Paris to Marseille by Train: Trenitalia’s New Route From €27
Published June 16, 2025
Trenitalia has officially expanded its high-speed rail service in France, launching a new route between Paris and Marseille with fares starting at just €27. This move introduces fresh competition to a space long dominated by SNCF and offers travelers a practical, comfortable, and cost-effective alternative, whether you're planning a summer getaway to Provence or visiting family in the south.
How Trenitalia Compares to SNCF
For decades, SNCF has been the default for long-distance train travel in France. Trenitalia’s entry changes the dynamic by offering a different experience at a more accessible price point.
Fares: Standard class tickets start at €27 when booked early, often undercutting SNCF’s lowest fares for the same route.
Comfort: Seats are spacious, luggage storage is generous, and overall design feels more modern.
Extras: Business Class includes complimentary coffee, bottled water, and a pastry — small but appreciated touches not typically offered on Ouigo.
Service: Four daily departures with key stops in Lyon, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence provide flexibility for travelers headed to the south.
What to Expect Onboard
Trenitalia operates its Frecciarossa 1000 trains on this route, offering three classes of service:
Standard: Budget-friendly and comfortable. Travelers can choose between a quiet Silenzio section or a livelier Allegro section depending on preference.
Business: Includes more legroom, fewer passengers per car, and complimentary refreshments.
Executive: Designed for travelers seeking privacy and extra space, with larger seats and a more exclusive atmosphere.
Thoughtful details like prosecco service in the evening or quiet cars for those who want to work or rest, make the experience feel more curated than utilitarian.
Booking and Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be booked directly on Trenitalia’s website. For the best prices, book at least two to three weeks in advance. Promotional fares are limited, especially during school holidays and weekends.
Booking tips:
Compare Business Class prices, they’re often only €10 more than Standard.
Morning and evening departures fill up quickly.
If you’re traveling with luggage, avoid the Ouigo surcharge and take advantage of Trenitalia’s more generous baggage setup.
Why Travelers Are Taking Notice
Travelers are increasingly seeing Trenitalia as a smart alternative to SNCF. Not just because of the price, but because the onboard experience feels more intentional.
It’s not about choosing sides. It’s about having better options. And right now, Trenitalia is setting a new bar.
Looking Ahead
While the Paris–Marseille route is the current focus, Trenitalia is already exploring new cross-border expansions. A Paris–Madrid service via Barcelona is in early discussion, and there’s speculation about a future Paris–London route to compete with Eurostar.
Marco Caposciutti, President of Trenitalia France, has said the company’s priority is delivering consistent service on this corridor first. But their longer-term ambition is clear: to become a major player in European high-speed rail.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a better travel experience between Paris and the south of France, Trenitalia’s new service is worth a serious look. It’s well-priced, thoughtfully designed, and offers something that has been missing from the French rail landscape for a long time: meaningful choice.