- Must visit
Musée de l'Absinthe
Specialized museum on absinthe production and culture, explaining the drink’s role in Pontarlier’s identity through objects and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Marseille to Pontarlier
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$126
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$126
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 59 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 59 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
408 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Marseille to Pontarlier is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Marseille to Pontarlier will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Marseille to Pontarlier, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 408 km distance in an average of 4 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 59 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 59 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:36 PM4h59Marseille6:35 PMPontarlier$1261One-way0 transfers
- 1:36 PM4h59Marseille6:35 PMPontarlier$1261One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Marseille to Pontarlier
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Marseille to Pontarlier among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $158 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $158, while a flight costs an average of $823.
Distance: 253 miles (408 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$158 Average price Cheapest | $823 Average price | $104 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 2m Average total duration 8h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 12m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Marseille to Pontarlier is a train with an average price of $158.
This is compared to other travel options from Marseille to Pontarlier:
A train is $665 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Marseille to Pontarlier costing on average $823.
The fastest way to travel from Marseille to Pontarlier is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 12m.
Other travel options to Pontarlier take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Marseille and Pontarlier including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Marseille to Pontarlier among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $158 compared to roughly $104 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-53.55. The journey takes 8h 32m versus 5h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Marseille to Pontarlier train times
The table below shows live departures for Marseille to Pontarlier trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:36 PM Marseille | 4h59 | 5:35 PM Pontarlier | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:36 PM Marseille | 4h59 | 6:35 PM Pontarlier | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Marseille to Pontarlier by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Marseille to Pontarlier
FranceFrance
Trains from Marseille to Pontarlier run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $113 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:57, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 253 miles (408 km) distance in 4h 44m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 253 miles (408 km) |
Average train duration 8h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $113 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 4h 44m |
First train 5:57 AM |
Last train 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: SNCF | Intercités de nuit, TER from Marseille to Pontarlier trainsSNCF | Intercités de nuit, TER trains will get you between Marseille and Pontarlier from $113. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | Intercités de nuit
About
SNCF Intercités de nuit is the regular overnight train service offered by France's national railway company, SNCF, since 2012. These trains, primarily using Corail coaches, provide a time-effective way to travel across France, connecting Paris to various destinations in the south, including the Alps, the Côte d'Azur, and the Pyrenees. Passengers can choose from reclining seats, 6-berth couchettes in second class, or 4-berth couchettes in first class, with the option to book an entire compartment for privacy. Services can include Wi-Fi, pre-ordered meals, and even shower access at select stations for first-class travelers. Popular routes include Paris to Nice, Toulouse, Briançon, and Lourdes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | Intercités de nuit Duration
12h 20m
Cheapest SNCF | Intercités de nuit Price
$202
SNCF | Intercités de nuit frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Vending machine with snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Family area
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest TER Price
$113
TER frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Pontarlier
Things to do in Pontarlier
Discover the best of Pontarlier — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Pontarlier trip today.
- Recommended
Musée Municipal de Pontarlier
Main local museum presenting Pontarlier history, archaeology, art, and absinthe heritage in a practical central location.
- Recommended
Musée du Fort de Joux
Museum inside the famous fort with prison, military, and resistance history; combines strong storytelling with a dramatic setting.
- Must visit
Belvédère du Larmont
Wooded mountain lookout reached from nearby roads and trails, valued for expansive panoramas and fresh-air hiking close to Pontarlier.
- Recommended
Place d'Arçon
Central square lined with historic buildings and shops, ideal for orienting yourself and seeing everyday life in Pontarlier.
- Recommended
Rue de la République
Main commercial street through the old center, good for a walk between monuments, local stores, and classic town architecture.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Absinthe De Pontarlier
Anise-flavoured spirit historically linked to Pontarlier, once France’s absinthe capital. It is the town’s signature drink and a key part of local heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pontarlier-Anis
A strong anise aperitif from the Pontarlier distillery tradition. It reflects the region’s long history of herbal spirits in the Jura mountains.
- Gluten-free
Boîte Chaude Au Mont D’Or
Cooked Mont d’Or cheese baked in its spruce box until molten, then served with potatoes and charcuterie. A winter classic in nearby Haut-Doubs.
La Bella Vita
Established restaurant serving refined French cuisine with regional products in a more polished, classic dining setting.
Brasserie Le France
Traditional brasserie in central Pontarlier known for regional plates, hearty portions and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Restaurant Le Lac
Casual venue appreciated for generous Franco-Italian dishes and an easy-going atmosphere suited to families and groups.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France. Hotels and meals are usually cheaper than Paris; local transit is limited, and cross-border demand can raise prices on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.20-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in restaurant bills in France. Locals may round up or leave €1-5 for good service. Taxis are often rounded up; cafes may get small change.
SNCF Connect
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Pontarlier station -> Place d'Arçon, Pontarlier
- Distance
- 600 m
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets before boarding when possible; local urban buses may not support contactless bank card payment onboard.
- Pontarlier city center is walkable from the railway station, so walking is often the fastest option for central destinations.
FAQs: Trains from Marseille to Pontarlier
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Marseille to Pontarlier by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Pontarlier, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Marseille to Pontarlier can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $113, while the average price is around $158.
The train from Marseille to Pontarlier takes 4h 44m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Marseille to Pontarlier is 253 miles (408 km).
The first train from Marseille to Pontarlier leaves at 5:57 AM.
The last train from Marseille to Pontarlier leaves at 10:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Marseille to Pontarlier.
There is no direct train service currently available from Marseille to Pontarlier.
Yes, there is a night train from Marseille to Pontarlier.
The train station in Marseille that goes to Pontarlier is Marseille Saint-Charles, which connects to Pontarlier station.
The cheapest way to get from Marseille to Pontarlier is by train, with a cost of around $113.
The train journey from Marseille to Pontarlier offers scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of Provence, the Rhone Valley, and the Jura Mountains, providing a visually rewarding experience.
A day trip from Marseille to Pontarlier is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 44m, and the distance is 253 miles (408 km). The train frequency is 1 per day.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Pontarlier, allowing time to visit key attractions such as Château de Joux, the Absinthe Distillery, and enjoy the scenic natural surroundings.
Yes, you can take the train from Marseille to Pontarlier.
Since both Marseille and Pontarlier are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Pontarlier include Neuchâtel, Dijon, Lausanne, Dole, Besançon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Marseille to Pontarlier among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Pontarlier, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and inflated prices in tourist-focused shops. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and confirming fares in advance can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Marseille to Pontarlier
Most Marseille to Pontarlier trains use the Marseille Saint-Charles to Pontarlier station pair. Use this guide to compare Marseille and Pontarlier train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Marseille
Arrival train stations in Pontarlier
Which Marseille station do trains to Pontarlier leave from?
Trains from Marseille to Pontarlier leave from Marseille Saint-Charles. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Marseille city centre at Square Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France.
Marseille Saint-CharlesSquare Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France+33 4950491012
City-centre transport
Getting to Marseille Saint-Charles from Marseille city centre
Bus52, 509, Bm2 · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayM2 · 1m · $2 · every ~22 min
Marseille Saint-Charles train station facilities and services
Marseille Saint-Charles has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Caffe San Carlo, DAKAO, Espressamente Illy, EXKi, McDonald's, Monop'Daily, Starbucks, Casa Di Pasta, Chatime, PAUL
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located between track M and the bus station at the Honnorat exit.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00. Information desks are located on level -1 of the station, entrances via the station or via Bd Bourdet.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is the lockers are located on Boulevard Bourdet, on level 0 of the station. Service is provided by La Bag Mobile.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Accès Plus is a service offered to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility who need assistance at the station. For more information email [email protected] or call +33 890640650.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Marseille-Saint Charles, Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Saint Charles, Hotel Les Bords De Me.
Marseille-BlancardeSquare Stalingrad, 13004 Marseille, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Marseille-Blancarde from Marseille city centre
Marseille-Blancarde is 2 km from Marseille city centre. Public transport options include:
MetroLine 1
TramwayLine T1
BusSeveral lines available
Marseille-Blancarde train station facilities and services
Marseille-Blancarde has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Café de la Banque, La Table de l'Ours
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Marseille-Blancarde. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Marseille-Blancarde. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Marseille-Blancarde: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Marseille-Blancarde: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Marseille-Blancarde.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Kyriad Marseille Blancarde Timone, Ibis Marseille Timone, Hotel Azur.
Which Pontarlier station do trains from Marseille arrive at?
Trains from Marseille to Pontarlier arrive at Pontarlier. Pontarlier is from Pontarlier city centre.
PontarlierPlace de la Gare, 25300 Pontarlier, France+33 3 81 46 51 51
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontarlier from Pontarlier city centre
BusSeveral local lines available
Taxi services available
Pontarlier train station facilities and services
Pontarlier has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Grill Comtois, La Table de Gustave
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Pontarlier. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Pontarlier. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontarlier: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontarlier: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontarlier.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hôtel Saint-Pierre, Campanile Pontarlier, Ibis Pontarlier.
More options for your journey from Marseille to Pontarlier
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Pontarlier and Marseille
Most popular train connections to Pontarlier
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