France is hailed the world over for its eclectic heritage, both natural and cultural. From the Alps to the Ardèche, from Paris to the Provence, France is one of Europe’s most visited countries, and for good reason. Taking it all in by train is by far the best way to appreciate the Hexagone, as the French like to call their homeland, with a superb network of high-speed trains transporting you from Paris to the north, south, east and west. Whichever compass point you pick, you’ll find cities with superb architecture, world-famous galleries, and landscapes that are undeniably French.

Many different types of trains run on the French National Rail Network

 

HIGH-SPEED TRAINS TGV INOUI BY SNCF

TGV INOUI offers high-speed train services connecting the major cities of France. TGV trains run smoothly and silently at speeds of over 300km/h in complete safety.

First and Second Class coaches both offer outstanding comfort for work, rest and relaxation. Some TGVs have special spaces laid out for customers travelling on business, and others for families or small groups.

FRECCIAROSSA BY TRENITALIA

Frecciarossa are high-speed trains featuring four levels of service (Executive, Business, Premium and Standard). They travel at 300km/h on the Paris-Lyon route and at a maximum of 200km/h on conventional tracks (between Lyon and Milan). The journey from Paris to Milan takes about six hours.

Route
Best Travel Time
Paris-Lille
0 hrs 58 mins
Paris-Rennes
1 hr 25 mins
Paris-Lyon
2 hrs 08 mins
Paris-Strasbourg
2 hrs 20 mins
Paris-Bordeaux
2 hrs 04 mins
Paris-Marseille
3 hrs 00 mins
Paris-Montpellier
3 hrs 16 mins
Paris-Nice
5 hrs 28 mins
Paris-Toulouse
4 hrs 08 mins