London to Paris is Europe's most-travelled international city pair — connected by the Channel Tunnel in two distinct ways. Eurostar takes 2 hours 15 minutes centre-to-centre, while Eurotunnel lets you drive your car through the 35-minute tunnel crossing, then drive on through France.
The Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord is the benchmark for city-centre to city-centre speed in Europe, beating flying door-to-door once airport time is counted. Driving via Eurotunnel at Folkestone–Coquelles adds flexibility for the French countryside.
Stops Along the Way
The Eurotunnel terminal in England — load your car for the 35-minute tunnel crossing to Coquelles, France.
Once in France, the autoroute south toward Paris passes the charming port towns of Calais and Boulogne-sur-Mer for a quick detour.
Tips for This Trip
Eurostar is the gold standard
For most trips without a car, Eurostar is unbeatable — 2h15m from central London to central Paris, with no airport queues.
Eurotunnel is the best car option
Eurotunnel's Le Shuttle service runs every 30 minutes — no booking required for last-minute crossings, and you stay in your car during the 35-minute tunnel.
Paris requires a Crit'Air sticker to drive in the city
Since 2019, driving in central Paris requires a Crit'Air vignette (environmental sticker). Order it online before your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Paris is about 210 miles (338 km) from London in a straight line (across the Channel). Via road and the Channel Tunnel, the distance is around 285 miles (460 km) from central London to central Paris.