Are French trains usually on time?

The percent of French SNCF trains that arrive with a delay of less than 15 minutes is at 87%, according to a study released in 2022 (read here about it in French). So 13% of French trains are delayed by 15 minutes or more. This represents an increase in lateness over the decades since the 1950s.



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The French rail network is superb, and traveling by train is often just as quick as driving, generally very reliable and quite reasonably priced. Better still, you don't have to worry about parking, traffic, motorway tolls, or any unexpected breakdowns. Unfortunately, public transport in more rural areas can be patchy.

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For your journey with TGV, INTERCITÉS and TER To have plenty of time to find your car, your seat, to store your suitcases etc... we advise you to arrive 20 minutes before departure. Access to the train is guaranteed up to 2 minutes before departure, so avoid arriving at the very last minute!

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When you travel France by train, you have the option of purchasing a first-class or second-class ticket. Either class is very comfortable with most seats, including drop-down tables and power. First class seats are wider and more comfortable than 2nd class seats, as there are fewer seats per car.

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As a general rule: Sunday through Thursday, the last train arrives at the end of the line at 1:15 a.m. at the latest. Friday, Saturday and the night before public holidays, the last train arrives at the end of the line at 2:15 a.m. at the latest. The first morning trains start their runs at 5:30 a.m.

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France increases cost of train fares The rail network announced a decision to raise prices last November because of the increase in energy costs. Christophe Fanichet, CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, said the company was “facing additional costs of 13 per cent in 2023.”

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Seat reservation is compulsory on TGVs, and all tickets automatically include a seat reservation on a specific train. TGV seating numbering plans. Fares vary like air fares, with cheap Prems fares if you book in advance, much more expensive flexible fares if you wait and buy on the day.

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Some trains require them. A reservation is good for a specific seat in a specific car, on a specific train on a specific date between 2 cities. Seat reservations aren't always necessary, if you don't like to plan ahead, but be prepared not to have a seat on a crowded train.

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For travel on TGV INOUI or TGV France-Italy trains There is no weight limit for your luggage, but you must be able to carry your bags and suitcases by yourself*. On TGV INOUI trains: Your cabin luggage or other compact bags should be stowed under your seat, at your feet, or in the overhead compartment above your seat.

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If your train has been cancelled you will be able to: - Use your ticket to travel on another train but no seat is guaranteed. - Exchange your booking for free for travel at a different time/date in the same travel class.

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