Ultimate Travel Guide: How to Take the Eurostar From London to Paris
- LiterallySanj
- Nov 5, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 23, 2024
Looking to take the Eurostar from London to Paris? Here's is my ultimate travel guide that'll help you go from London to Paris in a jiffy!
Embark on a seamless journey from London to Paris aboard the Eurostar, the high-speed rail service that connects these two iconic European cities. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to this route, here's a step-by-step guide to ensure you make the most of your experience.
How to Take the Eurostar from London to Paris
What is the Eurostar?
The Eurostar is an international high-speed rail service that connects the United Kingdom with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Most impressingly it’s the only high-speed train that directly links the UK to France via the Channel Tunnel, carrying travellers from city center to city center with ease.
This service has been in operation since 1994 carrying millions of passengers every year.
And it’s my absolute favourite way to get from London to Paris!
1: Planning & Booking Your Eurostar from London to Paris
Begin your adventure by planning and booking your Eurostar ticket. You can reserve tickets up to six months in advance, and early bookings often offer the best deals. Choose your ticket type wisely, considering your budget, comfort level, and flexibility. Eurostar offers three classes: Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier, each with its own perks. Plus, there are generous luggage allowances, and you can even bring your own snacks!
💭 What Can I Pack on the Eurostar?: Unlike airplanes on the Eurostar every passenger is allowed two pieces of luggage (up to 85cm long) and one small piece of hand luggage. There’s no weight restriction as long as you can carry your bags onto the train by yourself.
Just like with airline travel, there are certain items you can’t take on the Eurostar, such as weapons, explosive materials, and certain sharp objects. But unlike air travel, you’re allowed to bring your own food and drink on the Eurostar.
P.S. – Oversized luggage, including sports equipment and musical instruments can be taken for an additional charge.
2: Getting to St Pancras International
Your Eurostar journey kicks off at St Pancras International in King's Cross, conveniently accessible via various London Underground lines. Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your departure to ensure a stress-free experience.
3: Checking-in at St Pancras International
Upon arriving at St Pancras International, head to the Eurostar departure area and breeze through the automated ticket gate with your barcode. For Business Premier travelers, there's a fast-track option for a quick check-in.
4: Passport & Security Controls
Prepare for border checks during your Eurostar journey. Pass through UK exit checks and French entry checks swiftly, ensuring you have the necessary visa for France. You'll also go through security screening, similar to airports, but without liquid restrictions.
5: Boarding the Eurostar
After passing passport controls and security, you'll find yourself in the departure lounge. Keep an eye on the departure boards for your platform number, and grab a coffee or snack while you wait. Once on the platform, locate your assigned seat, and you're ready for your London to Paris adventure!
6: Your Eurostar Journey
With a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, you'll reach the heart of Paris. Although there's onboard Wi-Fi, it can be a bit spotty, so don't rely on it entirely. Power outlets are available at every seat, and depending on your ticket class, you may also enjoy food and drinks.
7: Arriving at Paris, Gare du Nord
Your Eurostar train will arrive at Gare du Nord, a bustling rail station in Paris. From here, you can easily connect to other trains or the Paris Métro to reach your final destination in the city of lights.
P.S. – Don’t forget to book your Eurostar ticket in advance!
Eurostar from London to Paris FAQ
💭 What's the cost of traveling from London to Paris via Eurostar?
The price of Eurostar tickets for the London to Paris route can vary significantly based on factors like travel date, booking time, and the chosen class of service. Generally, fares start at £55-£57 for one-way journeys but can go above £200 if you book at the last minute. For finding the best deals, consider using Trainline, my trusted go-to platform!
💭 Does the Eurostar offer a direct route from London to Paris?
Yes, indeed! The Eurostar provides a direct and seamless service from London to Paris.
💭 Where's the departure point for the Eurostar from London to Paris?
You can catch the Eurostar from London to Paris at the St Pancras International station located in King’s Cross.
💭 How far under the sea is the Eurostar?
How deep is the Channel Tunnel? At its deepest, the tunnel is 75 metres (246 feet) below the sea level. That's the same as 107 baguettes balancing on top of each other.
💭 Where does the train from London to Paris pull into?
The train from London to Paris arrives at Gare du Nord station in Paris.
💭 Do you really need to be 90 minutes early for Eurostar?
I recommend that you arrive at least 90 minutes prior to your train leaving so you can have a stress-free check-in.
💭 How can I score affordable Eurostar tickets from London to Paris?
For the best deals on Eurostar tickets from London to Paris, I recommend using Trainline. They excel at comparing train ticket prices, much like Skyscanner does for flights. It's a resource I rely on regularly!
💭 Can you see the water on the Eurostar?
What does the Eurotunnel look like underwater? This may be a disappointing answer, but you can't actually see the sea from the Eurostar.
💭 Is it more economical to fly or take the Eurostar from London to Paris?
The costs of Eurostar and flight tickets can differ widely. Depending on when you book, ticket type, and additional expenses like baggage fees or transfers, one may turn out to be cheaper than the other. Personally, I find the Eurostar more convenient, especially when dealing with luggage restrictions. For the most precise price comparison, check the prices for your specific travel dates on Trainline for Eurostar and Skyscanner for flights.
💭 How fast does the Eurostar go?
They can reach a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour (that's 186 miles per hour) on high-speed lines in the UK, France, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. Going through the Channel Tunnel's a little slower - 160 kilometres per hour (or 100 miles per hour) to be precise.
💭 What's the London to Paris route for the Eurostar?
The Eurostar's London to Paris route follows the path through the Channel Tunnel and terminates at Gare du Nord in Paris.
💭 Can you walk around on Eurostar?
You can walk from one carriage to the other on Eurostar. You can get in touch with Eurostar staff by email, and enquire if your bookings can be linked, or to have your seats reassigned. The link below may be of help. There is a section for those who have booked separately; all you can do is ask.
💭 Is there a set Eurostar timetable from London to Paris?
Yes, you can access the timetable when booking your ticket.
💭 Does the Eurostar from London to Paris travel underwater?
Yes, part of the Eurostar journey from London to Paris passes through the Channel Tunnel, traveling beneath the water.
💭 How do I take the Eurostar from London to Disneyland Paris?
To hop on the Eurostar from London to Disneyland Paris, you'll need to catch a train from St Pancras International in London to Marne-la-Vallée in France. The park is just a stone's throw away from the station, and you can conveniently book your ticket right here. Enjoy the magical ride! 🚄🏰🌟
Comentários