I am wondering if it is possible to get a train ticket from Nantes (France) to Mannheim (germany). The trains all cut through Paris. Can I buy a ticket and then get off the train in Paris for a few days and continue the ticket? I actually want to stop in Paris, but it is semi-impossible to find prices from Nantes to Paris and then Paris to Mannheim that are not completely unreasonable. No flights between these cities. Thoughts, that don't involve renting a car?

Help!

Claire

Since trains usually aren't filled, why not take a train to Paris, hang around a few days, then take the train to Manheim? Buy your ticket to Manheim the same day you arrive in Paris, that way you are sure to get one, and you'll be unworried about it until you leave.

It does seem to be true that all roads to Europe, or even France eventually lead to Paris. Its a bit of a mystery, really.

I was just looking at the rates and Tortuga had a great idea, rail into Paris and stay however long you desire. Then, you can get a 1 day France Pass that will take you to the border between France and Germany. Then, while you are in Paris or even before just get a point to point ticket between the border and Mannheim for a small fee. Also if you are 25 and under, you can get a discount rate.

The issue is that buying individual tickets (from Nantes to Paris and then Paris to Mannheim) is almost twice as expensive as buying one ticket from Nantes to Mannheim, and then just delaying the "second half" of the trip. I just want to know if completing a trip on a different day than the day it started is possible in France. Anyone?

If the train is a 'reserved seat' train, you are accountable for a certain seat on a certain day. You do have the option of rescheduling 24 hours before, I believe.