If you’re planning a trip to France, you may be interested in visiting the beautiful medieval town of Provins. Located just 80 kilometers southeast of Paris, Provins is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and rich history. Getting to Provins from Paris is easy and convenient by train.
Why Take the Train?
Taking the train from Paris to Provins is a great option for several reasons. Firstly, it’s faster than driving or taking a bus.
The journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes by train, compared to over 2 hours by car or bus. Secondly, it’s more comfortable and less stressful than driving yourself in unfamiliar territory. Finally, trains are frequent and reliable, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Choose Your Train Station
Paris has several train stations that offer connections to Provins. The two main options are Gare de l’Est and Gare de Lyon.
Gare de l’Est
Located in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, Gare de l’Est offers direct trains to Provins operated by Transilien. This station is convenient if you’re staying in central Paris or have connections arriving at nearby stations such as Gare du Nord.
Gare de Lyon
Located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, Gare de Lyon offers direct trains to Provins operated by Transilien as well as other regional trains operated by SNCF. This station is convenient if you’re coming from the south of France or have connections arriving at nearby stations such as Gare d’Austerlitz.
Step 2: Check the Schedule
Trains from Paris to Provins run frequently throughout the day, with more frequent service during weekday peak hours. You can check the schedule and buy tickets online at the official website of SNCF (www.sncf.com) or Transilien (www.transilien.com).
Step 3: Buy Your Ticket
You can buy your train ticket online or at the station. If you’re buying your ticket at the station, you can use the automated machines or go to a manned ticket counter. Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding the train.
Step 4: Board Your Train
When your train arrives, make sure to board the correct car and find a seat. Trains from Paris to Provins are usually double-decker trains with air conditioning and comfortable seating.
Step 5: Arrive in Provins
The train will arrive at Provins station, which is located just a short walk from the town center. From here, you can explore all that this beautiful medieval town has to offer.
- Visit the Tour César, a well-preserved medieval tower with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Explore the underground tunnels known as les souterrains de Provins.
- Visit one of several museums dedicated to Provins’ rich history and culture.
- Taste some local specialties like rose petal jam or Brie de Meaux cheese.
In Conclusion:
Getting from Paris to Provins by train is easy and convenient. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this beautiful medieval town has to offer without any hassle. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris for a day, Provins is definitely worth a visit.