Are there any tips for finding cheaper fares when traveling by train in France? Making advance reservations won't be possible (maybe a day or so in advance, but not more) and destinations are yet-to-be-determined, so the best way to get cheaper fares is off the table, unfortunately. Some members of the travel group have mentioned purchasing a "loyalty card" (the Carte Escapades card, see http://www.voyages-sncf.com/services-train/carte-abonnement-train?rfrr=Homepage_footer_cartesetabonnements) but I can't confirm that this would actually save enough money to be worthwhile and whether or not it's available only to French citizens. All tickets will be purchased in France, if that makes a difference. Any tips? This is a first visit to France (but hopefully not last!) Thank you!
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33553 posts
I don't know anything about that card, but it seems to me that you have pretty much answered your own question. Just like the airlines, buy well ahead, save loads of money. Buy on the day, or just before, pay through the nose. Sorry.
Posted by
Whittington
984 posts
Ditto to Nigel's post - perhaps see what the man has to say - http://www.seat61.com/
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
I was curious about the Carte Escapades so I took a few steps toward buying it and I learned that one doesn't have to be a resident of France. However, when I clicked on the drop-down list to select my country of residence, I discovered that no country in either North or South America appears on it. I'm afraid you'll have to pay full fare for all your tickets. The bad news is that standard fares on TGVs can be quite high. The good news is that fares on regional trains are always the same, no matter when you buy them.