Hi! I am touring France with my gravelbike and having an absolute blast. I need to be back in Belgium may 3rd and am planning to go by train or perhaps Flixbus. I’m a bit overwhelmed by the options (or better lack of options) and am looking for some advice. Locals have already kindly informed me of the policy of different train lines in France and where to buy tickets and reserve spots for a bike.
I would prefer to avoid Paris, and instead travel through Luxembourg, where I can take a Belgian train with easy bike acces straight to my hometown. I am still unsure what my final destination will be, could be either Lyon, Marseille or maybe even Italy (Torino or Milan). I want to base my destination on the most comfortable public transport options.
Besides trains, Flixbus or even flying would also be an option if I manage to find a box for my bike. What would you do in my situation?
by Jakskip
1 Comment
I took a similar route from Marseille to Lille and then with a Belgian train, but the OUIGO company wanted my bicycle in a soft box (they refuse cardboard). If I recall correctly, some TGV trains in France only work this way, or just refuse to take any bicycle, but there might be exceptions that you should do research on.
So instead of buying a soft travel case, you could take multiple regional trains where you can take your bicycle with you.
Best option would be to take a flixbus, toggle 1 bicycle when booking and you should be fine to go anywhere.
You don’t need any box, they will put your bicycle in the luggage compartiment or on a rack at the back.
A quick research for a Flixbus route gave me these options with a bicycle:
1: Lyon -> Strasbourg -> Brussels
2: Torino -> Brussels (direct + night bus)
3: Milan -> Basel -> Brussels
Option 2 might be best suited for price and comfort.
If nothing works out, flying is always an option, get a cardboard box at a local bicycle mechanic, and I believe most airlines will take your bicycle for a fee.
Good luck and enjoy the ride,
Tailwind wished to you!