When moving to a country like France, you will want to know what the reliable and convenient types of transport are available. The railway network has the fastest high speed trains in the world as well as metro tram lines to get around faster.
Trains
Trains are highly used in France to travel around as they all link to the major cities and other destinations in Europe. The railway system is centralised with 5 main train stations easily located and reached by trams.
Passengers travelling to the major cities will be able to do so via the TGV (Train a Grande Vitesse), which is France’s high speed rail network and travels up to 320Kph making journey times shorter. Routes on the TGV run from Paris to all the major cities in the country, passengers will have the option in travelling on first class or second class both offering great services. Travellers must book tickets in advance as there may not be seats available on the day; however passengers who have a France pass will be able to travel on the TGV and local trains frequently. Passengers who have booked way in advance will be able to get reduced fares.
For shorter distances around France, the train service mostly used is Transport Express Regional. Tickets for this train as well as other local services can be bought at the train station.
Ticket prices for trains are fairly reasonable but it is recommended that if travelling on a daily basis to get a pass and most people living in France will prefer to use the train than a bus.
Metro
Expats in Paris can use a metro, also known as the underground system. The metro is fast, easy and reliable making it an easy way to travel around the city without a car.
The underground consists of 14 lines and 380 stations in France. Passengers buying tickets to travel on the metro will be able to use the same ticket to travel on buses. However, if the ticket has been purchased on a bus you will not be able to use the same ticket on the metro.
The French cities: Lille, Lyon, Paris, Marseille, Rennes and Toulouse all have metro lines with trains running every two-eight minutes.
Buses
The buses in France are slower and not as luxury as a train, but are definitely cheaper. Services in cities and large towns run frequently and most bus stations are located near a railway station. Whereas some areas of France will not offer as many bus services. Smaller towns and cities will have their own local bus services.
Travellers, who are travelling long distances, will not have the option to do this on the buses as they do not offer long coach services, therefore trains are generally used for long distance travel.
Bus prices vary on where you are and are much cheaper than a train. Many people may be able to get discounts if in the groups of students or the elderly which can help save some money.
Eurotunnel
The Eurotunnel links France and England making it a reliable, safe and comfortable way of travelling if not using a plane. High speed trains in the euro tunnel transports passengers, cars and buses underneath the ocean through a dry-land tunnel under the English Channel.
Prices will vary depending on when tickets are booked. To get good offers, passengers are advised to book in advance.
Air Travel
Air France is a national airline which flies to 20 domestic destinations in France. Flights run frequently between the minor cities as well as all the major cities.
The average flight time between France’s cities are roughly one hour, and if you book in advance like other transport methods you will be able to travel at cheap prices.
Taxis
Taxis in France should be booked in advance, hailed at or collected from a taxi rank which is found in different places of each city. Hailing a taxi can only be done in the major busy cities.
The prices of taxis will be calculated on the distance which is travelled and when taking luggage with you, an extra charge may be applied. Expats are assured that taxis in France are safe with them being regulated and monitored so that a good service is provided to all.
Cycling
Cycling in France is a popular transport method for many French residents. The country is cycling friendly and respect is shown to cyclists by motorists giving room to manoeuvre with country lanes designated for the cyclists.