Taking the Train
The train may very well be the most comfortable and relaxing means of
transport in France. Long-distance trains offer freedom from the chore
of driving, meal service along the way, and a ride that's quieter and
more comfortable than a car or an airplane, especially so if you take the
TGV.
From Paris you can take a Eurostar
train through the channel tunnel to
London, or ride there in your own vehicle aboard the Shuttle train.
The Thalys train will take you to Brussels.
The TGV
The TGV
is the pride of French technology. Traveling at speeds as
high as 300 kph, it greatly shortens travel times within France.
Reservations are required, but they may be made at the last minute.
On board you will experience exceptional service: meals served at
your seat, bar service, nursery service, family spaces, and more.
SNCF Services
SNCF
offers a variety of services designed to improve the convenience
of train travel, including:
- Hotel ticket delivery
- Hotel pickup and delivery of baggage
- Baggage assistance at stations
- Baggage checking
- Reserved meals on the TGV
Fares and Tickets
Train fares vary according to comfort level. There are two classes of
travel, first and second. Travel by
TGV
is not always more expensive
than by regular trains, depending on departure date and time and fare
options. Ask for advice when you buy your ticket. There are many
very advantageous fare options for foreigners, including
Europass, Inter-Rail, and Eurodomino.
Before boarding a train in France, you must punch your own ticket using
a ticket punching machine (composteur),
located near the entrance to the platform area.
Tickets must be punched and used on the same day. An onboard agent will
check your ticket later, and assess a fine if it is not properly punched.
Information and reservations are available by telephone from 07h
to 22h daily at 08.36.67.68.69 (0.34€/minute).
Ticket booths and automatic ticket machines are located in rail
stations, SNCF
boutiques, and travel agencies.
Taking the Train