Intercités

Intercités is a brand used by the French national railway company SNCF to designate long-distance, conventional-train services that operate on routes not served by high-speed TGV trains. The Intercités network is operated by SNCF Voyageurs and complements the high-speed network by providing slower, direct connections between major cities and regional towns across France. It serves a range of corridors with routes that are typically served by traditional locomotive-hauled trains and refurbished rolling stock.

The Intercités offering is divided into two main categories. Intercités de Jour covers daytime services on conventional lines, using locomotive-hauled trains and a mix of standard, refurbished, or modern cars. Intercités de Nuit provides overnight services with sleeper or couchette cars, allowing travelers to cover long distances while sleeping.

Historically, the Intercités brand consolidates several pre-existing long-distance services that operated on non-high-speed lines, including services that were previously branded under the Corail umbrella. Over time, some routes have been modernized or partially replaced by high-speed options, while others continue to operate as cost-effective alternatives for travelers seeking direct long-distance connections.

SNCF publishes the timetables and tickets for Intercités through its booking platforms. The trains are positioned as an affordable option within the broader French rail network, balancing travel time with accessibility and regional connectivity.