Train Routes In France Map
France, known for its rich history, gastronomic delights, and stunning landscapes, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. And what better way to explore this beautiful country than through its extensive train network? From the bustling cities to the quaint villages, there’s so much to discover. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through some of the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences along the train routes in France map.
Top Attractions
Paris, the City of Light, needs no introduction. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, there’s plenty to explore. But France has so much more to offer. Head to the south to witness the stunning beauty of the French Riviera and visit the charming towns of Nice and Cannes. In the west, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Mont Saint Michel and the picturesque city of Bordeaux. And if you’re a fan of history, a visit to Normandy is a must to witness the site of the D-Day landings.
Hidden Gems
While many visitors flock to the popular tourist destinations, France has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a train to the medieval town of Carcassonne in the south, where you’ll find a well-preserved castle and city walls. In the east, visit the charming town of Colmar, known for its colorful half-timbered houses and quaint canals. And if you’re looking for a unique experience, head to the Camargue region to witness the wild horses and pink flamingos.
Food Scene
French cuisine is renowned around the world, and for good reason. From croissants to cheese to wine, there’s no shortage of delicious food to try. Take a train to Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, and indulge in some of the best food the country has to offer. In the south, try the bouillabaisse, a traditional fish soup from Marseille. And don’t forget to sample the local cheeses and wines as you travel through the different regions.
Budget-Friendly Tips
France can be an expensive destination, but with a bit of planning, you can still enjoy all it has to offer on a budget. Take advantage of the train network to save on transportation costs and consider staying in hostels or renting an apartment instead of a hotel. Many museums and attractions offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month, so plan your visits accordingly. And don’t forget to indulge in the many affordable street foods, such as crepes and falafel, found throughout the country.
Outdoor Adventures
France’s diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. In the Alps, go skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking and mountain biking in the summer. In the south, go kayaking or canoeing in the Gorges du Verdon or hiking in the Calanques National Park. And in the west, try surfing in Biarritz or kite surfing in La Rochelle.
Historical Landmarks
France is steeped in history, and there are countless landmarks and monuments to explore. Take a train to Versailles to visit the opulent Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens. In the north, visit the Gothic cathedral of Chartres or the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England. And in the southeast, explore the Roman ruins in Nimes and the Pont du Gard aqueduct.
Family-Friendly Activities
France is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Take a train to Disneyland Paris for a magical day out or visit the Parc Asterix, a theme park based on the popular French comic book series. In the south, visit the aquarium in Montpellier or the Haribo Museum, where you can learn about the history of the popular candy. And in the west, take a boat tour of the Ile de Ré to spot seals and dolphins.
Natural Wonders
France’s natural beauty is not to be missed. Take a train to the Pyrenees Mountains for stunning views and great hiking opportunities. In the east, visit the Vosges Mountains or the Jura Mountains, known for their waterfalls and gorges. And in the south, explore the stunning Verdon Gorge or the Calanques National Park, with its cliffs and turquoise waters.
Vibrant Nightlife
France’s cities come alive at night, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Take a train to Paris for a night out in the trendy Marais neighborhood or the bustling Latin Quarter. In the south, head to the bars and clubs in Marseille or Nice. And in the west, try the local wines and oysters in the bars of Bordeaux or the craft beers in the pubs of Nantes.
Local Markets
France is famous for its markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Take a train to the market town of Aix-en-Provence for a taste of the local cuisine and a chance to buy some lavender products. In the north, visit the bustling market in Lille or the flower market in Nice. And in the west, don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Rungis Market near Paris, one of the largest wholesale food markets in the world.
Beaches and Mountains
France’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, while its mountain ranges offer stunning views and great outdoor activities. Take a train to the beaches of Biarritz or the Cote d’Azur for a day of sun and sand. In the Alps, try skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking and mountain biking in the summer. And in the Pyrenees, explore the stunning natural beauty of the National Park or try white-water rafting on the rivers.
Cultural Immersion
France has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in it. Take a train to the Loire Valley to visit the many chateaux and learn about the history of the region. In the south, visit the Roman amphitheater in Nimes or the Papal Palace in Avignon. And in the west, explore the many museums and galleries in Paris or the street art scene in Nantes.
Art and Music Scene
France has a thriving art and music scene, with countless museums and venues to explore. Take a train to Paris to visit the Louvre Museum or the Centre Pompidou for modern art. In the south, visit the Matisse Museum in Nice or the Picasso Museum in Antibes. And in the west, catch a concert at the Zenith in Paris or the Stereolux in Nantes.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore France’s cities and learn about their history and culture. Take a train to the Latin Quarter in Paris for a guided tour of the famous Left Bank or explore the hidden alleyways of Montmartre. In the south, take a walking tour of the charming town of Aix-en-Provence or the historic center of Marseille. And in the west, explore the old town of Nantes or the picturesque streets of Bordeaux.
Architectural Marvels
France is home to some of the world’s most stunning architectural marvels. Take a train to the Palace of Versailles to see the opulent interiors and stunning gardens. In the south, visit the stunning Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica in Marseille or the Palais des Papes in Avignon. And in the west, explore the Gothic architecture of the cathedral in Chartres or the Art Nouveau buildings of Nancy.
Historical Sites
France’s history is rich and complex, and there are countless historical sites to explore. Take a train to the town of Bayeux to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England. In the south, explore the Roman ruins in Nimes or the medieval castle of Carcassonne. And in the west, visit the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy or the chateau of Chambord in the Loire Valley.
Biking Routes
France is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts, with many scenic routes to choose from. Take a train to the Loire Valley for a bike ride through the vineyards and chateaux. In the Alps, try the famous Col du Galibier or the Col de la Madeleine. And in the south, explore the Gorges du Verdon or the Luberon region.
Wellness Retreats
France is known for its wellness retreats, offering everything from yoga and meditation to spa treatments and healthy cuisine. Take a train to the town of Vichy for a relaxing spa getaway or the village of Sainte-Croix for a yoga retreat in the mountains. In the south, try the thermal baths in Bagnères-de-Luchon or the detox programs in the Pyrenees. And in the west, visit the thalassotherapy centers in La Baule or the yoga studios in Biarritz.
Adventure Sports
France offers plenty of opportunities for adrenaline junk