There’s something undeniably romantic about train travel. The rhythmic clickety-clack of the tracks, the ever-changing landscape outside your window, and the sense of adventure that comes with watching the world glide by—all make for a truly special experience. And when it comes to scenic train journeys, France has some of the most breathtaking routes you can find.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone looking to explore France at a leisurely pace, taking the train is one of the best ways to soak in the country’s natural beauty. From rolling vineyards and towering mountains to quaint villages and sparkling coastlines, these routes offer a perfect snapshot of the diverse and picturesque French countryside. So, grab your ticket, find a comfy seat, and let’s embark on a journey through some of the most scenic train routes in France!
The Train des Pignes: Nice to Digne-les-Bains
Let’s start our journey in the sunny south of France with the Train des Pignes, a charming narrow-gauge railway that runs from the glamorous city of Nice to the tranquil town of Digne-les-Bains in Provence. This route takes you on a 3-hour journey through some of the most stunning landscapes Provence has to offer.
As the train chugs along, you’ll pass through lush olive groves, fields of lavender, and picturesque villages that seem frozen in time. The scenery is especially gorgeous in spring and summer when the lavender fields are in full bloom. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the Côte d'Azur and dive into the serene beauty of rural Provence.
Must-See Stops: Be sure to hop off at Entrevaux, a medieval village perched on a rocky hill, complete with a fortress and drawbridge. It’s like stepping back in time!
The Cévenol: Clermont-Ferrand to Nîmes
Next up, we have the Cévenol route, a hidden gem that runs between Clermont-Ferrand and Nîmes, crossing the dramatic landscapes of the Massif Central. This is one of those journeys where the train ride itself is the destination.
Over the course of about 5 hours, the Cévenol takes you through a series of breathtaking gorges, verdant valleys, and across impressive viaducts that offer jaw-dropping views. The scenery is wild and rugged, with deep forests, fast-flowing rivers, and the occasional glimpse of a medieval castle or remote farmhouse. If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, this route is a must.
Pro Tip: The journey is especially spectacular in autumn when the forests are ablaze with vibrant fall colors.
The Train Jaune: Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol
The Train Jaune, or "Yellow Train," is one of France’s most iconic railways, and for good reason. Running through the Pyrenees mountains in the south of France, this route offers some of the most striking scenery you’ll find in the country.
The train climbs high into the Pyrenees, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys. The train itself is something of a historical relic, with open-air carriages in the summer that let you really soak in the views and breathe in that fresh mountain air. At its highest point, the Train Jaune crosses the Séjourné Viaduct, a jaw-dropping structure that seems to float above the landscape.
Don’t Miss: The medieval walled town of Villefranche-de-Conflent, where the journey begins, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and well worth exploring before you set off.
The Côte Bleue Line: Marseille to Miramas
For a coastal adventure, hop on the Côte Bleue Line, which takes you on a spectacular journey along the Mediterranean coast from Marseille to Miramas. This route is a feast for the eyes, offering uninterrupted views of the sparkling blue sea, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside villages.
The train weaves in and out of tunnels, emerging at just the right moments to reveal picture-perfect vistas of the coastline. This is a relatively short journey, just over an hour, but it packs in plenty of visual delights. If you’re looking for a leisurely day out with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing, this route is ideal.
Perfect Stop: Carry-le-Rouet is a lovely seaside village where you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
The Alsace Wine Route: Strasbourg to Colmar
Now, let’s head to the northeast of France, where the Alsace Wine Route offers a delightful journey through one of the country’s most famous wine regions. This route runs between Strasbourg and Colmar, passing through rolling vineyards, picturesque villages, and hills dotted with charming half-timbered houses.
The journey is short, about 30 minutes, but it’s the perfect way to experience the charm of Alsace. Along the way, you can stop at various towns and villages to sample local wines, enjoy traditional Alsatian cuisine, and explore medieval castles. Colmar, in particular, is a fairy-tale town that looks like it’s been plucked straight from the pages of a storybook.
Wine Lover’s Tip: If you have time, consider renting a bike in Colmar and exploring the vineyards at your own pace. There’s nothing quite like cycling through the scenic countryside with a view of the Vosges mountains in the distance.
The TGV Lyria: Paris to Lausanne
For those looking to venture beyond France’s borders while still enjoying some stunning scenery, the TGV Lyria from Paris to Lausanne is the way to go. This high-speed train whisks you from the hustle and bustle of Paris into the serene landscapes of the French Alps and on to the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
The journey takes around 4 hours, offering a comfortable and speedy way to experience some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. As the train leaves Paris behind, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with views of snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and sparkling lakes. It’s a great option for travelers looking to combine the cultural delights of Paris with the natural beauty of Switzerland.
Travel Tip: Make sure to grab a window seat on the right-hand side of the train for the best views of Lake Geneva as you approach Lausanne.
The TER de la Côte Vermeille: Perpignan to Cerbère
Last but certainly not least, the TER de la Côte Vermeille takes you on a scenic journey along the Vermillion Coast in southern France, right on the border with Spain. This route runs between Perpignan and Cerbère, hugging the coastline and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
As you wind your way along the coast, you’ll pass through charming fishing villages, terraced vineyards, and rugged cliffs that plunge into the sea. The journey is especially beautiful at sunset when the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, reflecting off the calm waters below. It’s the perfect way to end your day of exploring.
Must-Do: Stop in the village of Collioure, a favorite haunt of artists like Matisse and Picasso, where you can enjoy a stroll along the beach, visit art galleries, and dine on fresh seafood.
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Exploring France by train is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey itself. Each of these scenic routes offers a unique perspective on France’s diverse landscapes, from sun-soaked coastlines to snow-capped mountains and everything in between. So, whether you’re a resident of France or just visiting, hop on board, sit back, and let the beauty of the French countryside unfold before your eyes. Bon voyage! 🚂🌍
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