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Train from Paris to Rouen

I'm having a hard time figuring out what's necessary to do the following -- if anyone has some info, I'd be very grateful.

I have a railpass but my daughter-in-law, who is accompanying me on a day trip to Rouen, does not. She'll be just buying a return ticket from Paris to Rouen. To take the TGV to Rouen, I know we need reservations -- supposedly easy to do with my railpass, but how do we do both -- buy her ticket and make our reservations together? Color me so confused.

Also, If someone can explain the concept of TGV reservations + railpass, I'd also be grateful. I'm planning trips to Amien, Reims, Chartres and Bourges, in addition to Rouen. This is my first time traveling solo to France and I'm a big fat chicken. Bawk bawk bawk.

Thanks!

Posted by
76 posts

Just a note - it won't be a TGV from Paris to Rouen, it's a Corail Intercités train. Not to worry, it's just a short ride. The ticket (railpass) allows you on the train, the reservation gives you a place to sit. When your D-I-L buys her ticket it will automatically include the seat reservation; you will need to purchase a seat. Have a great time; Rouen is one of my favorite cities in France.

Posted by
38 posts

Thanks, Joe! I get it now -- and may the Easter bunny load your basket with Peeps!

Posted by
8700 posts

While reservations are possible on Paris-Rouen Corail Intercités trains, they are not required. But if you want to guarantee being able to sit together, then go to any SNCF station and buy your seat reservations to go with your railpass and your daughter-in-law's tickets with seat reservations at the same time.

Most Paris-Amiens trains are regional trains, but a few are Corail Intercités trains. There is open seating on regional trains. No reservations are possible.

All Paris-Chartres trains are regional trains.

For most Paris-Bourges departure times you will need to make one connection, with one leg being on a Corail Téoz train for which a reservation is required.

Posted by
38 posts

Thank you, Tim -- you get a basket of Peeps, too!

I appreciate your reply very much.

Posted by
40 posts

To make it a faster ride, make sure you buy a ticket for the train that goes to Le Havre but stops in Rouen, as it is direct to Rouen. If you get on the train that ends in Rouen you will be on the milk run which makes stops at every station along the way.