Train FAQs – All Your Questions Answered

Answers to all your questions about travelling by train in France and Europe

France Train Tickets

Can I see an example of a real train ticket with an explanation?

France Train Ticket with all your reservation information

France Train Ticket with all your reservation information

Do you have electronic ticketing?

We do, which means you won’t ever lose your ticket, that’s serenity. You can reprint it as many times as you need or simply download the bar-code using the application we’ll provide to keep you up-to-date about your train trip. No need print, stand in line at a distributor or to have it stamped before you get on the train.

Should Eurostar, Thalys and other Premier Train tickets be purchased prior to your departure date?

Yes, it’s important to purchase tickets and make your seat reservations prior to your departure so you can avoid fully booked trains.

There are over 3500 routes to choose from and you can even compose your own trip using the interactive maps to determine correspondences. Just click to get started – Book your France Train Tickets NOW, click on your country/area link:

USA – UK – Argentina – Australia – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl – Brazil – Canada – France – GCC Countries – Germany – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Italy – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – Netherlands – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

Book your France Train PASS NOW, click on your country/area link:

USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

Can tickets be sent outside the United States or Canada?

We recommend that you have all your tickets before you depart for Europe; however, we can ship tickets overseas. You simply need to purchase them from the website of the country where you want them delivered.

Other options are e-tickets … please refer to that question in this section.

Does a 1st or 2nd Class ticket guarantee you a seat on the train?

No. A ticket, in any class, allows you to board the train, but does not guarantee you a seat. You must make a seat reservation to have a guaranteed seat on the train.

However, some trains like the TER (local regional trains) do NOT need a seat reservation. You can board the train and set anywhere you please.

NOTE: On most trains tickets and reservations are sold together as one ticket. All tickets purchased online include seat reservations where needed.

This is not the case from Train Passes. A Pass gives you a certain number of days for travel. You must reserve a seat on a train for each journey you make that day. Of course, you will only pay for the seat reservation which is about 11 €

Can a seat reservation be made with a 2nd Class ticket?

Yes

If my train tickets are lost or stolen can I get them replaced?

Under no circumstances will the SNCF replace any tickets even if they are lost or stolen. So, I suggest you equip yourself with a “waist purse”. A purse that is close to your body where you can keep all your precious papers (passport, driver’s licence, money and travel tickets).
A word to the wise, never separate yourself from your waist purse, and NEVER open it in front of or at the request of strangers. I hope you know what I mean.


Train Travel - Practical

On arrival at my station I only have 7 minutes to transfer trains to continue my journey, is this enough time?

Yes, 7 minutes to transfer trains is sufficient. Getting from one to another is a short operation.

I will give you a brief explanation but the best thing to do is when the ticket controller comes to check your ticket on the first train, ask him/her which platform your connecting train leaves from. They should be able to tell you… as well as giving you directions on how to get to that platform. They know all the stations along their route.

People getting off at your station should also be able to inform you where the connecting train leaves from, and you’ll find that someone will even walk you over to the platform. I guarantee you that you will have no problem, even in English.

I suggest you get prepared to disembark a few minutes before arrival, even taking all your belongings and standing by the door so as to be the first off the train. That said, platforms are always parallel one to another. and they are generally numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc. You’ll come in on platform 2 (let’s say) and will need to get to platform 6 (let’s say). On the platforms OR in a main area, you will see an overhead announcement board. There you’ll see all the information you need. Take a look at this one as an example. Notice the platform number at the right.

There are two ways to get to your new departure platform:

1. Go to the HEAD of the train… and find your new platform
2. Use an UNDERGROUND passageway which will run UNDER and PERPENDICULAR to the tracks.

When you get into this passageway you’ll see the track numbers on the wall… and you’ll easily be able to find your new platform. There will be a stairway UP to the platform and you’ll be right beside the train. In fact, there could be a train on either side of you… so make sure you get on the right one. The destination will generally be indicated beside the door. If need be, ask. Generally, you can follow the crowd… which will lead you in the right direction… To the head of the platform, or the passageway, but keeps your eyes open for platform signs.

As soon as you see your platform, and hence, your train, you can get on through the FIRST door… without worrying about where you’re going to sit. Just get on… whether you have a reserved seat or not. You can always walk through the INTERIOR of the train to find a seat or your reserved seat, even if its a couple of coaches further on.

Be assured the time given between arrival and departure (7-8 minutes) is done so to allow passengers to easily transit from one train to another and allow them to continue their journey.

Can I leave one of my suitcases in storage in a train station for a few days?

There are some automatic and manual storage possibilities in some train stations around France. It is preferable to NOT leave valuables in storage as it is under your entire responsibility. Please keep in mind that this service for both the automatic and manual consignment can be suspended and/or reinstated at any time due to security reasons.

Train stations with automatic “consignment boxes”:

  • You will receive a receipt (which you do NOT want to lose!) which will allow you to recuperate your luggage.
  • The cost is in function of size and is approximately 4 €, 7 € or 9.5 € for a 48 to 72 hour period. The amount is payable using coins, so prepare to have the exact amount ready when you pay.
  • Some boxes at Paris-Montparnasse station only can be paid by Credit Card
  • These stations have automatic consignment:
    Angers, Avignon-Centre, Bordeaux, Cannes, Marne-la-Vallee-Chessy (Disney), Marseille, Nantes, Nice, Paris Austerlitz / Lyon / Montparnasse / Nord, Toulouse.

Train stations with “manual consignment”:

  • Cost runs about 5 € for 10 hours and 8 € per piece of luggage per 24 hour period
  • Bicycles, wheelchairs and larger items run about 6 € for 10 hours and 10 € per item per 24 hour period
  • These stations have manual consignment :
    Dijon, Lyon-Perrache and Strasbourg. The following stations offer this service periodically… generally during tourist season: Saint-Raphael, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Moutiers, and Saint-Gervais-les-Bains.

As you can see there are not many stations available with storage. One suggestion is to find a nearby store, walk in smiling and ask them if they can’t keep your baggage for a short while. Tell them you’re a tourist etc and want to visit their town and offer them a few Euros etc. You’re sure to find someone who’ll accept. I’ve used this method successfully, a florist put my bag in cold storage!

In Paris and Lyon there’s a special service to handle your luggage:

Eelway

Baggage storage service – Eelway  A luggage free day in Paris and Lyon – Luggage transfer in Paris and Lyon areas including storage at airports and train stations.

 

 I inadvertently left a piece of luggage in my train on arrival. How can I retrieve it?

This is valid for any lost or found item in a train or a train station.

Declare your lost property. Give a precise description. An email will confirm your claim:

  • InternetCreate or use your account and declare your claim This page is in French but is accessible from anywhere … especially when you’re visiting France and Europe.
  • Telephone: +33 (0) 8 92 35 35 35 (open 7/7 from 8h00 to 20h00 to answer questions and register your claim) or in France 36 35 (0,40 € / minute) then #22
  • At a train station: see the map at the bottom of this page for station details
  • A national database registers all lost and found objects in real time. Search for your object will continue for one month. There’s a charge of 5/10 Euros, depending on object’s value, for restitution of an item.

Another national lost and found service can be found here

Can I pre-reserve a Taxi for immediate use on arrival at my destination?

Passengers in 1st class only simply need to ask the Ticket Supervisor to order themselves a taxi. This is a free service, you just pay the taxi driver the regular fare. Service available Monday to Friday (except on Holidays) in Paris and for destinations for the following itineraries: Paris>Lille, Paris>Nantes, Paris>Rennes, Paris>Marseille and Paris>Montpellier.

It is also available in Paris for the following itineraries : Arras>Paris, Nice>Paris, Limoges>Paris (on non-stop trains in Autrans and Orleans), Nancy>Paris, Metz>Paris, Mulhouse>Paris, Clermont-Ferrand>Paris, Bordeaux>Paris, Zurich-Lausanne>Paris and Geneva>Paris.

Night Train. Ask the Ticket Supervisor at the Boarding-Welcome desk (Accueil-Embarquement) at the Toulouse station. Service available every day except Saturdays and on the eve of Holidays.

Other Shuttle Options in Paris: Private, rapid, Airport Shuttle. Meets you at baggage exit. No hassle, no waiting, door-to-door transport. Excellent with kids, strollers or bulky equipment. Options for group transfers as well.

Personalized shuttle service

CDG airport shuttle. Orly airport shuttle. Beauvais airport shuttle personalized serviceDid you know your own door to door shuttle costs little more than public transport? … (and MUCH LESS than a taxi!) but is much more user-friendly… it picks you up and drops you off where YOU want…no long waiting-lines and hassle with luggage – door-to-door transport. Excellent with kids, strollers or bulky equipment. Options for group transfers as well. reserve in advance.

Go directly from your hotel or terminal to your destination at a reasonable, fixed price that includes the cost of luggage. Our companies use experienced, English-speaking drivers to make sure you and your luggage arrive safely. Click here to buy this service.
Book your service now

Are bicycles allowed on trains? What are the conditions?

With a special bicycle bag (max. size 120cm x 90cm – with the wheels and pedals detached, and the handlebars parallel to the frame) you can take your bicycle on board any train as normal luggage, free of charge.

  • Here’s a suggestion with very little ‘extras’: Make your own bicycle bag. A wrench to take the wheels and pedals off and turn the handlebars parallel to the frame, a few small bags for the chain, pedals, wrench and plastic attachments used by electricians to attach the wheels to the frame, a pair of gloves to keep your hands clean when fitting the chain, finally a big cloth or heavy plastic bag with a handle to put the frame and wheels in. Do a search on ‘diy bike travel bag’
  • On the Metro, bicycles are not allowed, but you can take your bicycle bag.
  • On the RER (The Express Train Network through Paris) bicycles are allowed outside of rush hour from 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm on weekdays
  • In France, fully assembled bicycles are technically only allowed on board ‘TER‘ regional express trains (an exception can be during rush hour from 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm on weekdays). Regional TER trains in France can be identified on official websites by their train number. In France, the regional TER trains have 5 digit train numbers.
  • On ‘Intercités’ trains, national trains, you would have to purchase a ticket locally, about 10 Euros per journey, to take your fully assembled bike on board. Check locally for bike reservations.
  • For TGV high-speed trains in France, fully assembled bicycles are not allowed on the vast majority of TGV trains but there are a few that have designated areas for fully assembled bicycles. You would have to check at the local station and also purchase a ticket there.
  • Night trains can have 4-6 spaces for fully assembled bicycles for which there’s a small payment. But these spaces can fill up quickly and have to be reserved in France. Check availability at the first train station you go through.
  • On board the trains, your bike is under your total responsibility. Their loading and unloading is done by you.
  • Trains that accept UNfolded bikes are indicated with a “bike” pictogram or text in the schedules.

Can I travel with an animal, and what are the conditions?

To travel with a dog, you need a 2nd class half-price ticket (even if you travel in 1st class). For a small dog or other domestic animals (under 6 kg) transported in a basket or a closed container with dimensions not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm the price is 5.10 Euros.

Before you take your seat, be aware that you must check with the travelers around you to make sure they accept the presence of your domestic animal. You cannot impose its presence if they don’t agree. By obligation, your dog must be muzzled. If you’re traveling in a night compartment you must reserve an entire compartment for yourself.

Trained dogs accompanying handicapped individuals:
The presence of a guide dog with a handicapped person does not entail a supplementary price. Wearing a muzzle by such a dog is not necessary if the handicapped person can provide evidence of special training by the dog.

How long does it take to get from the Gare du Nord to other main stations?

It depends on when you arrive (rush hour or less traffic), and on how you transfer (metro: how much luggage you have? or taxi: how long the waiting queue is?). Whether you have to purchase tickets and have the right currency? Do you know how the Metro works?

All of these “small” things add up to 5 minutes here and there… including reading the bulletin boards to find and get to your departure platform when you get to the Paris Train station you want. That said, it’s wise to leave between at least one to one and a half hours to get to Gare Montparnasse, Gare de Lyon and Gare d’Austerlitz. If you take a taxi during rush hours, the more time you have the better. Gare St Lazare and Gare de l’Est are closer so you’d need a little less time.

How the French Train System works with images of bulletin boards, direction signs, and logos

The Paris Metro system with a map and instructions

The Paris Regional Express Train Network ( RER ) with a map and instructions

Getting from Gare du Nord to the other main stations in Paris by Metro and RER

Getting from Gare du Nord to the other main stations in Paris by Metro and RER

What facilities are there for helping reduced mobility travelers?

In France, there is an “AccesPlus Service” available to help reduced mobility passengers in about 350 train stations. Their agents will meet you on arrival at the station and take you to your seat on the train (with a ramp if need be). They will accompany you when you disembark or transfer to another train.

Accessibility: Reduced Mobility: Call Acces Plus 48 hours in advance of travel to inquire and reserve: +33 (0)8 90 64 06 50 available from 6:00 am – midnight. For assistance boarding your train, arrive at the platform at least 30 minutes before departure time. Wheelchairs and boarding ramps are available if required.

Indicate your Departure and Destination Stations, Number of the train and your Coach and seat number (on your ticket). Also briefly explain the nature of your needs.

In this video, you can see reduced mobility access to the TGV as well as amenities aboard the train.

Accès Plus

Traveling with a disability or limited mobility? Whether you’re traveling around France or going abroad, book Accès Plus to have a personal assistant meet you at the station and help you board and exit your train. This service also includes carrying a single item of luggage up to 15 kg.

Accès Plus is now available in 360 stations for travel aboard TGV, Intercités, Alleo, Lyria, TGV France-Spain, and TGV France-Italy—and it’s free.

Telephone: +33 890 640 650. From a landline inside France, you pay €0.12/min including tax + the cost of the call.
E-mail: [email protected]
More information

TER (Regional trains) Accès Plus

Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes
by telephone: contact Allo TER at +33 969 322 141 (no surcharge from inside France). Available Monday through Friday, 07.00-19.00, and Saturday 08.00-13.00
by e-mail: [email protected]

Burgundy-Franche-Comte
by telephone: call the Mobigo! call center at +33 380 112 929 and choose option 5. (From inside France, you pay the cost of a local call.) Service available Monday through Friday, 07.00-19.00.
by fax: +33 381 824 207
by postal mail: Services Accès TER Burgundy / BP 71273 / 25005 Besançon Cedex 03

Brittany
By telephone: +33 800 880 562 (toll-free from a landline inside France). Monday through Friday, 06.15-20.00, and Saturday 10.00-17.00.

Centre-Val de Loire
by telephone: call +33 800 835 923 (toll-free from inside France), Monday through Saturday (except bank holidays), 06.00-20.00. This service is free.
by postal mail: SNCF Service Accès TER, BP 40 625, 37206 TOURS cedex 03

Normandy
by telephone: call +33 800 801 801 (free from a landline inside France), Monday through Friday, 06.00-21.00
by fax: +33 235 521 480

Hauts-de-France (Northern France)
by telephone: call +33 805 506 070 (no surcharge from inside France), Monday through Friday, 06.00-20.00
by e-mail: [email protected]

Accès Plus Transilien (Paris and Ile-de-France)

If you use a wheelchair or hold a disability card with a rating of 80% or more, Accès Plus Transilien is for you.

This personal assistance service is now available at 375 stations and stops in the Paris region—and it’s free. Accès Plus Transilien covers RER lines A, B, C, D and E and Transilien lines H, J, L, N and U

Telephone: Dial +33 890 640 650. From a landline inside France, you pay €0.12/min including tax + the cost of the call.
E-mail: [email protected]



French Train System

How do I find my way around the France train system?

Watch this informative video for traveling by train when only speaking English:

What are the different train networks in France?

There are 7 different train networks. Most leave from all 6 mainline train stations in Paris. These are:

  1. European Trains: Regular trains, Night Trains to all over Europe departing from France.
  2. TGV trains: High-speed trains – These lines have special well-known names:
  3. Intercite trains: National train lines where including TGVs traveling on regular tracks at lower speeds. Intercite runs between some of the major cities as well as for Picardie, Nord Pas-de-Calais, Normandy, East, Centre Limousin, Midi-Pyrénées, and the Auvergne. A newer generation of rolling stock is replacing the former stock. It offers more comfort and more service.
  4. Ter: “Transport Exprès Régional” Express Regional Transport. Trains operated by the SNCF in conjunction with the 26 regions of France for shorter local train travel.
  5. Paris Suburban lines: “Réseau Banlieu SNCF”: into the suburbs up to about 100 km around Paris. These all depart from one of the 7 major stations in Paris. Find information on these Paris station pages.
  6. Paris RER: “Réseau Express Regional” – Regional Express Network. Click here for a map and instructions. This includes Major Stops in Paris and out into the suburbs. These lines are always designated by a capital letter and associated with a color. There itinerary is indicated by the two terminus stations at each end of the run. Each RER can have various branch lines.
    • Line A – Cergy le Haut, Poissy and St Germain en Laye <> Boissy St Leger and Marne la Vallee-Chessy
    • Line B – St Remy-les-Chevreuse and Robinson <> Mitry-Claye and Airport Charles de Gaulle
    • Line C – St Quentin en Yvelines, Versailles RG, Argenteuil and Pontoise <> Versailles Chantiers, Massy-Palaiseau, Dourdan and St Martin d’Etampes
    • Line D – Orry la Ville-Coye (and Creil) <> Melun and Corbeil-Essonnes (and Malesherbes)
    • Line E – Hausmann-St Lazare <> Tournan en Brie and Chelles-Gournay
  7. Paris Metro: “Metropolitain” mainly underground train in Paris but also reaching out to suburban cities generally sharing a common border with Paris. These lines are always designated by a number and associated with a color. Click here for details, a map and instructions.
    • Line 1 – La Défense <> Château de Vincennes
    • Line 2 – Porte Dauphine <> Nation
    • Line 3 – Pont de Levallois-Bécon <> Gallieni
    • Line 3bis – Gambetta <> Porte des Lilas
    • Line 4 – Porte de Clignancourt <> Porte d’Orléans
    • Line 5 – Place d’Italie <> Bobigny-Pablo Picasso
    • Line 6 – Charles de Gaulle-Étoile <> Nation
    • Line 7 – Villejuif-Louis Aragon/Mairie d’Ivry <> La Courneuve-8 Mai 1945
    • Line 7bis – Louis Blanc <> Pré-Saint-Gervais
    • Line 8 – Balard <> Créteil-Préfecture
    • Line 9 – Pont de Sèvres <> Mairie de Montreuil
    • Line 10 – Boulogne-Pont de Saint-Cloud <> Gare d’Austerlitz
    • Line 11 – Châtelet <> Mairie des Lilas
    • Line 12 – Mairie d’Issy <> Porte de La Chapelle
    • Line 13 – Châtillon-Montrouge <> Gabriel Péri-Asnières-Gennevilliers/Saint Denis-Université
    • Line 14 – Saint-Lazare <> Bibliothèque François Mitterrand

CDG airport shuttle. Orly airport shuttle. Beauvais airport shuttle personalized service


BonjourLaFrance recommends getting a Paris Visite pass to travel around Paris.

1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days for zones 1-3 (inside Paris). The 1-5 zone Paris Visite Pass includes travel to Versailles, Disneyland as well as Roissy CDG and Orly airports).

It includes unlimited travel on the metrobus, tram, and RER.

In addition, you receive discounts at various museums and locations around Paris.


Click your country link 90 days before you travel for the most savings and peace of mind. Buy all your Tickets online. CLICK on the link for your home country to see information in your language and check Real Time Schedules, Prices and Travel Times and make A SECURE PURCHASE.

USA – UKArgentina – Australia – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl – Brazil – Canada – France – France Promotions – France Groups 10-30 people – GCC Countries – Germany – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Italy – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – Netherlands – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Spain Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

What do the different signs and symbols mean?

The sign-board below, generally found in the main stations, gives basic indications. Most of it is readily understandable and even translated into English.

General Direction Train info boardRER
 Lines A and D Notice the colored circles that identify each line
Metro Lines 1 and 14 Notice the colored circles that identify each line
Just follow the arrow.

This sign also gives us Bus info with the bus numbers.


RER
 Line A with each terminus station
Metro 1 and 14 again with each terminus station

 

Notice with RER line A that it actually gives you 5 (five) stations. That is because there are branch lines. RER and Metro lines info-boardsTwo stations are East of Paris: Boissy Saint Leger and Marne La Vallee-Chessy (which is where Disneyland is), and three stations are West of Paris: Saint Germain en Laye, Cergy-Prefecture and Poissy. Click here for a RER map and detailed instructions.

The point is… for any station IN Paris, you can get on any of these trains. BUT, for specific stations OUTSIDE of Paris, you MUST board the proper branch line. The picture below shows an overhead sign with little white markers to the left of the stations where the train STOPS.

Suburban train info-board displaying all stop. This is an RER D train leaving from the gare de Lyon, ParisThis is an overhead screen for the RER Line D (top left-hand corner). This one is heading to Corbeil Essonnes and underneath are all the stops it’ll be making. Make sure your stop is displayed

Notice that each RER also has a name (“ROVA” in this case … a little hard to see but it’s right under the name). These names correspond to a set itinerary. If you use the train system often… all you need to know is the name of your train. Especially handy when you arrive on the platform just before the doors are about to close. A quick peek at the name… and you know if it’s your train or not.

The Metro has similar signs but, of course, they stop at EVERY station. There’s an itinerary list of all the stations on a given Line both in the stations and above each door in each coach of every metro.

Paris Metro lines with terminal stationsMetro 5 and 8 with each terminus station.
For instance, if your destination station is between the station where you are and Bobigny… then you need to get on the Metro for Bobigny.

Below is the typical Metro sign that you’ll see around Paris indicating the presence of a Metro station. Click here for a map of all the Metro stations and more travel details.

paris-metro-ext

CDG airport shuttle. Orly airport shuttle. Beauvais airport shuttle personalized service

BonjourLaFrance recommends getting a Paris Visite pass to travel around Paris.

1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days for zones 1-3 (inside Paris). The 1-5 zone Paris Visite Pass includes travel to Versailles, Disneyland as well as Roissy CDG and Orly airports).

It includes unlimited travel on the metrobus, tram, and RER.

In addition, you receive discounts at various museums and locations around Paris.


Click your country link 90 days before you travel for the most savings and peace of mind. Buy all your Tickets online. CLICK on the link for your home country to see information in your language and check Real Time Schedules, Prices and Travel Times and make A SECURE PURCHASE.

USA – UKArgentina – Australia – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl – Brazil – Canada – France – France Promotions – France Groups 10-30 people – GCC Countries – Germany – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Italy – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – Netherlands – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Spain Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

How do I read the schedules boards at stations?

More and more electronic Departure and Arrival screens are being used. Verify that you’re looking at the correct board (Départs > Departure / Arrivés > Arrival):

Departure and arrival info-screens at Montparnasse, Paris, train station

On the 1st line of the top-left screen, you can see the 14h48 (2:48 pm) train for Nantes. The ‘6’ on the right is the departure track. Departure tracks are displayed about 20 minutes before departure, that’s why none of the others are visible yet.

The type of signboard below is found in the main station and displays departures and arrivals. The one below is for departures:

Train info-board. This one is for departing trains.

Departure time is in the left column (18:27 = 6:27 pm), then intermediary stops and final destination (Laroche-Migennes). Followed by the type of train (TER), its Number (91021 – which will be on your ticket) and finally the departure platform. (15 – which can be a number or a letter).

Notice that platform numbers for departures are only posted 20 minutes BEFORE departure (the 18:50 departure for Nice-Ville is not yet posted on the board above).

Click your country link 90 days before you travel for the most savings and peace of mind. Buy all your Tickets online. CLICK on the link for your home country to see information in your language and check Real Time Schedules, Prices and Travel Times and make A SECURE PURCHASE.

USA – UKArgentina – Australia – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl – Brazil – Canada – France – France Promotions – France Groups 10-30 people – GCC Countries – Germany – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Italy – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – Netherlands – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Spain Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

What are the different train networks in France?

  1. There are 7 different train networks. Most leave from all 6 mainline train stations in Paris. These are:
    1. Gare du Nord serving the North
    2. Gare de l’Est serving the East
    3. Gare Saint Lazare serving Normandy and Brittany
    4. Gare Montparnasse serving the South West
    5. Gare d’Austerlitz serving the center
    6. Gare de Lyon serving the South East
    7. Gare de Bercy essentially car-trains and some central parts of France
    8. Paris CDG airport although not in Paris, it is a major departure point for France and Europe
  1. European Trains: Regular trains, Night Trains to all over Europe departing from France.
  2. Inoui (formerly TGV trains): High-speed trains – These lines have special well-known names:
  3. Intercite trains: National lines where there is generally no TGV. Intercite runs between some of the major cities but is mainly available for traveling to Picardie, Nord Pas-de-Calais, Normandie, East, Centre Limousin, Midi-Pyrénées, and the Auvergne. A newer generation of rolling stock is replacing the former stock. It offers more comfort and more service.
  4. Ter: “Transport Exprès Régional” Express Regional Transport. Trains operated by the SNCF in conjunction with the 13 regions of France for shorter local train travel.
  5. Paris Suburban lines: “Réseau Banlieu SNCF”: into the suburbs up to about 100 km around Paris.
  6. Paris RER: “Réseau Express Regional” – Regional Express Network. Click here for a map and instructions. This includes Major Stops in Paris and out into the suburbs. These lines are always designated by a capital letter and associated with a color. There itinerary is indicated by the two terminus stations at each end of the run. Each RER can have various branch lines.
    • Line A – Cergy le Haut, Poissy and St Germain en Laye <> Boissy St Leger and Marne la Vallee-Chessy
    • Line B – St Remy les Chevreuse and Robinson <> Mitry-Claye and Airport Charles de Gaulle
    • Line C – St Quentin en Yvelines, Versailles RG, Argenteuil and Pontoise <> Versailles Chantiers, Massy-Palaiseau, Dourdan and St Martin d’Etampes
    • Line D – Orry la Ville-Coye (and Creil) <> Melun and Corbeil-Essonnes (and Malesherbes)
    • Line E – Hausmann-St Lazare <> Tournan en Brie and Chelles-Gournay
  7. Paris Metro: “Metropolitain” mainly underground train in Paris but also reaching out to suburban cities generally sharing a common border with Paris. These lines are always designated by a number and associated with a color. Click here for details, a map and instructions.
    • Line 1 – La Défense <> Château de Vincennes
    • Line 2 – Porte Dauphine <> Nation
    • Line 3 – Pont de Levallois-Bécon <> Gallieni
    • Line 3bis – Gambetta <> Porte des Lilas
    • Line 4 – Porte de Clignancourt <> Porte d’Orléans
    • Line 5 – Place d’Italie <> Bobigny-Pablo Picasso
    • Line 6 – Charles de Gaulle-Étoile <> Nation
    • Line 7 – Villejuif-Louis Aragon/Mairie d’Ivry <> La Courneuve-8 Mai 1945
    • Line 7bis – Louis Blanc <> Pré-Saint-Gervais
    • Line 8 – Balard <> Créteil-Préfecture
    • Line 9 – Pont de Sèvres <> Mairie de Montreuil
    • Line 10 – Boulogne-Pont de Saint-Cloud <> Gare d’Austerlitz
    • Line 11 – Châtelet <> Mairie des Lilas
    • Line 12 – Mairie d’Issy <> Porte de La Chapelle
    • Line 13 – Châtillon-Montrouge <> Gabriel Péri-Asnières-Gennevilliers/Saint Denis-Université
    • Line 14 – Saint-Lazare <> Bibliothèque François Mitterrand

France and Europe Train Passes

What types of Train Passes are available?

There are a lot of different Eurail and other Train Passes available.
Finding the right pass is not difficult. Simply read and choose from the following options:

Compose your own trip from amongst 3500 possible train connections  – Book your Euril Pass Train Tickets NOW, click on your country/area link:
USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links: 
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De 

France Pass

Here’s what you get:

This pass gives you unlimited travel on the national rail network of France (see map).
Choice of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 days within a one-month period.
Travel days may be used consecutively or non-consecutively.
Level of Service:
First-class and Second-class are offered for this pass.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France Pass (otherwise, click your country link above

France and One Country Pass

Eurail France – Spain Pass:

France – Spain Saverpass: at a group discount if you travel at all times with up to 4 friends. France ‘n Spain Youthpass: at a special discount for those under 26.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France – Spain Pass (otherwise, click your country link above).

Eurail France – Switzerland Pass:

France – Switzerland Saverpass: at a group discount if you travel at all times with up to 4 friends.
France – Switzerland Youthpass: at a special discount for those under 26.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France – Switzerland Pass (otherwise, click your country link above).

Eurail France – Germany Pass:

France – Germany Saverpass: at a group discount if you travel at all times with up to 4 friends.
France – Germany Youthpass: at a special discount for those under 26.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France – Germany Pass (otherwise, click your country link above).

Eurail France – Italy Pass:

France – Italy Saverpass: at a group discount if you travel at all times with up to 4 friends.
France – Italy Youthpass: at a special discount for those under 26.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France – Italy Pass (otherwise, click your country link above).

Eurail France Select Pass

Here’s what you get:

This pass gives you unlimited travel in France, Benelux (Benelux refers to Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. This is considered one country for the Eurail Select Pass), Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Ireland.

The chosen countries are bordering or have a direct shipping line which is part of the Eurail offer.
Choice of 5, 6, 8, 10 or 15 days within 2 months, consecutively or not.
Various travel bonuses including numerous discounts among others on the Eurostar to the UK

Level of Service:
In first-class. Youth passes are only available in second-class.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a France Select Pass (otherwise, click your country link above)

Eurail Global Pass

Here’s what you get:

Unlimited travel on the entire rail networks of Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Ireland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

The consecutive pass is available for 15 days, 21 days, 1 month, 2 months or 3 months.
The Flexipass is available for 10 or 15 days of consecutive or non-consecutive travel within a 2 month period.
Various travel bonuses including numerous discounts among others on the Eurostar to UK, Ferries, Hotels, Attractions…

Level of Service:
In first-class. Youth passes are only available in second-class.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a Global Pass (otherwise, click your country link above)

Eurail Saver Rail Pass Discount for Group of two to five people

Here’s what you get:

If you will be traveling throughout France with a friend — or even 2 or 3 or 4 friends — this is probably the best deal for you. The France Saverpass requires a minimum of two people traveling together at all times.
This pass gives you unlimited travel on the national rail network of France (see map).
Choice of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 days within a one-month period.
Travel days may be used consecutively or non-consecutively.Children 4-11 years of age are half the adult fare. Children under 4 are free

The SaverPass is also available in the Select and Global versions.
Level of Service:
First-class and Second-class is offered for this pass.

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a Saver Rail Pass (otherwise, click your country link above).

Senior Rail Pass Discounts

France Seniorpass:
Offers travelers 60 and over the opportunity to see France with a discounted pass. You get:

  • Any 4 days unlimited train travel in one month
  • 1st class train travel

Options:
Purchase up to 6 additional days of train travel, to be used consecutively or non-consecutively
Bonuses:
Special fares for Eurostar (discount of 75% for 1st class and 65% for 2nd class)
Special travel bonuses

If you live in the USA or Canada, click here to book a Senior Pass  (otherwise, click your country link below).

Youth Rail Pass Discounts

France Youth Passes:
Rail Europe offers great passes throughout Europe for those under 26 years of age and provides great savings. Explore France from top to bottom with our discounted France Youthpass.

Just like the France Railpass, the France Youthpass offers travelers under 26 on their first day of travel the opportunity to see France with a discounted pass. France is yours to explore with the option of adding additional rail days! If you’d like to travel to France and 2 or 4 or 16 other countries, be sure to check our Eurail Selectpass, or Eurail pass. Also, check out our France – Italy Pass.

You get: Any 4 days unlimited train travel within a month in 1st class or 2nd class

Options:
Purchase up to 6 extra days of train travel
Bonuses:
Special fares for Eurostar (discount of 75% for 1st class and 65% for 2nd class)
Special travel bonuses

Compose your own trip from amongst 3500 possible train connections  – Book your Euril Pass Train Tickets NOW, click on your country/area link:
USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links: 
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De 

Do I need a (Seat) Reservation if I have a Train Pass?

If you’re traveling on a Rail Pass (Eurail or country-specific Select Pass) then you have to purchase seat reservations separately. You can do this by going to the website where you purchased the Pass or from a rail station if you’re already in France. See the question above for details about Train Passes.

On the website look for wording like this: “Book a Reservation for your Pass” or on the purchase page: “Are you traveling on a rail pass?”

A FEW FINAL THOUGHTS:

  • A reservation is a guaranteed seat on a specific train
  • Rail carriers usually have a limited number of seats for travelers with a rail pass, so be sure to book as soon as possible
  • You can generally book your reservation between 60-90 days before departure
  • Not all ticket and reservations are ‘print @ home’ so you need to purchase sufficiently ahead of time to allow for ‘paper delivery’
  • BTW all Rail Passes are issued in ‘paper’ (for now) so, there again, purchase early and leave sufficient time for delivery and … peace of mind

These links will take you to country-specific websites where you will be able to buy Seat Reservation to accompany your Train Pass:

USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links:
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De

What is a rail pass day and a rail pass month?

A rail pass day runs from midnight to midnight. You can board as many trains as you like during these 24 hours. For overnight trains that depart after 7 pm, (19h) a rail day will begin at 7 pm (19h) and end the next day at midnight. So, on the overnight trains, you get 5 extra hours and save a night of lodging costs.

A rail pass month is calculated as a calendar month. Here’s an example, a pass that begins on June 18 will expire at midnight on July 17.

These links will take you to country-specific websites where you will be able to buy your Rail Pass and/or your Seat Reservation to accompany your Train Pass:

USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links:
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De

What does flexi or consecutive days signify for a rail pass?

A consecutive-day rail pass provides unlimited rail travel on any day or consecutive days covered by the length of the pass. You can choose among:

  • 15 or 22 days
  • 1, 2 or 3 months

A flexipass is valid for a specific number of travel days that can be scattered within a longer period. For example, 15 days of unlimited rail travel within 2 months. A traveler can pick and choose the days they would like to use the train. You can choose among:

  • 3, 5, 7 days within one month
  • 10, 15 days within two months

These links will take you to country-specific websites where you will be able to buy your Rail Pass and/or your Seat Reservation to accompany your Train Pass:

USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links:
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De

How, when and where can I activate my Rail Pass?

Where? Activate your Rail Pass, for free, at a train station in a participating Eurail country.

When? Activation must be done within 11 months of the issuing date. Your Eurail Pass can only be used once it’s activated.

How? Go to a ticket counter of any major train station in one of the participating Eurail countries. An official will fill in the start and end dates of your travel and your passport number. Therefore, bring your passport. Finally, your rail pass will be officially stamped to validate it.

These links will take you to country-specific websites where you will be able to buy your Rail Pass and/or your Seat Reservation to accompany your Train Pass:

USA – Argentina – Australia – Brazil – Canada – GCC Countries – Hong Kong – India – Israel – Japan-Jp – Mexico, Central America, Caribbean – New Zealand – Singapore – South Africa – Rest of the world (English) – Rest of the world (Español) – 中国 – 香港 – 日本 – 한국 – 新加坡

European citizens can order the Interrail Pass with these links:
UK – Belgium-Fr – Belgium-Nl France – Germany – Italy – Netherlands – Spain – Switzerland-Fr – Switzerland-De