When strikes disrupt train services, the situation sometimes turns into a comedy for the SNCF competitors. There’s no need to cancel or change plans anymore: new players from Italy, Spain, or the French private sector are also racing along the tracks on major routes, promising alternative journeys and new services that have so far been unknown to the general public. Here’s an overview of these new faces in rail travel, who seize every social movement to gain ground.
The SNCF is no longer the only one ruling the French tracks: since 2021, several rail operators have been sharing the popular destinations departing from Paris, Lyon, or Marseille. While social movements sometimes disrupt travelers’ plans, they also open the door wide for newcomers. Here’s an overview of the SNCF competitors, the French and European destinations they serve, their often appealing prices, and tips for boarding with them… all while keeping a smile, even in the midst of a strike.
Rail Liberalization: When Alternatives Arrive in Style #
A breath of fresh air is sweeping through French train stations: gone is the era when the SNCF held a near-monopoly on national rail. Since the market liberalization, new trains have joined the departure dance. The head of the SNCF has acknowledged this with a hint of fatalism: in the event of a strike, his competitors are rubbing their hands together (and defying the final whistle). Now, a whole host of alternative companies offer their version of rail travel, sometimes at low prices, as long as you know where to look for tickets.
Trenitalia: The Italian Charm Between Paris, Lyon, and Marseille #
Trenitalia stands out as a pioneer among the newcomers. Since December 2021, the Italian company has been offering its own high-end service with the famous Frecciarossa trains. On board, Italian refinement is a must: Executive class (the pinnacle of rail comfort), light dining in Business, and a passenger experience worthy of the Dolce Vita.
The flagship destinations are enticing: from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Perrache and up to Milan Centrale with charming stops like Chambéry, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, Modane, Turin, and soon Marseille Saint-Charles starting June 15, passing through Avignon TGV or Aix-en-Provence TGV. Pricing starts from €23 for a Paris–Lyon route or €27 for a Paris–Marseille in 2nd class. It rises to €180 for the Executive experience, complete with Italian aged cheese and plush seats! Reservations can be made online at trenitalia.fr, Trainline, Omio, or Kombo, but not yet on SNCF Connect…
Renfe: The Spanish Touch to Barcelona and Madrid #
The Spanish company Renfe has made a grand entrance on the France-Spain lines. Gone are the days of Franco-Iberian cooperation, and instead we have spicy competition. Renfe links Lyon to Barcelona, Marseille to Madrid, with stops in cities where it’s lovely to pause for a tourist break or a culinary discovery. Take the chance to hop on an AVE train and speed towards Valencia, Nîmes, Montpellier – and even beyond, from Figueras Vilafant to Madrid Puerta de Atocha via Zaragoza Delicias.
As for pricing, tickets start at €49 in Estándar, €59 in XL Confort. Reservations are mandatory on renfe.com or via Trainline, Omio, Kombo. And for the marathon train travelers, why not lace up your sneakers for one of the must-see European marathons? The Spanish tracks transport you to the rhythm of AVE and flamenco!
Transdev and ZOU!: The South of France Within Reach by Train #
Transdev has played its trump card with the brand ZOU!. As the first private operator to run a regional line, Transdev has clinched the deal to connect Marseille to Nice, dethroning the SNCF. Departures every hour from 6 AM to 9 PM, with stops in Toulon, Les Arcs–Draguignan, Saint-Raphaël, Cannes, Antibes, and Nice Saint-Augustin: enough to captivate the hearts of Mediterranean coast fans in beach mode, towel and sun! While waiting for food service to start at the end of 2025, you can enjoy Wi-Fi and a USB port to stay connected, even amid the towel wars.
Prices remain unchanged compared to the SNCF for a Marseille–Nice trip, expect to pay €40.80 for a one-way ticket at full fare. Reservations can be made on SNCF Connect, at ticket counters, or at TER dispensers in the South region.
Still Discreet Alternatives but on the Rise #
Despite advertising campaigns, these competitors still struggle to make themselves known to the general public. The absence of their offerings on the SNCF Connect platform is a hindrance… but the trend is slowly but surely changing, thanks to word-of-mouth and the keen attention of price-watchers hunting for good deals. Whether escaping the troubles of strikes or simply discovering a different rail experience, choosing a train stamped with Trenitalia, Renfe, or Transdev is becoming a reflex for railway explorers eager for novelty or simply searching for a pocket-friendly ticket.
