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Paris to London: How to Travel

Quick Answer

The distance from Paris to London is 344 km. The Eurostar train is the best way to travel from Paris to London for most travelers. At just over two hours from Gare du Nord to St Pancras, it beats flying when you factor in airport transfers and security. Book 2–3 months ahead for fares as low as €50. The bus is the budget fallback, but the time cost is significant.

How to Get from Paris to London

ModeDurationCostBest For
🚆 Train 2h 16m €50–€250 Most travelers — fast, convenient, and stress-free
✈️ Fly 1h 15m (flight only) €40–€200 Budget travelers who book well in advance
🚌 Bus 7h 30m–9h €15–€50 Budget travelers with flexible schedules
🚗 Drive 5h 30m–6h €120–€180 (fuel + Eurotunnel) Groups of 3+ or those continuing a road trip
💡 Pro Tip

The best option depends on your priorities — read the detailed breakdown below.

🚆 Train from Paris to London

Duration: 2h 16m | Cost: €50–€250

Pros

  • City-center to city-center
  • No airport hassle
  • Comfortable and scenic

Cons

  • Peak prices can be steep
  • Limited luggage space
  • Sells out on popular dates

✈️ Fly from Paris to London

Duration: 1h 15m (flight only) | Cost: €40–€200

Pros

  • Cheapest option if booked early
  • Frequent daily flights
  • Fast flight time

Cons

  • Airport transfers add 2–3 hours
  • Baggage fees on budget airlines
  • Security queues

🚌 Bus from Paris to London

Duration: 7h 30m–9h | Cost: €15–€50

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Wi-Fi and power outlets
  • No booking deadline pressure

Cons

  • Very long journey
  • Uncomfortable for overnight
  • Delays at Channel crossing

🚗 Drive from Paris to London

Duration: 5h 30m–6h | Cost: €120–€180 (fuel + Eurotunnel)

Pros

  • Flexibility to stop en route
  • Good for groups splitting costs
  • Carry as much luggage as you want

Cons

  • Eurotunnel or ferry adds cost
  • London congestion charge
  • Parking expensive in both cities

Our Recommendation

The Eurostar train is the best way to travel from Paris to London for most travelers. At just over two hours from Gare du Nord to St Pancras, it beats flying when you factor in airport transfers and security. Book 2–3 months ahead for fares as low as €50. The bus is the budget fallback, but the time cost is significant.

Book Your Paris to London Trip

The Paris–London corridor is one of Europe's busiest routes, with millions of travelers making the crossing each year. The opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994 transformed this journey, and today the Eurostar remains the gold standard for speed and convenience. Trains depart roughly every hour during peak times, making it easy to fit into any itinerary.

If you're flying, London has six airports but only Heathrow and City offer reasonable transit times into central London. From Paris, CDG is the main hub, though Orly and Beauvais serve budget carriers. Factor in at least 90 minutes for check-in and security, plus transit on both ends, and the total door-to-door time often exceeds 5 hours.

For a more adventurous option, consider driving through the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle from Calais to Folkestone. The crossing takes just 35 minutes, and it's an experience in itself. Just remember that you'll switch from driving on the right to the left once you emerge in England — stay alert at roundabouts!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport to take the Eurostar from Paris to London?

Yes. Since the UK is no longer in the EU, all travelers need a valid passport. EU ID cards are not accepted for entry to the UK.

How far in advance should I book Eurostar tickets?

For the best prices, book 2–3 months in advance. Tickets go on sale about 6 months before departure. Last-minute fares can be 3–5x more expensive.

Can I take my car on the Eurostar?

No, but you can take your car on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, which is a separate vehicle-carrying train service from Calais to Folkestone.

What's the cheapest way to get from Paris to London?

FlixBus and BlaBlaBus offer fares from €15–€20. If you book Eurostar well in advance, you can sometimes find tickets for €39 each way.

Is there a time difference between Paris and London?

Yes, London is 1 hour behind Paris. When it's noon in Paris, it's 11:00 AM in London.

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