France train reservations--help needed
 

I will be flying into Zurich in a couple weeks, and then taking a train to Colmar. I have a Swiss pass, so I'm covered up to Basel. Do I need to worry about an advanced reservation from Basel to Colmar? I will try to catch a regional train, not TGV. Here's another thing. I will be arriving on Bastille Day. The people at BETS seem to think the trains will be empty that day. Any advice will be appreciated.

You're only required to have a reservation (which in itself implies advance) on the French TGV and similar trains. But a reservation is usually a good idea, as it means you have a confirmed seat. In Italy we wound up standing for a long, long stretch because all the seats were taken.

What is the best way to make a reservation?

If you take a TGV, buy your reservation for Basel-Colmar at the station in Zurich.

Thanks, Tim. I will definitely check at the Zurich station.