The service between Paris and La Rochelle is most easily made by TGV Atlantique, in just under three hours. On-board you can expect the standard high quality TGV service as you travel through France at high-speed. The service is fairly frequent, with trains departing every hour and a half throughout the day.
TGV Trains
TGVs are the French high-speed train services that link over 70 cities in France. The trains are fast, comfortable and clean. Onboard, there are a range of classes of service: First Class Pro (Business), Standard Class Pro (Business), First Class, and Standard Class.
Passengers are permitted to bring two bags/suitcases each, as well as one piece of hand luggage. Larger pieces of luggage may be stored at the end of each carriage. Make sure you label all your items of luggage, as these are often checked by conductors, who may choose to remove your bags if not labelled!
Some TGV servies will take fully assembled bicycles, albeit for an additional fee (approximately £8.50/€10). These spaces must be reserved at the time of booking - there are usually only four spaces in standard class. Folded bicycles in bike bags are transported for free. Domestic animals may also be carried for free. There is a maximum of two dogs or pet carriers per passenger.
First Class Pro (Business)
Passengers are granted access to 11 Business Class lounges across the country. On the train itself, there are dedicated First Class Pro carriages. The most popular TGV services also offer a welcome service, cold meal at seat (optional extra), travel kits and an onbard taxi booking service. Passengers have more space to relax and to work, with comfortable seats and fixed tables.
Standard Class Pro (Business)
Passengers can take advantage of a welcome service at 7 popular TGV stations at the platform (Monday to Friday). Passengers have more space to relax and to work, with comfortable seats and fixed tables
First Class
First class seats all have power points for mobile phone/laptop charging. Seats are comfortable and spacious, and some services offer the opportunity to book forward facing seats.
Standard Class
Standard class seats are perfectly comfortable and reclinable. Standard class passengers may also access dedicated areas on some services. These areas offer dedicated family, nursery, office and bicycle space.
Some TGV services operate double-decker carriages. The top deck offers a great view over the French countryside.
Travel Tips:
If you are seated on the top deck, be aware that passengers wishing to travel between carriages have to pass through the upper deck rather than the lower ones. If you are wanting to catch up on some sleep, you may wish to be seated in the lower deck which may offer a quieter journey.
IMPORTANT:
Remember to stamp your TGV ticket in one of the yellow ticket composting machines at your departure station, prior to boarding your train. Failure to do so may result in you being fined, and/or charged for a new ticket.