Advance train reservations necessary for traveling to distant cities in France?

Question

My wife and I are planning on taking a couple day trips during our upcoming trip to Paris that will likely require us to take a combination of the high-speed TGV and other rail lines. Are train reservations necessary and/or recommended on such trips? If you do need a reservation, would we need to get them before we leave on the trip, or will tickets probably still be available when we get to the train station? Thanks.

Answer 1

some train or schedule are "reservation only"...

so you need to check

but on a general basis, reservation will make your trip more relaxed : no need to fear about getting for example two connecting seats

Answer 2

For TGV, reservations are mandatory. Also for long haul  Corail or Teoz (not sure of spelling) trains: It is always good to make a reservation especially during vacations periods.

Usually when you buy the ticket you are asked if you want  a reservations or that a reservation is mandatory.

Answer 3

If you prebook the tickets, you have to keep your reservation; my understanding is that there is no refund for missed trips.  See if you can find discount plane tickets (or consider renting a car if your wife is willing to do some of the driving).  The long train rides can be very tiring and in the summer, the train compartments can be uncomfortably crowded. The train food is nothing special, just expensive.   At least with a car, you have the freedom to stop, take breaks, and check into a hotel.

Answer 4

Pre book. The skiing season is on and lots of folk will try to get on trains without pre-booking.Better safe than sorry.