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Rail legs (approximate journey times)
| Leg | Approx. time | Notes | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris → Lyon | about 2 hrs | Very frequent | Trains on Trainline Compare on Omio |
| Paris → Marseille | about 3–3.5 hrs on the fastest direct TGVs | Frequent | Trains on Trainline Compare on Omio |
| Paris → Bordeaux | about 2 hrs 10 mins–2.5 hrs | Frequent | Trains on Trainline Compare on Omio |
Times are approximate, from published 2026 timetables and guides (Eurostar, Seat61, Deutsche Bahn, NS International). Always check live times before booking.
Good to know
- OUIGO is SNCF's low-cost brand: cheap seats, but strict luggage rules and some outer-Paris stations.
- Reserve seats; the cheapest fares go early.
- Combine with Eurostar to Paris for a no-fly trip south.
Booking tips
- Book ahead. Eurostar, TGV and ICE fares rise as trains fill up; the cheapest seats go first. Bookings usually open several months ahead.
- Allow time at St Pancras for security and passport checks before Eurostar.
- Check engineering works. Long-distance routes sometimes run slower during trackwork (for example Amsterdam–Berlin in autumn 2026).
- Seat reservations are compulsory on TGV, Eurostar and most high-speed trains in France, Spain and Italy, including for rail pass holders.