Home » RAILWAY NEWS » TGV INOUI’s New Premium Travel Class OPTIMUM to Boost Tourism in France Starting January 2026
Published on
September 26, 2025
In a bid to enhance the tourism experience across France, SNCF Voyageurs is set to launch a new premium class for its TGV INOUI services. Starting January 2026, travelers can experience the OPTIMUM class, designed to offer a high-quality, flexible, and comfortable travel experience throughout the country. This move is expected to bolster tourism by providing visitors with a seamless and luxurious journey, particularly those traveling to explore France’s iconic cities and picturesque countryside.
The introduction of OPTIMUM comes at a time when France is seeking to expand its tourism market, with the government aiming to attract 60 million international visitors by 2030. By offering luxury train travel, SNCF Voyageurs hopes to attract more international tourists looking for an efficient and comfortable way to explore the country, while also benefiting domestic tourism.
A Premium Experience to Enhance Travel Flexibility
The OPTIMUM class offers a unique blend of comfort and flexibility, catering to tourists who value convenience while traveling. The introduction of a fully flexible ticketing policy means tourists can easily change or refund their tickets without additional fees, an important feature for international travelers who may need to adapt their plans. Tickets can be exchanged up to 30 minutes before departure without extra charges, and passengers can even exchange their tickets to OUIGO services, which allows for greater mobility across France.
This flexibility is crucial for boosting tourism in France as it encourages international travelers to visit more than one region without the fear of rigid schedules. The fixed OPTIMUM fares offer consistency, allowing travelers to plan their trips confidently, knowing they won’t face sudden price hikes, whether booking months in advance or the day before departure.
Luxury Onboard Services to Elevate the Tourist Experience
Beyond flexible ticketing, OPTIMUM offers luxury travel services that are sure to appeal to tourists seeking the best in comfort and convenience. Grand Voyageur Lounges, available in major stations, provide high-speed Wi-Fi, a wide selection of beverages, and entertainment options, creating an ideal space for visitors to relax before their journey. The lounge facilities contribute to the tourism infrastructure in France, ensuring that visitors can enjoy luxury from the moment they arrive at the station.
Onboard, OPTIMUM passengers will experience dedicated quiet spaces, designed for those who want to work or relax in privacy. These spaces allow tourists to enjoy their journey without distractions, offering a peaceful environment to unwind after exploring France’s famous cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Additionally, the TGV INOUI portal offers over 500 entertainment options, including films, series, and international press, making it easier for international tourists to access information in their language and enjoy onboard entertainment during their journey.
OPTIMUM PLUS: The Ultimate Luxury for Premium Travelers
For those seeking even greater luxury, OPTIMUM PLUS, available exclusively on the Paris–Lyon route, promises an unparalleled travel experience. This upgraded service provides at-seat dining, featuring French bistronomic cuisine prepared with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. By offering travelers meals on porcelain tableware, SNCF Voyageurs reflects its commitment to sustainability while providing a sophisticated, authentic French dining experience.
The dedicated onboard host and enhanced customer support are designed to cater to premium tourists, offering personalized service throughout the journey. This attention to detail ensures that tourists enjoy not only a comfortable ride but also a seamless and exclusive travel experience, ideal for those seeking luxury and the best that France has to offer.
Connecting More Tourists to France’s Rich Heritage
The introduction of OPTIMUM and OPTIMUM PLUS will have a direct impact on tourism in France, especially in areas that are not typically included in the traditional tourist routes. The Paris–Lyon corridor, for example, is known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions, making it an essential route for tourists looking to explore more of what France offers beyond its iconic cities.
With OPTIMUM now available, SNCF Voyageurs aims to provide tourists with easier access to a variety of regions in France, including smaller towns and cities that offer a more authentic and relaxed French experience. This will likely increase regional tourism and contribute to the growth of the local economies in these areas.
A New Era for France’s Tourism
The launch of OPTIMUM is expected to drive growth in France’s tourism sector by offering visitors a new way to travel in style and comfort. By making high-speed rail travel more accessible and appealing to both international tourists and business travelers, SNCF Voyageurs is positioning itself as a leader in luxury train travel.
With its focus on flexibility, comfort, and sustainability, OPTIMUM is not only revolutionizing the way people travel across France, but it is also helping to meet the country’s tourism goals for the next decade. By creating a consistent and recognizable premium offering, SNCF Voyageurs is ensuring that tourism in France will continue to grow in a sustainable, accessible, and luxurious manner, making it a top destination for travelers worldwide.
