Are you planning a trip from London to Paris and wondering if you can drive there? The answer is yes, you can definitely drive from London to Paris.
In fact, it can be a great way to explore the stunning countryside of England and France. However, there are a few things you need to know before embarking on this journey.
Documents You Need
Before you hit the road, make sure you have all the necessary documents with you. You will need your passport, driving license, and vehicle registration documents. If the car is not registered in your name, make sure you carry a letter of authorization from the owner.
The Route
The journey from London to Paris takes approximately 6 hours covering a distance of around 290 miles. There are several routes that you can take, but the most popular one is via Eurotunnel Le Shuttle or ferry.
via Eurotunnel Le Shuttle
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is the fastest way to get from London to Paris by car. It takes just 35 minutes to cross the Channel Tunnel which connects Folkestone in England with Calais in France. You can take your car on board and enjoy a smooth ride across the tunnel.
via Ferry
If you prefer a more scenic route and have some time on your hands, taking a ferry from Dover in England to Calais in France could be an option for you. The journey takes around 90 minutes and offers beautiful views of the English Channel.
The Cost
The cost of driving from London to Paris depends on various factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and accommodation if required. As of 2021, petrol prices in both countries are similar with an average cost of £1.20 per liter in England and €1.40 per liter in France.
You will also need to pay tolls for using the motorways. The toll charges vary depending on the route and the type of vehicle you are driving. On average, you can expect to pay around £40 for a one-way journey via Eurotunnel Le Shuttle and around £60 for a one-way journey via ferry.
The Rules of the Road
Driving in France is different from driving in England. Here are some important rules you need to keep in mind:
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road
- Overtake from the left
- Use of speed cameras is widespread, so make sure you stick to the speed limit
- Make sure you have a high-visibility jacket and warning triangle in your car as they are mandatory in France
- Do not use your horn in built-up areas except in cases of danger or emergency
The Bottom Line
Driving from London to Paris can be an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, plan your route, and familiarize yourself with the rules of the road before embarking on this journey. Bon voyage!