Taking the train from Lille to Paris
Lille is one of the best French cities to visit if you want to see beautiful architecture and fascinating history, and it's also ideally situated for trips all around the country. You can head to Paris in just an hour on board SNCF's high-speed TGV trains.
Once you arrive in the City of Lights, you’ll be free to visit the sights like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe or head into the Louvre to snap a selfie in front of the iconic Mona Lisa. Whatever you choose to do, you’re guaranteed a magical time in France’s capital. Still not sure? Read on for more info.
Lille to Paris by train
TGV, OUIGO, TER and SNCF trains from Lille to Paris
TGV
OUIGO
TER
SNCF
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.
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OUIGO is the low-cost brand of French rail company SNCF, who operate trains in France and Spain. In France, all seats on OUIGO are Second Class and tickets can only be purchased online. You can also pay for additional extras, such as reserving a seat in the ‘quiet area’, at-seat power sockets and extra luggage. OUIGO has been operating in Spain since May 2021, and their trains include an onboard bar and a premium class of service called OUIGO Plus.
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TER (Transport Express Régional) trains are the regional service from SNCF that allow you to make trips to nearby towns and villages located within the same region. With 20 regions in France, TER trains are ideal for travelling to destinations not covered by high-speed services, although ticket prices vary between each region. TER trains have dedicated spaces for bicycles and allow animals on board. Not all TER trains include a First Class carriage.
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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).
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Cheap train tickets from Lille to Paris
Book in advance
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 Lille to Paris by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
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.
Choose a slower or connecting train
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!
Look out for special deals
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.
Journey details
How long does the train from Lille to Paris take?
The average journey time by train between Lille and Paris is 1 hour and 19 minutes, with around 17 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.
What's the fastest journey time between Lille and Paris by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Lille to Paris is 53 minutes.
How much does the train from Lille to Paris cost?
Train ticket prices from Lille to Paris can start from as little as €3.20 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Lille to Paris?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Lille to Paris without having to change trains. There are 13 direct trains from Lille to Paris each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Lille to Paris leave?
The first train from Lille to Paris leaves at 04:51. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Lille to Paris leave?
The last train from Lille to Paris leaves at 19:58. 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.
What's the distance between Lille and Paris by train?
Trains travelling from Lille to Paris cover a distance of around 127 miles (204 km) during the journey.