Transportation & Accessibility

Getting to France

By Air - Major hubs: Paris (CDG, Orly), Nice, Lyon, Marseille - Regional airports: Connect to most market cities - From North America: Direct flights to Paris, Nice - From UK: Eurostar plus multiple flight options - From EU: Extensive flight and train networks

By Train - Eurostar: London to Paris, Lille, Lyon - TGV Lyria: Switzerland to French cities - Thalys: Belgium/Netherlands to Paris - AVE/TGV: Spain to Southern France - DB/SNCF: Germany to Strasbourg, Paris

By Car - EU drivers: No border controls in Schengen - Toll roads: Budget €20-50 for long journeys - Winter equipment: Mandatory in mountain areas - Parking: Use Park & Ride at market cities - International licenses: Valid for tourists

Getting Around France

Train Travel - The Best Option - SNCF: National rail company - TGV: High-speed connections between major cities - TER: Regional trains to smaller destinations - Booking: SNCF app or website (en.oui.sncf.com) - Discounts: Book early, age-based reductions

Practical Train Tips - Reservations: Mandatory for TGV - Validation: Stamp tickets before boarding - Luggage: No weight limits, keep with you - Bikes: Allowed on most trains (fee/reservation) - Food: Buffet cars or bring your own

City Transport - Metro systems: Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, Lille, Rennes - Trams: Most major cities, fully accessible - Buses: Comprehensive networks - Bike sharing: Available in all major cities - Apps: CityMapper, local transport apps

Accessibility Excellence

Infrastructure Standards France has made significant accessibility improvements: - Transport: All new systems fully accessible - Hotels: Accessibility ratings mandatory - Restaurants: Most now accessible - Tourist sites: Major improvements ongoing - Information: Available in multiple formats

Market Accessibility - Strasbourg: 5/5 - Full accessibility, support services - Paris: 4/5 - Main markets accessible, some challenges - Lyon: 5/5 - Excellent access, innovative solutions - Lille: 5/5 - Pioneer in inclusive design - Village markets: Variable, improving yearly

Support Services - Equipment loans: Wheelchairs, mobility aids - Companion services: Available in major cities - Sign language: Interpreters at many markets - Audio guides: Increasingly common - Rest areas: Standard at larger markets

Practical Accessibility Tips - Plan ahead: Contact tourist offices - Download apps: Accessibility information - Book early: Accessible accommodations - Ask for help: French people generally helpful - Know your rights: EU accessibility standards

Seasonal Considerations

Weather Planning - Northern France: Cold, possible snow, rain likely - Southern France: Milder but variable - Mountain areas: Snow equipment essential - Coastal regions: Wind factor significant - Check forecasts: Météo France reliable

What to Pack - Layers: Essential everywhere - Waterproofs: Rain common in December - Comfortable shoes: Lots of walking - Warm accessories: Hat, gloves, scarf - Day pack: For market purchases