How Fast Does Eurostar Travel? Speed, Routes, and Travel Tips

The Eurostar, a high-speed passenger train, is a popular choice for travel between London and major European cities. If you’re wondering How Fast Does Eurostar Travel and planning a trip from London to Paris, Lille, Brussels, or Amsterdam, TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to help. This article will explore the Eurostar’s speed, routes, fares, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the details of Eurostar and see what makes it a unique and efficient travel option.

1. What is Eurostar and How Fast Does It Travel?

Eurostar is a high-speed train service that connects London with Paris, Lille, Brussels, and Amsterdam through the Channel Tunnel. Running since 1994, the Eurostar is primarily owned by SNCF French Railways, with SNCB Belgian Railways and overseas investors holding minority stakes. Eurostar offers a swift and comfortable alternative to flying. Eurostar trains can reach a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) on high-speed lines, ensuring quick and efficient travel between major European cities.

Don’t confuse Eurostar with Getlink (formerly Eurotunnel), which owns the Channel Tunnel and operates the Le Shuttle car-carrying trains between Folkestone and Calais.

In 2022, Eurostar merged with Thalys. While Thalys trains are now branded as Eurostar, this article focuses on the original Eurostar services to and from London.

2. Planning Your Eurostar Trip

Before embarking on your Eurostar adventure, here’s what you need to consider:

2.1. Eurostar Routes and Times

Eurostar offers several routes connecting London to major European cities. The most popular route is London to Paris, with frequent daily services. Other routes include London to Brussels and London to Amsterdam.

Route	Average Travel Time	Frequency
London to Paris	2 hours 15 minutes	Several times daily
London to Brussels	2 hours	Several times daily
London to Amsterdam	3 hours 52 minutes	Twice daily

2.2. Eurostar Fares and Finding the Cheapest Prices

Eurostar fares vary depending on the time of booking, class of service, and availability. To secure the best prices, it’s recommended to book in advance. Fares from London to Paris or Brussels start at £52 one-way or £78 return. Eurostar Plus (1st class) fares start at £115 one-way and £199 return.

Tips for Finding the Cheapest Fares:

Book in Advance: Eurostar fares, similar to airfares, tend to increase as the travel date approaches. Booking several months ahead can help you secure lower prices.
Check for Special Offers: Eurostar often releases special offers and discounts. Keep an eye on their website and social media channels for the latest deals.
Travel During Off-Peak Times: Traveling during off-peak hours or days can result in cheaper fares. Consider traveling mid-week or during the shoulder season.

2.3. How to Buy Eurostar Tickets

You can purchase Eurostar tickets online, through the Eurostar app, or by phone. For the best experience, consider the following options:

Online: Purchase tickets at www.eurostar.com or www.sncf-connect.com without any booking fees.
Eurostar App: Download the Eurostar app for easy booking and mobile ticketing.
Phone: Call 03432 186 186 in the UK or +44 1233 617575 from overseas. Note that there is a £10 phone booking fee unless you are buying Eurostar Premier tickets.

2.4. Eurostar Classes Explained

Eurostar offers three classes of service: Standard, Eurostar Plus, and Eurostar Premier. Each class provides a different level of comfort and amenities.

Eurostar Standard: This is the most economical option, offering comfortable seating, free WiFi, and access to the cafe-bar cars.
Eurostar Plus: Ideal for leisure travelers, Eurostar Plus provides wider seats, more legroom, and a complimentary cold meal with drinks.
Eurostar Premier: Designed for business travelers, Eurostar Premier includes fully-flexible tickets, access to Premier lounges, fast-track check-in, and a hot meal with champagne and drinks.

2.5. Choosing Your Seat on Eurostar

Selecting the right seat can enhance your Eurostar experience. Consider these tips when choosing your seat:

Groups: If traveling in a group, opt for seats around a table for a more sociable experience.
Couples: In first class, choose a face-to-face table for two.
Direction: Use seat maps to determine forward-facing seats. Car 1 is always at the London end, while car 16 or 18 is at the Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam end.
Proximity to Bar: Choose a seat near the bar car for easy access to refreshments.

2.6. Useful Eurostar Phone Numbers

Keep these numbers handy for any inquiries or assistance:

Eurostar Telesales: 03432 186 186 (UK) or +44 1233 617575 (overseas)
Lost Property (London): 020 7928 0660 (+44 20 7928 0660 from outside the UK)
Lost Property (Paris): 00 33 155 31 58 40
Lost Property (Brussels): 00 32 2 224 88 62
Eurostar Customer Relations: 020 7928 5163 or email [email protected]

3. Check-In, On Board, and The Journey

3.1. Check-In Procedures

Arriving at the station with ample time is crucial for a stress-free journey. Eurostar recommends checking in 60-90 minutes before departure, but you must check in at least 30 minutes before departure. Eurostar Premier passengers and Carte Blanche loyalty cardholders can check in just 15-20 minutes before departure.

3.1.1. Check-In at London St Pancras

Ticket Check: Scan your ticket’s QR code at the check-in gates.
Security Check: Place your bags through the X-ray machine and walk through the metal detector.
UK Passport Check: Staff at a desk will scan your passport.
EU Passport Check: French police in a kiosk will check and stamp your passport.

After these steps, you can relax in the departure lounge, which offers shops, a bar, a café, and charging points.

3.1.2. Check-In at Paris Gare du Nord

Eurostar Terminal: Located on the first-floor balcony opposite platform 17.
Ticket Check: Scan your ticket’s QR code at the check-in gates.
EU Passport Check: French police check your passport.
UK Passport Check: UK Border Force checks your passport.
Security Check: Put your bags through the X-ray machine.

After check-in, the departure lounge offers seats, toilets, shops, and cafes.

3.1.3. Check-In at Brussels Midi

Channel Terminal: Located off the main concourse at the platform 1 end, marked Channel Terminal.
Ticket Check: Scan your ticket’s QR code at the ticket gates.
Security Check: Place your bags through the X-ray machine.
EU Passport Check: Belgian police check your passport.
UK Passport Check: UK Border Force checks your passport.

After check-in, the departure area features a vast duty-free shop, seating, toilets, and a café.

3.2. On-Board Facilities, Food & WiFi

Eurostar trains provide a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable journey.

Food and Drink: Eurostar Premier includes a complimentary hot meal, while Eurostar Plus offers a cold meal. All passengers have access to bar cars serving a variety of refreshments.
Power Outlets: Power outlets are available at all seats for charging laptops and mobile devices.
Free WiFi: The e320 and refurbished e300 trains offer free WiFi in all classes. You can stream TV shows and movies at onboard.eurostar.com.
Luggage: Passengers can bring two large items of luggage (up to 85cm in any one dimension) plus a small item of hand luggage.

3.3. The Eurostar Journey Experience

Traveling on the Eurostar is an experience in itself. The journey from London to Paris offers scenic views and efficient travel.

Departure from St Pancras: As the train leaves St Pancras, it passes through tunnels and crosses the wastelands of east London.
Dartford Crossing: You’ll see the impressive Queen Elizabeth II suspension bridge on the right.
Medway Viaduct: The train crosses the viaduct high over the River Medway, offering dramatic views.
Channel Tunnel: The 20-minute journey through the Channel Tunnel is an anti-climax but a marvel of engineering.
Northern France: After emerging from the tunnel, the train speeds through the flat farmlands of northern France.
Arrival in Paris: The train arrives at platforms 3-6 at the Gare du Nord, where you can easily access taxis, the metro, and other transport options.

3.4. Eurostar E320 and Refurbished E300 Trains

Eurostar operates two types of trains: E320 and refurbished E300. Both offer free WiFi and power sockets at all seats.

E320 Trains: These trains can reach a top speed of 320 km/h. They have a modern interior and provide a comfortable travel experience.
Refurbished E300 Trains: The original Eurostar trains have been completely refurbished with new interiors, offering a similar experience to the E320 trains.

4. Luggage & Facilities on Board

4.1. Food & Drink on Eurostar

Eurostar trains offer various food and drink options to cater to different tastes.

Eurostar Premier: Passengers in Eurostar Premier enjoy a complimentary hot, airline-style three-course meal served at their seat. This includes breakfast on trains departing before 11:00 and lunch/dinner with complimentary wine, champagne, beer, or soft drinks on later departures.
Eurostar Plus: Eurostar Plus passengers receive a simple cold tray meal. Similar to Premier, breakfast is served on trains leaving before 11:00, while lunch/dinner with complimentary beverages is available on later trains.
Bar Cars: All passengers have access to the bar cars, located in cars 6 & 13 in the refurbished e300 trains and in cars 8 & 9 on the new e320 trains. These bars offer a variety of refreshments, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, beer, wine, spirits, sandwiches, wraps, and hot dishes like Chicken Tikka Massala. Credit cards and cash are accepted. Passengers can enjoy their purchases in the bar area (standing space only) or take them back to their seats.
Bring Your Own: Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, for consumption on board.

4.2. Power Outlets for Laptops & Mobiles

Staying connected is easy on Eurostar trains, as both the e320 and refurbished e300 trains are equipped with power outlets at every seat. This allows you to charge your laptops, tablets, and mobile phones throughout the journey, ensuring you remain productive or entertained.

4.3. Free WiFi, TV Shows & Movies

The e320 and refurbished e300 trains provide free WiFi in all classes. Passengers can access a selection of TV shows and movies to stream for free at onboard.eurostar.com. This service also provides journey information, allowing passengers to stay updated on their trip.

Mobile phone voice and data reception are available throughout most of the Eurostar journey, including inside the Channel Tunnel. French telecoms companies provide coverage in the northbound tunnel (towards London), while British telecoms companies cover the southbound tunnel (from London).

Free WiFi is also available at St Pancras International station for all travelers. WiFi access at Paris and Brussels is available, but may require payment.

4.4. Luggage on Eurostar

Traveling with luggage on Eurostar is straightforward and more convenient than flying.

No Check-In: Unlike air travel, you do not need to check in your bags. You keep them with you throughout the journey. Small or medium-sized bags (up to backpack size) can be placed on the overhead rack, while larger items should be stored on the big suitcase racks located at the end of each coach, just inside the entrance doors.
Labeling: It is essential to label your bags with your name (first name and surname). Free paper labels are available at the terminal if you forget to bring your own.
Luggage Limits: Eurostar permits each passenger to bring two large items, with a maximum dimension of 85cm in any one direction, plus a small item of hand luggage. There is no weight limit, so you can pack as much as you like, provided it fits through the X-ray machines.
Items Over 85cm: Although there is an official size limit of 85cm in any one dimension, this rule is often relaxed as long as the items fit through the X-ray scanners. Passengers frequently bring guitars, tubes with rolled-up plans, and other slightly oversized items without issue.
Skis & Snowboards: One pair of skis or a snowboard (of any length) is allowed on Eurostar.
Guitars & Other Musical Instruments: Eurostar’s policy on musical instruments states that items under 85cm long are permitted without issue. For items over this length, you may need to pay a child rate for an additional seat.
Alcohol: Passengers can bring and consume their own wine or beer, provided they do not become a nuisance to other travelers. Typically, this is limited to 1 bottle of wine or 4 cans of beer, or 1 small bottle of spirits. More can be transported if unopened in your bags.

4.5. Prohibited Items

Certain items are prohibited on Eurostar trains for safety and security reasons.

Knives: Any knife with a blade over 3 inches is prohibited.
Firearms and Explosives: These are strictly prohibited.
Ice Axes: Since 2018, ice axes are not permitted on Eurostar.

4.6. Taking a Bicycle

If you plan to travel with your bicycle, Eurostar offers specific services to accommodate you.

Registered Bikes: Bicycles can be transported on Eurostar, but you must register them in advance. This service costs extra.
Folding Bikes: Folding bikes that meet the size requirements for luggage can be carried on board without registration.

For more information on taking a bike on Eurostar and European trains, visit Taking a bike on Eurostar & European trains.

Unfortunately, dogs and other pets are not allowed on Eurostar trains, with the exception of guide dogs.

5. What’s The Journey Like?

This section describes a journey from London to Paris, but the journey from London to Brussels is identical until just after Lille, where the train leaves the Paris route and enters Belgium for the last half hour or so.

5.1. The Train Leaves St Pancras

The train manager announces that your Eurostar train to Paris is about to leave. The doors hiss shut, and the Eurostar eases itself out of the magnificent arched trainshed of St Pancras International Station. The train heads north and makes a sharp right-hand turn past the huge steel gasometers behind Kings Cross/St Pancras, now listed structures. Within minutes, it enters a covered bridge across the tracks leading out of Kings Cross station, becoming a long tunnel under east London.

5.2. East London & Dartford Crossing

About 5 minutes after leaving St Pancras, you’ll glimpse daylight and the platforms of Stratford International station, served only by domestic high-speed trains. Around 8 minutes after departure, the Eurostar emerges from the tunnel and crosses the wastelands of east London, passing warehouses and run-down housing estates. Just 10-12 minutes from St Pancras, the impressive Queen Elizabeth II suspension bridge, part of the Dartford Crossing, comes into view on the right. The Eurostar then plunges back into a short tunnel to cross underneath the Thames.

5.3. Over the Medway Viaduct

The Eurostar now runs at its full service speed of 186mph (300 km/h). Just 15-20 minutes after leaving London, the train crosses the most dramatic structure on the new high-speed line – the viaduct high over the River Medway. You’ll see small boats moored on the muddy riverbanks far below. To the left, you can see Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle in the distance.

5.4. Across Rural Kent

The Eurostar train speeds through rural Kent, with villages nestled at the foot of the chalky hills to the left. Some Eurostars still call at Ashford International station, while most now “fly” over the town on a huge flyover, offering views of the town center to the left and the old Southern Railway Ashford works to the right.

5.5. Into the Channel Tunnel

Just 35 minutes from St Pancras, the fields and hedgerows of east Kent give way to the roadways and check-in lanes of the Folkestone Eurotunnel terminal. This is where cars and lorries are loaded onto the Eurotunnel car-carrying shuttle trains. Your Eurostar train passes non-stop through the middle of the terminal, and the train manager announces that you are about to enter the Channel Tunnel.

Passing through the Channel Tunnel takes just 20 minutes. The tunnel is like any other rail tunnel, only a bit longer. As a precaution, the yellow fire safety doors between each pair of coaches are closed during the transit, but you can still pass through freely if you want. You still get phone reception inside the tunnel now, with mobile data too.

5.6. Welcome to Northern France

The Eurostar bursts into daylight again at up to 100 mph and you’re now in France. You’ll see the French terminal for the car-carrying trains away to your left. If you look to the horizon on the left, you can just see the distinctive clock tower of Calais town hall. A handful of Eurostar trains call at Calais-Frthun, a few miles from Calais town center, but others just start accelerating onto the French high-speed line. The line follows the contours of the land like a motorway, and you’ll feel the Eurostar rising onto the hills and settling into the dips. The area of Northern France is largely flat farmland dotted with villages built around ancient stone churches. The Eurostar may call at Lille or simply pass through on the center tracks. The line to Brussels curves off to the left soon after Lille. Paris is now less than an hour away.

5.7. Your Train Arrives in Paris

The high-speed line to Paris ends just short of Paris Gare du Nord, and the Eurostar passes seamlessly onto a short stretch of conventional line to complete its journey into Paris Gare du Nord. The Gare du Nord is also the station for trains to Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne in Germany, and you’ll see red & silver Eurostar (formerly Thalys) trains heading to and from these places.

Eurostar arrives at platforms 3-6 at the Gare du Nord. You get off the train and walk forward through the open glass gates off the end of the platform onto the concourse. Turn right for taxis, forward & veer left for the escalator down to the metro & RER, or just head out into the streets of Paris. There are no checks or other formalities to go through on arrival – you just walk off the train.

6. Changing in Paris or Brussels

6.1. Changing Trains & Stations in Paris:

See the Paris metro page for detailed instructions on navigating the Paris Metro.

6.2. Changing Trains in Brussels:

See the Brussels Midi station guide for a short cut guide.

7. The Train & Ferry Alternatives

7.1. London to Paris:

See the train & ferry page for ferry alternatives.

7.2. London to Amsterdam, Central & Eastern Europe, Scandinavia via Harwich-Hoek van Holland

7.3. North of England & Scotland to Mainland Europe by Ferry

8. European Rail Timetable & Maps

The European Rail Timetable (formerly the Thomas Cook European Timetable) has train & ferry times for every country in Europe plus currency & climate information. It is essential for regular European train travelers and an inspiration for armchair travelers.

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south. Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.

9. Hotels in London or Paris

9.1. A Paris Hotel for a Romantic Break

For a truly special hotel for a luxury break or romantic weekend, L’Hotel is a small, sumptuous, intimate choice. Rooms are on the cozy side but beautifully decorated and have character that bigger and flashier hotels lack.

9.2. Hotels Near the Gare du Nord & Other Paris Stations

Various hotels near Paris train stations offer convenience and comfort.

Hotels near the Gare du Nord: Libertel Gare du Nord Suede, 25 Hours Terminus Nord, Art Hotel, Avalon Hotel, Hotel Cambrai.
Hotels near the Gare de l’Est: Libertel Gare de l’Est Franais, OKKO Hotels Paris Gare de l’Est.
Hotels near the Gare de Lyon: Hotel Terminus Lyon, Mercure Paris Gare de Lyon, Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon.

9.3. Affordable Hotels near London St Pancras

Affordable hotels close to St Pancras with good reviews include Alhambra Hotel, Meridiana Hotel, MacDonald Hotel, Angus Hotel, and Crestfield Hotel.

9.4. Top Choice: St Pancras Renaissance Hotel

The luxurious and beautifully restored 5-star St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a great choice. Designed by Sir George Gilbert-Scott, it first opened in 1873 as The Midland Grand Hotel.

9.5. It’s Arch-Rival: Great Northern Hotel

Another classic railway hotel, the Great Northern Hotel, re-opened after refurbishment to top-class standards in 2013. On each floor, you’ll find a pantry with complimentary coffee, tea, cake, and even jelly-babies.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Eurostar travel:

How fast does Eurostar travel? Eurostar trains can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on high-speed lines.
How do I book Eurostar tickets? You can book tickets online at www.eurostar.com, through the Eurostar app, or by phone.
What are the different classes of service on Eurostar? Eurostar offers three classes: Standard, Eurostar Plus, and Eurostar Premier.
Can I bring luggage on Eurostar? Yes, you can bring two large items of luggage plus a small item of hand luggage.
Is there WiFi on Eurostar? Yes, free WiFi is available on the e320 and refurbished e300 trains.
Can I take my pet on Eurostar? Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on Eurostar trains, except for guide dogs.
What is the check-in process for Eurostar? The check-in process involves ticket verification, security screening, and passport control.
Are there power outlets on Eurostar? Yes, power outlets are available at all seats on Eurostar trains.
Can I bring my own food and drinks on Eurostar? Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board.
What happens if my Eurostar is delayed? Eurostar offers compensation for delays, depending on the length of the delay and the terms of your ticket.

Conclusion

The Eurostar offers a unique blend of speed, convenience, and comfort for travel between London and major European cities. Understanding how fast does Eurostar travel, the available routes, and the various amenities can significantly enhance your travel experience. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, TRAVELS.EDU.VN provides you with all the information you need to plan your next Eurostar journey.

Ready to book your Eurostar adventure? Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today for expert advice and personalized travel planning. Let us help you create unforgettable memories.

TRAVELS.EDU.VN
Address: 123 Main St, Napa, CA 94559, United States
WhatsApp: +1 (707) 257-5400
Website: travels.edu.vn