Do you get food on TGV Lyria?

Is food served on TGV trains?

TGV food… It’s… complicated. Most have a bar. Right? But it’s not a full meal, you know? More like… snacks. Sandwiches, mostly. Maybe a quiche if you’re lucky.

I took the TGV from Lyon to Paris in July 2024. Remember that trip? God, that was exhausting. The cafe car… crowded. Stressful.

Selection is limited. Really limited. Wine was good, though. Small bottle. Needed it.

• Sandwiches: The usual. Nothing special.
• Hot dishes: Lasagna or quiche, maybe once in a blue moon something else.
• Drinks: Standard stuff. Coffee, water, wine.
• Atmosphere: Always a bit hectic.

Short-distance routes? Forget it. Those trains? Bare bones. No food car. Just…seats. Empty seats. Like my heart sometimes.

This was back in the summer. Things may have changed, I suppose. Doubt it though. But maybe.

What is the difference between TGV and TGV Lyria?

TGV Lyria? Just a brand, sharper routes.

France-Switzerland lines, specifically.

Lyria—the company—operates them.

• SNCF + SBB CFF FFS crews are mixed.
• One French, one Swiss manager oversee each run.

And yes, Lyria is profitable. More or less, anyway. The brand alone has value, wouldn’t you say?

Do you get a meal on TGV first class?

Ugh, TGV first class. Do you get food? Nope.

• No food on French domestic TGVs, even in first class. I’m bummed about that.

Seriously? I thought at least a croissant would be included, like on Eurostar. What a rip-off! What do they even offer then? Is it just bigger seats?

• Just nicer seats maybe? Larger, more comfortable.

What’s the point? Are there outlets? I NEED outlets. I swear, my phone dies so fast. Is there wifi too? Free wifi would be nice.

• Might have outlets and wifi, or is that only Eurostar? I Always get the trains confused, ah!

Okay, gotta check that before booking. Otherwise, first class is totally pointless on a TGV. Maybe just take regular class, then.

• First-class tickets can sometimes be more expensive.

What was I even thinking? I’m always hungry. Gotta pack snacks. Cheese and crackers, maybe?

• Pack snacks! Sandwiches and drinks are essential.

Food Options on TGV (Domestic)

• Bistro car: Yes, you can buy food, but it’s expensive. Sandwiches, drinks, snacks are all available at the bar.
• Prices: Expect to pay premium prices. Bring your own!
• Quality: Quality can vary. I wouldn’t rely on it for a substantial meal.
• Service: Service might not always be prompt, particularly on busy routes.
• Alternative: Pack a picnic! Much better and cheaper.

Advantages of TGV First Class (Domestic)

• More Space: More legroom. Yes, really.
• Quieter Environment: Fewer kids running around (hopefully).
• Seat Comfort: Sometimes adjustable seats, which is nice.
• Outlets: Power outlets are typically available, but not guaranteed.
• Wifi: Wifi is usually available but can be spotty.

TGV vs. Eurostar

• Eurostar: Usually includes a light meal or snack in first class (depending on the class of service).
• Domestic TGV: No food or drink included in either class.
• Destination: Eurostar travels internationally. TGV operates mostly within France.
• Price: Eurostar is generally more expensive.

My Personal Tip

Always bring a portable charger. The outlets on TGV can be unreliable, ugh.

When should I arrive at TGV Lyria?

Board TGV Lyria. Two minutes prior. Departure. Ticket time.

• No later. Got it?
• Stress-free? Don’t be late.

Missing a train. Not fun. My trip to Zurich. Ugh. Remember that mess? I missed it. My fault. Now. Never.

Can I eat my own food on a train?

Yes, train travel allows personal food. Dining cars are less common now. Limited options, maybe vending machines, small cafes. I often pack elaborate charcuterie boards for train trips. Makes the journey an event. Saves money too. Food costs add up. Especially on longer trips. Thinking about how travel has changed.

• Cost Savings: Bringing food is cheaper. Restaurant or cafe cars can be pricey. Train travel itself is already an expense. I remember a sandwich on a train costing $15.
• Dietary Restrictions: Packing your own food addresses allergies, preferences. Vegan, gluten-free – whatever you need. Control is good. It’s a necessity sometimes, not a preference.
• Variety: Cafes might have limited choices. Bring whatever you like. Last week I packed homemade samosas. Spiced perfectly.

Different trains, different rules. Amtrak, for example, is generally fine with outside food. Some international lines are more restrictive. Worth checking specific policies. Once brought durian on a Thai train. Not a popular move. Strong smell. Lesson learned. Now, I stick to blander snacks for shared spaces. Crackers. Fruit. Something simple.

Do they sell food on French trains?

Train food. France. A blur of green. Rushing past. Fields. Sunlight warm on the window. Nos Territoires Gourmands. The name itself, a whisper of taste. Seasonal. Imagine ripe peaches. The juice. Dripping. Gourmet break. A stolen moment. Between here and there. Nowhere and everywhere. Time stretches. Contracts. Breakfast. Coffee dark as night. Menus. Choices. A luxury. The salesman. Walking the aisle. A rolling market. A feast on wheels. A gustatory journey. Yes. Food. On French trains. Speeding through the countryside. A memory. A taste. A dream.

• Nos Territoires Gourmands: Catering service on French trains.
• Breakfast: Available.
• Gourmet break: Light meals and snacks.
• Menus: More substantial meal options.
• Seasonal produce: Fresh ingredients used in dishes.
• Salesman: Onboard service bringing food to your seat. Daytime trains.