Can anyone help me decide whether to make reservations on the SNCF train from Paris to Rouen to pick up our rental car? I don't want to be pinned down to certain train times, but don't want to be unable to get a train - or wait an extra hour or two for a train with seats available. The trip is in the first half of June. What are the pros and cons of booking and not booking?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
I cannot specifically address that train. But our experience with European trains is that they are never sold out except for very usual events - like a rival soccer game somewhere, or the Pope is visiting. Personally, if it was me, I would not worry about a reservation.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Since the train doesn't require a reservation, you can always board, even if it's crowded. Worst case scenario would be that you stand for part of the trip until you can find a seat. Arriving a bit early to the station will help, since Paris is the starting point of the train and there will not be any passengers onboard from earlier stops.
Posted by
San Francisco
14979 posts
Hi,
It is the TGV trains where reservations are mandatory. When you take the TER trains, those are the regional and do not accept reservations. Buy the ticket and get on, if no seats are available, you stand or move to the next coach, try your luck there. Everyone else will be doing likewise.
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
It's not just TGVs, some longer distance Intercites trains require them, though not Paris-Rouen.