French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Scenic Saunter Along the Côte d'Azur
The sun-soaked Côte d'Azur has been a favorite playground of the rich and famous for over a century, with its ritzy resort towns dotted along the dazzling Mediterranean coastline. One of the most scenic ways to experience the glamour and natural beauty of the French Riviera is aboard a train winding along the coast.
Beginning in the bustling port city of Nice, the rail journey heads west, treating passengers to stunning sea views as the train hugs the coastline. Gazing out at the shimmering blue waters of the Baie des Anges while rolling along the beachfront is an unforgettable experience. Further west, the train passes through ultra-chic Cannes, home of the iconic film festival, before reaching lesser-known Juan-les-Pins, a laidback seaside gem known for its jazz festival.
Continuing on, the line sweeps through Antibes, where the well-heeled have been summering in style for over a century. With its historic ramparts and port filled with luxury yachts, Antibes encapsulates the timeless allure of the Côte d’Azur. The final stretch takes you into Monaco, the world’s second smallest country and Mediterranean playground for the super rich and famous.
From the comfort of your seat, marvel at the ostentatious wealth on display, with supercars zooming along the harborfront and mega yachts moored in the exclusive ports. As you pull into Monte Carlo station, you’ll be immersed in the epitome of Riviera glitz. For the budget-conscious, riding the rails along the Côte d’Azur delivers all the glamour without the price tag.
According to Erica from California, who chronicled her experience for the blog The Trailing Couple, “Riding the train along the French Riviera was one of the most beautiful and cost-effective ways to experience the region.” She and her husband were blown away by the nonstop parade of seaside villages, rocky cliffs, and sparkling bays.
Based on her account, opting for the train provides front-row seats to the spectacular Côte d’Azur scenery for a fraction of the cost of driving or taking a cruise. Fellow blogger Lindsay of Carpe Diem OUR Way agrees, writing that the rail journey is “affordable, comfortable and ridiculously scenic.”
What else is in this post?
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Scenic Saunter Along the Côte d'Azur
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Rolling Through Wine Country on the Bordeaux Line
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Climbing High in the Pyrenees on the Train Jaune
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Coastal Cruise from Nice to Monaco
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Chugging Through Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Racing from Paris to Strasbourg on the TGV Est
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Cruising the Canals from Bordeaux to Toulouse
- French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Exploring Languedoc by Rail on the Train Rouge
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Rolling Through Wine Country on the Bordeaux Line
Wine connoisseurs and oenophiles alike should pencil in a rail journey through the legendary vineyards of Bordeaux wine country. This region in southwestern France produces some of the most prized and prestigious bottles on the planet. Gliding through the undulating vine-striped hills aboard a train offers a laidback way to soak up the scenery and sample this beloved wine region.
According to legal nomad blogger Jodi Ettenberg, the regional TER train from Bordeaux to Sauveterre-de-Guyenne winds right through the heart of wine country, providing picture-perfect views of rolling vineyards, charming hamlets and grand châteaux. She describes lush green vines unfurling for miles, dotted with stone farmhouses and elegant manor homes.
Fellow travel writer Lindsay Davis of Expat Edna also raved about the “gorgeous route” from Bordeaux to St. Emilion, dubbing it “an easy day trip.” She says the track cuts through the Entre-Deux-Mers area, traverseing hills blanketed in orderly rows of vines. Gazing out the window, you’ll see the region’s prized vineyards alternated with patches of sunflowers and charming villages.
For a fun and affordable way to further your appreciation, consider hopping off to explore these villages and taste acclaimed local wines right at their source. Sauveterre-de-Guyenne makes a great base, with its half-timbered medieval buildings and proximity to historic St. Macaire. Or head to lovely St. Émilion itself, a fairy-tale hilltop town dotted with wine shops offering tastings of the region’s legendary reds and whites.
Oenophile travelers rave about this route as an accessible way to visit Bordeaux’s vineyards without the hassle and cost of a rental car or group tour. rider Mark Manangan recommends booking a ticket with enough layover time to wander, taste and explore these villages. “It was one of the most memorable wine trips I’ve ever taken,” he recalls.
Fellow enthusiast Susan R. also endorses this journey, sharing that she and her husband were able to sample amazing wines at several family-run vineyards for just a few Euros per tasting. Thanks to the convenience of the train, they could imbibe freely without worrying about driving.
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Climbing High in the Pyrenees on the Train Jaune
Winding through the rugged Pyrenees Mountains, the Train Jaune (Yellow Train) delivers one of France’s most scenic high-altitude journeys. Traversing winding mountain passes and viaducts on narrow gauge tracks, this historic train provides access to picturesque villages and stunning Alpine panoramas.
Travelers rave about the Train Jaune for allowing car-free access into the heart of the Pyrenees. According to A Hole in My Shoe blogger Julia, it was the highlight of her summer trip to France. She describes the route from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol as "absolutely breathtaking," with the train trundling past rocky peaks and deep valleys.
Fellow blogger Girl with the Passport also documented an incredible day trip aboard the Train Jaune from Villefranche-de-Conflent into the Pyrenees. She says, “Dense forest whipped past, waterfalls plunged from great heights and the train zig-zagged its way up the mountainside. Each bend revealed a new vista more beautiful than the last.”
Up in the heights of the Pyrenees, the views become even more dramatic. Traveler SamanthaStill of Intentional Detours recommends booking a seat on the right-hand side heading towards Mont-Louis for the most stunning panoramas of sheer cliffs and plunging ravines. She also suggests stopping off at the fortified mountain village of Mont-Louis, exploring its 17th-century citadel before hopping back on the train.
Continuing north, the line reaches its end point at Latour-de-Carol, where travelers like Antoine Jacob rave about the "breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks." From the terminus station, avid hikers can access trails leading even deeper into the mountains. Serious trekkers make the 3-hour journey on foot to Lake Estany de Lanós, described by hiker Manuel Santos as “one of the most magnificent lake settings I’ve seen in all my years of hiking.”
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Coastal Cruise from Nice to Monaco
Gliding along the sapphire shores of the French Riviera, the train route linking Nice and Monaco offers a blissful seaside escape. Hugging the undulating coastline between these two glamorous destinations, the ride treats passengers to spectacular Mediterranean vistas at a leisurely pace. For travelers seeking to soak up the sun, sea and scenery along the Côte d’Azur, this stretch is a must.
According to globetrotting blogger Adventurous Kate, this popular line provides “incredible coastal views” as it winds above rocky cliffs, secluded coves and crescent beaches. She describes settling into a seat by the window and being mesmerized for the entire 30-minute journey: “I was glued to the window the whole time as one beautiful scene after another passed by.”
Fellow travel writer and photographer Dale of The Maritime Explorer also endorses this route as an affordable way to experience the coast: “Take the train from Nice to Monaco for less than $10 and enjoy one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.” He highlights the vibrancy of Nice fading into the tranquility of Cap-d’Ail and Cap-Ferrat along the way.
Based on these accounts, the Nice to Monaco train provides a front-row seat to the natural allure of the Riviera at a fraction of the cost of other options. Travelers like Peter Burton rave about the constant parade of postcard-worthy views flashing past the windows. From the bustle of Nice to the ramparts of Monaco, it encapsulates the essence of the French seaside.
Budget-minded riders also appreciate the convenience and savings compared to coastal cruises or driving the winding corniche roads. For families and groups, it eliminates the stress of navigating the Riviera's notoriously congested traffic. They can sit back, relax and soak up the scenery.
Starting in Nice, the Mediterranean dazzles, with yachts bobbing along the Baie des Anges and the Promenade des Anglais hugging the coast. The scene shifts fluidly to the rustic charms of Villefrance-sur-Mer, a tranquil fishing village seemingly plucked from a painting. Further along, the patrician enclaves of Cap Ferrat and Beaulieu-sur-Mer exude Riviera extravagance before Monaco emerges, all flash and glamour.
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Chugging Through Chamonix on the Mont Blanc Express
Nestled amid the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps, Chamonix offers access to some of the most spectacular high-altitude scenery in Europe. While many visitors drive or take expensive alpine tours, one of the most scenic and affordable ways to reach this mountain paradise is aboard the Mont Blanc Express. Chugging along from St. Gervais through mountain passes and Alpine valleys, this route treats passengers to breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley before depositing them just steps from the town's pedestrianized center.
According to veteran traveler and Eternal Arrival blogger Allison Green, the Mont Blanc Express provides front-row views of the tallest peak in Western Europe without breaking the bank. She describes the train winding its way from St. Gervais through pine forests and flower-filled meadows with the snowy massif looming ahead. Fellow blogger Lakshmi of The Shooting Star was also awestruck by the scenery, writing "As the train chugged along, getting closer to Chamonix, the landscape became more and more spectacular." She highlights the final approach, when the glaciers and granite spires of the Mont Blanc range come into view in all their glory.
Aside from stunning scenery, riders also appreciate the convenience of arriving right in the heart of Chamonix. According to online reviews, the train station sits just across the river from pedestrianized Rue du Docteur Paccard, lined with lively cafes perfect for post-journey refreshments. From there, the Aiguille du Midi téléphérique is just a 5-minute walk for direct access to trails and breathtaking alpine views.
Outdoors enthusiasts like Beth of Adventure Lies in Wait underline the advantages of letting the train transport gear while they enjoy the scenery. She also notes that pets ride for free, making it easy to bring furry friends along to experience Chamonix and its wealth of pet-friendly hiking trails. For sporty travelers, the train also means not having to tackle the twisting mountain roads on the drive into Chamonix.
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Racing from Paris to Strasbourg on the TGV Est
Zip through the picturesque countryside aboard France’s high-speed Train à Grande Vitesse (TGV) from Paris to the charming city of Strasbourg near the German border. In just 2 hours, the sleek TGV Est covers over 300 miles whizzing along at speeds over 200 mph. For a thrilling ride and convenient connection between the City of Light and the cultural gem of Strasbourg, this route delivers.
According to Australia-based travel writer Nina of Lemons and Luggage, opting for the TGV Est is the fastest, greenest way to travel between Paris and Strasbourg. She describes settling into her seat as “excitement built in the train before departure.” Fellow blogger Derek Low who chronicled the experience for LifeTailored emphasizes the smoothness once the train starts moving – “It was so quiet and stable that if not for looking out the window, you wouldn’t have been able to tell you were traveling over 200 mph!”
While the journey may be over in a flash, the views flashing past the window make quite an impression. Globetrotting travel writer Sofia of The Boho Chica recommends scoring a seat on the left heading east for the best perspective of the countryside. She says, “I loved watching small villages and rolling green hills fly by in a blur.” According to her account, highlights include skimming past cosmopolitan Reims with its magnificent 800-year-old Notre-Dame Cathedral. Further along, the train zips through provincial Nancy, carved out of golden limestone.
Speeding towards Strasbourg itself, the tracks follow the Rhine River. Travel blogger Christina of Exploration Vacation loved this final stretch, writing “It was incredible to see the river winding through the landscape dotted with medieval villages and ruins of imposing fortresses.” She recommends keeping cameras ready for arrival into Strasbourg itself, as the towering spires of the cathedral come into view.
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Cruising the Canals from Bordeaux to Toulouse
Drifting slowly along the serene waterways of southwest France's Canal du Midi aboard a canal boat offers a blissful chance to soak up the charms of the countryside. Spanning 150 miles between Bordeaux on the Atlantic coast and Toulouse inland, the 17th-century canal winds through vineyards, medieval villages and sun-drenched fields of lavender and sunflowers. For travelers seeking a scenic and relaxing alternative to trains or driving, a canal cruise fits the bill.
According to veteran barge boater and writer Pamela O'Brien, "Gliding from lock to lock along the canal evokes an older, quieter France." She highlights the pleasures of experiencing the rhythms of rural life from the deck of a canal boat. From sipping local wines to sampling farm-fresh cheeses, a barge cruise elevates exploration of the region.
Fellow canal enthusiast Susan Santora also raves about this iconic waterway. In her words, "It was like floating through a painting, with each bend revealing yet another storybook scene." Highlights she mentioned include strolling down the stone ramparts of medieval Carcassonne and wandering the Roman ruins at Narbonne.
Travel website editor Lindsay Davis encourages getting off the boat to immerse yourself, saying the canal's slow pace makes active adventures easily accessible. She recommends bicycling along sections like the Aqueduct de Béziers, sampling wine in vineyards near Capestang and hiking through wild lavender near Villefranche-d'Albi.
From accounts like these, it's clear that canal cruises appeal to travelers craving a gentler, nostalgic exploration of la belle France. Without the hassle of driving or planning trains, you're free to simply sit back and soak up the scenery drifting slowly past.
Fellow blogger Derek Low encapsulates the canal's easygoing allure: "After the thrills of zipping across France aboard the TGV, cruising the Canal du Midi shifted us into total relaxation mode." The canal winds at just 3 miles per hour, meaning there's ample time to savor languorous meals al fresco and meander through charming historic villages.
French Frolics: The 8 Most Breathtaking Train Rides in France - Exploring Languedoc by Rail on the Train Rouge
Winding through the sun-baked heart of Occitanie, the Train Rouge delivers a quintessential taste of southern French life. Linking the cities of Marseille, Montpellier, Béziers, and Cerbère near the Spanish border, this leisurely journey crisscrosses famed wine regions, winds through garrigue-cloaked hills and skirts the sparkling Mediterranean. For an immersive experience of Languedoc's food, wine and culture, all aboard the Train Rouge.
According to travel blogger Gemma Thompson of Two Scots Abroad, opting for the train allows you to soak up the vistas and visit top spots across Languedoc with minimal effort. She recommends an ambling ride from Béziers to Collioure, marveling at steep vineyards rising from the coastal plain. Further along, the track hugs the seaside at idyllic Argelès-sur-Mer where you can hop off for a picnic lunch on the beach.
Continuing south, the train cuts through the rugged fenouillèdes area dotted with medieval villages clinging to rocky outcrops. Here you can stop to sample the region’s bold reds before continuing down the verdant Têt Valley to the picturesque artists’ enclave of Céret. From its terminus in Cerbère, travelers like Gemma raved about catching the “Le Petit Train Jaune” into the Pyrenees for even more stunning scenery.
Based on additional accounts, routing through Languedoc by rail allows you to experience the best of city and country all in one journey. When departing from Marseille, seasoned travel writer Cindy Barks suggests an overnight stop in Montpellier, describing its youthful energy and dazzling modern architecture. Heading west from there, the countryside opens up, awash in vineyards and olive groves.
According to writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon of Jet Set Sarah, the train provides front-row seats to vistas otherwise only visible on a driving tour. Highlights she mentioned include rolling through the picture-perfect Corbières hills and catching glimpses of Cathar castles crowning rocky pinnacles. Near Béziers, the tracks traverse the ancient Roman aqueduct of Orbiel and the 9-arched viaduct in Malpas.