Discover France by Train and Bus: A Solo Traveler's Budget Guide

Sep 28, 2025

Helena Fedorec, a solo traveler celebrating her 70th birthday, shares her insights from a budget-friendly month in France. She reveals how she skillfully navigated the country via trains and buses, detailing her itinerary filled with vibrant towns and cultural hotspots. Helena discusses the value of learning basic French, utilizing senior rail cards, and staying in hostels to save money. She emphasizes the joy of slow travel, multi-night stays, and the unforgettable connections made along the way, showcasing how accessible and enriching car-free exploration can be.

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ANECDOTE

Turning 70 Trip Became A Surprise Reunion

Helena chose a month-long solo trip to avoid birthday fuss and celebrate turning 70.
Her family surprised her by joining partway through, including her son from Australia.

ADVICE

Book Trains Early And Watch Sales

Book Eurostar and long-distance trains well in advance to get the cheapest fares.
Subscribe to the Eurostar app and watch for flash sales to snag £39 one-way tickets.

ADVICE

Get A Senior Rail Discount Card

Buy the SNCF Senior rail card if eligible to save about a third on fares.
Get it on sale — a couple of train trips usually justify the cost.

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Planning to explore France without renting a car? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with solo traveler Helena Fedorec about her practical, budget-friendly journey across France. The episode, Discover France by Train and Bus: A Solo Traveler's Budget Guide, is packed with tips for anyone eager to see more of France using public transportation.

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Helena shares how she built her itinerary around France's excellent train and regional bus network, saving money and skipping the stress of driving. She proves that it's possible to travel solo in comfort, even at 70, and enjoy a rich, flexible experience.

Her journey included Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, Èze, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Toulouse, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Île de Ré, Angers, Chartres, Paris, Fontenay-aux-Roses, Domaine de Sceaux near Paris. Each stop brought new discoveries—historic towns, museums, vibrant markets, and scenic routes. She highlights the value of regional trains (TER) and intercity buses for reaching charming towns and hidden gems.

Annie and Helena talk about booking strategies, the pros and cons of rail passes, and how to keep travel costs low without missing out on memorable experiences. They also share tips for traveling off-season, packing light, and making the most of France's reliable public transit.

If you're curious about car-free travel in France, or you want to stretch your budget while exploring French culture and history, this conversation offers inspiration and practical guidance.

🎧 Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more stories and tips about traveling in France—whether by train, bus, car, bike, or on foot.

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