Short answer: Use TGV for fast long distances and TER for regional hops. Book TGV early on SNCF Connect, keep your QR offline, and leave buffers at big hubs.

Who this is for: first-time travelers doing Paris plus one region (Versailles, Champagne, Loire, Normandy, Provence, Riviera).

TGV vs TER (What’s the Difference?)

• TGV (high-speed): reserved seats, dynamic prices, fastest between major cities (e.g., Paris–Lyon ~2h, Paris–Avignon ~2h40, Paris–Reims ~45m).
• TER (regional): frequent, no seat reservations, fixed prices; perfect for short hops and local connections.
• Intercités: classic long-distance non-TGV routes (reserved seats, slower than TGV).

Where & When to Buy

• Official website/app: SNCF Connect (best coverage and fares).
• When to book TGV: 2–8 weeks ahead for popular times and lower fares (earlier for holidays).
• TER tickets: buy close to departure; prices are usually fixed.
• Aggregator (optional): Trainline can be convenient (adds small fees).

Seats, Classes & Luggage

• Classes: 2nd and 1st on TGV/Intercités. 2nd is fine for most trips; 1st has more space/quiet.
• Seat choice: solo/duo seats often in 1st; families may like face-to-face tables.
• Luggage: racks above seats and at coach ends; no formal weight limits—pack light for stairs.

Stations & Boarding

• Arrive early: 20–30 minutes for TGV at big stations (Paris Gare du Nord/Est/Lyon/Montparnasse/Austerlitz).
• Platform boards: watch “Départs”; platforms post ~20 minutes before departure.
• Coach numbers: check your e-ticket for voiture (coach) and place (seat).
• Bar car: many TGVs have café service; bring snacks/water anyway.

Validation & Tickets

• e-Tickets (TGV/most Intercités/TER): show the QR code—no stamping needed. Save a screenshot offline.
• Paper TER tickets: if you receive an unstamped paper ticket, validate in the small yellow/grey machines before boarding.

Metro & Local Transport (Paris)

• Navigo Easy: simple reloadable card for visitors. Info: RATP: Navigo Easy.
• Airport/Versailles: RER B for CDG; RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
• Tip: avoid peak crush with luggage; keep bags in front/closed.

Popular Day Trips by Train (Typical Times)

• Paris → Versailles (RER C): ~35–45m to Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
• Paris → Reims (TGV): ~45m from Paris-Est (Champagne cellars—book tastings).
• Paris → Chartres (TER): ~1h15 from Montparnasse.
• Paris → Giverny: train to Vernon-Giverny (~45m) + shuttle/bus to the gardens (Apr–Oct).
• Paris → Loire Valley (Tours/St-Pierre-des-Corps): ~1h–1h15 by TGV; rent a car or join a local tour for châteaux.

Longer Jumps (TGV Examples)

• Paris → Lyon: ~2h (frequent TGV).
• Paris → Avignon (Provence): ~2h40 direct.
• Paris → Nice (Riviera): ~5h40–6h; book early for seats/views.
• Paris → Bordeaux: ~2h10.
• Paris → Strasbourg (Alsace): ~1h50.

Common Mistakes (Easy Fixes)

• Tight connections: leave buffer time when changing Paris stations or switching from metro to TGV.
• Wrong station: Paris has many terminals—double-check yours (Nord/Est/Lyon/Montparnasse/Austerlitz/Bercy).
• No offline backup: screenshot your QR and coach info in case the app won’t load.
• Expecting assigned seats on TER: it’s open seating—arrive a bit early if you want to sit together.

Rail Passes & Discounts (Quick Take)

• Point-to-point usually beats passes for short trips; check totals before buying a pass.
• Youth/Senior cards: France rail cards can help for multiple TGV trips—compare on SNCF Connect.
• Families: tables or 4-seaters are easier for snacks and games.

Where to Book (Official Links)

• SNCF Connect (official) — TGV/TER/Intercités across France
• RATP: Navigo Easy — Paris metro/bus card info
• Trainline — optional aggregator with simple UX (fees apply)

FAQs

Do I need to print TGV tickets?
No—mobile QR is fine. Keep a screenshot offline.

Can I bring big luggage?
Yes, but space is limited at coach ends. Pack lighter for stairs and metro connections.

What if my train is delayed?
Follow app/boards for platform changes. Compensation rules vary by delay length—check SNCF Connect.

Is first class worth it?
Nice for space/quiet on longer rides; 2nd class is perfectly fine for most routes.

Quick CTA

Ready to ride? Lock your key TGV legs now on SNCF Connect, then add TER day trips once your Paris dates are set. Screenshot your QR and coach/seat—stress saved.