Since Sunday, December 15, 2024, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region is opening a new chapter in its railway history. The line connecting Cannes, Nice, and Menton is now operated by the company Sud Azur. This change results from the opening to competition, a first in France for regional trains.
On the Cannes-Nice-Menton axis, promising changes are announced. Travelers will benefit from a train every 15 minutes, between 5:45 AM and 10 PM, with extended hours until 2 AM during Saturday night to Sunday. This increased frequency aims to simplify travel in a highly frequented area.
The rolling stock has been renovated with 22 modernized trains, incorporating state-of-the-art equipment. Investments amount to €164 million. In parallel, punctuality is a key commitment, with a target of 98% of trains on time. The Region has also established a supervision center in Nice to ensure better management and responsiveness on the lines.
Improvements beyond the main line
The opening to competition also benefits other routes. The lines between Cannes and Grasse, Nice and Drap, as well as Les Arcs Draguignan and Cannes will see an increase in the number of trains. Now, two TER trains run each hour, compared to reduced frequencies or concentrated during peak hours previously.
Customer service is at the core of priorities. Travelers will have clearer information and enhanced support for their journeys.
Renaud Muselier, President of the Sud Region, highlights the importance of this moment: “our goal is clear: to offer a higher quality transport service, more punctual and better suited to the needs of users.“
With this initiative, the Sud Region affirms its commitment to modernizing transport while paving the way for new railway management models.