How to Take the Eurostar From London to Paris (2026): A Quick Guide
Looking to take the Eurostar from London to Paris? Read this quick guide to go from Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower in a flash! From a London travel blogger.
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London and Paris, two of Europe’s most iconic cities filled with history, culture, and breathtaking sights, are just a two-hour train ride apart.
Thanks to the Eurostar, a high-speed train service, this journey is both easy and effortless.
I’ve taken the Eurostar from London to Paris for countless adventures, from a solo trip to Paris to tons of work and couple trips to the city of lights.
Whether it’s your first-time aboard or if you’re simply looking to perfect your London to Paris travel routine, here’s a quick step-by-step guide on taking the Eurostar from London to Paris.
Don’t have time to read the whole article? Find the cheapest Eurostar tickets on Trainline.
Arrive at St Pancras International Station 45-50 minutes before your journey and tuck in for a 2-hour and 16-minute journey from London to Paris!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
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How to Take the Eurostar from London to Paris
P.S. – Coming to London first? Have the perfect trip planned for you with our 3,5, or 7-Day London Tourist Itineraries 🇬🇧
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
Eurostar makes tickets available up to six months in advance, and often, the earlier you book, the better the deal.
You can purchase tickets directly from their official website or through other online travel platforms like Trainline to find the cheapest ticket (this is what I personally use).
When choosing your ticket type, keep in mind your budget, comfort level, and flexibility.
Eurostar offers three types of classes: Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier, providing various amenities and services for each.
The Standard class offers affordable comfort, while Standard Premier adds more space and a complimentary meal. Business Premier assures flexible booking, exclusive lounges, and faster check-ins.
💭 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
St Pancras International in King’s Cross is where your journey to Paris from London will begin.
The station is easily accessible via various London Underground lines, including Northern, Victoria, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan (here’s how to get around London if you’re new to the transport system). You can also catch National Rail services to this station.
In terms of when to arrive, it’s best to come at least 45-60 minutes before your scheduled departure.
3: Checking-in at St Pancras International
Once you arrive at St Pancras International, head to the Eurostar departure area (you’ll either see it as soon as you enter or follow the signage).
You’ll check-in via the automated ticket gate using the barcode on your ticket. Once scanned, the gates will open to let you through!
P.S. – If you have a Business Premier ticket you can use the fast-track line for a swift check-in.
4: Passport & Security Controls
Yes, there’s a border on this train journey!
With Eurostar, you’ll need to pass immigration before you step onto the train and have the appropriate visa if necessary to visit France.
The process is incredibly quick compared to an airport and you’ll simply go through UK exit checks followed by French entry checks. Keep your passport or ID handy.
Following this, you’ll pass through a quick security screening, similar to those at airports, but there’s no liquid restrictions.
5: Boarding the Eurostar
After clearing passport controls and security checks, you’ll find yourself in the departure lounge. There’s a Pret, very few shops and bathrooms here (but not much else!).
While you’re waiting you can grab a quick coffee or breakfast, and keep an eye on the departure boards which display the platform number around 15-20 minutes before departure.
Once on the platform, find your carriage seat on your ticket, and get ready to enjoy your London to Paris Eurostar ride!
6: Your Eurostar Journey
What is the Eurostar?
Now that you’re settled, it’s time to enjoy the journey.
The trip from London to Paris takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, dropping you straight in the city centre of Paris.
There’s technically free Wi-Fi onboard but especially in Standard class it can be a bit spotty, so I wouldn’t count on it.
Each seat comes with a power outlet and depending on your ticket class, you may also be served food and drinks.
7: Arriving in Paris
Your Eurostar train will terminate at Gare du Nord, one of the busiest rail stations in Paris.
Here, you can connect to other trains or the Paris Métro to reach your destination in the city of lights. Voila!
P.S. – Don’t forget to book your Eurostar ticket in advance!
Eurostar from London to Paris FAQ
Enjoying the Standard Premier ride on the Eurostar!
➡️ How much does it cost to go from London to Paris on the Eurostar?
The cost of a ticket from London to Paris on the Eurostar varies widely, depending on the travel date and time, how early you book, and the class of service.
But generally, the starting price for Eurostar tickets is £55-£57 for a one-way going up to £200+ if you book super last minute. To find the best-priced tickets consider using Trainline. It’s my go to!
➡️ Does the Eurostar go straight from London to Paris?
Yes, the Eurostar provides direct service from London to Paris.
➡️ Is it cheaper to fly or Eurostar to Paris from London?
The costs of Eurostar and flights vary widely. Depending on the time of booking, type of ticket, and extras like baggage fees or transfers, one might be cheaper than the other, although I do find the Eurostar to be more convenient than flying, especailly when it comes to luggage limits.
For the most accurate comparison compare prices on the exact dates you plan on travelling on Trainline for the Eurostar and Skyscanner for flights.
➡️ Where can I catch Eurostar from London to Paris? (Where is the train from London to Paris?)
You can catch the Eurostar from London to Paris at the St Pancras International station in King’s Cross.
➡️ Where does the train from London to Paris arrive?
The train from London to Paris arrives at Gare du Nord station in Paris.
➡️ How to find cheap Eurostar tickets from London to Paris?
I suggest using Trainline to find the cheapest Eurostar tickets from London to Paris as they compare train ticket prices (similar to Skyscanner) to find you the best deal. I use them all the time!
➡️ What is the London to Paris route on the Eurostar?
This train route operates on the Eurostar line which goes through the Channel Tunnel and ends at the Gare du Nord in Paris.
➡️ Is there a Eurostar from London to Paris timetable?
Yes, you can find the timetable here when booking your ticket.
➡️ Does the Eurostar from London to Paris go underwater?
Yes, part of the Eurostar’s route from London to Paris is underwater, as it travels through the Channel Tunnel.
➡️ How do I take the Eurostar from London to Disneyland Paris?
To take the Eurostar from London to Disneyland Paris you’ll need to take a train from St Pancras International in London to Marne-la-Vallée in France (the park is just moments away from the station) you can book your ticket here.
Thanks for reading my How to Take the Eurostar from London to Paris Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE PARIS & TRAVEL GUIDES:
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- How to Find the Cheapest Train From London to Paris (Every Time!)
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Happy travels,
