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An introduction to the TER

The facilities onboard

Discover the real France by train

TER trains can take you across France via some unforgettable scenery. But they are fast, comfortable and affordable. Just perfect if you’re looking to discover the real France.

Most TER trains are modern and spacious. And while many have first class carriages some are entirely standard class... Keep a look out for double-decker services – views from the top deck are amazing!

Cameras at the ready...

The TER is ideal if you want to go off the beaten track. There are so many picturesque journeys to choose from. But perhaps the most memorable is on the Paris to Nimes line via Clermont Ferrand where your train winds through the breathtaking Allier Gorge – a stunning landscape inaccessible by road.

Planning your journey

You can catch TER trains at towns and villages on 21 regional networks spanning all of France. Most passengers use them to travel short distances to smaller destinations. Below are details of some popular journeys:

Popular Journey	Average journey time	Return price from
Nice – Monaco	15mins	£7
Tours - Bourges	1hr 30mins	£41
Orleans - Nantes	2hrs 30mins	£77

Journey times are approximate and may vary. Please double check all trains when you book. Prices are per person based on the cheapest available return adult standard class fare.

Don't forget

You don’t need to reserve a seat on TER trains but if you want the peace of mind of knowing you’ll get a seat, you can book your ticket in advance and avoid the hassle of buying it at the station on the day.

TER journeys are not high speed, however, if you’re travelling on the following TER routes you can travel on a high speed TGV train that will get you to your destination twice as quick. You will need to pay a small additional supplement on the price of your TER ticket to travel on a TGV train. This supplement is known as the Cote d’Opale and you'll need to buy this at the departure station before you board the train. You can check if your train is a TGV by the journey time.

Lille to Dunkerque 34m
Lille to Calais 29m
Lille to Boulogne 1h

Validating your ticket in France

If you’re travelling on a train in France you’ll need to validate your ticket. Look out for the yellow machines marked compostage de billets – usually located just before or on the platform – and insert your ticket in the slot. Inspectors on the train will check your ticket during your journey, and if it isn’t validated you’re likely to face a fine.

You may also need to validate your ticket when travelling within other European countries. Look out for validation machines in the station or on the platform, and if you’re not sure check with station staff.