If my plane arrives on time, I have less than 2 hours to get through customs to the TGV in terminal 2 on a Saturday in August. SNCF won't mail train tickets to US. If I buy them through railpass.com, I can't exchange them if my flight is too late to catch the train. Does anyone know how long the lines would be at the TGV station to pick up tickets purchased on their website? Would I be better off having them mailed to a friend in the UK and having them mail the tickets to me? Thanks!
Posted by
Fort Myers, FL, USA
264 posts
Getting through customs at CDG is not a problem. Unless you have something to declare you just roll your suitcases right on through; without even having to stop. (And no paperwork)
When I was in Paris in June, I printed my TGV tickets at home on my own printer. (You have to go through the right sequence of clicks to be able to do this).
In either case, the agents at the SNCF ticket windows are very efficient. You shouldn't have to wait at all! I believe 2 hours is plenty of time!
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
I picked up reserved TGV tickets at CDG SNCF office and recall that the wait in line wasn't terribly long. I had plenty of time to get the tickets and catch my train. If line is too long, you can also print tickets at one of the kiosks which are just outside the SNCF office. Think you need credit card used for purchase and reservation number, much like airline kiosks here.
Posted by
London, UK
286 posts
I usually plan for the worst and hope for the best.
As you said, IF your plane is on time. Is this a price you are willing to risk should your friend mail them to you in the US or you miss the train or the full cost on the day of?
That is just how I would view it.