Traveling from London to Paris: Eurostar vs. Flight vs. Bus
Traveling from London to Paris is one of Europe’s iconic routes. While the Eurostar train is a top choice for many, you might be wondering if flying or taking a bus is a better option for you. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make the best choice for your trip.
Quick Overview: Eurostar, Flight, or Bus?
Flight | Bus | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Travel Time | 2 hours 20 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes (flight time) + 3-4 hours airport time | 7-9 hours |
Luggage | Generous allowance | Extra fees for checked bags | Generous allowance |
Comfort | Spacious seats, free Wi-Fi | Small seats, less space | Limited comfort |
Price | £50–£150 (depending on timing) | £30–£150 (budget options) | £20–£50 |
Convenience | City centre to city centre | Far from city centre, transfers required | City centre to city centre |
1) London to Paris by Train (Eurostar)
![[usxanz] drive to paris - eurostar](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_1000/v1750778540/oikrgdnez8fgarunljdd.jpg)
Photo from Siemens Press
The Eurostar is a top choice for traveling between London and Paris due to its city centre-to-city centre convenience.
Departing from St Pancras International in London and arriving at Gare du Nord in Paris, it eliminates the need for long airport transfers or taxis. This direct access to central locations makes the journey incredibly convenient.
The Eurostar is also a quick and efficient way to travel. The train itself takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, which is faster than flying when you factor in the additional time spent at airports—security lines, waiting, and transfers can turn a short flight into a much longer travel day.
Photo Credit: Winston Tjia on Unsplash
Another major advantage of the Eurostar is its stress-free experience. Unlike airports, where long security lines and delays are common, Eurostar offers a more relaxed atmosphere with quicker and fewer checks, allowing you to enjoy your travel day without the usual hassles.
Comfort is also a key benefit. With spacious seats, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets, the Eurostar ensures a more comfortable journey, especially for longer trips. Plus, the generous luggage allowance—two large bags and a carry-on—means you can pack more without the worry of extra fees. The journey is made even more memorable by the Channel Tunnel, a 31-mile underwater passage that adds a unique touch to the experience.
2) London to Paris by Plane
![[usxanz] drive to paris - london heathrow airport](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_1000/v1750778771/pmvqwlgczilkvqotvn7n.jpg)
London Heathrow Airport | Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Flying from London to Paris takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes in the air, making it a quick option. However, the total travel time is often much longer. When you add the time spent getting to the airport, clearing security, and waiting for your flight, a flight can easily turn into a 3 to 4-hour ordeal. Additionally, airports are usually located far from the city centre, requiring extra time and expense for transfers.
Flying also comes with potential luggage fees, especially with budget airlines. Many low-cost carriers charge extra for checked luggage, so your savings on the flight could be eaten up by baggage fees if you're carrying more than a small carry-on.
While there are many flights throughout the day, budget airlines tend to have less flexible schedules and refund policies, which can be limiting if your travel plans change.
3) London to Paris by Bus
Photo Credit: harry_nl on Flickr | Taking the bus is the cheapest way to get to Paris, but it will take you about 9 hours
Taking the bus is the most affordable way to travel from London to Paris, with tickets sometimes as low as £20 if booked in advance. However, this comes with the trade-off of a much longer travel time.
Depending on traffic, the bus journey can take anywhere from 7 to 9 hours, making it the slowest option by far. This is best for those who are willing to spend more time traveling in exchange for saving money.
Despite the long journey, buses often have generous luggage allowances, and there are no surprise fees for extra bags, making this a great choice if you're carrying a lot of luggage. Additionally, buses operate regularly throughout the day and night, with flexible departure times, which can be convenient for those on a tight schedule.
Final Thoughts: Which Option is Best?
Have an easy, breezy trip to Europe’s top cities with the Eurostar! Photo Credit: @eurostar on Instagram
- For Comfort and Speed: Eurostar is the clear winner if you value convenience and comfort. It’s a quick, stress-free way to get to Paris, with plenty of space and a unique travel experience through the Channel Tunnel.
- For Budget Travelers: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, the bus offers the lowest prices, though expect a much longer journey.
- For Quick and Flexible Travel: Flying might be a good choice if you find a great deal, but remember to factor in airport travel time and potential delays.
London to Paris Travel Essentials
Tower of London, United Kingdom
Apart from pre-booking your transport tickets, it’s best to book a 5G eSIM in advance as well! There are two package types for you to choose from:
Data per day: choose among 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 15, 20, or 30 days (unlimited or 1GB)
Data in total: choose among 1, 7, 15, or 30 days (500MB, 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, or 20GB)
The 5G eSIM covers multiple areas in Europe, including Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Spain, Germany, and so many more! Getting an eSIM ensures that you stay connected all throughout your trip.
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