CDG to TGV
 

We are arriving at CDG on a Mon. am in Sept at 7:30 nonstop from Bos on AA. Is it too tight to book a train to Avignon at 08:40? And, if we book first class can we easily change our ticket to the next train if we don't make the 08:40?

Too tight. We have connected several times between a flight arriving at CDG 2A and the TGV station. There are too many things that can delay you at CDG, even if you have only carry-on luggage. (I'm thinking about things like no gate for your aircraft, so you have to be bussed to the terminal; long queues at passport control; possible transfer from your arrival terminal to the TGV station ...)

SNCF/TGV experts will be able to answer the question about changing your ticket if you miss the train. I suspect the answer is that if you have a full fare ticket, you can; if it's a PREM (discount), you'll probably forfeit it and have to buy a new ticket at whatever is the cheapest fare at that moment.

My advice would be to book on a TGV that departs two or more hours after your scheduled arrival.

Anselm

Just after pushing "Post my reply" I thought a bit more and concluded that it could be done in 70 minutes if the sun, moon, and stars were properly aligned. I have had as little as 30 minutes from the aircraft door opening to walking out into the public area of 2A, and it's only a 10 minutes walk from there to the TGV station. However, hating travel anxiety as I do, I'd still book a later train!

AA

You have zero chance of catching the 08:40. Even if you do get off the plane quick, get your baggage quick and get through passport control quick, that time of the morning is rush hour so in a taxi, a 09:40 train would be far too risky too. I'd say aim for 10:30 at the very earliest.

I would not count of being able to change a ticket unless your French is good enough to explain to a ticket inspector. Note. You must validate your ticket at the platform entrance before getting on the train.

If you have little baggage you could catch a train straight to the Gare Du Nord from CDG, which is the quickest method (but that will be very busy at that time of morning).

Hi rp,

It is unlikely that you will make the 08:40, but you might.

There is a train at 09:45 that requires a change in Lyon, and another direct train at 11:50.

You could book the 08:40 and the 09:45 ** with insurance ** and then apply for a refund.

You can now buy PREMS and print tickets online with insurance.

I would plan for the 09:45.

((I))

I agree with Ira..the big assumption that your flight will even get there on time is risky IMO.

kaneda, I was assuming rpiwi is planning to board the TGV at CDG, not Gare de Lyon.

AA