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Overview of Trains in France
France boasts a highly efficient and extensive railway network, primarily operated by SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français). At the heart of this network are the iconic TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) high-speed trains, which rapidly connect Paris to major cities across the country like Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille and Strasbourg, often reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h.
Beyond the TGV, SNCF operates Intercités for comfortable travel between mid-sized cities, and TER (Trains Express Régionaux) for regional and local connections, ensuring almost every corner of France is accessible by rail. French trains are known for their comfort, punctuality, and amenities, including Wi-Fi and power outlets on most high-speed services. Booking your tickets in advance through Omio is highly recommended, especially for TGV routes, to secure the best fares and ensure availability.
Deals for Trains in France
There’s a range of deals and discounts available if you book in bulk, or belong to a particular demographic. Here’s a quick overview of the options.
- Eurail France One Country Pass: For non-European residents, it offers unlimited train travel for a set number of days within France. Options include consecutive or flexible travel days (e.g. 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 days within 1 month).
- Interrail France One Country Pass: Designed for European citizens, providing the same benefits as the Eurail pass for exploring France by train.
- Youth & Senior Discounts: Eurail and Interrail passes offer discounted rates for youth (ages 12-27) and seniors (60+). Children under 4 travel for free without a pass, and children aged 4-11 can travel for free with a Child Pass when accompanied by an adult.
Travelling by Train in France FAQs
Booking Questions
The best way to buy train tickets in France, especially to save money and ensure a seat, is by booking online in advance through Omio. Omio allows you to easily compare options, select your destination, travel details, and preferred ticket class, making it convenient to plan your journey.
SNCF's TGV services typically offer different ticket types such as Standard, Prima, and Business Première, each with varying levels of flexibility, services, and pricing. Low-cost Ouigo trains have specific fare rules. You can find options for all these ticket types and classes when booking through Omio.
Yes, for high-speed TGV trains, Intercités trains, and international trains like Eurostar seat reservations are often compulsory and incur an additional fee, even with a rail pass. It's highly recommended to book these in advance, especially for popular routes, as pass holder seats are limited. It's easy to make these reservations through Omio.
On-Board Questions
SNCF generally has a relaxed luggage policy for most trains, allowing passengers to bring a reasonable amount of bags. However, Ouigo trains have stricter rules, often requiring a small fee for extra or larger bags. Most trains provide overhead racks for smaller items and designated areas at the end of cars for larger suitcases.
No, smoking is strictly forbidden aboard all trains and within train stations in France, including on platforms.
On high-speed TGV trains, you can typically expect comfortable seating, air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and a bar car offering drinks and snacks. Some premium classes may offer more spacious seating and at-seat catering. Regional TER trains offer more basic amenities.
Ticket Collection & Check-In
For e-tickets (e.g. for TGV or Intercités) booked via Omio validation is usually not required as they are validated upon issue. However, paper regional tickets (TER) still need to be validated by stamping them in the yellow machines ("composteurs") located near station platforms before boarding.
It's advisable to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure for high-speed trains, especially in larger stations like Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon, where security checks or ticket scanning may be required. Platforms are usually displayed on departure boards ("Départs") around 15-20 minutes in advance. Always double-check your train's unique number.
Electronic tickets (e-tickets) are the most common for high-speed and long-distance trains when booking through Omio; you receive an email confirmation and can often use your phone as a ticket, eliminating the need for physical collection or validation. Paper tickets, typically for regional services, may need to be printed and validated at the station.
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