Is train or bus better in France?

Is train or bus better in France? Buses in France is usually the cheapest means of tranport in France. Buses are a good budget alternative to trains, especially if you have plenty of time to get around. There is no national bus service in France so finding the best routes and prices requires a bit of research.

Are train tickets cheaper in advance in France?

TGV high-speed trains are all-reserved. All tickets for these trains come with a seat reservation automatically included and the price varies like air fares, so pre-book for the cheapest prices. In practice there are almost always places available on most trains even just before departure, the issue is price.

What is the most scenic train in France?

A scenic ride through the French and Swiss mountains. If the Polar Express took inspiration from a real-life train journey, it would surely be the Mont-Blanc Express . This alpine train runs from Chamonix to Martigny in Switzerland, taking 90 minutes and going through 21 tunnels and over 28 bridges en route.

Is it easy to travel around France by train?

The best way to travel between French town & cities is by train, in comfort at ground level. France's world-famous TGV travels at up to 199 mph, from city centre to city centre, and if you pre-book direct with the operator you can find some really cheap fares, too.

What are the best ways to travel from Spain to France?

You can fly between Spain and France, or use the train. Unless you're taking many train trips, individual tickets, rather than a Eurail pass, might be your best option.

Can you pay cash on Paris buses?

Payment on board the bus can be made in four ways: By validating a T+ ticket using the ticket machine. By validating your Navigo pass on the card reader. By paying €2.50 in cash and receiving a paper ticket.

Is there free transportation in France?

In more and more cities in France, public transportation is becoming free. Some cities have free transport only on weekends and some are planning on providing a completely free transportation system over the coming years. So how does it work and how can you benefit from it?

What is the best day to buy train tickets?

Travel during peak travel periods will usually see you paying more as there is more demand for tickets. For that reason, the best days to buy tickets are generally in the middle of the week between Tuesday and Thursday, the former considered the best of all by several sources.

What is the best way to travel between cities in France?

The best way to travel between French town & cities is by train, in comfort at ground level. France's world-famous TGV travels at up to 199 mph, from city centre to city centre, and if you pre-book direct with the operator you can find some really cheap fares, too.

Where can I go in France without a car?

East: Out to Reims, Nancy and Metz. West: Anger, Saumur, Chinon and other Loire spots. West: Nantes, La Rochelle and Cognac. Southwest: Poitiers, Angouleme and Bordeaux.

Is it better to take bus or metro in Paris?

While the metro subway system is extensive, it's generally safe and easy to use once you familiarize yourself with it a bit. Trains usually arrive on time; buses are well-appointed and spacious, and commuter express (RER) trains service the city's most important stops in record time.

How to save money on French trains?

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 public transport cheap in France?

Buses in France are very cheap, tickets are not normally more than a euro and are even as little as 20 cents in some places. Many cities have bus services which run into the suburbs or even into the countryside which can be a handy option for day trips. Outside of the cities, bus services can be infrequent and slow.

What is the best way to get around in France?

Although nine out ten times, the best way to travel around France is by train, there are a few occasions when a flight is your best bet. Take Nice for example. The fastest flight time from CDG or Orly is 1:20. Figure in transport to the airport, check in, security, etc.

Why are SNCF tickets so expensive?

The rail network announced a decision to raise prices last November because of the increase in energy costs. Christophe Fanichet, CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, said the company was “facing additional costs of 13 per cent in 2023.” He also said its electricity bills had gone up by 180 per cent.

Do you tip in Paris?

Tipping in France is not mandatory. Even though it is always appreciated, it's up to the customers to decide if they want to tip or not. Unlike other countries, the price of the service is included in the total cost of the bill. You will never be asked to tip, but it's common to leave one if the service was good.