Is Eurostar the Only Train From London to Paris?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip from London to Paris, you might be wondering if the Eurostar is your only option for train travel. The answer is no – there are a few other train services that operate between these two cities.

Other Train Services from London to Paris

While the Eurostar is undoubtedly the most popular and well-known train service between London and Paris, there are two other options to consider: Thalys and the Intercités.

Thalys

Thalys is a high-speed train service that operates between Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne. While it’s not exclusively a London-Paris service, it does offer direct trains between the two cities. Thalys trains depart from St. Pancras International station in London and arrive at Paris Nord station in just over 2 hours.

Intercités

The Intercités is a French domestic train service that also offers routes to neighboring countries. There are several Intercités trains per day that travel from Gare du Nord station in Paris to London’s St. Pancras International station. The journey takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.

Why Choose a Different Train Service?

While the Eurostar is certainly convenient and fast (with a journey time of just 2 hours and 15 minutes), there are some reasons why you might choose to take a different train service:

  • Cost: Depending on when you book your tickets, Thalys or Intercités trains can sometimes be cheaper than the Eurostar.
  • Flexibility: While the Eurostar has multiple daily departures, you may find that Thalys or Intercités schedules better suit your travel plans.
  • Routes: If you’re planning to travel to another European city beyond Paris, the Thalys may be a more convenient option as it offers direct services to Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne.

Conclusion

So, while the Eurostar is the most well-known train service between London and Paris, it’s not your only option. Thalys and Intercités both offer convenient and affordable services between these two great cities. When planning your trip, be sure to consider all your options to find the train service that best suits your needs.