Increased Train Service to Launch for the Côte d’Azur and Monaco

 

Consider it a Christmas bonus. As mentioned back in September 2024, expanded train services are about to begin in the region starting on December 15th 2024.

 

Much to the relief of locals and undoubtedly tourists, many of whom have faced frustration and stress while trying to catch a train during peak hours—especially during the crowded summer months, when train cars are often packed to capacity.

Starting December 15th, TER trains on the Nice-Ventimiglia line will operate every 15 minutes between 6 AM and 10 PM. This enhancement, highlighted by the PACA Region in a recent interview, stems largely from the introduction of competition in the TER network. It is further supported by SNCF's reliability commitments to the regional authorities, promising even greater improvements.

 

With the introduction of competition in the TER network, the South Region and SNCF Voyageurs Sud Azur are advancing efforts to enhance and modernize regional transportation. Starting December 15, travelers along the Riviera will enjoy modern, comfortable trains running every 15 minutes between 6 AM and 10 PM on the Les Arcs–St Raphaël–Cannes–Antibes–Nice, Grasse–Cannes, and Nice–Ventimiglia lines.

The schedule changes introduced on December 15 do not require new trains. However, to accommodate the ongoing rise in passenger demand on this route, additional trains will be deployed to boost capacity.

 

Since spring 2024, the Region has been renting additional trains to meet demand. By the end of 2027, these rented trains will be replaced by two new high-capacity train sets. Discussions regarding their financing are underway with the Principality of Monaco, which recently announced the purchase of two new TER trains scheduled for delivery by late 2027.

These new trains will enhance the ability to manage the high influx of passengers during peak hours. They will enable the use of reinforced trains, including multiple unit operations, where several connected trains are controlled by a single driver.

 

In August 2024, the TER cancellation rate in the Riviera rail sector dropped significantly to 5.2%, compared to 9.3% in 2023. The South Region, as the organizing authority, has demanded stronger measures from SNCF to further improve service reliability. For 2025, SNCF has pledged to reduce cancellations to 0.25% and achieve 98.5% punctuality. Stricter penalties will be enforced for failing to meet these targets.