When planning a trip from London to Paris, finding the cheapest mode of transportation is essential for many travelers. Fortunately, there are several options available that won’t break the bank. In this article, we’ll explore the cheapest ways to travel from London to Paris.
By Bus
One of the most affordable ways to travel from London to Paris is by bus. There are several companies that offer this service, including Flixbus, Megabus, and Eurolines. These buses typically depart from London’s Victoria Coach Station and arrive at Paris’ Porte Maillot or Gallieni bus stations.
The journey can take anywhere from 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and border control lines, but the cost is usually around £15-£30 one way. Some companies even offer overnight services which can save on accommodation costs.
Pros:
- Extremely cheap
- Several departure times available
- Overnight services save on accommodation costs
Cons:
- Journey time can be long
- Traffic and border control delays can occur
- No facilities like toilets or food are provided in some buses.
By Train
Eurostar is the most popular train service between London and Paris, it travels directly between St Pancras International station in central London and Gare Du Nord station in central Paris. The journey takes around 2 hours 15 minutes so it is faster than any other mode of transportation; however, it comes at a cost.
The standard fare for a one-way ticket is around £80-£100 but if you book well in advance or use a railcard then you can get cheaper fares. There are also other train services available like Thalys, which can be cheaper sometimes.
Pros:
- Fast and efficient
- Comfortable journey
- Direct service from city center to city center
Cons:
- Tickets can be expensive if not booked in advance
- No overnight services available
- Limited departure times available.
By Carpooling
Carpooling has become increasingly popular in recent years and is a great way to travel from London to Paris on a budget. Several websites connect drivers with empty seats in their cars with passengers traveling the same route.
The journey time can vary depending on traffic, but it usually takes around 6-7 hours. The cost of carpooling is typically around £20-£30 one way.
Pros:
- Cheaper than other modes of transportation
- Friendly and social way of traveling
- Flexible departure times available.
Cons:
- Journey time can be long because of traffic
- No facilities like toilets or food are provided.
- The driver may not speak your language.
In conclusion, there are several affordable ways to travel from London to Paris. By bus, train, or carpooling – each mode of transportation has its own pros and cons.
Consider your budget, travel time, and preferences before making a choice. With careful planning and research, you’ll be able to find the cheapest option that suits your needs.