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- South of france
South of France holidays by train | Eurostar
Get inspired for your summer getaway to the South of France, from Lyon and Marseille to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.
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Come aboard for sun, sea and sand
The South of France is calling. Whether you want to discover Avignon's enchanting walled city or Marseille's stunning Mediterranean coastline, getting there couldn't be easier.
Travel from London to Avignon, Valence, Marseille or Aix-en-Provence with an easy change in Lille or Paris. With up to 14 connecting journeys to choose from, finding great-value Eurostar and SNCF fares is simple. Visit our connections page and start planning your trip.
Planning your weekend break to the South of France
Lyon holidays
Lyon is ideal for a cultural city break, a foodie getaway or a family holiday.
Whether you want to explore the vineyards of the northern Rhone, meander through the UNESCO World Heritage site in the city centre or cycle along the river banks with a picnic, Lyon will surprise and entrance you.
Read more - Lyon holidays
Avignon city breaks
Avignon will charm you with its outstanding heritage, its sunny climate and its large choice of cultural entertainment, all year long.
Architecture, character, culture and gastronomy – visiting Avignon means discovering the lifestyle of Provence.
Read more - Avignon city breaks
Marseille city breaks
Marseille is a city that is changing fast, but has still retained that bit of edge that makes it stand out from the rest of the towns along the French Riviera. It's also a great base for exploring the azure blue calanques that dot the coast, so why not go on a city break and make a holiday of it?
Read more - Marseille city breaks
Aix-en-Provence holidays
The train will get you to Marseille, then Aix is just 30kms away by car or by local bus.
Once there, find yourself a seat on a terrace and watch the world go by over a coffee or a pastis. Take some time to visit Cezanne's studio and, if that leaves you feeling inspired, why not head out of town and do a bit of sketching yourself.
If painting isn't for you, explore the area, indulge in a some wine-tasting or join the locals in a game of boules. You're on a South of France holiday, you have all the time in the world.
Read more - Aix-en-Provence holidays
Valence getaway
Valence, known as the gateway to the South of France, is positioned on the banks of the Rhône River. Explore the historic town centre, visit local vineyards, and finish your day in style at one of the city’s famous restaurants. With its narrow-cobbled streets, abundance of parks, canals, marina and stunning architecture it makes is the perfect destination for your next trip to the South of France.
Train + Hotel packages
Grab your seat and stay in one neat package. Book your Eurostar tickets and a handpicked hotel together to save a little extra.
Stations in the South of France
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about the TGV stations in Marseille, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Valence.
All of our South of France stations share this useful information:
Contact Number
+33 (0)8 92 35 35 35
Lost property
If you lose (or find) anything on board our trains or at one of our stations, please contact the lost property department (opens in a new tab) at SNCF.
Accessible travel
If you need assistance at the station, please let us know at least 24 hours before your train's due to depart.
You can get in touch online (opens in a new tab) or call +33 (0)8 90 64 06 50. Lines are open from 07:00 to 22:00 every day.
Facilities
- Car park
- Bike park
- Luggage lockers
- Free wifi
Public Transport
Marseille Saint-Charles station is right in the heart of the city, with great tram, Métro and bus connections. You’ll also find a taxi rank and several rental car options right outside. Plan your journey (opens in a new tab)
Airport Connections
From Marseille Saint-Charles station, it’s a short hop by bus to Marseille-Provence airport. Route L91 runs regularly throughout the day and the journey takes about 25 minutes. Check the timetable (opens in a new tab)
Facilities
- Car park
- Free wifi
Public Transport
Eurostar trains arrive at Avignon TGV station, just outside the city. From there, it’s a quick trip by local TER train to Avignon Centre station. Plan your journey (opens in a new tab)
Facilities
- Car park
- Bike park
Public Transport
Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding area is served by Aix en Bus routes.
Plan your journey (opens in a new tab)
Facilities
- Car park
- Free wifi
Public Transport
To get into town from Valence TGV station, take a local TER train and you'll be at Valence Ville in under ten minutes.
Plan your journey (opens in a new tab)
FAQs
Eurostar Sun was our seasonal direct train connecting Belgium with the South of France. It allowed travellers to go directly from Belgium to Marseille, Valence, Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.
If your journey connects via Paris, you may need to change stations. For example, when travelling from London or Brussels to Marseille, you’ll arrive at Paris Gare du Nord and need to travel to Paris Gare de Lyon to catch your connecting TGV. The journey between the two stations takes around 30 minutes by public transport.
You can book your Eurostar journey to France with us. Depending on your destination and the connections available, you may need to book your onward journey separately.
You can reach many destinations in the South of France by train, including Marseille, Valence, Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, as well as other cities and towns via a connection.
Enjoy art and culture in Avignon, hike or bike through the countryside, and taste wine in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In Valence, discover charming streets and historic architecture. Aix-en-Provence surprises with Provencal cuisine in cozy restaurants. In Marseille, have a delicious lunch at the old port or walk along the Calanques: rocky bays with turquoise water and little beaches.
Southern France is attractive all year round, with each season having its own charm. In spring (10-20°C) the lavender blooms, and it is perfect for walks through villages and vineyards. Summer (20-35°C) guarantees sun, sea, and lively markets. Autumn (12-22°C) enjoys tranquility, wine festivals, and warm colors in the landscape. Winter (5-13°C) is mild, ideal for quietly exploring cities like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence.
Southern France is known for its Mediterranean charm and varied landscapes. Highlights include the historic Palais des Papes in Avignon, the colorful markets of Aix-en-Provence, and the atmospheric streets of Valence. Explore the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, admire the rugged Calanques near Marseille, and sample local cuisine in lively villages. Discover culture, nature and gastronomy in one of France's most beautiful regions.
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