TGV trains from Paris to Marseille
The average train time from Paris to Marseille is 3h 53m, although it takes just 3h 7m on the fastest TGV INOUI services. There are around 18 trains per day running from Paris to Marseille, including 15 direct trains. The first train leaves Paris Gare de Lyon at 06:07 and the last train leaves at 20:59.
- All trains depart from Paris Gare de Lyon station.
- All trains arrive into Marseille St Charles station.
Taking the train is one of the easiest ways to get from Paris to Marseille. In just over three hours, high-speed TGV trains will whisk you to the centre of the city. It’s much faster than driving or even flying if you include transfer time to the airport and waiting in the terminal. 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? Keep reading for train times, ticket prices and extra information about the journey from Paris to Marseille by high-speed TGV train.
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, high-speed train service operated by the French national train company SNCF. Despite having only one class on board, OUIGO trains offer the same comfort as Second Class seats on TGV trains, although OUIGO tickets are only available to purchase online. To make your journey as smooth as possible, arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and bear in mind that there's an additional fee for bringing a suitcase with you, having a seat with power sockets and travelling with a stroller/buggy.
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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 43 minutes, with around 26 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 1 minute.
How much does the train from Paris to Marseille cost?
Train ticket prices from Paris to Marseille can start from as little as €11.20 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 Paris to Marseille?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Paris to Marseille without having to change trains. There are 20 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 01:09. 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 10:52. 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.