Riding French High-Speed Trains: TGV InOui, Ouigo & Paris Station Transfers

The 20-Minute Platform ('Voie') Rule & Car Numbers

At French mainline stations, the departure track ('Voie' or 'Quai') is posted on the blue departure screens ('Départs') exactly 20 minutes before departure. Check your coach number ('Voiture') on the platform screen so you stand right where your car stops, scan your QR code at the automatic platform gate, and ensure every bag has a physical name tag.

Connecting Between Paris Train Stations

If transferring from Gare du Nord (Eurostar/Lille) to Gare de Lyon (TGV South to Lyon/Marseille/Nice), hop on RER Line D for 2 stops (8 minutes). Between Gare Montparnasse and Gare du Nord/Est, take Metro Line 4 direct. Always leave at least 60–75 minutes between separate TGV tickets across Paris.