Reminder: 300,000 low-cost tickets for French TGVs go on sale July 31

A flash sale of discounted train tickets – covering regional lines and high-speed TGVs – will take place on Monday (July 31) and Tuesday (August 1).

There will be 300,000 tickets available for travel throughout August, with prices set at €29, €39 or €49 depending on the destination.

On top of providing discounts for spontaneous travellers, the sale has also been designed to accommodate those unable to book holidays in advance.

“We know that not everyone can plan their holidays several months in advance and benefit from the best prices when sales open,” said Alain Krakovitch, managing director of SNCF Voyages.

One unique quirk of the sale is that people will be able to upgrade their tickets to a first-class seat for only €1 extra.

These seats often remain empty during peak summer season because of the cost, but France's state-owned rail operator SNCF hopes they will be filled by travellers taking advantage of the offer.

Those with a Carte Avantage Jeune will also receive an extra €10 voucher when purchasing a TGV or Intercités ticket before September 30, provided the train runs before December 9.

These cardholders will also receive an extra 30% discount when buying products from the TGV bar when travelling.

The tickets will be available to purchase on the official SNCF Connect website.

Intercités sale extended

In addition to the flash sale, a sale focusing specifically on Intercités trains – non-high-speed routes between major French cities – has been extended to August 31.

Around 200,000 tickets for as little as €19 were available – with the government making up the difference between the sale and regular price.

The sale was set to end on July 15 but was extended to ensure all the discounted tickets were sold.

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