FlixBus is now the dominant coach operator in France (OUIBUS was absorbed in 2018). BlaBlaCar is the dominant carpool. Each has different cancellation logic, comfort levels, and price floors.
OUIBUS was FlixBus's original French brand; they merged. There is effectively one bus network in France (FlixBus) plus its competitor BlaBlaBus. Plus private cars on BlaBlaCar.
Each works differently. FlixBus: fixed schedule, multiple stops, no last-minute price hikes for popular routes, free cancellation 15 min before. BlaBlaCar: departure times depend on drivers posting rides; cheap, but no guarantee of any ride for unpopular slots.
Cheapest on most routes. Average trip costs €15–€30. Driver cancels? Auto-refund. 80%+ of long-distance rides for 200+ km distances.
Network-wide guaranteed schedule. From €9. Free WiFi, plug at seat. 15 min free cancellation. Buses can be 30 min late; no compensation.
SNCF's "Ouibus" became FlixBus. Now SNCF runs cars under "SNCF Connect Bus" — same buses, different app, identical prices. Use either.
Profiles are rated both ways after each trip. Drivers with 100+ ratings and 4.5+ stars are reliable. Refund is automatic if the driver cancels. Women-only ride option exists for solo travelers.
FlixBus: bikes foldable in luggage free; regular bikes in dedicated bike compartment €9. BlaBlaCar: ask driver. Both fine for road bikes if you disassemble.
EU Bus Regulation 181/2011 gives the same protections as trains/air for delays >2h on routes >250km: meals, accommodation, refund. Hard to enforce with FlixBus in practice; keep records.