Travelling by train from Paris to Marseille
Planning to take the train from Paris to Marseille? Start your journey with us.
The train from Paris to Marseille usually takes 3h 40m, but can take just 3h 4m on the fastest services. You'll be travelling direct on this route with one of SNCF's TGV trains. On board, you'll find comfortable seating, space for luggage and, on most services, free WiFi as standard.
Travel in TGV First Class if you want to enjoy wider comfortable seating options, including solo seats or a separate lounge for up to 8 people. Once you’ve passed the outskirts of Paris, the route to Marseille is a scenic one. Although it will be whizzing past at up to 320 km/h (198 mph), you can admire changing countryside and even mountains once you pass Lyon during your journey. Then after arriving in Marseille, you can be wandering along the Old Port or taking a tour of MuCEM – the first French museum dedicated to the Mediterranean – both just minutes from Marseille St Charles station.
So what are you waiting for? Search for cheap train tickets from Paris to Marseille in our Journey Planner today, or keep reading for FAQs and money-saving tips.
Paris to Marseille by train
TGV, OUIGO, SNCF and Intercités trains from Paris to Marseille
TGV
OUIGO
SNCF
Intercités
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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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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Intercités is the classic service of SNCF. The Intercités lines are an important part of the French rail network. Trains make more stops and are cheaper than TGVs, and run at speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h). Two comfort classes are offered aboard Intercités – First Class and Second Class. Intercités by night allows you to travel at night on certain routes, in sleeper cars.
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Cheap train tickets from Paris to Marseille
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 Paris to Marseille 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 Paris to Marseille take?
The average journey time by train between Paris and Marseille is 3 hours and 45 minutes, with around 21 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 Paris and Marseille by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Paris to Marseille is 3 hours and 18 minutes.
How much does the train from Paris to Marseille cost?
Train ticket prices from Paris to Marseille can start from as little as €7.50 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 Paris to Marseille?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Paris to Marseille without having to change trains. There are 15 direct trains from Paris to Marseille each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Paris to Marseille leave?
The first train from Paris to Marseille leaves at 06:00. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Paris to Marseille leave?
The last train from Paris to Marseille leaves at 20:51. 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 Paris and Marseille by train?
Trains travelling from Paris to Marseille cover a distance of around 410 miles (660 km) during the journey.