It is the most famous train connection in the world. You board in rainy London and step off 2 hours later in the center of Paris.
The Eurostar is a marvel of engineering. It travels through the “Chunnel” (Channel Tunnel) underneath the English Channel.
But because it crosses a non-Schengen border (UK to France), it is not like other trains. It feels more like an airport.
Here is what you need to know before you book.
The Check-In Process (Crucial!)
Unlike other European trains where you just hop on, Eurostar has security and immigration.
- Arrival Time: You MUST arrive at least 45-60 minutes before departure. If you are late, the gates close automatically.
- The Steps: Ticket gate ➡️ British Exit Passport Check ➡️ French Entry Passport Check ➡️ Security Scan (bags) ➡️ Waiting Lounge.
- Tip: The lines at London St Pancras can be long on Friday afternoons. Don’t risk it. Arrive early.
The Classes: Standard vs. Premier
1. Standard Class (Economy)
- The Seat: Comfortable, decent legroom (better than an airline).
- Food: None included. You can buy snacks at the “Café Métropole” bar buffet car.
- Verdict: Perfectly fine for a 2-hour trip.
2. Standard Premier (Premium Economy)
- The Perks: Bigger seats, more space.
- Food: A light meal and drinks (wine/beer/coffee) are served at your seat included in the price.
- Verdict: Worth it if you find a sale fare. Great for couples who want a 2-seat table.
3. Business Premier (First Class)
- The Perks: Fast-track check-in (arrive 10 mins before!), access to the Business Lounge (free cocktails and snacks), and a hot 3-course meal on board designed by Raymond Blanc.
- Verdict: Extremely expensive (€300+). Only worth it if your company is paying or you absolutely need the flexibility to change tickets.
The Tunnel Experience
Does it feel scary? Can you see fish?
- No fish: You are in a concrete tunnel under the seabed. It is pitch black outside.
- Duration: You are only in the tunnel for about 20 minutes. The rest of the journey is through the beautiful countryside of Kent (UK) and Northern France.
- Wi-Fi: Surprisingly, mobile signal and Wi-Fi usually work inside the tunnel!
Where Does It Go?
- Main Route: London St Pancras ➡️ Paris Gare du Nord.
- Other Routes: London to Lille, Brussels, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam.
Summary
The Eurostar beats flying every time. London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle are nightmares to navigate. St Pancras and Gare du Nord are architectural gems right in the city center.
Ready to cross the Channel? Book early. Eurostar prices rise like airline tickets. Check Trainline or the Eurostar website.
First time in London? Get the London Pass to see all attractions.
