Summary
France has an up-to-date rail system which includes abundant high-speed rail lines. Using the rail map below, you can find the major rail lines to plan your French vacation and get information on the rail passes available to tourists in France.
France Rail Map
The France Rail Map shows the major rail routes in France. In a map of this scale, not all of the smaller lines can be included, but you should be able to plan your vacation using the lines shown here.
The red lines indicate rails upon which the faster trains can travel safely. In France, the names of the fast trains are TGV, Thalys, and Eurostar. Eurostar links London to Paris and Avignon through Lille.
The Thalys trains connect Belgium and the Netherlands with Paris. TGV trains are France’s homegrown speed train, capable of traveling at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph). It’s important to note that high-speed trains require special supplemental fares, even if you have a Eurail Pass.
To see a larger map, visit Rail Map of France.
France Rail Passes
There is a variety of single country and two-country rail passes available for travelers. These passes enhance your travel experience through France and other parts of Western Europe. You will find information regarding day trip and tour options as well.
TGV Europe
TGV Europe is the SNCF National railroad’s website tailored for visitors from the Americas. If you travel without a rail pass, checking this site can provide valuable information on special offers on the French rail lines.
TGV Booking Center (Buy Direct)
Purchase a ticket for France’s fastest trains via Rail Europe’s TGV Booking Center. Experience travels at speeds of up to 186 mph.
TGV East Tickets (Buy Direct)
If your travels include the Champagne-Ardenne, Lorraine, and Alsace regions, consider hopping aboard TGV East for faster journeys that allow you to spend more time at your desired destinations.
Train Travel Toolbox
If you need assistance making transportation decisions within Europe, check out the Train Travel Toolbox. This resource provides valuable insights on rail passes, purchasing point-to-point tickets, and determining if a rail pass will genuinely save you money.
