Best way to get from CDG airport, Paris to Bayonne

[mohoward]

Hi, I apologize for repeating myself because I think I sort of asked about this somewhere else, but I didn't get into all the details and I'm a first timer and very nervous. I'm travelling alone from Toronto and am arriving at CDG airport on Sunday, May 21 at 8:45 am. It looks like there is just one train to Bayonne and it leaves at 10:06 am. So, since I am a major worrier, I am worried that there is no way I can make that train if it takes as long to get through customs in Paris as it does in Toronto and/or if my plane gets in late. Am I being totally insane about this? Is there another way to go? Or I could go from Paris to another city and then to SJPDP? What is the easiest way to do this? I already booked a place to stay in Bayonne, but can cancel it if I find a better way to do this. I know bazillions of you have done this and it's no big deal, but for some reason, I am creating a big deal here. Any suggestions/advice would be super appreciated. thank you thank you thank you.

 

[C clearly]

I haven't taken the train from Paris, but that connection time seems quite inadequate. I would suggest eliminating that worry by making a different plan. Have you considered flying to Biarritz (Bayonne)? Some of the flights leave from Orly airport (not CDG) but I made that transfer without difficulty. Just leave yourself a few hours (say, 3) from scheduled arrival at CDG until scheduled departure from Orly.

You might have better success finding train alternatives if you look for Paris-Bayonne and then Bayonne to SJPP.

 

[Trevor Batley]

CDG airport on Sunday, May 21 at 8:45 am. It looks like there is just one train to Bayonne and it leaves at 10:06 am.
Or I could go from Paris to another city and then to SJPDP? What is the easiest way to do this?

We travelled from PARIS MONTPARNASSE station, which has multiple direct trains to Bayonne each day. Latest one showing at the moment is 17:22, with 3 seats available for 25 euro each.
You can catch a train from CDG into Paris and across to Montparnasse.
We stayed a few days in Paris, so this was the easiest for us.
You could also fly to Biarritz, which is very close to Bayonne and catch a bus or taxi to Bayonne or use the Express Bourricot service (http://www.expressbourricot.com/) direct to SJPdP.
Good Luck and Buen Camino
TrevorB

 

[scruffy1]

Be Prepared! said Baden-Powell, visit an internet site such as Hostalworld http://www.hostelworld.com/search?s...7-02-24&date_to=2017-02-27&number_of_guests=2 or booking.com, put in your dates, to select and have ready a convenient SOS lodging in case of unfortunate circumstances. No need to reserve, just know where it may be, knowing where to go shouild you need it when you arrive will relieve much much anxiety.

 

[RNC]

Have you checked SNCF? It says there is a train at 4.21pm from CDG to Bayonne arriving at 10.32pm. I think you change trains at Bordeaux. There are more frequent trains this route on week days.

From Bayonne you can catch the train next morning to SJPdP

 

[jayree]

I took the TGV directly from CDG to Bordeaux then transferred to the train to Bayonne then transferred to the train to SJPdP. I arrived late in the evening, around 8:30 PM. Some elected to spend the night in Bayonne and take the morning train to SJPdP thereby getting to spend a day in SJ. When I walked the CdN I spent the night in Bordeaux and took the morning train to Bayonne then Hendaye.

 

[whariwharangi]

Note: 0845 arrival with plan for train departure at 1006 is very tight. I would recommend finding more time. There is usually a train from Gare Montparnasse to Bayonne mid day. It takes about an hour and a half to get from CDG to Gare Montparnasse. So that gives an extra hour but is still tight.

This thread discusses travel from Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Caveat. I do not have first hand knowledge of most of the information presented here. The material in this thread was researched using web resources that may be out of date. Information may be incomplete or incorrect. The information presented here is not exhaustive. You are advised to confirm your own travel details.

2100 Paris

2101 This section discusses transportation services in Paris.

Index 2100
2102 Paris Airports
2103 Getting around in Paris
2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport
2105 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz
2106 Charles de Gaulle Airport to TGV Massy
2107 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse
2120 Trains in France
2121 Paris Train Stations
2125 Paris to London by Eurostar
2135 Paris to Barcelona by train
2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2102 Paris Airports

Paris has two major airports. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is known as Roissy and is located NE of Paris. Orly Airport (ORY) is located to the South of Paris.

CDG and Orly:
http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/

2103 Getting around in Paris

Paris Transit Network
http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/carteidf.php?lang=uk

Paris RER/Metro route planner - SNCF Transilien
http://www.transilien.com/itineraire/rechercheitineraire/init

RER B - Paris
http://parisbytrain.com/rer-b/

Paris Metro Line 4
http://www.paris-metro-map.info/paris-metro-line-4-map/

Le Bus Direct (formerly Air France) Shuttle Bus with service from CDG to Orly airport (#3) and to Gare Montparnasse (#4)
http://en.lebusdirect.com/

Easybus with low price service from CDG to Paris Center where you can access the Metro
http://www.easybus.co.uk/en/paris-cdg-airport

2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport

There are two transit options from CDG Airport to Orly Airport.

a. RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Station Antony. Take Orly Val (name of train) from Station Antony to Orly airport Terminal Sud and Terminal Ouest. Allow 1:30 hours.

b. Le Bus Direct bus from CDG airport direct to Paris Orly airport. Allow 1:15 hours.

2105 CDG Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Saint Michel Notre Dame RER station. Take RER line C from Saint Michel Notre Dame to Gare Austerlitz. Allow 1 hour.

2106 CDG Airport to TGV Massy

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Massy-Palaiseau RER station. The Massy TGV station is located next to the RER station.

2107 CDG Airport to Gare Montparnasse

There are two transit options from CDG airport to Gare Montparnasse:

a. RER Line B (destination B2 Robinson or B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Gare du Nord. Paris Metro Line 4 from Gare du Nord to Metro Station Montparnasse Bienvenue. Allow 1:00 hour. Allow an additional 15 minutes to walk from the Metro station to Gare Montparnasse.

~Note there are 3 points where it is possible to transfer from RER B to Metro line 4. A transfer at St Michel may be preferable as Gare du Nord is a large station and will require orientation time.

b. Le Bus Direct operates a bus service from CDG direct to Gare Montparnasse. Allow 1:15 hours.

2120 Trains in France

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER
http://www.ter-sncf.com/

SNCF Railway Map
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-map/sncf-map-large.htm

2121 Paris Train Stations

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 2 train station
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frmlw/accueil/

Gare de Massy TGV
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frdju/accueil/

Note in additon to CDG 2 and Massy there are 6 major train stations in Paris:

Paris Gare d'Austerlitz
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpaz/accueil/

Gare Paris Bercy
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpbe/accueil/

Gare Paris Est
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpst/accueil/

Paris Gare de Lyon
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frply/accueil/

Paris Gare Montparnasse
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpmo/accueil/

Paris Gare Montparnasse Map
http://www.railteam.eu/en/files/2011/11/MAP_Paris-Montparnasse_En.pdf

Paris Gare du Nord.
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpno/accueil/

Map of TGV train network in Paris:
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-trains/images/tgv-map-paris.jpg

2125. Paris to London by Eurostar

Eurostar trains operate between Paris Gare du Nord and London St Pancras International Station
http://www.eurostar.com

2135 Paris to Barcelona by Train

SNCF and Renfe operate high speed trains between Paris Gare de Lyon and Barcelona Sants.

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2151 This section discusses how to get from Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Index 2150
2152 Executive Summary
2153 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP
2154 Train from Paris to SJPdP
2155 Train stations between Paris and Bayonne
2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port
2157 Author's Pick

2152 Executive Summary

There are at least two viable options for getting from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport to Saint Jean Pied de Port (SJPdP):

a. Fly from Paris to Biarritz and take the train from Bayonne to SJPdP.

b. Take the train from Paris to Bayonne and transfer to another train from Bayonne to SJPdP. Stations in Paris with trains to Bayonne include: CDG 2, Gare d'Austerlitz, Gare Montparnasse, and Gare Massy.

Note: The tracks between Bayonne and SJPdP got washed out in Spring 2014 and repaired in November 2015.

2153 ~Option 1 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP

a. Fly from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ). Air France and Easy Jet provides service; or,

b. Fly from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ) Air France provides service.

The Chronoplus urban bus #14 leaves from the doors of Biarritz Airport and goes to Gare de Bayonne. Allow 40 minutes.

The SNCF TER train #62 travels from Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

Biarritz Airport (BIQ)
http://en.biarritz.aeroport.fr/

Chronoplus
http://www.chronoplus.eu/

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2154 ~Option 2 - Train from Paris to SJPdP

TGV trains travel towards Bayonne from three train stations in Paris:

a. There is a TGV station located at Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 2.

b. There is a TGV station located at Gare Montparnasse in central Paris. There is greater frequency of service from Gare Montparnasse than from CDG 2.

c. TGV trains from CDG 2 stop at Gare Massy.

SNCF TGV trains leave from Paris enroute to Bordeaux or Irun. Often there is a transfer required at Bordeaux. TGV trains from Bordeaux terminate in Irun. TER trains from Bordeaux terminate in Pau or Hendaye. If your train is bound for Pau another transfer is required at Dax. Trains bound for Hendaye or Irun stop in Bayonne.

SNCF Intercites night trains travel from Paris Gare d'Austerlitz to Hendaye and stop in Bayonne.

SNCF TER train #62 travels from Gare Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

You will get limited results if you try to find a schedule for a train from Paris to SJPdP. I'd suggest planning your trip from Paris to Bayonne then Bayonne to SJPdP.

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2155 Train Stations between Paris and Bayonne

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean (Saint Jean is name of main station in Bordeaux)
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/en/frboj/accueil/

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean according to Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gare_de_Bordeaux-Saint-Jean

Gare de Dax
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/fracg/accueil/

Gare de Bayonne
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frxby/accueil/

2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port

Saint Jean Pied de Port
http://www.st-jean-pied-de-port.fr/default.aspx

2157 Author's pick

If I were traveling to SJPdP by way of Paris I would:

a. Determine if it was cost effective and time effective to fly from Paris to Biarritz. Time effective means arriving in time to catch a train from Bayonne to SJPdP on the same day.

b. If arriving at CDG and taking the train is the better option ... take the train from CDG 2 if the schedule is viable.

c. If CDG 2 schedule doesn't work ... Take RER B train to St Michel and transfer to the Metro. Take the line 4 Metro to Montparnasse. Then board the TGV train originating from Montparnasse. There is more frequent service from Montparnasse.

d. If arriving at Orly ... take the Orly Val to station Antony and RER train to Massy.

Links checked March 2015

 

[mspath]

Have you checked SNCF? It says there is a train at 4.21pm from CDG to Bayonne arriving at 10.32pm. I think you change trains at Bordeaux. There are more frequent trains this route on week days.

From Bayonne you can catch the train next morning to SJPdP

If you wish to stay overnight in Bayonne the simple
Hotel Monte Carlo is good inexpensive choice located opposite the rr station. Nice cafe and resto also. Reserve ahead and state the train arrival time. Here is their web .

 

[Lance Chambers]

8:30 AM train from CDG to Bordeaux, 10 mins for connection to Bayonne, 5 mins for connection to Saint Jean and arrive around 4:30PM.

 

[t2andreo]

My preference is to take the Direct Bus from the CDG Terminal 1 exit, from baggage claim and customs exit, to the curb side. The ride is about 45 minutes to Gare Montparnasse. Check out the CDG web site for transportation options. Or, go right to the "Le Bus Direct" web site for Ligne / Line #4, the route from CDG to Gare Montparnasse, here:

http://www.lebusdirect.com/en/lines-and-schedules/cdg-airport-paris-gare-montparnasse-line.html

Making the connection from CDG to Gare Montparnasse is very easy if you arrive as usual at about 08:00 in the morning. There is a noon(ish) direct train, with no connections to Bayonne. It arrives about 17:30. The last train to Saint Jean Pied de Port leaves about 18:00.

HOWEVER, the established practice is to hold the SJPdP train (TER route #62) if the TGV from Paris is delayed arriving at Bayonne for any reason. The SNCF officials KNOW that pilgrims are arriving and that the 18:00 train is the last for the day.

This said, staying overnight at Bayonne is not a chore,. There are plenty of reasonably priced hotels available for an overnight. Plus, Bayonne is an interesting small city to see if you have the extra time.

Others prefer to take the train from TGV to Bayonne. You usually must change trains at Bordeaux. For some, like me, this adds uncertainty and increases my "hassle factor."

However, consider that, in the time it will take to figure out how to get from CDG Terminal 1 (where most US flights arrive) to the TGV terminal and find out where your train is leaving from, you can be at Gare Montparnasse. It is far more stressful IMHO to schlep yourself and your gear from terminal to terminal, and thence to the TGV station at CDG.

Conversely, doing it via Le Bus Direct, you wait at the bus stop just outside the exit from Terminal 1 baggage claim / customs (under cover I might add), toss your gear in the baggage compartment when the bus arrives, pay your fare (in Euros) and get off at Gare Montparnasse...easy peasy!

Others will differ with this view. But, I prefer to start my Caminos from a stress and hassle free perspective. The coach ride from Terminal 1 to Gare Montparnasse is relaxing and you do get to see some of the sights.

I hope this helps.

 

[Aurigny]

You'd have a 90% or better chance of making the 12:28 from Paris Montparnasse, which arrives in St Jean, via Bayonne, at 19:12.

But if time isn't a pressing consideration, a very civilised way of getting there -- one I've done twice -- is to spend the day in Paris and take the 21:52 sleeper train from Gare d'Austerlitz. They give you a bed in a six-person compartment, which is quite comfortable (and good practice for sleeping in albergues, a lot of which will not be nearly so pleasant). The cost is surprisingly moderate: no more than you'd pay for a night in a tourist-class hotel. The train gets you into Bayonne at 08:33 the following morning.

 

[Annie Little]

I did this October 2016 ..... there is a bus from CDG that goes to the major train stations including Montparnasse ... stops right out front ......google it that's what I did ... my flight arrived 7.30 am so to give myself plenty of time I think I got a train that left at 12 ......

I love the app called Trainline EU ...... I use it to check train timetables , can make a booking if I wish on the app and cancelling also easy ... or just knowing the time I can buy at the station also . Downloaded app to iPhone before leaving home .... actually have been using it for years whenever I go to Europe .... it used to only be fir France but now for EU .... I used it in Spain and Italy as well

It was very easy .... 60 yr old travelling alone .... as always ..... Life is an Adventure

 

[jpflavin1]

Hi, I apologize for repeating myself because I think I sort of asked about this somewhere else, but I didn't get into all the details and I'm a first timer and very nervous. I'm travelling alone from Toronto and am arriving at CDG airport on Sunday, May 21 at 8:45 am. It looks like there is just one train to Bayonne and it leaves at 10:06 am. So, since I am a major worrier, I am worried that there is no way I can make that train if it takes as long to get through customs in Paris as it does in Toronto and/or if my plane gets in late. Am I being totally insane about this? Is there another way to go? Or I could go from Paris to another city and then to SJPDP? What is the easiest way to do this? I already booked a place to stay in Bayonne, but can cancel it if I find a better way to do this. I know bazillions of you have done this and it's no big deal, but for some reason, I am creating a big deal here. Any suggestions/advice would be super appreciated. thank you thank you thank you.

Mohoward:

Easy jet has a 2:40 flight that day CDG to Bayonne. You can also take one of several trains that day from CDG or Montparnesse.

Happy travels,
Joe

 

[mohoward]

wow, you are all incredibly amazing and nice and helpful. i just saw all these responses--thank you so much! i won't have time to read them or respond in detail till the weekend, but wanted to just say thank you thank you for now!

 

[mohoward]

I haven't taken the train from Paris, but that connection time seems quite inadequate. I would suggest eliminating that worry by making a different plan. Have you considered flying to Biarritz (Bayonne)? Some of the flights leave from Orly airport (not CDG) but I made that transfer without difficulty. Just leave yourself a few hours (say, 3) from scheduled arrival at CDG until scheduled departure from Orly.

You might have better success finding train alternatives if you look for Paris-Bayonne and then Bayonne to SJPP.

thank you so much. i didn't even think of flying. will check!

 

[mohoward]

We travelled from PARIS MONTPARNASSE station, which has multiple direct trains to Bayonne each day. Latest one showing at the moment is 17:22, with 3 seats available for 25 euro each.
You can catch a train from CDG into Paris and across to Montparnasse.
We stayed a few days in Paris, so this was the easiest for us.
You could also fly to Biarritz, which is very close to Bayonne and catch a bus or taxi to Bayonne or use the Express Bourricot service (http://www.expressbourricot.com/) direct to SJPdP.
Good Luck and Buen Camino
TrevorB

ok, good idea to go from montparnasse station. thank you also for all the options

 

[mohoward]

Have you checked SNCF? It says there is a train at 4.21pm from CDG to Bayonne arriving at 10.32pm. I think you change trains at Bordeaux. There are more frequent trains this route on week days.

From Bayonne you can catch the train next morning to SJPdP

omg, i must have been on the wrong website--now i see the 4:21 train to bayonne!!!

 

[mohoward]

I took the TGV directly from CDG to Bordeaux then transferred to the train to Bayonne then transferred to the train to SJPdP. I arrived late in the evening, around 8:30 PM. Some elected to spend the night in Bayonne and take the morning train to SJPdP thereby getting to spend a day in SJ. When I walked the CdN I spent the night in Bordeaux and took the morning train to Bayonne then Hendaye.

will check it out!

 

[mohoward]

Note: 0845 arrival with plan for train departure at 1006 is very tight. I would recommend finding more time. There is usually a train from Gare Montparnasse to Bayonne mid day. It takes about an hour and a half to get from CDG to Gare Montparnasse. So that gives an extra hour but is still tight.

This thread discusses travel from Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Caveat. I do not have first hand knowledge of most of the information presented here. The material in this thread was researched using web resources that may be out of date. Information may be incomplete or incorrect. The information presented here is not exhaustive. You are advised to confirm your own travel details.

2100 Paris

2101 This section discusses transportation services in Paris.

Index 2100
2102 Paris Airports
2103 Getting around in Paris
2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport
2105 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz
2106 Charles de Gaulle Airport to TGV Massy
2107 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse
2120 Trains in France
2121 Paris Train Stations
2125 Paris to London by Eurostar
2135 Paris to Barcelona by train
2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2102 Paris Airports

Paris has two major airports. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is known as Roissy and is located NE of Paris. Orly Airport (ORY) is located to the South of Paris.

CDG and Orly:
http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/

2103 Getting around in Paris

Paris Transit Network
http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/carteidf.php?lang=uk

Paris RER/Metro route planner - SNCF Transilien
http://www.transilien.com/itineraire/rechercheitineraire/init

RER B - Paris
http://parisbytrain.com/rer-b/

Paris Metro Line 4
http://www.paris-metro-map.info/paris-metro-line-4-map/

Le Bus Direct (formerly Air France) Shuttle Bus with service from CDG to Orly airport (#3) and to Gare Montparnasse (#4)
http://en.lebusdirect.com/

Easybus with low price service from CDG to Paris Center where you can access the Metro
http://www.easybus.co.uk/en/paris-cdg-airport

2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport

There are two transit options from CDG Airport to Orly Airport.

a. RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Station Antony. Take Orly Val (name of train) from Station Antony to Orly airport Terminal Sud and Terminal Ouest. Allow 1:30 hours.

b. Le Bus Direct bus from CDG airport direct to Paris Orly airport. Allow 1:15 hours.

2105 CDG Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Saint Michel Notre Dame RER station. Take RER line C from Saint Michel Notre Dame to Gare Austerlitz. Allow 1 hour.

2106 CDG Airport to TGV Massy

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Massy-Palaiseau RER station. The Massy TGV station is located next to the RER station.

2107 CDG Airport to Gare Montparnasse

There are two transit options from CDG airport to Gare Montparnasse:

a. RER Line B (destination B2 Robinson or B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Gare du Nord. Paris Metro Line 4 from Gare du Nord to Metro Station Montparnasse Bienvenue. Allow 1:00 hour. Allow an additional 15 minutes to walk from the Metro station to Gare Montparnasse.

~Note there are 3 points where it is possible to transfer from RER B to Metro line 4. A transfer at St Michel may be preferable as Gare du Nord is a large station and will require orientation time.

b. Le Bus Direct operates a bus service from CDG direct to Gare Montparnasse. Allow 1:15 hours.

2120 Trains in France

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER
http://www.ter-sncf.com/

SNCF Railway Map
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-map/sncf-map-large.htm

2121 Paris Train Stations

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 2 train station
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frmlw/accueil/

Gare de Massy TGV
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frdju/accueil/

Note in additon to CDG 2 and Massy there are 6 major train stations in Paris:

Paris Gare d'Austerlitz
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpaz/accueil/

Gare Paris Bercy
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpbe/accueil/

Gare Paris Est
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpst/accueil/

Paris Gare de Lyon
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frply/accueil/

Paris Gare Montparnasse
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpmo/accueil/

Paris Gare Montparnasse Map
http://www.railteam.eu/en/files/2011/11/MAP_Paris-Montparnasse_En.pdf

Paris Gare du Nord.
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpno/accueil/

Map of TGV train network in Paris:
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-trains/images/tgv-map-paris.jpg

2125. Paris to London by Eurostar

Eurostar trains operate between Paris Gare du Nord and London St Pancras International Station
http://www.eurostar.com

2135 Paris to Barcelona by Train

SNCF and Renfe operate high speed trains between Paris Gare de Lyon and Barcelona Sants.

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2151 This section discusses how to get from Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Index 2150
2152 Executive Summary
2153 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP
2154 Train from Paris to SJPdP
2155 Train stations between Paris and Bayonne
2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port
2157 Author's Pick

2152 Executive Summary

There are at least two viable options for getting from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport to Saint Jean Pied de Port (SJPdP):

a. Fly from Paris to Biarritz and take the train from Bayonne to SJPdP.

b. Take the train from Paris to Bayonne and transfer to another train from Bayonne to SJPdP. Stations in Paris with trains to Bayonne include: CDG 2, Gare d'Austerlitz, Gare Montparnasse, and Gare Massy.

Note: The tracks between Bayonne and SJPdP got washed out in Spring 2014 and repaired in November 2015.

2153 ~Option 1 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP

a. Fly from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ). Air France and Easy Jet provides service; or,

b. Fly from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ) Air France provides service.

The Chronoplus urban bus #14 leaves from the doors of Biarritz Airport and goes to Gare de Bayonne. Allow 40 minutes.

The SNCF TER train #62 travels from Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

Biarritz Airport (BIQ)
http://en.biarritz.aeroport.fr/

Chronoplus
http://www.chronoplus.eu/

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2154 ~Option 2 - Train from Paris to SJPdP

TGV trains travel towards Bayonne from three train stations in Paris:

a. There is a TGV station located at Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 2.

b. There is a TGV station located at Gare Montparnasse in central Paris. There is greater frequency of service from Gare Montparnasse than from CDG 2.

c. TGV trains from CDG 2 stop at Gare Massy.

SNCF TGV trains leave from Paris enroute to Bordeaux or Irun. Often there is a transfer required at Bordeaux. TGV trains from Bordeaux terminate in Irun. TER trains from Bordeaux terminate in Pau or Hendaye. If your train is bound for Pau another transfer is required at Dax. Trains bound for Hendaye or Irun stop in Bayonne.

SNCF Intercites night trains travel from Paris Gare d'Austerlitz to Hendaye and stop in Bayonne.

SNCF TER train #62 travels from Gare Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

You will get limited results if you try to find a schedule for a train from Paris to SJPdP. I'd suggest planning your trip from Paris to Bayonne then Bayonne to SJPdP.

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2155 Train Stations between Paris and Bayonne

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean (Saint Jean is name of main station in Bordeaux)
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/en/frboj/accueil/

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean according to Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gare_de_Bordeaux-Saint-Jean

Gare de Dax
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/fracg/accueil/

Gare de Bayonne
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frxby/accueil/

2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port

Saint Jean Pied de Port
http://www.st-jean-pied-de-port.fr/default.aspx

2157 Author's pick

If I were traveling to SJPdP by way of Paris I would:

a. Determine if it was cost effective and time effective to fly from Paris to Biarritz. Time effective means arriving in time to catch a train from Bayonne to SJPdP on the same day.

b. If arriving at CDG and taking the train is the better option ... take the train from CDG 2 if the schedule is viable.

c. If CDG 2 schedule doesn't work ... Take RER B train to St Michel and transfer to the Metro. Take the line 4 Metro to Montparnasse. Then board the TGV train originating from Montparnasse. There is more frequent service from Montparnasse.

d. If arriving at Orly ... take the Orly Val to station Antony and RER train to Massy.

Links checked March 2015

wow!!! There are a lot more options than I realized. i was panicked for nothing, as usual.

 

[mohoward]

I did this October 2016 ..... there is a bus from CDG that goes to the major train stations including Montparnasse ... stops right out front ......google it that's what I did ... my flight arrived 7.30 am so to give myself plenty of time I think I got a train that left at 12 ......

I love the app called Trainline EU ...... I use it to check train timetables , can make a booking if I wish on the app and cancelling also easy ... or just knowing the time I can buy at the station also . Downloaded app to iPhone before leaving home .... actually have been using it for years whenever I go to Europe .... it used to only be fir France but now for EU .... I used it in Spain and Italy as well

It was very easy .... 60 yr old travelling alone .... as always ..... Life is an Adventure

will check out the app. i am a 60 year old travelling alone too! wish me luck.

 

[mohoward]

ok, everyone, i started to write individual thank yous and realized that was crazy. thank you again. may fly to biarritz or take bus to montparnasse or even take a later train that someone mentioned. many options! i am calming down. hopefully by end of this camino i will be totally calm and able to let go of everything!

 

[DurhamParish]

mohoward, you'll be fine. I went from CDG to Bayonne in 2014. My flight into CDG didn't arrive until a little after noon, so I caught the 4:21 train to Bayonne mentioned above by RNC and stayed at the Hotel Cote Basque, which is directly across the street from the train station in Bayonne.

I am leaving 4 weeks from TODAY (I'm so excited). I get into CDG at around 6 AM and I'm taking the RER and Metro to Gare Montparnasse where I have a ticket on the 10:26 train to Bayonne, and will arrive in time to take the last train from Bayonne to SNPdP.

Don't worry, whatever way you decide to go, it will be easy.

I'm excited for you. I know you are going to enjoy your Camino. Prepare to become hopelessly addicted to the camino like the rest of this sad lot around here.

 

[M&D2017]

Hi mohoward,
I am flying from Vancouver Canada to Paris (CDG) arriving May 11th at 8:15 am. I have a flight from Paris (CDG) Air France leaving at 1pm via Lyon then on to Biarritz, arrival time 4:50. Express Bouricott is picking me up and dropping me off at SJPDP. I looked at all the bus/ train/ flight options and this looked like the best one. Hopefully this info will help!
Buen Camino!

 

[steppingpono]

I did this October 2016 ..... there is a bus from CDG that goes to the major train stations including Montparnasse ... stops right out front ......google it that's what I did ... my flight arrived 7.30 am so to give myself plenty of time I think I got a train that left at 12 ......

I love the app called Trainline EU ...... I use it to check train timetables , can make a booking if I wish on the app and cancelling also easy ... or just knowing the time I can buy at the station also . Downloaded app to iPhone before leaving home .... actually have been using it for years whenever I go to Europe .... it used to only be fir France but now for EU .... I used it in Spain and Italy as well

It was very easy .... 60 yr old travelling alone .... as always ..... Life is an Adventure

Thanks very useful post - will use the info April/may start of camino

 

[mohoward]

I just wanted to say thanks again to everyone for their helpful ideas. I FINALLY decided and will take the Direct bus from the CDG airport and I booked the train at 2:38 pm from Gare Montparnasse directly to Bayonne. Will stay the night there at the Cote Basque Hotel and head towards SJPDP in the morning! YAY. OMG I am dying of nervousness and excitement!!!!!!! End of May is so close!

 

[efdoucette]

Now, what is your plan for day 1?
My suggestion (because it worked out so well for me) is to hang out in SJPDP for the morning, visit the Pilgrim's office, get your passport, have lunch, then walk up to Orisson (about 3 hours, tough walk). You will need to reserve ahead at Orisson, it will be memorable. They have a communal dinner, here you will meet your walking family.

 

[mohoward]

Now, what is your plan for day 1?
My suggestion (because it worked out so well for me) is to hang out in SJPDP for the morning, visit the Pilgrim's office, get your passport, have lunch, then walk up to Orisson (about 3 hours, tough walk). You will need to reserve ahead at Orisson, it will be memorable. They have a communal dinner, here you will meet your walking family.

yes yes!! That is sort of my plan. But I wasn't sure how long everything would take and I didn't want to rush any part of this huge trip so I decided to spend the entire day and night in SJPDP. I will then leave for Orisson the next day, stay there overnight and enjoy, hopefully meet my walking family, as you say (!) and THEN will really begin pounding it out after Orisson! I guess I could have done it faster but I just wanted to take my time, especially at the beginning, so I don't get totally overwhelmed. My regular life is always rush rush and I'm determined not to do that on this trip. Knock on wood! Thank you.

 

[Kanga]

@mohoward a good decision. Now, whatever happens, you will be able to cope - just go with the flow and trust yourself. You will be amazed at your own ingenuity and ability!

Things do go wrong - perhaps better to say "unplanned events happen". For example flights get delayed, train drivers go on strike, luggage gets lost.....but that is all part of the Camino. Staying flexible was one of my first lessons. I like to keep the main goal in sight but walk each day as it comes.

 

[mohoward]

@mohoward a good decision. Now, whatever happens, you will be able to cope - just go with the flow and trust yourself. You will be amazed at your own ingenuity and ability!

Things do go wrong - perhaps better to say "unplanned events happen". For example flights get delayed, train drivers go on strike, luggage gets lost.....but that is all part of the Camino. Staying flexible was one of my first lessons. I like to keep the main goal in sight but walk each day as it comes.

staying flexible!!! that is my new middle name

 

[Earnest Lawy]

You'd have a 90% or better chance of making the 12:28 from Paris Montparnasse, which arrives in St Jean, via Bayonne, at 19:12.

But if time isn't a pressing consideration, a very civilised way of getting there -- one I've done twice -- is to spend the day in Paris and take the 21:52 sleeper train from Gare d'Austerlitz. They give you a bed in a six-person compartment, which is quite comfortable (and good practice for sleeping in albergues, a lot of which will not be nearly so pleasant). The cost is surprisingly moderate: no more than you'd pay for a night in a tourist-class hotel. The train gets you into Bayonne at 08:33 the following morning.

.

 

[whariwharangi]

omg, i must have been on the wrong website--now i see the 4:21 train to bayonne!!!

It could be that you are looking too early. Its usually not updated more than 3 months in advance. I wouldn't rely on the schedule being complete more than 30 days in advance.

 

[Monajul]

Feel all your train anxiety! We will be walking the Camino end of May. Looking at taking the bus at GDG to Gare Montparnasse and train to Bayonne. We have reservations at Cote Hotel. Arrival in Paris 9:30 am.

 

[Monajul]

I just wanted to say thanks again to everyone for their helpful ideas. I FINALLY decided and will take the Direct bus from the CDG airport and I booked the train at 2:38 pm from Gare Montparnasse directly to Bayonne. Will stay the night there at the Cote Basque Hotel and head towards SJPDP in the morning! YAY. OMG I am dying of nervousness and excitement!!!!!!! End of May is so close!

We also are taking the Direct bus from CDG and I am booking the 2:38 pm from Montparnasse to Bayonne. Staying at the Cote Basque Hotel as well! Train Anxiety!!

 

[hfenton]

SNCF TER train #62 travels from Gare Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

I can find timetables for an SNCF train from Bayonne to SJPP (TER 404331); however, nothing shows up when I try to make a reservation. Is a reservation not required, or possible?

I'm interested in the train that leaves Bayonne for SJPP at 18H06 on May 22nd. I will be arriving from Paris via a TGV Duplex 5202 to Bardeaux and TER 67229 from there to Bayonne, arriving at 16H31.

 

[mspath]

There are generally four trains a day from Bayonne to SJPdP. The Bayonne station is small and the staff are helpful and used to tourists as well as pilgrims. Multiple video screens throughout the station display arrivals/departures as does a large board in lobby. You can buy your TER line 62 ticket to SJPdP either from a machine using a credit card or from a live clerk with cash or card. No need to book ahead since the seats are not reserved. Journey time is roughly 1 hour.

The adjacent station cafe boasts many handy plugs for recharging your computer or smartphone; if you have time to spare relax and have a drink.

Bon voyage and Buen camino!

 

[whariwharangi]

SNCF TER train #62 travels from Gare Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP. Sometimes the train goes from Bayonne to Cambo les Bains. Passengers to SJPdP then transfer to an SNCF operated bus at Cambo les Bains. Sometimes the entire route is serviced by a bus.

I can find timetables for an SNCF train from Bayonne to SJPP (TER 404331); however, nothing shows up when I try to make a reservation. Is a reservation not required, or possible?

I'm interested in the train that leaves Bayonne for SJPP at 18H06 on May 22nd. I will be arriving from Paris via a TGV Duplex 5202 to Bardeaux and TER 67229 from there to Bayonne, arriving at 16H31.

It is not possible to reserve a seat on TER trains. TER trains are basically commuter trains. A ticket is good for 90 days.

Note tracks were damaged by recent rains. The current schedule has a bus (autocar) in place of a train. No difference to you; bus is out front of the station, cost is the same, schedule a bit slower.

See SNCF TER Aquitaine. Fiche Horaires for train #62
https://www.ter.sncf.com/aquitaine

Schedule as of 7 Feb 2017
http://cdn.ter.sncf.com/medias/PDF/..._fev_a_nouvel_avis_tcm50-35352_tcm50-9053.pdf

 

[hfenton]

It is not possible to reserve a seat on TER trains. TER trains are basically commuter trains. A ticket is good for 90 days.

Note tracks were damaged by recent rains. The current schedule has a bus (autocar) in place of a train. No difference to you; bus is out front of the station, cost is the same, schedule a bit slower.

See SNCF TER Aquitaine. Fiche Horaires for train #62
https://www.ter.sncf.com/aquitaine

Schedule as of 7 Feb 2017
http://cdn.ter.sncf.com/medias/PDF/..._fev_a_nouvel_avis_tcm50-35352_tcm50-9053.pdf

Thank you for this information. Looks like I'll have to play it by ear from Bayonne. Perhaps the tracks will be repaired by May 22nd. Or not.

 

[JanickeHS]

You'd have a 90% or better chance of making the 12:28 from Paris Montparnasse, which arrives in St Jean, via Bayonne, at 19:12.

But if time isn't a pressing consideration, a very civilised way of getting there -- one I've done twice -- is to spend the day in Paris and take the 21:52 sleeper train from Gare d'Austerlitz. They give you a bed in a six-person compartment, which is quite comfortable (and good practice for sleeping in albergues, a lot of which will not be nearly so pleasant). The cost is surprisingly moderate: no more than you'd pay for a night in a tourist-class hotel. The train gets you into Bayonne at 08:33 the following morning.

I am on the 12:28 train the 11th

 

[DebR]

I took the TGV directly from CDG to Bordeaux then transferred to the train to Bayonne then transferred to the train to SJPdP. I arrived late in the evening, around 8:30 PM. Some elected to spend the night in Bayonne and take the morning train to SJPdP thereby getting to spend a day in SJ. When I walked the CdN I spent the night in Bordeaux and took the morning train to Bayonne then Hendaye.

I’m looking at doing what you did here - how was the transfer at Bordeaux? It looks like there’s just ten minutes and I’m interested (as a non-French speaker) how that worked for you? Was it clear / we’ll signed?

 

[Lance Chambers]

The transfer at Bordeaux was fine. Just follow everyone with backpacks. Seriously - there will be any number of backpackers and they are almost all heading to SJPdP.

Buen Camino.