We have not decided whether to purchase train tickets in advance on-line before leaving the US for France, or simply purchase the tickets once we have arrived, for each leg of our three days of train travel (Paris > Beaune > Avignon > Nice). In Italy, we were able to purchase train tickets a few days ahead of each departure date by simply walking into a local travel agency. Is that a possibility in Paris, Beaune, and Avignon? Or are local travel agencies somewhat scarce and/or do not readily sell train tickets? We were thinking along this line as then we would be able to make the reservation at the same time. Any input would be appreciated. Thank you.
Posted by
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
4049 posts
Want to save money? Purchase those tickets as far in advance as you can (generally a three-month limit.) Yes, you lose flexbility, but you gain security. Some trains do sell out. And you probably save time in the booking process. That process, by the way, includes the reservations (unlike what happens with rail passes.) I always get my hotel reservations well in advance, too. Much less stressful.
For strategies and techniques to cope with French rail, read www.seat61.com
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10228 posts
Hi Walker, When will you be traveling? We have a group of people from this Helpline that meet monthly in Sacramento. One of the group, Larry from Elk Grove, is a train whiz. Many of use have traveled to France and may be able to answer any other questions you many have. We meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month. I hope you can join us.
Posted by
Florida (previously California)
3702 posts
As the first answer notes, the best prices are available when you buy your tickets early and some trains do sell out. Those tickets are non-refundable so unless you are willing to lose the money spent, you lose the flexibility to stay a couple of extra days or leave early, etc. That being said, it is easy to buy tickets from the SNCF boutiques or authorized travel agencies. I have cut and pasted a link to the spot on the SNCF website where you can find the address of the boutique or travel agencies in the areas that you mention: http://aide.voyages-sncf.com/points-de-vente-sncf?rfrr=SommaireGuideSNCF_body_trouvez. In Beaune, you will have to go to the train station to buy tickets but there are multiple locations to get tickets in Avignon and Paris.
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, CA
18 posts
I want to thank Southam, Andrea, and JH for your responses. You have been very helpful. Walker