If you’re planning a trip from Bordeaux to Paris, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of transportation. While there are a few different options available, taking the train is often the easiest and most convenient way to travel between these two cities.
So, how much can you expect to pay for a train ticket from Bordeaux to Paris? Let’s take a closer look.
Train Operators
There are two main train operators that offer service between Bordeaux and Paris: SNCF and Ouigo. SNCF is the national railway company of France, while Ouigo is a subsidiary of SNCF that offers budget-friendly high-speed train service.
SNCF
If you choose to travel with SNCF, you’ll have several options for trains that run between Bordeaux and Paris. The fastest option is the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), which can get you from Bordeaux to Paris in just over two hours. However, this service tends to be on the pricier side, with tickets ranging from around €60-€120 depending on how far in advance you book and what time of day you travel.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with SNCF, you may want to consider taking an Intercités or TER (Transport Express Régional) train instead. These trains take longer than the TGV (around four hours), but they also tend to be much cheaper – tickets can range from around €20-€50.
Ouigo
Ouigo offers budget-friendly high-speed train service between Bordeaux and Paris. While their trains are not as fast as the TGV (they typically take around three hours), they are significantly cheaper – tickets can be as low as €10 if you book far enough in advance.
It’s worth noting that Ouigo operates out of different stations than SNCF – in Bordeaux, their trains depart from Bordeaux Saint-Jean station, while SNCF trains depart from Bordeaux Saint-Jean and Bordeaux Pessac stations. In Paris, Ouigo trains arrive at Marne-la-Vallée station (which is outside of the city center), while SNCF trains arrive at either Montparnasse or Charles de Gaulle airport.
Booking Your Ticket
No matter which train operator you choose, it’s always a good idea to book your ticket as far in advance as possible. This can help you secure the best price and ensure that you get a seat on the train you want. You can book tickets online through both SNCF and Ouigo’s websites, or through third-party booking sites like Trainline.
Conclusion
The cost of a train ticket from Bordeaux to Paris can vary depending on a number of factors, including which train operator you choose, how far in advance you book, and what time of day you travel. While the TGV tends to be the fastest option with SNCF, it’s also the most expensive – if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider taking an Intercités or TER instead.
With Ouigo, you’ll always get a budget-friendly fare – just be aware that their trains operate out of different stations than SNCF. No matter which option you choose, booking your ticket as far in advance as possible is always a good idea to secure the best price.