Travel to France

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Travel to FranceExperience Travel in France: Tips on Trains, Buses & Ferries

By Claire Martin

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Claire MartinTravel Journalist and Videomaker
Claire Martin
I’m a full-time travel journalist, blogger, and videomaker who specializes in train and ferry travel around Europe.

I frequently travel in France, as I’m a keen overland traveller and it’s the obvious first stop from the UK. In July 2025, I travelled from Milan to Paris and then to Boulogne-sur-Mer. Later that year, in December 2025, I took a ferry from Plymouth in the UK to Brittany and then travelled to the south of France. France is one of the largest countries in Europe and has such a diverse array of attractions and landscapes. It’s ideal for anyone, but you’ll need multiple trips to take it all in! I recommend at least two weeks per region.

An image of the harbour in Bastia, Corsica

An image of the harbour in Bastia, Corsica

Routes Overview

There are so many routes you can take in France. I’d generally recommend heading in one direction, such as south or southeast, and stopping in a few places on the way. For example, one trip that I took travelled towards the Alps, stopping in Lyon and Annecy. On the way to the Pyrenees, you could make stops in Toulouse and Perpignan. As trains in France are excellent, I’d recommend seeing if there’s a high-speed route from your final destination to get back to Paris, then flying or taking the Eurostar or other international trains. Popular connections such as Paris to Nice, Paris to Lyon and Bordeaux to Paris are also easy to book.

Onboard Experience

I’ve taken all sorts of transport around France. Often, I’ll choose high-speed trains, which I’ve used to travel to Nice, Lyon and Marseille before. I’ve also taken a few ferries from the UK to Normandy and Brittany and routes across the Mediterranean (from Toulon to Corsica and Marseille to Algiers). I’ve usually found transport to be efficient, although my Paris to Marseille train was delayed by two hours and I was stuck on a train from Paris to Boulogne-sur-Mer for four hours.

Brittany Ferries vessel in the harbour of St Malo

Brittany Ferries vessel in the harbour of St Malo

Station Tips

When travelling through Paris, check which station your next train leaves from, as the city has several major terminals serving different parts of France. For example, trains towards Marseille use Gare de Lyon, while services towards northern France often leave from Gare du Nord. If you need to change stations, I’d allow plenty of time to cross the city rather than treating it like a normal platform change.

Best Time to Travel

For me, the best time to travel in France used to be during the summer season, when I found the weather reliably sunny and warm. However, this has changed somewhat in recent years, as we are experiencing more extreme heat. Nowadays, I’d recommend travelling in May or September instead of the peak summer months. These months are cooler and, at least at the moment, less busy than June, July or August. Prices can also be a little cheaper.

Things to Know Before Traveling

Trains in France don’t always run on time. On my July 2025 trip, I ended up on a delayed train from Paris to Boulogne-sur-Mer for four hours. Outside the major cities, I’ve found that English isn’t always as widely spoken, so knowing a few French words and phrases can help when asking about delays. I’d also recommend bringing enough snacks and water for train journeys, factoring in the possibility of a delay. I was able to leave the train and buy some food from a vending machine at the station, but that’s not guaranteed!

Scenic Routes

There are some night trains available in France (run by INTERCITÉS de nuit), and these can be part of the adventure and can even save some money! I once took a night train from Toulouse to Paris, and the night train ticket cost less than taking a daytime train and paying for a hostel separately. You can choose between a couchette, a shared cabin, a private cabin or a seat. I wouldn’t recommend a seat, but any of the others are suitable depending on budget. They are much slower than day trains, but ultimately they save time you’d spend sleeping otherwise.

Booking Tips

For long-distance travel in France, I’d book as soon as I’d firmed up my plans. Some of these buses, trains and ferries can book up in advance, and the price is almost always lower the earlier you book. However, I have found that French trains aren’t as pricey closer to the time compared to other European networks. For shorter, regional journeys, you don’t need to book as far in advance, and can be a bit more flexible with your plans.

Travel Tips

For France, I’d recommend focusing on just one area. This could be the Alps, Pyrenees, Alsace, Mediterranean or Brittany. The country is a lot bigger than you might realise, and there are many climates and cultures that you simply won’t fit all in one trip. I’d also recommend learning some French words and phrases, especially if you’re travelling outside of the big cities. Many younger people speak English, but it’s not as common among the older generation.

Conclusion

I visit France at least once a year, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone. There’s so much to see throughout the country, whether you want to laze on the beach or trek in the mountains! It’s also perfect for couples, families, friend groups and solo travellers, as there’s something for every travel style here. As long as you don’t try to see all of France in a week and choose the perfect area for your tastes and requirements, you’ll have a trip to remember.

SNCF INOUI train on the platform at a station

SNCF INOUI train on the platform at a station

Popular routes

Popular routes by bus and train in France

Looking for ideas for your next journey in France? Explore popular routes below, check bus and train times and find useful information to help you plan ahead.

Paris to Strasbourg bus

from RM 70
Direct buses available
5h15 average duration
11buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
  • Infobus

Paris to Nice train

from RM 86
Direct trains available
5h30 average duration
16trains per day
Served by
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI
  • ZOU!
  • Trenitalia
  • SNCF | Intercités de nuit

Paris to Marseille bus

from RM 77
Direct buses available
9h25 average duration
16buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus

Paris to Lyon bus

from RM 27
Direct buses available
4h10 average duration
32buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
  • Alsa
  • Internorte
  • Itabus
  • Gipsyy

Paris to Bordeaux bus

from RM 28
Direct buses available
5h00 average duration
39buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • Alsa
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
  • Internorte
  • Infobus
  • Gipsyy
  • Allocab

Nice to Paris train

from RM 86
Direct trains available
5h29 average duration
20trains per day
Served by
  • Trenitalia
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI
  • ZOU!
  • SNCF | Intercités de nuit

Strasbourg to Paris bus

from RM 70
Direct buses available
5h25 average duration
11buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus

Lyon to Paris bus

from RM 27
Direct buses available
4h25 average duration
31buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
  • Alsa
  • Internorte
  • Itabus
  • Gipsyy

Marseille to Paris bus

from RM 77
Direct buses available
8h45 average duration
14buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • BlaBlaCar Bus

Bordeaux to Paris bus

from RM 45
Direct buses available
4h57 average duration
36buses per day
Served by
  • FlixBus
  • Alsa
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
  • Internorte
  • Infobus
  • Gipsyy
  • Allocab

Best itineraries in France

Paris

France Itinerary 10 Days: From Parisian Grandeur to Riviera Charm

Embark on a 10-day adventure across France, starting with the iconic sights of Paris. Journey by bus and train through the historic Loire Valley city of Tours and the gastronomic hub of Lyon, before concluding your trip on the sun-drenched French Riviera in Nice.

  1. 1Paris
  2. 2Tours
  3. 3Lyon
  4. 4Nice
Plan your itinerary
Paris

France 21 Day Itinerary: A Grand Tour from Paris to Bordeaux

Embark on a three-week adventure across France, starting with the iconic sights of Paris, journeying through the gastronomic heart of Lyon, exploring the historic charm of Avignon and the Riviera allure of Nice, and concluding in the renowned wine region of Bordeaux. This itinerary combines city exploration with scenic bus and train travel, offering a diverse experience of French culture and landscapes.

  1. 1Paris
  2. 2Lyon
  3. 3Avignon
  4. 4Nice
  5. 5Bordeaux
Plan your itinerary
Paris

9 Day France Itinerary: From Parisian Grandeur to the Côte d'Azur

This 9-day journey through France takes you from the iconic sights of Paris to the historic charm of Lyon, the papal city of Avignon, and the sun-drenched beauty of Nice. Travel efficiently by bus and train, exploring diverse landscapes and cultural treasures across the country.

  1. 1Paris
  2. 2Lyon
  3. 3Avignon
  4. 4Nice
Plan your itinerary

Most popular travel companies in France : SNCF | TGV INOUI, FlixBus, Trenitalia, Eurostar, BlaBlaCar Bus, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Deutsche BahnDiscover ways to travel to, from and around France by train and bus. Compare routes, schedules and tickets from SNCF | TGV INOUI, FlixBus, Trenitalia, Eurostar, BlaBlaCar Bus, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Deutsche Bahn on Omio to find the right option for your trip.

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
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
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

Trenitalia

About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Learn more about Trenitalia

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

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
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
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 TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187

About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Learn more about SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187

SNCF | Intercités

About
SNCF Intercités is the brand used by France's national railway company, SNCF, for its non-high-speed, long and medium-distance services on the classic rail network. Established in 2006, it encompasses routes not served by the TGV network, including both day and overnight trains. Intercités connects major regional cities and offers an alternative for destinations not on the high-speed lines, such as Paris to Clermont-Ferrand, Bordeaux to Marseille, and Nantes to Lyon. These trains are known for being comfortable and air-conditioned, with services like luggage space and, on some lines, Wi-Fi.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by SNCF
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar-buffet car with snacks and drinks, or trolley service depending on route
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, additional fee applies. Free in 1st class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance service must be booked 48h in advance
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Learn more about SNCF | Intercités

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Learn more about FlixBus

BlaBlaCar Bus

About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Learn more about BlaBlaCar Bus

Travel to France

France is a huge and diverse country containing beautiful scenery from its Mediterranean coastline, through its rugged Massif Central and onto to the snowy heights of the Alps. With magnificent cities, beautiful rivers and stunning castles dotted through its landscape, it is one of the most popular countries in Europe.

When visitors travel to France they will also enjoy a culture of gastronomy, fine wines, theater, fashion and art. The best time to go to France depends on the nature of the vacation, with spring and autumn being the best time to visit major cities, while the resorts destinations of the French Riviera like Nice and Cannes come alive from July to September. Skiing vacations in the Alps reach their peak season during the winter months of December to April.

Flights will always be cheaper in each activity and region's low and shoulder seasons while European school holidays always see a rise in plane and hotel prices.

Getting Around France

Traveling around France is fast and efficient thanks to the excellent public transport options available. SNCF is the state-owned train companies that operates throughout the country. It has several high speed routes meaning you can around the country quickly. Getting the train means you can leave Paris and arrive in Lyon in just a matter of hours. France also have popular bus provider Ouibus who offer hundreds of routes across France for a low fee. Finally, France has great airlines such as Air France allowing you to fly not only within France with but also to all over Europe and the world.

We recommend:
Trains: Trains are particularly good if you're traveling with a family or with a lot of luggage as there isn't an extra cost for normal luggage. Amenities are good and seats are comfortable so they're especially good if you have children.
Buses: Buses are good for backpackers or those on a tight budget. The journey times may be longer but as prices don't increase much it means that they're a good option for last minute journeys. Allowing for your French vacation to be more flexible.
Flights: Flying around France is good for those who are traveling light or need to get from on end of the country to another quickly. Flying is also a great option if you're planning on going to an island such as Corsica or to another country in Europe.

Travel in France

Most visitors who travel to France from America land at Paris, giving them the perfect opportunity for taking a few days to explore this most romantic of capitals and its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame and Sacre-Coeur Cathedrals and the lively Moulin Rouge cabaret shows. World-class art can be appreciated in the Louvre, the Pompidou Centre and the Musee D'Orsay, home to many of Monet's best works. World War II and D-Day history buffs can take in a tour of the Normandy Landing beaches in northern France while castles and vineyards can be visited in the central regions of Burgundy and Auvergne. The Cote d'Azur coastline is ideal for beach holidays and sailing while stunning mountain scenery can be found all year round on the northern slopes of the Pyrenees and in the French Alps.



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