8 Best Scenic Train Routes in Southern France (Local Picks)

Thinking about exploring the south of France but not sure how to get around? Forget the stress of driving and parking! Taking the train is a fantastic way to see the sights. You get to relax, enjoy the views, and soak in the atmosphere. We’ve put together some of the best scenic train routes southern France has to offer, focusing on the charming coastal areas and historic towns. It’s a great way to experience the region without all the hassle.

Key Takeaways

• Booking train tickets in advance can save money, especially for popular routes like Avignon to Cassis and Cassis to Cannes.
• For local ZOU! trains, tickets can usually be bought at the station on the day of travel without a price increase.
• SNCF Connect is the official website for booking French train tickets, but sites like Omio or Rail Europe also offer convenience with multi-country options and mobile tickets, though they may charge a small fee.
• A one-week rail itinerary can cover many highlights from Avignon and Arles along the coast to Monaco and Menton.
• The train journeys are generally short, allowing for more time to explore destinations like Cassis, Cannes, Antibes, and Nice.

1. Avignon to Arles

Okay, so the train ride from Avignon to Arles is a super easy one, and honestly, it’s a great way to start exploring the south of France. I’ve done this trip a few times, and it never disappoints. The train itself is a regional TER service, so you don’t need to book way in advance or anything, which is nice. You can just hop on at Avignon Centre station, and in about 16 minutes, you’re in Arles. It’s a fixed price, too, so no surprises there.

When you get to Arles, it feels like stepping back in time. It’s one of the oldest cities around, and you can really see the Roman influence everywhere. The amphitheater, Les Arènes, is just incredible – built way back in 90 AD. I always make a point to walk through it. Then there’s the Théâtre Antique, which is also pretty impressive. It’s amazing to think about what these places were like thousands of years ago.

Arles has this unique vibe, a mix of ancient history and a lively present. It’s a place where you can wander through Roman ruins in the morning and then find a charming cafe to relax in by the afternoon.

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, like the Place du Forum, which is where he painted ‘Café Terrace at Night.’ There’s also the Van Gogh Foundation where you can see some of his art, alongside other artists. It’s a really special feeling to stand in the same spots he did.

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.

It’s a compact city, so you can see a lot in a day trip, but if you have more time, staying overnight lets you really soak it in. The train back to Avignon is just as easy, making it a perfect little excursion. It’s a fantastic introduction to the historical richness you can find in Provence.

2. Arles to Cassis

After exploring the Roman history of Arles, the next leg of our journey takes us to the charming coastal village of Cassis. This train ride is a bit of a transition, moving from the ancient heart of Provence to the sparkling Mediterranean. The journey itself isn’t the most scenic, but the destination more than makes up for it.

To get from Arles to Cassis, you’ll typically need to make a change, often in Marseille. The total travel time is usually around two hours, give or take. It’s a manageable trip, and you can usually find trains running throughout the day. I remember taking an early afternoon train, and by the time we arrived, the sun was starting to dip, casting a beautiful golden light over the harbor. It was pretty magical.

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

• Arles to Marseille Saint-Charles: This is usually a regional train, taking about an hour. You can often catch these trains without needing to book far in advance.
• Marseille Saint-Charles to Cassis: From Marseille, you’ll switch to a local train that heads directly to Cassis. This part of the journey is shorter, maybe around 30-40 minutes.

Once you arrive in Cassis, you’ll immediately feel the shift. It’s a picturesque fishing village, and the harbor is the heart of it all. You’ll see colorful boats bobbing in the water, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you just want to sit, have a drink, and watch the world go by. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the local seafood – it’s incredibly fresh.

Cassis is also the gateway to the famous Calanques National Park. These are stunning, steep-sided inlets with turquoise water, and they are absolutely breathtaking. You can explore them by boat tour from the harbor, or if you’re feeling energetic, some of the closer ones are accessible by hiking.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Cassis has some lovely options, from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses. It’s a great spot to relax for a day or two before heading further along the coast. It’s one of those underrated French towns that really captures the essence of the South of France without being overly crowded. Discover more underrated towns for your next trip.

3. Cassis to Cannes

After soaking in the charm of Cassis, it’s time to head east along the coast towards the glitz of Cannes. This leg of the journey is a bit more involved than some of the others, but totally worth it for the change of scenery. You’ll want to catch an early train from Cassis to Toulon, and from there, connect to a service heading straight to Cannes. The train ride itself offers glimpses of the Mediterranean as you move further into the Côte d’Azur.

Once you arrive in Cannes, you’ll immediately feel the difference. It’s a town that screams glamour, largely thanks to its world-famous film festival. Take a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette; it’s the place to see and be seen, with designer boutiques lining one side and the sparkling sea on the other. If you’re feeling inspired, you can even find the famous red carpet steps where movie stars pose. For a bit of history, wander up to Le Suquet, the old quarter, which offers a charming contrast to the modern beachfront.

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

If you’re planning your trip, booking tickets in advance is usually a good idea, especially if you’re aiming for the cheaper fares. These can go fast, and you’ll want to secure your spot. Remember that some of these tickets are non-transferable, so you’ll be locked into your chosen train.

This stretch of the French Riviera is known for its luxurious feel, but don’t let that intimidate you. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the atmosphere without breaking the bank. Window shopping and people-watching on the Croisette are free activities, and the views are priceless.

Don’t forget to try some local specialties. While you’re in the region, you might want to sample some Crème de Cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur that’s a staple in many French cocktails cassis liqueur. It’s a nice way to connect with the local flavors before you continue your journey.

4. Cannes to Antibes

This short train hop between Cannes and Antibes is one of those journeys that feels almost too easy, yet it packs a surprising punch for such a brief ride. I remember stepping off the train in Cannes, feeling that familiar buzz of the French Riviera, and thinking, ‘Okay, what’s next?’ The journey itself is barely more than a blink – just about 11 minutes on the local ZOU! train. It’s so frequent 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. It’s a place that feels like it’s holding onto its history while still being very much alive. The old town, Vieil Antibes, is a maze of narrow, winding streets paved with cobblestones. You can easily spend hours just getting lost in there, admiring the pastel-colored buildings and imagining the artists who once walked these same paths. Picasso even lived here for a while, and his former home is now the Musée Picasso, which is definitely worth a visit if you’re into art.

What I really loved about Antibes, though, was the contrast. One minute you’re wandering through ancient ramparts with the Mediterranean crashing below, and the next you’re looking at some of the biggest, most impressive superyachts I’ve ever seen docked in the marina. It’s this mix of old-world charm and modern-day luxury that makes it so captivating.

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 the Port Vauban: Marvel at the impressive collection of superyachts.

The train ride itself is just a means to an end, a quick transition from one coastal gem to another. Don’t expect sweeping vistas out the window; it’s more about the destination. But that’s perfectly fine because Antibes offers plenty to keep you occupied.

If you have time, and the weather is good, there are also some lovely sandy beaches just south of the old town. Or you could even take a walk over the headland to the neighboring resort of Juan-les-Pins. It’s a quick trip, but it gives you a taste of the diverse food culture found along this coast, with plenty of seafood options and Provençal flavors.

5. Antibes to Nice

This short hop from Antibes to Nice is a breeze, and honestly, it’s one of those journeys where the destination is almost as good as the travel itself. I remember taking this train a few years back, and the anticipation of hitting Nice was palpable. The train ride itself is quick, usually just about 20-30 minutes depending on the specific service. You’ll mostly be hugging the coastline, so keep an eye out the window for glimpses of the Mediterranean. It’s not a super dramatic route, but it’s pleasant and gets you from one vibrant spot to another without any fuss.

Once you arrive in Nice, you’ve got a whole new world to explore. The city is a fantastic base for exploring the French Riviera, offering a bit of everything from bustling markets to beautiful beaches.

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

• Wander through Vieux Nice (Old Town): This is the heart of the city, full of narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares like Place Rossetti. It’s the perfect place to just get lost for a few hours.
• Stroll the Promenade des Anglais: This iconic seaside walkway is perfect for a sunset walk. The palm trees and the blue and white striped umbrellas of the beach clubs are classic Nice.
• Try Socca: You absolutely have to try this local specialty – a thin chickpea pancake. You can find it from street vendors, and it’s a delicious, cheap snack.

The train journey between Antibes and Nice is part of the regional ZOU! network. These local trains are frequent and don’t require advance booking, making it easy to hop on whenever you’re ready. Fares are fixed, so you don’t need to worry about price fluctuations if you decide to travel spontaneously.

The train ticket for this leg is surprisingly affordable, often costing around €6.70. It’s a great example of how accessible the French Riviera is by public transport. You can easily spend your morning exploring Antibes and then catch a lunchtime train to Nice, giving you the whole afternoon to start discovering the city.

6. Nice to Monaco

Taking the train from Nice to Monaco is a classic Riviera move, and honestly, it’s one I always look forward to. The journey itself is pretty short, usually around 20-25 minutes, and the views you get along the coast are just fantastic. You’re hugging the Mediterranean the whole way, with glimpses of sparkling blue water and charming seaside towns flashing by. It feels like a proper introduction to the glamour that awaits.

The train station in Monaco-Monte Carlo is conveniently located right in the heart of the principality, making it super easy to start exploring as soon as you arrive. Once you’re there, you’ve got a few options for how to spend your time. You could head straight for the famous Monte Carlo Casino – even if you’re not planning to gamble, the architecture and the people-watching are an experience in themselves. Or, wander up to Monaco-Ville, the old town, where you can visit the Prince’s Palace and catch some incredible panoramic views over the harbor and the sea. It’s a bit of a climb, but totally worth it.

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

• Wander through the Jardin Exotique: While not strictly in Monaco, it’s often visited on the way or as a separate trip from Nice. The views from here are stunning.
• 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 frequently, so you don’t have to stress about missing the last one. You can easily spend a few hours soaking it all in and still be back in Nice for dinner. It’s a perfect day trip that feels a world away from the hustle of Nice, but is so easily accessible.

Getting there is straightforward. You’ll want to catch a regional TER train from Nice-Ville station heading towards Ventimiglia or Monaco. Tickets are usually quite affordable, and you can buy them at the station or online. Just make sure you’re on a regional train, not an express one that might skip stops.

7. Nice to Èze

Taking the train from Nice to Èze is a bit of a trick, honestly. You see, the train station, Èze-sur-Mer, is right on the coast, but the actual medieval village of Èze is perched way up on a cliff. It’s a beautiful spot, no doubt, but getting there from the station involves a pretty steep, about 45-minute hike.

My advice? Skip the train for this leg and hop on bus 82 or 602 from Nice instead. It’s a much more direct route, taking you right up to the village in about 30 minutes. Once you’re there, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The narrow, winding cobblestone streets are lined with little artisan shops, art galleries, and charming restaurants. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s part of the fun.

Here are a few things I really enjoyed:

• Jardin Exotique d’Èze: This botanical garden is perched at the very top of the village, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. You can see all the way down the coast. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but totally worth it for the scenery and the unique plants.
• Wandering the Old Town: Just allow yourself to wander. Every corner reveals something new – a hidden courtyard, a tiny chapel, or a stunning vista. It’s a photographer’s dream.
• Chateau Eza: Even if you don’t stay here, stopping for a drink on their terrace is a must. The panoramic views are incredible, especially as the sun starts to dip.

Getting to Èze from Nice is a journey in itself. While the train offers coastal views, the bus is the more practical choice for reaching the hilltop village directly. Once there, prepare to be charmed by its ancient streets and spectacular vistas.

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to see more, you can catch another bus from Èze to Monaco, but honestly, just soaking in the atmosphere of Èze for a good few hours is a fantastic experience on its own.

8. Nice to Menton

The train ride from Nice to Menton is a real treat, especially if you love coastal views. It’s not as flashy as some of the other stops along the French Riviera, but that’s exactly what makes it special. I remember taking this trip and feeling like I’d stumbled upon a well-kept secret. Menton is known for its lemons, and you can really feel that citrusy vibe everywhere.

This route follows the coastline, so you get these amazing glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea between towns. It’s a relatively short journey, usually around 40 minutes, making it a perfect addition to a day exploring the Riviera. You can easily hop on a local train from Nice-Ville station.

Here’s what I loved about Menton:

• The Old Town: It’s a maze of narrow, colorful streets that feel like stepping back in time. It’s much less crowded than places like Nice or Cannes, so you can actually wander and enjoy the atmosphere.
• 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’re looking for a more relaxed experience away from the biggest crowds, Menton is definitely the place to go. It’s a charming town that still feels authentically French.

The train journey itself is part of the experience. Make sure to grab a seat on the side facing the sea if you can – the views are just spectacular. It’s a gentle reminder of why the French Riviera is so famous.

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?

So, there you have it – a look at some truly special train journeys through the South of France. From the historic charm of Avignon to the glitz of Monaco, these routes offer a fantastic way to see the region without the stress of driving. Whether you’re booking tickets in advance for the best deals or just hopping on a local ZOU! train, getting around by rail here is pretty straightforward. It’s a great way to soak in the scenery and really experience the pace of life in Provence and the French Riviera. We hope this gives you some good ideas for your own adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book my train tickets for Southern France?

For the trips between Avignon and Cassis, and Cassis and Cannes, it’s a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time, especially if you want to find cheaper prices. For other local trains in the area, you can usually buy your tickets at the station on the day you travel without any issues, as the prices tend to stay the same.

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. Websites like Omio or Rail Europe are also useful because they cover many countries and let you see prices in different currencies, plus they offer mobile tickets.

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 can arrange train travel and places to stay for you, making it a flight-free holiday.

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

The distances between these towns are quite short, making it possible to see a lot in about a week without spending too much time on the train. For example, the train from Nice to Monaco is only about 23 minutes.

What are some of the main attractions in Avignon?

In Avignon, you can visit the Palais des Papes, a large fortress palace from the 14th century that’s now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also explore art museums, shop at local markets, or even take a ferry to a nearby island for a walk.

What is special about Roussillon?

Roussillon is famous for its unique colorful landscape, with buildings and natural surroundings painted in shades of orange, red, and pink. This is due to the large ochre deposits found there, which have attracted artists for years. You can walk trails like the Sentier des Ocres to see this natural beauty up close.

What’s there to do in Monaco?

Monaco, a very small country, is known for its royal family and casinos. You can explore the Old Town, visit the Prince’s Palace, see the harbor, and even walk parts of the Formula 1 track. It’s a glamorous place to visit.

Can I travel further by train from Nice?

Absolutely! From Nice, you can easily take trains to other coastal towns like Menton, or even cross into Italy to visit places like Ventimiglia. From Ventimiglia, you can continue on to explore other Italian towns and cities.