In France, there are several railway companies that provide passenger and freight transportation services. The main railway companies in France are:
- SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français): This is the French national railway company. It is responsible for managing high-speed trains (TGV), regional trains (TER), night trains (Intercités de Nuit) and international trains (Eurostar and Thalys). It also provides freight transportation services.
- Keolis: This is a private railway company that manages regional transportation services for certain regions in France. It works in partnership with SNCF to manage TER services.
- Transilien: This is a subsidiary of SNCF that is responsible for suburban trains around Paris.
- RATP: This is a public transportation company that manages public transportation (metro, tramway, bus) in the Paris region. It is also in charge of suburban trains (Transilien) in the Paris region.
- Eurotunnel: This is a railway company that operates the Channel Tunnel connecting France and England.
There are also other private railway companies that provide passenger transportation services in certain regions in France, such as Ouigo, Isilines, Idbus, Thello, and others.
In summary, SNCF is the main national railway company in France, it provides passenger and freight transportation services, it also works in partnership with other private railway companies to manage regional transportation services.
OuiGo, the low cost campagny
Ouigo is a low-cost high-speed train service in France. It is operated by the French national railway company, SNCF, and was launched in 2013. The company’s main goal is to offer affordable and fast train travel to people who are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Ouigo trains operate on the same high-speed tracks as the traditional TGV service, but with a few key differences. The trains have fewer amenities, such as fewer seating options and no buffet car, and the tickets are sold at a lower price point. Passengers can book their tickets online and choose from different fare options, such as standard, premium, or family fare.
Ouigo trains run on several key routes in France, including Paris-Marseille, Paris-Lyon, and Paris-Montpellier. The trains also serve several other destinations such as Nantes, Rennes, Bordeaux, and more. The company also offers international connections to destinations such as Barcelona and Madrid in Spain.
Ouigo is especially popular among budget-conscious travelers, students and young people, the company offers a simple, fast and affordable way to travel around France, It has become a strong competitor to the traditional TGV services offered by SNCF.
Overall, Ouigo offers a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking for a low-cost high-speed train service in France. With its simple fare options and easy online booking process, it makes travel around France more accessible for many people.
How to buy tickets ?
There are several ways to purchase a train ticket in France. Here are some of the most common options:
- Online: One of the most convenient ways to purchase a train ticket in France is through the SNCF website or the Ouigo website. You can browse available train schedules, select your departure and arrival points, and choose your preferred fare option. You can then pay for your ticket using a credit card or a debit card, and receive your electronic ticket via email.
- Self-service machines: You can also purchase your ticket from self-service machines at train stations. These machines are available in most major train stations and are easy to use. Simply select your departure and arrival points, choose your fare option, and pay with cash or a credit/debit card.
- Ticket offices: You can also purchase your ticket from a ticket office at a train station. The ticket offices are usually open during regular business hours, and you can speak to a representative to help you choose the best fare option and purchase your ticket.
- Through travel agencies: You can also buy your train ticket through travel agencies, they will help you find the best options and fares for your trip, and they can also help you with other travel-related services, like booking a hotel or a car rental.
- Using your phone: You can also purchase your train ticket using the SNCF or Ouigo mobile apps, the process is similar to the one when buying the ticket online, but it’s more convenient as you have the tickets on your phone and you can simply show it to the train conductor.
When buying your ticket, be sure to check the departure and arrival times, the fare options, and the seat reservation if necessary. It is also important to check the refund and exchange policy, as well as the conditions for bringing luggage and pets on board.