation.
  • Other TGVs: Your bike must be taken apart and packed in a special bag to travel for free, or there may be limited spots for bikes that need to be reserved.

Check before you travel about bike and pet rules for your specific train.

Extra advice for stress-free train travel in France

Managing delays and cancellations

• Delays don’t happen often, but keep an eye on station boards and set up notifications on the SNCF Connect app.
• If your train is canceled or late, talk to staff for help. Refunds or new tickets are usually possible if you show up before your original departure time.

Useful tools and packing

• Use the SNCF Connect app for tickets and train updates.
• Download maps for your destination in case you have no internet.
• Translation apps help if you don’t speak French.
• Carry a portable charger for your phone or tablet.
• Bring a European plug adapter for charging devices.
• Have a travel credit card to avoid extra fees.
• Consider an e-SIM card for mobile data if needed.
• Pack only what you can easily carry through stations and onto trains. Sturdy shoes are helpful for walking.
• Bring snacks for long trips, even though food is for sale on many trains.
• Travel insurance is a good idea in case of changes, delays, or emergencies.

With these simple tips, you’re ready to enjoy France by train-easily, comfortably, and at your own pace. Have a great trip!