- 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 Rennes to Pontarlier
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€235
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€243
Fastest journey on Sep 20
8 h
Average journey duration on Sep 20
15 h 34 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
618 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rennes to Pontarlier is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rennes to Pontarlier will cost around €243 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €235.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rennes to Pontarlier without transferring at least 4 times.
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1:30 PM23h07Rennes12:37 PMPontarlier€2351One-way4 transfers- 11:35 AM8h00Rennes7:35 PMPontarlier€2501One-way4 transfers
- 11:35 AM8h00Rennes7:35 PMPontarlier€2501One-way4 transfers
- 1:30 PM23h07Rennes12:37 PMPontarlier€2351One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Rennes to Pontarlier
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Rennes to Pontarlier among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €180 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €180, while a flight costs an average of €501.
Distance: 384 miles (618 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€180 Average price Cheapest | €501 Average price | €117 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 41m 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 Rennes to Pontarlier is a train with an average price of €180.
This is compared to other travel options from Rennes to Pontarlier:
A train is €322 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rennes to Pontarlier costing on average €501.
The fastest way to travel from Rennes to Pontarlier is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to Pontarlier take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rennes and Pontarlier including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rennes to Pontarlier among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 46m sooner (4h 55m by train vs 7h 41m by car). Tickets start at around €180 compared to roughly €117 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Rennes to Pontarlier by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Rennes to Pontarlier
FranceFrance
Trains from Rennes to Pontarlier run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €140 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:56, the last at 16:58. The fastest train covers the 384 miles (618 km) distance in 4h 27m.
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 384 miles (618 km) |
Average train duration 4h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price €140 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 4h 27m |
First train 6:56 AM |
Last train 4:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI from Rennes to Pontarlier trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Rennes and Pontarlier from €140. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
4h 27m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
€140
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
€171
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
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 Rennes to Pontarlier
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rennes 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 Rennes to Pontarlier can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €140, while the average price is around €180.
The train from Rennes to Pontarlier takes 4h 27m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Rennes to Pontarlier is 384 miles (618 km).
The first train from Rennes to Pontarlier leaves at 6:56 AM.
The last train from Rennes to Pontarlier leaves at 4:58 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Rennes to Pontarlier.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rennes to Pontarlier.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rennes to Pontarlier.
The train station in Rennes that goes to Pontarlier is Rennes station, which connects to Pontarlier station.
The cheapest way to get from Rennes to Pontarlier is by train, with a cost of around €140.
The train journey from Rennes to Pontarlier offers a scenic experience, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside, including rolling hills and charming towns.
A day trip from Rennes to Pontarlier is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 27m. There are 2 trains per day, and the distance is 384 miles (618 km).
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 Rennes to Pontarlier.
Since both Rennes 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 Rennes 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 Rennes to Pontarlier
Most Rennes to Pontarlier trains use the Rennes to Pontarlier station pair. Use this guide to compare Rennes and Pontarlier train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rennes
Arrival train stations in Pontarlier
Which Rennes station do trains to Pontarlier leave from?
Trains from Rennes to Pontarlier leave from Rennes. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rennes city centre at 19 Place de la Gare, 35000 Rennes, France.
Rennes19 Place de la Gare, 35000 Rennes, France+33 2 99 30 70 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Rennes from Rennes city centre
BusC2, 12 · 8m · €2 · every ~15 min
Subwayb · 2m · €2 · every ~29 min
a · 3m · €2 · every ~30 min
Rennes train station facilities and services
Rennes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Café de Rennes, L'Embarcadère
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rennes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rennes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rennes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rennes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rennes: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Rennes Centre Gare Sud, Mercure Rennes Centre Gare, Novotel Rennes Centre Gare.
Which Pontarlier station do trains from Rennes arrive at?
Trains from Rennes 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.
Most popular train connections from Rennes
More options for your journey from Rennes to Pontarlier
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Pontarlier and Rennes
Most popular train connections to Pontarlier
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