Read real reviews from real users
Take the train from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg - you'll depart from the heart of the chic 8th arrondissement and reach your destination in a little over 3 hours, which is much quicker than driving. The 186-mile journey is via SNCF's direct Intercités services. Although its 160 km/h speeds aren't up there with France's flagship TGV trains, it's a great travel option for people who just want to quietly snooze their way from France's capital to the coast of Normandy.
Getting off at Cherbourg train station, you'll find yourself right in the city centre - the beautiful Sainte-Trinité Basilica is just a 20-minute walk away. The city also offers a fascinating WWII museum, and it's also popular with seafood aficionados thanks to Michelin-starred restaurants serving up local oysters, mussels and lobsters.
To make sure your trip from Paris to Cherbourg is smooth and hassle-free, check out our Journey Planner, ticket information and frequently asked questions.
It takes an average of 4h 33m to travel from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg by train, over a distance of around 185 miles (299 km). There are normally 12 trains per day travelling from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg and tickets for this journey start from £18.88 when you book in advance.
First train | 06:12 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 21:00 | |
Departure station | Paris St-Lazare | |
Arrival station | Cherbourg | |
Journey time | From 3h 7m | |
Distance | 185 miles (299 km) | |
Frequency | 12 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From £18.88 | |
Train and bus operators |
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time by train between Paris St-Lazare and Cherbourg is 4 hours and 33 minutes, with around 12 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg is 3 hours and 7 minutes.
Train ticket prices from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg can start from as little as £18.88 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg without having to change trains. There are 7 direct trains from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg leaves at 06:12. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg leaves at 21:00. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Paris St-Lazare to Cherbourg cover a distance of around 185 miles (299 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Cherbourg to Paris St-Lazare.