Travel guides
SNCF timetables: when to book, when to travel
Understanding SNCF's commercial and operational schedules can save you a lot on your train tickets in France and Europe. Gopaxo aggregates official SNCF schedules and those of its competitors in real time.
When does SNCF open its sales?
SNCF generally puts its TGV INOUI and Intercités trains on sale 3 to 4 months before departure. OUIGO trains are sometimes opened even earlier (up to 5 months) for high-demand periods (school holidays, year-end festivities).
For TER trains, sales are open continuously with no fixed mass-opening date, and prices vary little over time.
Typical opening calendar (indicative)
- Departure in January → opens around mid-October.
- Departure in July/August → opens generally in March/April.
- Departure at Christmas → opens mid-October, with a very rapid demand peak.
Peak and off-peak hours
The most popular (and therefore most expensive) slots are Friday evenings, Sunday evenings and the day before / after school holidays. By contrast, Tuesday and Wednesday slots outside holiday periods offer the gentlest fares. Compare several dates in the Gopaxo price calendar to find the best window.
Delays, strikes and disruptions
In the event of a strike or incident, SNCF publishes an adapted transport plan 24 to 48 hours in advance. See the delays, strikes and disruptions section of our FAQ to know your rights and the steps to follow.
Most frequent questions about Gopaxo
How far in advance can you buy an SNCF ticket?
Are SNCF schedules guaranteed?
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