Traveling from Bordeaux to Paris by train is fast, affordable, and convenient. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fast Travel Times: High-speed TGV trains take as little as 2 hours and 9 minutes, while budget OUIGO trains range from 2 hours 7 minutes to 3 hours 43 minutes.
- Frequent Departures: 23 daily trains, with options in the morning, afternoon, evening, and late night.
- Ticket Prices: OUIGO tickets start at $17 (€16), while TGV INOUI offers premium services with added comfort.
- Booking Options: Purchase tickets via SNCF Connect or OUIGO platforms for the best deals.
- Train Classes: Choose between Standard and First Class on TGV INOUI, or opt for OUIGO’s budget-friendly packages.
Quick Comparison:
| Service | Travel Time | Starting Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| TGV INOUI | 2h 7m – 2h 28m | Varies | Premium seating, Wi-Fi, onboard bar, flexible ticket options. |
| OUIGO | 2h 7m – 3h 43m | $17 (€16) | Budget-friendly, optional add-ons like extra luggage and seat selection. |
Book early to save money, and decide between comfort (TGV INOUI) or affordability (OUIGO). Both options provide fast, direct travel between Bordeaux and Paris.
Train Tickets and Classes
Standard vs First Class
TGV INOUI trains on the Bordeaux to Paris route offer two seating options. Standard class provides comfortable seating with power outlets and decent legroom. First class steps it up with wider seats, extra legroom, and quieter carriages for a more relaxed journey.
Both classes come with these perks:
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Onboard bar/café
- Luggage storage
- Power outlets
Looking for a more budget-friendly option? Check out the OUIGO service below.
OUIGO Budget Service
OUIGO offers high-speed trains between Bordeaux and Paris, with tickets starting at just $17 (€16) for adults and $9 (€8) for children [2]. These trains serve several Paris stations, including:
- Paris Montparnasse
- Paris Aéroport Roissy CDG 2
- Paris Marne-La-Vallée Chessy
- Paris Massy TGV
OUIGO operates with an ‘Essential’ package, but you can add optional upgrades [2]:
| Add-on Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| OUIGO Plus | $10 (€9) |
| OUIGOFLEX | $10 (€9) |
| Date/Destination Change | $20 (€19) |
The OUIGO Plus upgrade includes seat selection, extra baggage allowance, and onboard internet (OUIFI). OUIGOFLEX lets you change your ticket without extra fees [2].
For even more flexibility, consider rail pass options.
Rail Pass Options
Here’s what you need to know:
- Eurail passes (for non-European residents) and Interrail passes (for European residents) can be used on this route, but seat reservations are required for high-speed trains.
- Reserve seats early, especially during busy travel seasons.
- The France Pass covers travel within the country.
- The Global Pass gives access to over 30,000 destinations across Europe.
Ouigo TGV Duplex | Bordeaux – Paris
Train Companies and Services
TGV INOUI and OUIGO, both operated by SNCF Voyageurs, provide service on the Bordeaux–Paris route, offering distinct options to suit different needs.
TGV INOUI Services
TGV INOUI is SNCF’s premium high-speed train service, reaching speeds of up to 199 mph (320 km/h). It offers a more comfortable and feature-rich experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating Options | Standard and First Class with adjustable seats for added comfort |
| Onboard Amenities | Bar car with meals crafted by chefs |
| Included Services | Complimentary amenities during the journey |
| Pet Travel | Small pets in carriers: $7.50 (€7); Larger pets: $7.50 (€7) |
| Bike Transport | $10.70 (€10) per bike |
| Ticket Flexibility | Options for low or no-fee ticket changes |
OUIGO Services
OUIGO offers a budget-friendly alternative while still providing high-speed travel at over 186 mph (300 km/h). These trains connect Bordeaux to multiple Paris stations:
- Paris Montparnasse (central station)
- Paris Aéroport Roissy CDG 2 (airport)
- Paris Marne-La-Vallée Chessy (Disneyland Paris)
- Paris Massy TGV (south Paris)
| Service Level | What’s Included | Price |
|---|---|---|
| OUIGO ESSENTIEL | Basic ticket, 1 carry-on (21.7" x 13.8" x 9.8"), 1 personal item (14.2" x 10.6" x 5.9") | From $17 (€16) |
| OUIGO PLUS | Seat selection, XL luggage allowance, Wi-Fi/entertainment | +$9.60 (€9) |
| Additional Services | Bike transport: $5.35 (€5); Extra luggage: $5.35 (€5); Pet travel: $10.70 (€10) per item/pet | Per item/pet |
All OUIGO trains between Bordeaux and Paris operate as direct routes, with travel times ranging from 2 hours 7 minutes to 3 hours 43 minutes, depending on the station and schedule.
How to Book and Prices
Where to Buy Tickets
You can book Bordeaux–Paris tickets through official SNCF platforms.
| Booking Channel | Services Offered | Features |
|---|---|---|
| SNCF Connect Website | TGV INOUI | Full range of booking options |
| SNCF Connect App | TGV INOUI | Book and manage trips on mobile |
| OUIGO.com* | OUIGO | Low-cost ticket options |
| OUIGO App* | OUIGO | Easy mobile ticket purchases |
| SNCF Station Counters | All services | In-person help and ticket printing |
*OUIGO tickets are only available through OUIGO platforms.
Once you choose your booking method, keep in mind that ticket prices depend on how far in advance you book, your travel class, and the service chosen.
Ticket Prices by Time
Ticket costs fluctuate based on when you book, your travel date, and the class of service. The SNCF Connect app makes it simple to check fares, buy tickets, and manage your trips. Visit the official SNCF platforms for the most up-to-date pricing details.
Ways to Save Money
Early Booking Deals
Planning ahead can save you a lot on Bordeaux–Paris tickets. SNCF Connect suggests booking as soon as tickets go on sale – usually in March for summer travel and October for winter trips [3]. If you’re considering OUIGO services, early bookings can get you fares starting at just €25 on specific weekday departures, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays [3]. Additionally, discounts are available for groups and families, so it’s worth checking those options too.
Group and Family Rates
Traveling with family or friends? OUIGO offers special rates for families, including €8 tickets for children under 12 [3]. Here’s a quick breakdown of some available discounts:
| Passenger Type | Special Rate | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Children under 12 | €8 | Applies to OUIGO Grande Vitesse trains |
| Seniors | Discounted fares | Requires age verification |
| Groups | Variable discounts | Depends on group size |
Special Offers
TGV INOUI frequently runs flash sales and promotions throughout the year [4]. These limited-time deals can help you save a lot on standard ticket prices. Keep an eye on SNCF Connect’s "good deals" section, look for off-peak discounts, and consider SNCF discount cards to cut costs even further.
Train Times and Routes
Daily Schedule
Traveling between Bordeaux and Paris is convenient, with 23 trains running daily. The first train leaves at 5:13 AM, and the last one departs at 9:04 PM [1].
| Time of Day | Earliest Departure | Latest Departure | Number of Departures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | 5:13 AM | 10:46 AM | 8 |
| Afternoon | 12:46 PM | 5:46 PM | 8 |
| Evening | 6:10 PM | 8:49 PM | 6 |
| Night | 9:04 PM | 9:04 PM | 1 |
This schedule ensures plenty of options for travelers throughout the day.
Travel Time and Options
The variety of departure times makes it easy to plan trips for different purposes. Whether you need to catch an early train for a business meeting in Paris, enjoy a day trip with several return options, or head out for an evening event, there’s a train to match your plans. Weekend getaways are just as simple to arrange with this frequent service.
Extra Fees and Rules
Booking and Change Fees
The cost of changing or canceling tickets depends on the train service. Here’s how it breaks down:
- TGV INOUI: You can cancel or exchange tickets for free if done at least 7 days before departure. Within 6 days, there’s a $19 fee per person [5].
- INTERCITÉS (with mandatory reservations): Changes are free up to 7 days before departure. After that, the fee is 40% of the ticket price, capped at $15 [5].
- OUIGO: Tickets are non-refundable. However, exchanges are allowed up to 30 minutes before departure for a $19 fee per person [5].
Here’s a quick summary of these policies:
| Train Service | Cancellation/Exchange Policy (if requested 7 days before) | Modification Fee (if requested within 6 days or at exchange) |
|---|---|---|
| TGV INOUI | Free | $19 per person |
| INTERCITÉS | Free | 40% of ticket price (max $15) |
| OUIGO | Non-cancellable | $19 per person (exchange allowed up to 30 minutes before departure) |
Luggage and Pet Rules
Each train operator has its own rules for luggage and pets, so allowances and policies can differ. If your trip involves multiple train services, these conditions may vary across segments [5].
In cases of strikes or other disruptions, train companies might offer more flexible options for ticket changes or refunds [5]. Keep in mind, though, that once the train departs, changes are usually not allowed, regardless of the ticket type [5].
For regional TER trains, which often connect to main routes, tickets generally can’t be exchanged. However, refunds are often available until the day before departure [5].
Key Points
The Bordeaux–Paris train route offers options to fit different budgets and travel preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main features of both services. TGV INOUI provides a faster, more comfortable ride, with trips as short as 2 hours and 7 minutes and an average journey time of 2 hours and 28 minutes [3].
| Service Type | Key Features | Travel Experience | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| TGV INOUI | High-speed, up to 320 km/h (200 mph) | Modern interiors; bar car | Wi-Fi included; generous luggage allowance |
| OUIGO ESSENTIEL | Budget-friendly with basic amenities | Standard seating | Includes one carry-on and one hand baggage |
| OUIGO PLUS | Upgraded budget option | Seat selection | Extra luggage allowance; Wi-Fi access |
Things to keep in mind:
- Book early to secure the best prices.
- Decide between OUIGO’s budget options and TGV INOUI’s added comforts.
- Factor in your luggage needs when making a choice.
- Enjoy frequent daily departures for flexibility.
Both services use high-speed trains that can reach over 300 km/h (186 mph), ensuring a quick and efficient journey between Bordeaux and Paris [3]. This overview helps you pick the right option for your trip.
