France by Bus and Coach

France's cities are served by urban buses and a taxi-bus service connects many rural towns; find out about these and the long distance coach services...

Most of the départements in France have their own regional bus service. Fares tend to be inexpensive, but rural services can be limited, especially on weekends. Buses usually run from 05:30 to 20:30, with many in towns and cities running to 00:30. Night services are provided in large towns until approximately 05:00. Buses are identified by their number and the direction it is going in. Bus stops are indicated on the street by a bus shelter or sign, and tickets can be bought on the bus. For regular travellers it is better to get a bus card or pass, which can be purchased either on the bus or at local bus agencies. For more information see the individual operators' websites. Many offer the opportunity to recharge the pass online. The French national rail system SNCF has recently replaced under-used train lines with buses, which can be paid for using a rail pass. There are a number of operators which provide coach services between major towns. Eurolines provides a service to and from France from other countries. More information: