The SNCF has officially opened ticket sales for its spring vacation trains, with routes available for booking from March 31 to July 4. Starting Wednesday, January 22, at 6 AM, passengers can secure their tickets for TGV INOUI, Intercités, and Ouigo trains expected to operate during this period, which coincides with school holidays and multiple public holidays.
The opening of ticket sales is anticipated to attract significant demand, especially as the spring break period involves the Easter holiday and the long weekends of May 1 and May 8. The SNCF noted the importance of booking early, as popular routes might sell out quickly. For example, tickets are already available for the return of the OUIGO Grande Vitesse line between Paris and Perpignan starting March 31, with services connecting through several key cities including Lyon, Montpellier, and Nîmes.
Prices for tickets will also see changes this year. An increase of approximately 1.5% is forecasted for average ticket prices, reflecting the company's dynamic pricing model, where costs fluctuate based on real-time availability and demand levels. Those eager to save money are encouraged to book as soon as possible—some estimates suggest bookings made at the time sales open can yield savings of up to 50% on certain routes.
Reservations can be made not just for domestic travel but also for several international destinations. Travelers can book tickets for journeys to Spain, Italy, and Germany, with tickets for TGV and ICE train routes available six months in advance. This includes direct services like the Paris to Berlin line, which commenced service December 16, 2024, establishing daily connections between the two capitals for the first time.
Beyond the ticketing details, the SNCF emphasizes the convenience and affordability of their offerings, citing how early reservations can increase the likelihood of securing preferred seat placements, especially for groups traveling together. Specific train routes will also adhere to the still-applicable pricing structures, where prices may vary across different train classes and ticket types.
Travelers planning to venture abroad will find options to destinations including Brussels, Luxembourg, and Fribourg available for bookings up to four months ahead. The strategic expansion of booking windows allows clients more flexibility and the chance to explore new destinations through the SNCF network.
The company expects high demand during this ticket-selling period, particularly as the spring season welcomes extended weekends and vacations, prompting many French citizens to look for leisure travel options. Already noted is the 'appetite for trains' among consumers, with similar sales from previous years yielding millions of tickets sold within 24 hours.
While there is excitement surrounding spring travel, travelers are advised to stay updated on ticket availability and prices through the SNCF Connect platform, where detailed information on routes, prices, and available discounts can be found.
Consequently, as the open booking window for spring vacations kicks off, the SNCF is poised for another busy travel season, providing various options for both local and international travelers.