The French Train à Grande Vitesse (TGV), combined with the Channel Tunnel, has transformed rail travel to France. Eurostar runs direct services from London to Avignon in summer in under six hours. By means of an easy change at Lille, it is possible to start in London and reach many destinations far into France in a single day. Avis has many outlets at French rail stations where it is possible to hire a car for the final leg of your journey. SNCF has improved its reservations system to enable rail seats to be booked several months ahead of your travel dates.