How to Get from London to Paris: Your Complete Guide
Introduction
London, Paris, two known cities that are only 200 miles apart through the English Channel are full of beauty, history and culture. It doesn’t matter if you are preparing for a relaxing vacation or for a quick business trip, you still need to be aware of how you are going to travel between these two cities and save some time and money. We will also go through different options of transportation and give you all the information you will need to make your journey to [from] London to Paris without any problems.
1. Eurostar – The High-Speed Train
It is probably the easiest and most convenient way to get between London and Paris. Here are some key details:
- The travel time is 2 hours and 20 minutes.
- Departure Stations: London St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet International (Monday to Friday only).
- Arrival Station: Paris Gare du Nord.
- Fares: Times and advance booking determination affect fares. Most things do, as the saying goes, if you make a booking early.
- Also, tips: ensure that you get to the station at least 45 minutes before departure for security and check in procedures. Be in possession of your passport and ticket while you are on the journey.
2. Ferry – Enjoy a Scenic Voyage
A ferry ferry across the English Channel is a good option if you want some scenic views and have a bit of in spare time. Here’s what you need to know:
- About 90 minutes to 2 hours long, depending on the weather, route.
- Approximately 70 miles southeast of London, Departure Port is Dover.
- Arrival Port: Calais, a short distance from the city of Paris.
- Prices: Prices may differ by the season and ticket type (vehicle with or without a vehicle).
- Advice: Check the weather forecast and book ticket in advance. Come at least 45 minutes before departure.
3. Plane – Fast and Affordable
For whoever’s time is most precious or who prefers air travel, flying between the two cities is a quick and cheap alternative. Consider the following:
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Locations: London is the departure airport for many cities in the world and there are Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City Airport.
- Charles de Gaulle airport – CDG is main Paris airport and the other is Orly airport – ORY.
- Ticket Prices: The price of ticket can be anywhere from cheap to expensive, depending on the airline, time of the season, how well in advance you book. The prices vary and therefore it is advised that you compare prices from different airlines and use flight comparison websites to get the best deals.
- Arrive early at the airport to give yourself time to go through security check. Take into account the additional costs of transportation to and from the airports.
4. Bus – The Economical Option
A bus is always a viable option when you are on a tight budget or you want a slower pace of journey. Here’s what you should know:
- Time: To reach the destination, 7 to 9 hours are usually taken, dependent on traffic and the bus operator.
- Other companies that provide London to Paris bus services include Megabus, Flixbus, and Ouibus.
- Buses normally leave from Victoria Coach Station in London.
- Buses arrive at several locations in Paris including Porte Maillot, Porte d’Orléans and Gare de Bercy.
- Bus tickets are much more cheaper than other modes of transportation. Most often discounts are available when you book in advance or during low season.
- Tips: Try to pack some snacks and entertainment, as well as a neck pillow if they bring something that can be used or can help them to sleep
5. Driving – An Explorer’s Way
For people who love road trips and freedom to travel as they please, the route of driving from London to Paris can be very exciting. Consider these details:
- Time frame: It should take about 6 hours from start to finish, providing no traffic and the exact route is not taken.
- Route Options The route options are Eurotunnel (vehicle train) or Dover to Calais ferry.
- Things you need to have: Your passport and documentation for driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance.
- Tips: Know the laws of the road and road signs for both the UK, and France. Look at tolls, parking and congestion charges you will be liable for.
Conclusion
There are different ways to get from London to Paris and it is easy to choose one depending on your budget and preference. You can reach the City of Light from London by taking the high speed Eurostar, by ferry, flying, by bus or by road, whichever you prefer. For your journey plan, you need to consider duration, cost and convenience of each option. Bon voyage!
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