France by train
Paris, Lyon & Provence
A city-to-south route linking major rail hubs with time to explore Provence. Choose a few bases rather than changing hotels every night.
France by train
Plan a France trip by train, from arrival to your regional base.
A practical rail guide for US and UK visitors planning a France vacation or holiday: choose an arrival gateway, connect major French cities, and plan the local transfer to your hotel, vineyard or mountain resort.
Plan the whole journey. A train may bring you close to a destination without reaching the hotel, vineyard or ski lift. Check the station, local bus or taxi, luggage needs and last departure for each leg.
Suggested route patterns
Choose a rail-friendly route.
France by train
Paris, Strasbourg & Alsace
Use Strasbourg as an eastern-France base, then check regional connections to Colmar and nearby towns for your travel dates.
France by train
Paris, Dijon & Burgundy
Reach Burgundy by rail, then plan the local link between Dijon, Beaune and vineyard visits before you book tastings.
Build your trip in four steps.
- Choose your arrival airport or station. Compare Paris, Lyon, Nice and nearby European gateways on the Airports & Rail guide.
- Pick two or three bases. Longer stays in each place leave more time for museums, meals and day trips.
- Check the last mile. Look up the station-to-accommodation route and local transport before reserving a rural or mountain stay.
- Verify each date. Timetables, engineering work, seasonal trains and connections change; search your exact journey before booking.
When is a car or transfer useful?
Rail is often practical between larger towns. A rental car, local taxi, shuttle or guided transfer may help with countryside accommodation, winery visits, trailheads and ski resorts. For wine tastings, arrange a safe return journey before you go.
Check official rail information.
Use the operator’s current timetable for the exact date, departure station and connection. Allow extra time when changing stations or travelling onward from an airport.