Driving from London to Paris

When planning a holiday abroad, the first mode of transport that often comes to mind is flying.

This is particularly true for UK citizens, as the UK is an island nation with no direct land borders, making air travel a common and convenient choice.

However, if you’re planning on a European trip, you can actually drive from England to France via the Eurotunnel from Folkestone.

This makes the journey from London to Paris by car possible for any British motorist that has a valid UK passport.

The route from the UK’s capital to Paris may be a long one, but it's well worth it for those seeking the freedom of a road trip and the chance to explore scenic stops along the way.

Planning Your Journey

Driving from London to Paris can be an enjoyable experience, but preparation is key.

From essential documents to route planning, taking the time to prepare will help you avoid unnecessary stress on the road.

What You'll Need Before You Travel

Before setting off, ensure you have everything you need for a smooth journey. This includes:

• A valid UK passport
• Your driving licence (UK licences are valid in France)
• Vehicle insurance that covers driving in Europe
• Your car's V5C logbook to prove ownership
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence was issued in Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man

Vehicle Preparation Tips

Ensuring your vehicle is ready for the journey is crucial. Before driving from London to Paris, consider the following:

• Check your tyres: Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth for long-distance driving.
• Top up fluids: This includes oil, coolant, and windscreen washer fluid.
• Headlamp adjusters: UK cars have headlights that dip left, so you'll need to adjust them for driving on the right in France.
• Reflective jackets: In France, it is mandatory for each occupant of the car to have a hi-vis or reflective jacket. These jackets must be easily accessible from inside the vehicle.

The Route Explained

The drive from London to Paris is relatively straightforward, combining British motorways, the Eurotunnel, and French highways.

Step 1: Driving from London to Folkestone

Starting in London (central), head southeast toward the M20 motorway towards Folkestone. The drive typically takes around 2 hours depending on traffic. Ensure you arrive at the Eurotunnel terminal with some time to spare for check-in and boarding.

Step 2: Taking the Eurotunnel to Calais

The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is one of the fastest ways to cross the English Channel by car. The crossing from Folkestone to Calais takes approximately 35 minutes. While onboard, you'll remain in your vehicle for the duration of the journey.

Step 3: Driving from Calais to Paris

Once you arrive in Calais, you'll join the A16 motorway heading south before switching to the A1, which leads directly into Paris. The journey from Calais to Paris is roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Use Google Maps as a reference to keep you right on your specific journey.

Understanding French Road Rules

Driving in France is different from driving in the UK. Key rules to remember include:

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road
• Speed limits vary; on motorways, it's generally 130 km/h (around 80 mph), but this drops to 110 km/h (around 68mph) in wet conditions
• Always carry the required safety equipment (e.g., warning triangle, reflective jacket)

Want a comprehensive guide on driving in France? Read our article to learn the ways of the French roads.

Navigating Toll Roads in France

Most French motorways are toll roads, known as "autoroutes".

Tolls are charged based on distance and vehicle type, with toll booths generally accept both cash and card, as well as contactless options being pretty common.

However, keeping some euros handy is always a good idea – better to be safe than sorry!

Costs and Budgeting

Driving from London to Paris involves several costs.

To budget effectively, consider the following:

• Eurotunnel fares: Prices vary depending on travel time, but expect to pay between £59-100 for a standard vehicle.
• Fuel costs: The journey from London to Paris is roughly 300 miles, so budget accordingly.
• Toll charges: Expect to pay approximately €20-30 in toll fees on French motorways.
• Parking in Paris: Central parking can be costly, so research your options in advance.

Recommended Stopover Destinations

If you're in no rush, consider exploring some fantastic destinations along the way:

• Rouen – A historic city with beautiful timber-framed houses and a famous cathedral
• Lille – A vibrant city with excellent shopping, museums, and dining options
• Arras – Known for its stunning squares and impressive architecture

Final Thoughts

Is driving from London to Paris worth it? Absolutely.

While the journey may be longer than hopping on the Eurostar or catching a flight, driving gives you the flexibility to explore new places along the way and travel at your own pace.

For those seeking an adventurous road trip through the heart of France, driving offers a rewarding experience filled with memorable sights and scenic routes.