8 Unique Train Travel Routes in Southern France (Local Picks)

Why isn’t the South of France a travel destination for you? You don’t know how to get there and around, right? Traveling in France by train offers tourists a very handy and peaceful way of sightseeing and exploration. France rail travel functions as the perfect solution for seamless travel. It allows you to enjoy the landscape and experience local traditions along the way. 

We created a collection of scenic train rides in France. These routes connect picturesque coastal villages with historic urban centers. The system provides an efficient way to explore the area because it eliminates all unnecessary difficulties.

Key Takeaways

• France rail travel requires travelers to organize their trips beforehand. Passengers need to book their seats in advance for the most popular train routes which connect Avignon with Cassis and Cassis with Cannes.
• For local ZOU! trains, tickets can usually be bought at the station on the day of travel without a price increase.
• SNCF Connect functions as the official website dedicated to booking train tickets throughout France. Omio and Rail Europe provide user-friendly mobile platforms which assist users in creating their travel itineraries.
• Trains are mostly short distances there, providing an opportunity to walk around and really explore locations like Cassis, Cannes, Antibes, and Nice.
  

• Avignon to Arles

Whoever you may be among those who desire to discover France by trains, select the line from Avignon to Arles. Such a journey is an excellent vehicle to try an intimate blend of relaxation and breathtaking natural scenery. Short scenic train rides in France which are also cozy give splendid views of the Provence countryside to travelers. One can enjoy the changing views scene all the way through the journey. 

Visitors to Arles can experience a historical time travel experience. The city stands as one of the most ancient settlements which still exists today. The amphitheatre Les Arénes is a splendid edifice which came into existence in 90 AD. The Théâtre Antique also serves as a preservation of great architecture which is two thousand years old. The remnants of those two thousand years ago are able to provide a grand experience to today’s tourists.

What I really love about Arles, though, is its connection to Van Gogh. He spent a year here and painted over 200 pieces. You can actually visit places that inspired his work. The Place du Forum stands as a significant location because he created Café Terrace at Night there. The Van Gogh Foundation displays his artwork together with works from other artists. Standing in the exact locations that he occupied brings me a unique emotional experience.

Here are a few things I always try to fit in:

• Les Arènes: The Roman amphitheater. Go inside and imagine the gladiators!
• Théâtre Antique: Another Roman marvel, right next to the amphitheater.
• Van Gogh Trail: Wander the streets and find the spots he painted. The Tourist Office can give you a map.
• Musée de l’Arles Antique: If you want to see more Roman artifacts, this museum is excellent.
  

• Arles to Cassis

This next leg to Cassis is one of the highlights when traveling the south of France by train. The route connects travelers between historic cities and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The train ride functions as a transition between two places which include the ancient heart of Provence and the sparkling Mediterranean. The journey itself isn’t the most scenic, but the destination more than makes up for it.

Usually, the train is the most recommendable option for going from Arles to Cassis and the Marseille station will probably be your point of disembarking and interchanging trains. Altogether, the entire journey should approximately last two hours, more or less. 

Since there are a number of trains running throughout the day, de facto it’s a pretty convenient journey. So, around early afternoon, I boarded a train and the sun was already down, beautifully illumining the harbor, when we got there, casting a magical golden light. That really was the most enchanting moment for me.

Here’s a general idea of the route, though always check the latest schedules:

• Arles to Marseille Saint-Charles: It’s a local train, so the trip is a one-hour duration. The train schedule is designed so that passengers can come and go easily without having to book their tickets beforehand.
• Marseille Saint-Charles to Cassis: The train from Marseille will take you to Cassis. It requires you to transfer to a local train. The travel time for this segment of the trip lasts between 30 to 40 minutes.

You will experience an immediate transformation upon your arrival in Cassis. The train system provides easy access to the destination. The system demonstrates how French rail travel operate smoothly throughout all regions of France including its less populated areas. The area is decorated with lively boats floating on the water alongside restaurants and cafes.

Cassis is the gateway to the internationally famous Calanques National Park. The towering cliffs that surround these small bays forming the perfect blue water are simply stunning. One can take a boat trip which is also available in the harbor to discover the area. While hiking provides access to the nearest locations.

Cassis ‍has many nice accommodation options that range from boutique hotels to attractive guesthouses. This area also gives people a chance to explore for one or two days before going to other coastal spots. 

The French town you mentioned is a good choice if you want to get a feel of the South of France culture but at the same time wanting to avoid the big crowd. Your next travel destination should include exploration of less known towns which deserve recognition.

3. Cassis to Cannes

Heading eastern coastal along the south of France by train provides passengers with its most beautiful views. The present section of the journey demands more labor to finish than the earlier parts but presents a gorgeous landscape view that renders the trek very rewarding. 

The tourists must catch the very first train from Cassis to Toulon which shall then link up with the direct service that is running to Cannes. The coastal route is giving the most spectacular train views in France.

Route Segment	Estimated Cost (from)
Cassis to Toulon	€3.70
Toulon to Cannes	€10.80

The upcoming segment of your journey demonstrates the high-end comfort which France rail travel provides through their service between Riviera towns. The town exudes glamour because of its people and world-famous film festival. Stroll down the Boulevard de la Croisette. People visit this location to display their social status between designer stores and the shimmering ocean. 

The location features the well-known red carpet steps which serve as a photo opportunity for movie stars. Visitors can explore historic sites by walking to Le Suquet. It maintains its historical character while providing a delightful experience of old-world charm.

Travel planning and advance ticket purchase can be a wise decision in many instances. Especially if you’re aiming for cheaper tickets. Here’s the main reason you buy tickets in advance; they often get sold out quickly. You really need to ensure that a seat is set aside for you. Some of the tickets will limit you to a particular train as there are tickets that are non-transferable to a different train.

The French Riviera section maintains a reputation for luxury which should not deter visitors from exploring it. The atmosphere provides multiple options for visitors to experience its ambiance without spending large sums of money. The Croisette offers two free activities which allow visitors to watch people while observing the street scene, and the views from this location hold extraordinary value.

You should remember to taste the regional dishes which are unique to the area. The blackcurrant liqueur Crème de Cassis should be tasted by you because it is a common ingredient used in French cocktails which are popular throughout the region. The local flavors provide a pleasant experience which you can enjoy before your upcoming travel plans.

• Cannes to Antibes

Going by train in France is undoubtedly one of the greatest ways to see the country. Even a brief trip like going from Cannes to Antibes by train allows you to see France at your own pace while the Mediterranean views keep you entertained. When I got out of the train in Cannes, the lively vibe of the French Rivera struck me like always. The trip itself is almost a blink—only 11 minutes on the local ZOU! It’s so often that you don’t really need to plan your departure down to the minute, which is a nice change of pace.

The real magic happens when you arrive in Antibes, a French town. Even though it is preserving its historic features the town is also benefiting from vibrant contemporary life of the present. 

Take a look at the buildings of different pastel colors and through the window in your mind see the artists who walked the same routes. Picasso was a resident here for some time and his former home has since been turned into the Musée Picasso a must-see for art lovers.

The contrast between different elements of Antibes became my favorite aspect of the city. The first moment lets you explore ancient ramparts which overlook the Mediterranean Sea. The next moment shows you the most impressive superyachts which dock at the marina. The combination of ancient European beauty with present-day high-end amenities creates a charm which attracts visitors to the area.

Here are a few things I’d recommend doing:

• Explore Vieil Antibes: Get lost in the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere.
• Visit the Musée Picasso: See where Picasso worked and view some of his creations.
• Walk along the ramparts: Enjoy the sea views and the sound of the waves.
• Stroll through Port Vauban: Marvel at the impressive collection of superyachts.

The train ride itself functions as a fast method which connects two coastal attractions. The train journey does not provide scenic views because the focus lies on reaching the final destination. Antibes provides enough activities to keep you engaged all day so you will find everything needed for your day.

The beautiful sandy beaches located south of the old town become accessible to you when you have free time and the weather conditions are pleasant. You can walk to the adjacent resort of Juan-les-Pins by following the headland path. The short journey introduces you to the various culinary traditions which exist along the coast through its numerous seafood dishes and Provençal specialties.

5. Antibes to Nice

The train service between Antibes and Nice demonstrates why the south of France by train serves as an ideal destination for day trips which connect its coastal attractions. I took this train several years ago and I recall the excitement of arriving in Nice as very high. 

Depending on which train you take, the journey can take anything between 20 and 30 minutes as different types of trains run on this line. The railway line runs alongside the coast. So it is recommended to keep your eyes out the window to see the Mediterranean Sea. The railway does not have many changes. So it provides tourists with an easy route from one lively city to the other.

The moment you reach Nice, a complete new universe opens up for you to discover. The city serves as an excellent launching point for travelers who want to see the entire French Riviera. The location provides visitors with two main attractions which include active marketplaces and scenic coastal areas.

Here are a few things I always make sure to do when I get to Nice:

• Wander through Vieux Nice (Old Town): Narrow, winding streets, brightly colored houses and lively public places like Place Rossetti are among the typical features of the city center. The spot is a great chance for travelers who wish to spend only a couple of hours wandering around.
• Stroll the Promenade des Anglais: The famous seaside walkway provides a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy sunset walks. The Nice beach clubs display their historical architecture through their use of palm trees and blue-and-white striped umbrellas.
• Try socca: This is definitely worth trying. It’s a chickpea pancake, thin like a crepe, and the filling is really amazing. Any sandwich shop would most probably have them; they are a great, very affordable snack.

The train journey between Antibes and Nice is part of the regional ZOU! network. The local trains operate frequently without requiring passengers to book their tickets in advance which enables travelers to board trains at any time they choose. The fixed fare system allows you to travel at any time, as there will be no changes to ticket prices throughout your journey.

The train ticket for this leg is surprisingly affordable. The ticket price usually stays around €6.70 for this route. The French Riviera shows its public transport system accessibility through this excellent demonstration. You can easily spend your morning exploring Antibes. Then, catch a lunchtime train to Nice, giving you the whole afternoon to start discovering the city.

• Nice to Monaco

Traveling from Nice to Monaco means France by train provides both accessible transport and beautiful coastal scenery. The train journey proves to be a perfect demonstration of scenic train rides in France. The entire journey provides constant views of the Mediterranean Sea together with sparkling blue waters and picturesque coastal villages. The experience serves as a proper introduction to all the glamorous experiences that will follow.

Short trips between Nice and Monaco demonstrate the efficient France rail travel system, which enables people to explore the Riviera. You have different ways to spend your time after you arrive at your destination. 

The visitors to Monte Carlo Casino can experience its architectural beauty and watch other people who visit the casino. The old town of Monaco-Ville offers visitors two attractions which include the Prince’s Palace and breathtaking ocean and harbor views. The climb requires effort, but the destination makes all efforts worthwhile.

Here are a few things I usually try to fit in:

• Wander through the Jardin Exotique: Technically, it falls outside the realm of Monaco; however, it enjoyed as a good stop while going towards or coming from Nice. Views from here are lovely.
• See the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace: It happens daily at 11:55 AM, so plan your arrival accordingly if you want to catch it.
• Walk around Port Hercules: This is where you’ll see all the mega-yachts. It’s a good spot to get a feel for Monaco’s luxurious side.
  

The train back to Nice runs often, so you don’t have to stress about missing the last one. You can spend three hours at the location and still return to Nice in time for dinner. The trip provides an ideal day experience which allows visitors to escape Nice’s busy atmosphere while maintaining easy access to the city.

The process of reaching the destination requires simple procedures. You must take a regional TER train from Nice-Ville station which travels to either Ventimiglia or Monaco. 

Tickets are usually available at low prices which travelers can purchase either at the station or through online platforms. You need to ride a regional train because express trains will not make all the scheduled stops.

• Nice to Èze

The train journey from Nice to Èze requires special skills. The train station Èze-sur-Mer connects to the coast yet the actual medieval village of Èze exists on a cliff. The location is attractive but the station requires a 45-minute steep hike to reach it.

My advice? You should take bus 82 or 602 from Nice because train service for this section does not operate. The route provides direct access to the village which reaches the destination in approximately 30 minutes. The moment you arrive there time travel becomes your new reality. 

The narrow winding streets made of cobblestones display their beauty through small artisan shops and art galleries and delightful dining establishments. The area makes it simple for visitors to become disoriented yet this confusion becomes part of their enjoyment.

Here are a few things I really enjoyed:

• Jardin Exotique d’Èze: The village reaches its highest point at this botanical garden which provides visitors with spectacular panoramic views. The entire coastal area is visible from this location. The path to this location requires some effort to reach. But the journey becomes worthwhile because of the beautiful views and special vegetation.
• Wandering the Old Town: You should allow your mind to explore every possibility. The place provides different experiences through its secret courtyards, small chapels, and beautiful viewpoints. The location serves as the perfect setting for photographers.
• Chateau Eza: Visitors to this establishment should experience its terrace terrace which serves drinks to all guests. The venue provides breathtaking views which reach their most impressive point during sunset hours.

The trip from Nice to Èze serves as its own separate travel experience. The bus serves as a better option as it provides direct access to the hilltop village. Whereas the train shows coastal scenery. The ancient streets and breathtaking views of the area will create a magical experience for visitors who arrive there.

The bus service from Èze to Monaco provides an additional option for ambitious travelers who wish to explore more. The atmosphere of Èze provides a complete experience which requires visitors to spend at least three hours there.

• Nice to Menton

The south of France by train from Menton to the coastal areas of southern France offers its passengers breathtaking views of Mediterranean scenery which exists at every point along the route. This place doesn’t have the shining golden finish you’ll see at other attractions on the French Riviera but that very feature makes it so delightful. 

I recall the experience of going there and having the sensation that I had uncovered a secret that everyone hadn’t yet found. Menton is the town that grows the lemons which Menton is famous for and their distinctive lemon fragrance fills the whole region with an unmistakable scent. 

A scenic train rides in France is a perfect way to admire the gorgeous landscape that tends to be missed by a lot of visitors.

This train journey will take you approximately 40 minutes which is the perfect time if you want to combine the train ride with some exploration of the Riviera.

The local trains run from the Nice-Ville station, providing travelers with very convenient access to trains.

Here’s what I loved about Menton:

• The Old Town: The narrow streets of this area create a maze which extends through its colorful pathways to create a historical experience for visitors. The area contains fewer people than both Nice and Cannes. The space between people allows you to explore the area while experiencing its complete ambiance.
• The Gardens: Menton has some beautiful gardens, like the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh. They’re a lovely escape and offer stunning views.
• The Promenade du Soleil: A pleasant place for a stroll, with views of the bay and the colorful buildings lining the waterfront.
  

If you want to experience a peaceful environment which lacks large crowds, you should visit Menton. The town maintains its French identity through its attractive and authentic French character.

The best views can be seen from seats which face the ocean because this location offers the most excellent viewpoints. The French Riviera gained its fame because of this sight which serves as a soft reminder to visitors.

When planning your trip, remember that trains run frequently. So you don’t need to stress about schedules too much. You can find more information on train travel along the French Riviera if you want to plan your whole journey.

Ready to Ride the Rails?

The presentation shows exceptional travel experiences in which visitors can discover France by train. The routes between Avignon and Monaco provide travelers with a convenient method to explore the region because they eliminate the need for drivers to operate vehicles. 

The railway system in this area provides easy transportation for travelers who want to either purchase advance tickets for discounted fares or travel on a local ZOU! train. The activity provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty while experiencing the authentic rhythm of life in Provence and the French Riviera. The present material offers excellent suggestions which will assist you in planning your upcoming trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book my train tickets for Southern France?

Travelers who wish to travel between Avignon and Cassis and from Cassis to Cannes should secure their tickets through advance booking as this method provides better chances of finding discounted fares. Travelers who need to use other local trains in the area can purchase their tickets at the station on the day of travel. Ticket prices remain consistent throughout the day.

What’s the best way to buy train tickets for France?

You can find tickets on various websites, but the official French railway site, SNCF Connect, often has the best deals. The Omio and Rail Europe websites provide useful services because they allow users to access multiple countries while displaying prices in various currencies and enabling mobile ticketing.

Can I get help planning my train trip?

Yes, if you prefer not to plan everything yourself, there are partners like Byway that can help you create a custom trip. They provide flight-free holiday packages which include train transportation and hotel arrangements.

How long does it take to travel between these cities by train?

The towns exist at short distances which allow visitors to explore multiple sites within one week because train travel takes minimal time. The train from Nice to Monaco travels for approximately 23 minutes.

What are some of the main attractions in Avignon?

The Palais des Papes exists as a UNESCO World Heritage Site which functions as a museum and a 14th-century fortress-palace in Avignon. Visitors have three options for their activities which include visiting art museums and shopping at local markets and taking a ferry to explore a nearby island.

What is special about Roussillon?

The distinctive reddish and yellowish and pinkish hues of Roussillon create its famous colorful landscape which shows its architectural and natural areas. The large ochre deposits at this site have attracted artists to work there for many years. The Sentier des Ocres trail provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty.

What’s there to do in Monaco?

Monaco, which exists as a tiny nation, became famous because of its royal family and its gambling establishments. The Old Town and Prince’s Palace and harbor and Formula 1 track sections are all available for you to explore. The destination offers visitors a luxurious experience.

Can I travel further by train from Nice?

Absolutely! You can take trains from Nice to multiple coastal towns including Menton and you can travel to Italy to see Ventimiglia. From Ventimiglia, you can continue to explore other Italian towns and cities.