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Paris may be almost 300 miles away from Frankfurt, but speedy, reliable TGV and ICE (Intercity Express) trains can get you from one city to the other in under four hours. You’ll get plenty of comforts and conveniences on board, arriving right in the centre of the city.
Once you step out onto the platform in Frankfurt, the distinctive blend of towering, futuristic skyscrapers and historic, Old Town monuments will surround you, ready to be enjoyed. Be sure to visit Römerberg square and grab a snack from one of the many cafés and restaurants in the area, or take a tour of the Goethe House Museum. Keep reading further down the page for additional information.
It takes an average of 4h 56m to travel from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) by train, over a distance of around 296 miles (477 km). There are normally 18 trains per day traveling from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) and tickets for this journey start from $21.66 when you book in advance.
First train | 06:13 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 21:25 | |
Departure station | Paris | |
Arrival station | Frankfurt (Main) | |
Journey time | From 3h 54m | |
Distance | 296 miles (477 km) | |
Frequency | 18 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $21.66 | |
Train and bus operators | Deutsche Bahn, BlaBlaCar Bus, SNCF, Flixbus |
TGV is the high-speed train service of the SNCF company. It connects the major cities of France at speeds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h). All TGV trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection, power sockets and fold-down tables. Two comfort classes are offered – First Class and Second Class, with flexible fare options available and access to the Grand Voyageur lounge in some stations.
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.
The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power outlets and more.
Prefer to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional extras.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time by train between Paris and Frankfurt (Main) is 4 hours and 56 minutes, with around 18 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) is 3 hours and 54 minutes.
Train tickets from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) can start from as little as $21.66 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) without having to change trains. There is 1 direct train from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) leaves at 06:13. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) leaves at 21:25. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Paris to Frankfurt (Main) cover a distance of around 296 miles (477 km) during the journey.