How to get discount on France train tickets?

How to get discount on France train tickets?

Is it OK to buy tickets from Trainline?

Yes, Trainline is legitimate. Their app and website connect directly to rail and coach carriers' ticketing platforms so every ticket you buy through Trainline is valid for travel.

How does a railcard work?

You can use your Railcard to buy tickets online, at a ticket office, from a ticket machine, and over the phone. When you enter a journey into our Journey Planner, you can add the number and type of Railcards you wish to use. It is possible to add multiple Railcards for different people who are travelling.

Why is Trainline cheaper than SNCF?

Trainline shows various date options side-by-side with their costs. So if you're flexible on dates and willing to travel on whichever day is cheapest, you are able to get some great savings. This is not possible with the SNCF (though their older site used to do it) or other platforms.

Why is OUIGO so cheap?

OUIGO is a low-cost rail service company established in 2013 as part of the SNCF group. Unlike the TGV INOUI service, OUIGO trains only have one class, which is equivalent to second-class travel. This is why OUIGO tickets are so cheap - from €10 for adults (depending on the destination) and €5 for children.

How far in advance should you book trains in France?

Book Early, But Not Too Early But don't try to to book too far in advance, 90 days is the sweet spot. Definitely get reservations for TGV, Thalys and Eurostar, especially if you're choosing popular travel dates. For TGV, Thalys, Eurostar, and some Intercité trains, reservations are mandatory.

Do they check train tickets in France?

You must validate (composter) all French train tickets before you board a train unless you have printed your ticket off at home or downloaded it on your mobile phone. Tickets that are bought or exchanged at a station self-service machine in the hour before you travel may be validated automatically, according to SNCF.

Is it cheaper to pre book train tickets or buy on the day?

Advance purchase tickets are cheaper rail fares which are sold prior to the day of travel, and, in some cases on the day of departure.

What is the cheapest way to travel in France?

Take the (slow) train – Train travel in Europe is cheap and it's the easiest way to get around France. The TGV line can be expensive, but if you get the slow train or have a Eurail pass, you'll save money. Drink wine – In France, the wine is cheaper than water (well, almost!).

Is it better to purchase your ticket at the station or on the train?

Higher fares usually apply when purchasing tickets onboard the train. To secure the best available fare, passengers should purchase tickets prior to boarding the train.

Is it best to reserve a seat on a train?

Some trains require them. A reservation is good for a specific seat in a specific car, on a specific train on a specific date between 2 cities. Seat reservations aren't always necessary, if you don't like to plan ahead, but be prepared not to have a seat on a crowded train.

Is it better to buy tickets sooner or later?

Specifically, plane tickets usually don't get cheaper closer to the departure date. Instead, flights tend to be the most inexpensive when you book between four months and three weeks before your departure date. According to CheapAir.com, you can expect rates to go up after that period.