There are a number of changes to mention when it comes to traveling in France this Spring.
First, as of March 29, Air France has completely abandoned operations at Orly (with a few exceptions due to regulations on some flights to Corsica). All long and short-haul Air France flights have moved to CDG. All flights to Nice, Montpellier, Marseille and Toulouse formally operated by Air France are now handed over to its low cost subsidiary Transavia.
Due to frequent flyers’ numerous complains, Transavia will still give Free access to a Lounge for Platinum Flying Blue members, along with fast-track access to Orly 2 (domestic). But a low cost airline remains a low cost : carry-on bags, checked bags, and seats selection will remain available for a fee.
Transavia has been in the news for canceling about 400 flights (that’s 2% of their flights) in May and June due to higher jet fuel prices.
All flights to the French Caribbean islands, Guyana and Reunion are also moved to Roissy CDG.
There are now more trains operated by SNCF’s Italian competitor between Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Not only are these red trains usually cheaper than most Inoui and Ouigo TGVs, they offer dinner at your seat on premium fares. SNCF has announced train tickets for the summer will go on sale March 12.
Expect lots of metro closures in Paris for construction, including station Republique on line 8 and RER B heavily disrupted through Spring and Summer. More details on the RATP website or here.