Travelers planning their spring getaways can breathe easy — the SNCF has just opened ticket sales for the anticipated spring break and May holiday periods, starting January 22, 2025. Tickets are available for travel from March 31 to May 11, 2025, covering popular routes on TGV INOUI and Intercités trains, and extending availability until July 4 for the more budget-friendly Ouigo services.
The spring vacation begins officially on April 5 for zone B and runs through to May 5 for zone A, with travelers very much expected to scramble for tickets as the news spreads. According to the SNCF, the demand is typically high during these peak travel periods, especially considering several long weekends this year, including Easter from April 19 to 21, and additional holidays on May 1 and May 8, which are both Thursdays.
For those eager to maximize their time off, this strategic calendar means you could potentially have nearly 11 days of vacation by taking a few days off surrounding these holidays!
The SNCF has emphasized the importance of early booking, stating it's first come, first served when it involves securing lower prices. Typically, tickets for these crowded vacation periods are not only snapped up quickly but can also be considerably cheaper when booked well in advance. An analysis conducted by Trainline indicates booking your train ticket approximately 11 weeks early can save travelers up to 50%. 'The sooner you book, the more options and savings you're likely to get,' they advise.
But be wary — with dynamic pricing models employed by the SNCF, ticket prices can quickly rise as more passengers attempt to secure their journeys. For those apprehensive about watching prices fluctuate, reserving your ticket as soon as they become available is wise. Options are also available for some routes, allowing travelers to keep their options open and monitor pricing trends.
For the diligent traveler who prefers direct interaction, visiting the train station can sometimes yield cheaper fares than online prices, giving you another opportunity for savings.
Marking this year's trend, the SNCF has reported significant increases in train traffic, as last year saw record usage of TGVs and intercity transport. The company confirmed on January 6, 2025, their trains recorded 163 million passengers—a 4% increase over last year, reflecting the continued appeal of rail travel across France and Europe.
It's likely this trend continues as SNCF opens its tickets, matching public demand for accessible and affordable travel options. The upcoming delays for travel beyond May 12 mean future travelers will have to be patient — ticket sales for journeys between May 12 and June 12 will only kick off on February 12.
With all this in mind, the 2025 spring and holiday train ticket sales mark another year of anticipated travel excitement. Keep those travel plans flexible and start booking early to guarantee optimal seats!