Night train travel combines comfort and sustainability, allowing passengers to sleep during transit and arrive refreshed at their destination, eliminating hotel costs. With lower CO₂ emissions than cars and planes, it’s an eco-friendly option. New night Intercités services connect eight major French cities in 2024, offering affordable fares starting at €19. Passengers can choose from comfortable seats or private compartments for added privacy, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxing and efficient journey across France.
Experience the Comfort of Night Train Travel
Embarking on a night train journey offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends comfort with practicality. Sleeping while traveling not only alleviates the stress associated with lengthy car rides but also eliminates the need for a hotel stay. Simply board in the evening, and you awaken at your destination, ready to seize the day ahead. Unlike car travel, which demands constant attention, or air travel, often linked with delays and procedures, the train allows for a peaceful and relaxing journey.
Eco-Friendly Travel: The Sustainable Choice
From an environmental perspective, night trains stand out as a more sustainable transport option. The CO₂ emissions per passenger are significantly lower compared to cars and planes. Opting for the train reduces your carbon footprint while contributing to a greener mode of travel. The thoughtfully designed cabins, gentle swaying of the train on the tracks, and calming ambiance create a pleasant and eco-conscious travel experience.
With the introduction of night Intercités, eight prominent French destinations can now be reached by night train. This service allows for seamless travel across the country, from north to south, ensuring that you make the most of your time. Departing from the Austerlitz station in Paris during the evening, travelers can arrive at various regions by early morning, ready for exploration.
In 2024, destinations such as Toulouse, Rodez, Latour-de-Carol, Cerbère, Tarbes, Briançon, Nice, and Aurillac will be accessible via night trains. These journeys enable travelers to experience a spectrum of landscapes, ranging from the stunning beaches of the Basque coast to the majestic mountains of the Hautes-Alpes and the sunny allure of the PACA region. Night train travel is the perfect solution for those looking to travel comfortably while saving on accommodation costs, allowing for an entire day to enjoy the new location upon arrival.
The SNCF offers various travel options to cater to everyone’s needs. Seats start at just €19 one way, providing an economical way to travel while still allowing for a restful journey. Each seat comes equipped with an adjustable headrest, a footrest, and a personal reading light—perfect for unwinding during the night. For those desiring additional comfort, sleeping compartments are available from €29 one way. These compartments feature four beds in first class and six in second class, making them an ideal choice for longer trips. Passengers receive a duvet, pillow, and extras like earplugs and refreshing wipes in first class.
For travelers seeking complete privacy, private compartments can be booked starting at €150 one way. These fully reservable spaces allow you to travel in comfort, whether alone or with companions. A night train journey, such as the Paris-Nice route, becomes an unforgettable adventure. Departing after 8:50 PM and arriving in Nice around 9:25 AM, this trip lasts approximately twelve and a half hours, providing a peaceful way to traverse France. Selecting the night train is an economical, eco-friendly, and practical choice that meets a variety of travel preferences.