Trains and buses in France: TGV, OUIGO, TER and how to book
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Contents
In short: in France, the train is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between major cities (TGV INOUI, low-cost OUIGO), complemented by TER regional trains for smaller towns and Intercités for some classic and night lines. Long-distance buses are often the cheapest option. Book high-speed trains early, compare the final price (including luggage) and check the departure station.
The different trains in France
TGV INOUI: standard high-speed
TGVs link Paris to regional cities in a few hours, as well as several regional cities to each other. TGV INOUI is SNCF’s standard offer: reserved seats, a bar on most trains, and more flexible exchange conditions depending on the fare [TO CHECK fare conditions].
OUIGO: low-cost high-speed
OUIGO is SNCF’s low-cost offer. Base fares are often lower, but:
- the number and size of included bags are limited, with extra fees beyond that;
- on-board services are reduced;
- some stations served are on the outskirts of cities [TO CHECK for your route];
- you are asked to arrive early for boarding [TO CHECK the time shown on your ticket].
There is also an OUIGO offer on slower classic lines for some routes [TO CHECK].
Intercités: classic lines and night trains
Intercités trains run on main lines that are not high-speed, plus several night trains from Paris. Handy to save a hotel night on a long journey [TO CHECK: routes and operating days].
TER: regional trains
TER trains connect towns and small stations within a region. They are run by the regions, which often give them their own brand (for example BreizhGo in Brittany or Zou! in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur) [TO CHECK]. TER trains are ideal for day trips: Lyon → Annecy, Marseille → Cassis, Strasbourg → Colmar, Bordeaux → Arcachon…
International trains
From France, direct trains reach London, Brussels and Amsterdam (Eurostar), Italy and Spain. Several companies now run on some high-speed routes, which can bring prices down: compare [TO CHECK routes in service].
Which transport for which journey?
| Mode | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best for | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TGV INOUI | Fast, comfortable, city centre to city centre | Expensive if booked late | Major cities, short trips | See current price |
| OUIGO | Often the cheapest high-speed option | Limited luggage, some remote stations | Budget travellers, light luggage | See current price |
| Intercités / night trains | Lines not served by TGV, sleep on board | Slower, limited frequencies | Long journeys, mountain regions | See current price |
| TER | Usually no reservation, dense network | Slower, no high speed | Day trips, small towns | |
| Long-distance bus | Often the cheapest | Slower, affected by traffic | Budget, poorly served routes | See current price |
Booking at the best price
- Book TGV and OUIGO early: prices usually rise as departure approaches, especially on Fridays, Sunday evenings and during school holidays.
- Be flexible on times: mid-day or mid-week departures are often cheaper.
- Consider discount cards: SNCF offers age-based cards (young people, adults, seniors) that can pay off after a few journeys [TO CHECK conditions and prices on SNCF Connect].
- Compare the final price: extra luggage (OUIGO), service fees on some platforms, getting to the station.
- Check the station: Paris has several main stations (Gare de Lyon, Montparnasse, Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est…) depending on the destination.
Where to book?
- SNCF Connect: SNCF’s official website and app, for all SNCF trains (TGV INOUI, OUIGO, Intercités, TER) and discount cards.
- Omio and Trainline: compare trains and buses and let you book across several European countries with one account. Handy if your trip continues to Italy, Spain or Belgium.
Long-distance buses
Long-distance buses link French cities with each other and with neighbouring countries, often for less than the train but with longer journey times. FlixBus is currently the main network in France. BlaBlaCar has announced the gradual shutdown of its BlaBlaCar Bus service, planned by the end of 2026 [TO CHECK: availability on your dates].
Bus tips:
- check the exact location of the stop or bus station, sometimes far from the centre;
- leave a margin if you have a connection (train, flight): roads are prone to traffic jams;
- look at the luggage policy and whether there are power sockets or Wi-Fi.
For smaller destinations, regional coaches complement the TER network, often with the same tickets or under the same regional brand [TO CHECK by region].
What about carpooling?
Carpooling (for example with BlaBlaCar) is very common in France, especially for routes poorly served by trains or outside peak times. Drivers share the cost of the trip; the time and meeting point are agreed directly with them.
On departure day
- Arrive early: boarding for high-speed trains closes a few minutes before departure, and earlier for OUIGO [TO CHECK the time shown on your ticket].
- Keep your ticket (on your phone or printed) and ID: checks take place on board.
- Check traffic the day before and on the day: during strikes or engineering works, trains may be cancelled.
- Find your coach and seat: the coach number is on your ticket, and a display on the platform shows where it stops.
Combining train and car
To explore a region, a good approach is to take the train to a major station, then rent a car there for villages and countryside. You avoid motorway driving and city parking. Several major stations have rental agencies nearby. See our car rental comparison.
For the rest of your stay (when to go, where to stay, budget), read our complete guide to travelling in France and our budget travel tips.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TGV INOUI and OUIGO?
Both are SNCF high-speed train services. TGV INOUI is the standard, more flexible and comfortable option. OUIGO is the low-cost option: often cheaper fares, but limited luggage (extra fees for more bags), fewer services and sometimes stations outside city centres. Compare the final price including your luggage.
Do I need to book TER trains in advance?
Usually not: TER regional trains often run without seat reservations and fares vary little. For TGV and OUIGO, however, booking early gives more choice and often better prices. [TO CHECK by region]
Where can I buy train tickets for France?
On SNCF Connect, SNCF's official website and app, or on platforms such as Omio or Trainline, which also compare buses and let you book across several countries. Some platforms add service fees: compare the final price before paying.
Is the bus a good alternative to the train?
Yes for tight budgets and routes poorly served by trains. Long-distance buses are usually cheaper but slower. For a journey of several hours, compare the total time, including getting to the bus station.