I will be traveling from Cannes to Paris next August by rail. I see that it's not possible to purchase a TGV ticket until 90 days of travel but I can purchase an idTGV ticket now for 45 euros 2nd class or 46 euros first. I know - strange. I don't understand the difference between the tickets types (idTGV/TGV). The trains appear to be the same train/times the same just a slight difference in price and the allowable time to purchase the ticket differs. What's up? I can't find the info on the net. Would you advise to purchase the idTGV ticket now? Thanks, Emma
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
There are no trains that are iDTGVs alone. What you get are dedicated cars on regular TGVs. You pick either a car with a quiet atmosphere ("zen") or one with a lively atmosphere ("zap"). If the departure time suits you, go ahead and book now. If you want more departure time choices, wait until three months out when all TGVs will be listed. In either case, book ASAP to get the lowest fare. "Everyone in France" goes on vacation in August and trains between the Cote d'Azur and Paris will be especially popular.
Posted by
Stuttgart, Germany
3050 posts
Yeah, from what I gather the idTGV train is a marketing thing aiming at young adults, trying to convince them to take the trains with "hip" extras (a DJ in the lounge car apparently!) and low prices if you book in advance. I think it sounds fun, hope to use idTGV to book soon.
Posted by
OP
Derry
175 posts
Tom, Thank You! Very informative. Think that I'll wait to get my desired departure time. Just one question. Where did find that the idTGV is simply a part of the TGV system? Feeling very dumb here. Best Wishes, Emma
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Emma I got a idTGV ticket for this summer too, and its not you, it IS confusing! From what I have figured out from here and a few other forums I go on ,, idTGV is mostly a marketing thing,, you are on same train, but different cars, but each car is either a iZap ( noiser family type cars) or iZen ( quieter car, no cells allowed to ring, good for business or people who want to sleep)
Also the idTGV ticketing system is different, more "do it yourself" ,, you must have your ticket already printed( so no option to have it mailed to you, or to pick it up at station, one way they save money I guess and pass savings on to you by having some cheaper prices) If you go on the idTGV site they have a frequently asked question thing that helps , and I did email them a few times, and they always got back to me within 24-48 hours.
Posted by
OP
Derry
175 posts
Tim, sorry about the "O". Thanks also to you Pat. I learned something today and that's a good thing. Best Wishes to both of you. Emma