I plan to use the SNCF Connect service in March. Was planning to contact them when I arrive in Paris about a week before my train journey. In Italy the Salon Blue assistance actually booked my ticket for me at a.reduced rate. Wondering if this is true in France too. Don’t feel comfortable buying a ticker ahead since they may only offer wheelchair assistance for certain train cars.
Posted by
5 posts
I used the SNCF Connect app quite a bit this past October. You could download it now to view your options without actually booking a ticket. We were travelling during a series of days when the French rail workers were doing "social actions", meaning that a number of trains were not running, and you only find out which ones were at 5pm a day or two beforehand. With the Connect app it was possible to change travel options from the comfort of the hotel room rather than going to the station each time. Do pay attention to the news, because "social action" disruptions seem to be very common.
One thing I didn't know until scrambling for a train to CDG on one of those days, is that OuiGo is a separate service, a low-cost company using SNCF tracks and older cars, and it isn't affected by those "social action" train cancellations. SNCF employees seem quite sniffy about it, but when a OuiGo train is running and the SNCF trains are limited and full, it is a lifesaver. Good Luck!
Posted by
OP
seattle
2137 posts
Good to know. I’ve been studying the SNFC Connect site and think I’m getting close to learning how to book tickets through it. Looks like the best prices and options should be booked ahead. If you’ve paid fir a ticket and a “social action” happens, do you know if they redund the tucket price or move you to another date?
Posted by
5 posts
We did get a refund for one cancelled train, but it did involve going to the station. I'm not sure if we could have arranged it through the app or not.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10623 posts
Yes, you can do a refund on the app.
No, the low-cost train cars are not old; they were built specifically for the low-cost train with three across seating. OuiGo is owned by SNCF.
Sorry, but I can't help you with info on wheelchair assistance procedure.