Paris to Granville: A Classic Railway from Capital to Channel Coast

realtravelguides
Jan 21
2 min read

Why Go

This is one of the most satisfying rail journeys you can take directly from Paris. Over a few unhurried hours, suburbs dissolve into farmland, apple orchards, and hedgerows, before the train crests a hill and the sea appears below. Granville feels bracing, real, and refreshingly untouristy.

A Little Background

Granville prospered as a fishing and shipping town, later becoming a seaside retreat. The railway connected it firmly to Paris, allowing city dwellers to escape to the coast — a tradition that continues today.

What to Expect on the Train

Intercités trains from Paris Montparnasse are comfortable and spacious, often with a café bar. The scenery is gentle rather than dramatic, but deeply calming.

Best seats: right-hand side approaching Granville for harbour views.

How to Do the Journey

Direct trains from Paris Montparnasse
Duration: approx. 3½ hours
Several departures daily

Book ahead in summer; otherwise, this is an easy, low-stress trip.

Best Time to Go

May–June & September: mild weather, fewer crowds
July–August: lively but busy
Winter: dramatic skies, very quiet — perfect for coastal walks

Where to Stay

Haute Ville (old town): character and views
Near the station: easiest for short stays and onward travel

Granville is compact but hilly — pack accordingly.

What to Eat

Seafood is outstanding: oysters, mussels, scallops, sole meunière. Normandy cheeses, apple tarts, cider, and Calvados round things off beautifully.

What to Do

Walk the ramparts, visit the Christian Dior Museum, or use Granville as a base for exploring the Normandy coast and connections toward Mont-Saint-Michel.