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Paris to Rouen - Help Choosing Which Train

Posted by on

I’m checking on making train reservations using the oui.sncf app for Paris to Rouen on New Year’s Day.

Booking two senior tickets from Paris to Rouen on Jan 1, I see DIRECT TER and DIRECT TRAIN NOMAD available at multiple times during the day.

TER has 2nd class at 24.10 each and 1st class at 36.10 each. Both are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

NOMAD has cheaper and less restrictive options: 2nd class 11.50 each and 1st class 15.50 each, with both being exchangeable. And there is an option for 2nd class (modifiable free of charge) for 24.10 each.

QUESTIONS: What is the difference between Nomad and TER? Is TER much better to justify the higher, more restrictive fare?

In light of the current rail strikes, what do you recommend?

Posted by
877 posts

I can't comment on Nomad v. TER. However, train travel in France is always a crapshoot in regards to strikes. They will typically warn/announce a day or so in advance, but that still does not help if you are holding tickets on strike day.

Posted by
12172 posts

I'd always go with the less restrictive choice, just in case you have a slight change in schedule. 2nd class is fine. The one feature I'd look at closely is train duration because a direct train will get you there fastest (some have changes and more stops). Just be aware, with the less restrictive choices, you will need to validate your ticket before boarding. There are places at the end of the platform. Watch other people stamp theirs and do the same.

Posted by
4684 posts

I did a check and it looks as if Nomad is a new local branding for regional services in Normandy. Probably much the same stock and times, but it appears lower fares.

Posted by
7 posts

Thanks so much for your help! I have booked us on Nomad 2nd class (the option with no charge for modifications).

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