My friend and I will be taking a 4 hour train trip from Paris to Bayonne in late August. First class fares are only $8 per person more. What would be the difference between first and second? I’ve only traveled 2nd before and it was fine, but if $8 buys more comfort and room, it might be worth the “splurge”. Thank you!
Posted by
Georgia, Now Florida
269 posts
At that price, go for the splurge.. We did , last trip to italy and enjoyed it. You are right, 2nd class is just fine but the first class car was more comfortable. Enjoy!
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33822 posts
For specifics, you might look at this page from The Man In Seat 61 which outlines the service, all the way to Spain.:-- https://www.seat61.com/paris-to-san-sebastian-by-train.htm
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
The big difference is wider seats. Seating is 2x1 instead of 2x2. The leg room between is slight better but not significantly so. For $8, try it.
Posted by
Stuttgart, Germany
3050 posts
$8 is nothing - totally worth the splurge. I don't know if I'd do it on DeutcheBahn, where the difference between 1st and 2nd class isntt as significant, but I've done a first class SNCF train and it was totally worth it.
Posted by
Chicago
2044 posts
Actually, DB First Class is quiter and not as crowded so for $8, I'd go first class in any train system. Enjoy!
Posted by
Folsom
2734 posts
I’ll pile on-totally worth it at $8. You’ll have more room and posssible amenities. When we took the Paris to Barcelona trip an attendant came down the aisle periodically with snacks, drinks and even dental hygiene products!
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
For 8 bucks do you really have to ask.. thats like two coffees from Starbucks.. lol I agree that second class is fine.. but I once splurged an extra 10 euros for first class from Paris to Nice and did not regret it at all..
You still should bring your own picnic..
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33822 posts
You guys pay too much for your coffee.....
Posted by
1221 posts
DB first class for ICE and Intercity routes also get you access to the first class lounge in bigger train stations. While it's not the same as an airline lounge, the drinks, light snacks, and more likely to be clean toilets are nice to have access to.
Posted by
New York, NY
4071 posts
My friend and I will be taking a 4 hour train trip from Paris to
Bayonne in late August. First class fares are only $8 per person more.
What would be the difference between first and second?
With only an $8 difference, go for it and share with everyone here what that difference is. I'd love to know that!!
Posted by
Folsom
2734 posts
Here is the difference: room. A bit wider seat, less seats per row. But, don’t expect 1st class as in flying. Not even close. But, for rides of 4 hours or more on a train we opt for first class unless the difference in price is over the top. 2nd class on a train beats coach on a plane by a mile.