Opening of SNCF summer reservations: what you need to know

Train tickets for summer travel with SNCF will go on sale starting this Wednesday, March 12. Passengers will be able to book their trips on TGV INOUI and Intercités trains for journeys between July 5 and August 31, 2025, with reservations available until December 13 for certain destinations, especially on the Southeast axis.

Book early to save money

Booking early can lead to significant savings. According to Trainline, purchasing tickets in advance can offer up to 50% off:

• Up to 30% for a Paris-Lyon trip
• 27% for Paris-Marseille
• 25% for Paris-Rennes
• 22% for Paris-Bordeaux

Booking ahead also guarantees a seat, particularly on high-demand routes during peak season.

Which trains are included?

The tickets available will cover the following services:

• TGV INOUI and Intercités: available until August 31, and until December 13 for some routes, like Paris to Lyon, Marseille, or Montpellier.
• OUIGO High-Speed: tickets available until December 13, 2025. The seasonal line between Paris Gare de Lyon and Perpignan will return from March 31 to December 13, with a daily round-trip stopping at several southern cities.
• TER (regional trains): ticket sales depend on the region, usually opening 3 to 5 months before departure.

Dynamic pricing: a key factor

Like airlines, SNCF uses dynamic pricing: fares fluctuate based on demand. The more people book a train or visit the booking platform at the same time, the higher the prices can go. But the reverse is also true — if a train doesn’t fill up, prices may drop.

According to Trainline, the ideal time to book for the best price is approximately 11 weeks before departure.

In summary, to travel smart this summer, it’s best to book as soon as ticket sales open on Wednesday, March 12, starting around 6 or 7 a.m., to snag the best deals and secure your seat for the holidays!