Can You Drive to Paris From UK?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a trip from the UK to Paris and wondering if you can drive there? The answer is yes, driving to Paris from the UK is possible. However, there are some important things that you need to consider before embarking on this journey.

Driving from the UK to Paris

Driving from the UK to Paris involves crossing the English Channel, which separates the two countries. Currently, there are two options for crossing the Channel – by ferry or by Eurotunnel.

Ferry

Taking a ferry is one of the most popular ways to cross the Channel. There are several ferry operators that offer services between numerous ports in the UK and France. The journey time varies depending on your starting point and destination but typically takes between 1-2 hours.

Pros:

  • Flexible travel times
  • You can take your own vehicle
  • The option for overnight crossings with cabin accommodation

Cons:

  • The journey time can be longer compared to Eurotunnel
  • Ferry crossings can be affected by weather conditions
  • You may experience seasickness during rough sea conditions

Eurotunnel

Eurotunnel is an underground train service that connects Folkestone in Kent (UK) to Calais (France). The journey time is much quicker compared to taking a ferry, taking only 35 minutes.

Pros:

  • Quick journey time
  • You can take your own vehicle
  • No risk of seasickness as it’s an underground train

Cons:

  • Less flexible travel times compared to ferries
  • Not as many departure points compared to ferry services
  • The cost can be higher compared to ferry services

Driving in France

Once you have crossed the Channel, you will find yourself on French soil and ready to drive to Paris. However, there are some important things to remember when driving in France.

Tips for driving in France:

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road
  • Speed limits are in kilometers per hour (km/h)
  • You must carry a warning triangle and reflective jacket in your car at all times
  • You will need a breathalyzer kit in your car (although this law is not currently enforced)
  • The legal blood alcohol limit is lower than in the UK (0.5mg/ml compared to 0.8mg/ml)

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from the UK to Paris is possible and there are two main options for crossing the Channel – by ferry or Eurotunnel. Both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately it depends on your personal preference. Once you have arrived in France, make sure that you familiarize yourself with the rules of the road before embarking on your journey to Paris.