The iconic Eiffel Tower, Paris

Wondering what is the best way to travel from London to Paris?  I highly recommend taking the Eurostar train for a fast, yet relaxing eco friendly option to flying. Eurostar is an international high speed rail service that connects London to European cities like Paris, Lille, Brussels and Amsterdam.

The last time I took the Eurostar, I traveled into London by train to Paddington Station and pre-booked a taxi to take me from Paddington to St. Pancras. You can take the tube but I didn’t want to lug my luggage through the Underground!

With Eurostar you can be in Paris in less than 2 1/2 hours, so even a day trip is possible. Watch a movie onboard, relax, have a bite to eat and get ready to flirt in French~

London to Paris on the Eurostar – Facts

• St. Pancras International rail station is the only Eurostar terminal in central London
• Eurostar terminates in Paris at Gare du Nord station in the 10th Arrondissement
• The train travels at speeds of up to 200 mph
• Currently there are 14 trains per day between Paris and London
• The journey from London to Paris is approximately 2 hrs 30 minutes
• The Channel tunnel is 31.4 miles long and was completed in 1994
• London to Paris train cost: fares start at $75. round trip

Check Fares and Departures here: Eurostar

The Meeting Place at London St Pancras

London to Paris on the Eurostar: FAQ

1. What’s the best time to travel on Eurostar?

Morning departures are usually more expensive and getting to St. Pancras station during “rush” hour in London can be challenging.

Why not balance budget and convenience by booking a mid morning train instead. A 12 PM train arrives in Paris about 3 PM – just in time to check in to your hotel!

2. What’s the history of St. Pancras station?

London St. Pancras International was built in 1868 and is not only a marvel of Victorian engineering, but one of the most beautiful stations in Europe.

If you have time, go up to the second floor and look around. There’s a swanky bar, hotel and artwork such as The Meeting Place; a 30 ft high, 20 ton statue evoking the romance of two lovers meeting at the station.

St. Pancras International is also home to Europe’s longest Champagne bar!

Book a hotel with free Wi-fi close to St. Pancras station

3. Is there beverage and food service on Eurostar?

You can buy snacks and drinks on the train throughout your journey. Alternatively grab your own food to take on board with you from the Marks & Spencers foodhall in St Pancras station.

You’ll find a full selection of bars and restaurants on the lower concourse of the station to have a bite before you leave.

4. How soon should I check in to Eurostar?

Once you’re in St. Pancras look for the Eurostar check in point. Plan to arrive no later than one hour ahead of your departure to allow for customs and security.  Allow more time for busy travel periods such as holidays.

5. What travel documents do I need to board Eurostar?

You’ll need to show your passport, ticket and any entry documents that are required by France. The Eurostar website has extensive details of what’s needed before boarding. As of January 2025 you’ll also need to pre-apply for an ETA unless you’re a UK citizen. Go to this government website to get all the details.

Eurostar train from London to Paris

6. What is the Eurostar boarding process like?

You go through a quick customs check by French authorities and pass your bags through the security scanner at the check in point. Then walk towards the “gate” area to wait until you’re called to board your train.

Once your boarding is called, you’ll walk out to your numbered carriage (on your ticket), board, find your assigned seat and stow your luggage.

7. How many bags am I allowed to take on Eurostar?

Your ticket includes 2 bags per person (up to 85cm long). As long as your luggage is within this allowance you don’t need to check it in. There’s no weight restriction on Eurostar but you should be able to carry your bags onto the train on your own.

8. What time zone is Paris in?

Paris and France are one hour ahead of London GMT, so keep that in mind for arrivals.

Browse and research Paris hotels and things to do!

9. How long does it take to go through the tunnel?

As you enter the tunnel you’re traveling under the English Channel for about 20 minutes. Once you’re through the tunnel you’re in France and will be passing through the French countryside for another hour before reaching the outskirts of Paris.

Gare du Nord station – where Eurostar arrives in Paris

9. What happens once I arrive in Gare du Nord station?

Once you arrive, you’ll just step off the train and walk out of the station- you’ve already gone through customs in England.

On my most recent trip I heard an overhead notification on Eurostar that customs is now in place as the UK has left the EU but I saw no sign of customs on arrival at Gare du Nord. Be prepared to have your passport ready if required.

10. How do I get to my hotel from Gare du Nord station?

I’d recommend taking a taxi from the station unless you’re comfortable with the Metro.  To hail a taxi simply walk out of the station, turn right and join the line at the taxi rank at the side of the station. If you get off the train quickly, you’ll be at the head of the line/queue!

Travel onward to other Paris rail stations using a taxi, Metro or bus. On a recent trip I had to get to Montparnasse station so I chose to hail a taxi to keep it simple.  I can attest that 1 hour is just enough time to get from Gare du Nord to Montparnasse as long as you have a speedy taxi driver!

For an onward journey from Paris by train, book as far in advance as possible for the best fare. I used Trainline to book my trains in Europe too.  I find the app is so helpful for planning and the ease of buying tickets in whatever currency you choose.

Book a hotel near Gare du Nord station or anywhere in Paris

Train travel is so much more relaxing than catching a flight. You’re not wasting time getting to an airport 2-3 hours ahead of time and you don’t have to check bags. Or liquids! I hope you have a fabulous time exploring Paris!

Do check out my favorite neighborhood. Rue Cler is the perfect intro to Paris and walking distance to the iconic Eiffel Tower!

There’s so much to see and do in Paris, here’s a peek

I’ve also written an handy guide to alternatives to taking the Eurostar to France; try my recommendations for driving!