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Paris CDG Terminal 2—time needed for making train connections

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My wife and I are scheduled to arrive at CDG Terminal 2 at 13:35. There are TGV trains to Avignon leaving from CDG Terminal 2 TGV at 14:59 or later at 17:59. The earlier departure seems to tight for clearing customs and baggage claim but the later one gets us to our destination pretty late. Alternatively, we can take a cab (or public transport) to Gare de Lyon, where there are hourly departures to Avignon.

So, how much time should we plan for to make connections at either train station? If we choose to go to Gare de Lyon, is there a better/quicker option than taxis for a couple traveling with luggage for a three-week trip?

Thanks in advance for suggestions and guidance!

Posted by
2545 posts

If you want to be relatively sure of making your train, you’ll need to allow more than 1+24. I would allow 3 hours connect time at CDG, 4 hours if you go into Paris to catch a train.

Posted by
10195 posts

What month? I see a 4:58 also. Are you using the SNCF connect app for the most complete information?

Posted by
3 posts

Thanks for the replies. Our trip is in September. The 4:58 OUIGO departure would be great but according to the Eurail website, this train isn't available for booking with Eurail passes, which I've already paid for.

Assuming we need four hours to make the train from Gare de Lyon, we would only save 1/2 hour vs. just staying at the CDG station and taking the later train right from the airport. This seems to make the most sense.

Thanks again!

Posted by
2545 posts

this train isn't available for booking with Eurail passes

I would not use a Eurail pass for travel in France. Trains have very limited seat availability for pass holders, and advance tickets sometimes cost little more than what pass holders pay for reservations.

If you have this pass for travel to other countries, maybe it has value. If your planned train travel is mostly in France, I would return the Eurail pass and purchase tickets. You´ll likely save money and be able to book the trains you really want.

Posted by
10195 posts

I agree with Tocard about the pass. I saw tickets for as low as 25€, but you have to be on the train company's website, not on a reseller's website like Eurail.

Posted by
3 posts

Good to know about limited seating for Eurail pass holders. Something I wasn't aware of. Only one of of our four planned train trips involves another country (Spain) so I'm going to try and cancel the one trip I've reserved w/Eurail and then cancel the Eurail passes altogether.

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