A local's guide to the public transport system in France

Intercity coaches

Bus culture in France is significant, but it’s not as prevalent as in the UK/USA. FlixBus and BlaBlaBus are the two major players in the intercity bus sector in France. These companies offer an extensive route network at very competitive prices.

An additional benefit these companies offer is their service to many French airports. This is crucial for many travellers since, depending on the city, airport access can be complicated or expensive. By choosing FlixBus or BlaBlaBus, you save on transportation costs and also get a convenient and direct solution to reach your destination.

Another significant advantage of bus travel is the opportunity to admire the scenery. Unlike a plane or TGV journey where everything goes very quickly, the bus allows you to appreciate the beauty of France (and beyond) at a slower pace. From the green plains of Normandy to the snow-capped mountains of the Alps, the journey becomes as enriching as the destination.

However, it's essential to note that coach travel isn’t the fastest option. Patience is required, especially for long distances. But for those not in a hurry, it's an economical and effective way to travel. And during strike seasons, which can be frequent in France, it's one of the most reliable means of transport. 

SNCF and the practical tool "SNCF Connect"

The SNCF is undoubtedly the main train company in France. It manages a vast network that covers major cities with fast trains (TGVs) to more rural areas with regional links (TER).

For expatriates and newcomers, adapting to this vast network might seem complicated. Thankfully, SNCF offers the mobile app SNCF Connect to make travellers' lives easier. Here are some essential points to know about this application:

• Route planning: The tool allows you to check schedules and plan your trips even before buying a ticket.
• Ticket purchase: No more long lines at the ticket counters. With the app, you can book and pay for your ticket directly from your phone.
• Live updates: A big plus to anticipate and adjust in case of delays or disruptions, the app informs you of the status of your train in real time.
• Digital version of your loyalty cards and subscriptions.
• Station information: Whether you're looking for a place to eat or want to know about available services, the app provides practical information about each train station.

Let's look at the French train discount card options available to you, which will save you money on every train journey in France:

• “Carte Avantage” : Ideal for all - young, adults, and seniors. For €49 a year, enjoy discounts of up to 30% on many routes. If you travel with children, their tickets also benefit from a reduced rate.

A little tip for expatriates interested in SNCF's Advantage cards: two to three times a year, these cards receive a 50% discount, typically during the summer periods and around Black Friday. Wait for these key moments to get your card at an unbeatable rate, making your investment quickly profitable thanks to savings on your trips.

• TGVmax: For young people between 16 and 27 years old and seniors over 60 years old. For €79/month, travel without limits. If you're a professional often on the move, "active" options are also available.
• Carte Liberté : A card for everyone that offers you significant discounts and unparalleled flexibility for €399/year. Perfect for those who travel often and appreciate the freedom to modify their plans.
• Carte Famille Nombreuse: Do you have a large family? Then this card is for you, offering discounts based on the number of children you have. Price: €19 for validity of up to 6 years.
• Programme Grand Voyageur : If you travel frequently, this loyalty program offers you cumulative benefits, discounts, and much more.

OUIGO

If you're an expat looking for economical ways to explore France, OUIGO might be your best ally. Offered by SNCF, OUIGO provides high-speed travel at very competitive rates.

Imagine going from Paris to Marseille for only 10 to 20 euros, or travelling between Lyon and Lille for a similar price! That's the major advantage of OUIGO. Depending on the season, this SNCF subsidiary adjusts its connections: in winter, it favours winter sports resorts, and in summer, seaside destinations.

However, pay attention to the details. While major French cities are well served, some OUIGO stations are located on the outskirts, requiring you to plan additional transportation to reach your final destination. Some restrictions also apply to luggage and services on board, as this is a budget version of the high-speed train.

Nevertheless, this option has proven to be a game-changer for many travellers who, without it, would have missed the chance to discover all that France has to offer. So whether you're on a tight budget or simply looking for an adventure, don't overlook the OUIGO trains.

TER

The Regional Express Train (TER) is the ideal option for those looking for a cost-effective alternative to TGV travel in France. While TER journeys might be slightly longer and sometimes include more connections, they come at a considerably lower cost. Managed regionally, TERs serve a multitude of small stations, offering unique access to more rural or countryside destinations. It's perfect if your destination lies outside the major urban centres, allowing you to explore lesser-known parts of France.

In addition to their expansive territorial coverage, the frequency of TERs provides significant travel flexibility. Notably: President Macron has announced an initiative promising a card for 49 EUR starting in the summer of 2024. This card will offer unlimited access to all TERs in France, without age or economic status restrictions. 

Travelling differently: Alternatives to SNCF on French rails

While the SNCF is the dominant figure in French rail, several alternatives are emerging, often proposing competitive offers. Kombo, Trainline, and Omio are some of these players who, in addition to SNCF tickets, highlight offers from foreign railway companies operating in France. Examples include the Spanish company Renfe, the Belgian SNCB, and the German Deutsche Bahn.

Imagine a trip from Paris to Lyon: by booking in advance on one of these sites, you might come across an offer from the Italian company Trenitalia for just 30 euros. Moreover, some routes, such as those heading to Barcelona, offer intermediate stops in cities like Montpellier or Perpignan.

France's central geographical position in Europe makes it ideal for exploring its neighbours by train. Thanks to the TGV Lyria, the charms of Geneva and other Swiss cities are only a few hours away. The Eurostar whisks you from Paris to London through the Channel Tunnel in no time. Spain, with its vibrant cities like Barcelona, is swiftly accessible via the Ave Renfe. For those eager to explore Germany, the ICE rapidly takes you to metropolises like Frankfurt. Not to forget the Thalys, which connects France to Amsterdam via Brussels. And for a broader rail experience, the InterRail offers a unique pass to roam Europe, making every European destination easily accessible from France. Your Grand European Adventure is just a train ride away!

Carpooling

Originating from France and widely adopted, the BlaBlaCar app has revolutionised carpooling. This innovative platform allows drivers and passengers to align their routes to share a journey. Beyond the cost savings, BlaBlaCar offers a unique chance to connect with diverse individuals while travelling to destinations sometimes unreachable by public transportation.

One of the major strengths of carpooling is its flexibility. Unlike the fixed schedules set by trains or buses, here, drivers specify their departure and arrival times. This freedom allows passengers to choose the journey that best fits their schedule. And for those whose plans change at the last minute, BlaBlaCar often serves as a lifeline, with many drivers offering rides on a whim.

At the heart of this experience is the sense of community. Not only is carpooling an eco-friendly gesture, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and consequently your carbon footprint, but BlaBlaCar has also built a genuine trust-based community. Reviews left by other users on driver profiles, as well as the ability to know other passengers on the trip, enhance this feeling of security. Every member is encouraged to actively contribute to this welcoming atmosphere to ensure a pleasant journey for all.

Driving in France 

Despite possessing an excellent public transport system, sometimes you need to drive in France. Check out our guide on all you need to know about driving in France for more information about driving licences, driver permits, rules of the road, car parking etc. 

Air transport in France: Optimise your trip

To better navigate the French skies, let's explore the options available to you.

Budget-conscious travellers can turn to low-cost carriers like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz Air, as well as Vueling or Norwegian. French players such as Transavia and Hop! compete with these European giants, offering competitive rates for travel within France and abroad.
Feel free to read our article on the top 5 cheapest destinations to fly to in France, and get a broader image of our recommendations.

Air France, our national airline, might have slightly higher prices, but it guarantees high-quality service and broad connectivity, both nationally and internationally.

To find the best deals, several booking platforms and flight comparison tools can be of great assistance. Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo are among the most popular. They allow you to compare prices across different airlines, explore destinations based on your budget, and often, alert you to price fluctuations.