What is the average cost of a train ticket in France?

As a nationalised system, the French railways used to run a clear and coherent ticketing system, and generally speaking rail travel remains relatively cheap - about 15p a kilometer (1.7 Euro per 10 km in 2017) for a standard second class fare.



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But there is added comfort in full class, and given the nominal price differnce and your travel companions, I would suggest that you choose first class. There's somewhat more room in first class and the seats are *supposed* to be slightly more comfortable. You can't be served a meal at your seat in second class.

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TGV high-speed trains are all-reserved. All tickets for these trains come with a seat reservation automatically included and the price varies like air fares, so pre-book for the cheapest prices. In practice there are almost always places available on most trains even just before departure, the issue is price.

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Book Early, But Not Too Early But don't try to to book too far in advance, 90 days is the sweet spot. Definitely get reservations for TGV, Thalys and Eurostar, especially if you're choosing popular travel dates. For TGV, Thalys, Eurostar, and some Intercité trains, reservations are mandatory.

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Ways to save money on train travel in France
  1. Rail travel can be expensive in France but it is possible to pay less by knowing the system and planning out your trip. ...
  2. Remember the basics. ...
  3. Buy a railcard. ...
  4. Use the once a year 25% discount. ...
  5. Check for 'flash sales' ...
  6. Do not buy from the ticket office.


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There is no difference in the on-board service as no food or drink is included in 1st class on French domestic TGVs. 1st class is just nicer seating, with the option of solo seats or a face to face table for two.

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1st class seats are often marginally roomier, and tend to offer more luxurious upholstery. However, most 2nd class seats are perfectly comfortable and well-maintained.

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Exclusive to First-Class Passengers Once onboard, you'll enjoy complimentary at-seat meal and beverage service provided by our onboard staff of First Class attendants. Selections include freshly prepared chef inspired entrees as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

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Reserve a seat on France's TGV high-speed train for fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. Or take it easy and explore the French countryside with RET regional trains, one charming village at a time. When traveling with a Eurail Pass, you simply can't miss out on la belle France.

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You can usually find the lowest fares during late November, early December, January, February, and early March. Fares during August may not be quite as low, but they're close because many Parisians take vacation this month, causing many potential tourists to believe the whole city shuts down (it does not).

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Nationwide Amtrak Discounts Before you start clicking links, make sure to check Amtrak's Weekly Specials, on sale between Tuesday and Friday each week. These are deeply discounted fares (often up to 80% off) that can be for any train in the country. It's a grab bag, but you might get lucky.

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Sometimes First Class can turn out to be even cheaper than standard. However, the extra benefits vary from just an antimacassar, to extra seating area, reclining seats, more convenient luggage space, and inclusive food and drink.

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You may find the difference in 1st class vs 2nd class rail features and amenities preferable as we did. What is this? Eurail First Class vs Second Class – For the extra expense, you'll find first class seating more comfortable and generally less crowded. There is more legroom and more room for your luggage.

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Trains either have overhead storage racks throughout the car, storage room behind the back of your seat or luggage areas at the end of the car. According to the GTC-CIV (General Terms and Conditions for the International Carriage of Passengers by Rail), passengers can take a maximum of three items of luggage.

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Many French trains need to be reserved in advance, and seats can be limited at times. Make your train trips in France comfortable and reserve your seats before the journey even begins! Most French high-speed trains and night trains can be reserved up to 2 months in advance.

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Reduced rates and sometimes free travel cards are offered for French residents over the age of 65. Free Navigo passes are available to over-65s in the Greater Paris area (although there is an income cap to qualify), and provide access to all Metro services, RER trains, trams, and buses.

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Advance purchase (a week to several months in advance) can save you significant money in many countries (most notably Austria, Britain, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden), especially for faster or longer rides.

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