Are you planning to travel from London to Paris and wondering whether you can drive? The answer is yes, you can drive from London to Paris. However, there are several factors that you need to consider before embarking on this journey.
Driving in the UK and France
Firstly, it’s important to note that driving in the UK and France is quite different. In the UK, drivers drive on the left side of the road while in France they drive on the right side of the road. This means that if you are used to driving on the left side, you will need some time to adjust when driving in France.
Documentation
Another thing to consider is documentation. If you are planning to drive from London to Paris, you will need a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration documents, insurance documents, and a passport or ID card. Make sure that all your documents are up-to-date and valid before embarking on your journey.
Driving Routes
There are several routes that you can take when driving from London to Paris. The most popular route is via the Channel Tunnel or Le Shuttle as it is commonly known. This route takes around 3 hours including crossing time and involves driving from London to Folkestone where you board a train that takes you through the Channel Tunnel and onto Calais in France.
Another route is via ferry which involves driving from London to Dover or Newhaven where you board a ferry that takes you across the English Channel and onto Calais in France. This route takes around 4 hours including crossing time.
Tolls and Fuel Costs
When driving in France, there are tolls that you will have to pay along the way. The toll charges vary depending on the route taken but they can add up quickly so make sure that you budget for them accordingly.
Fuel costs also vary depending on where you refuel. It’s important to note that fuel is generally more expensive in France than in the UK so make sure that you have enough money to cover your fuel costs.
Driving Laws
When driving in France, it’s important to be aware of the driving laws. For example, it is mandatory to carry a warning triangle and high-visibility vest in your car, and you will be fined if you do not have them.
Speed limits are also different in France so make sure that you familiarize yourself with them before driving. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50km/h while on motorways it is 130km/h unless otherwise indicated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, driving from London to Paris is possible but requires careful planning and preparation. Make sure that all your documentation is up-to-date and valid, budget for tolls and fuel costs, familiarize yourself with the driving laws in France and drive safely. With these factors taken into consideration, you can enjoy a memorable road trip from London to Paris.