Traveling from London to Paris on the Eurostar: What I Learned & What I’d do Differently

But as dreamy as that sounds, there were a few things we learned (the hard way) that could have made our journey smoother. Here’s everything I wish I’d known before taking the Eurostar from London to Paris.

My Tips & Tricks

Secure Your Tickets Early for the Best Rates

This was our first lesson. While the Eurostar offers an amazing, stress-free alternative to flying, ticket prices can skyrocket if you don’t book in advance. We originally saw tickets for $250 for two, but by the time we were ready to buy, the price had shot up to $370. A small difference, but it stung knowing we could’ve saved that extra cash for croissants and cappuccinos in Paris!

Download the Eurostar App to Pick the Perfect Seat

This is something we did right and it made our journey so much more comfortable. The app allowed us to select seats with a table and ample legroom, making our ride across the Channel relaxing and enjoyable. We could spread out, enjoy snacks, and get a little work done while savoring the scenic views.

Arrive 30 Minutes Early to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

You may think the train station would be less stressful than the airport (and it is, to some extent), but don’t underestimate the time it takes to get through security and passport control. Trust me—the train will leave without you! We made it just in time, but I couldn’t help but feel a little panicked at the sight of the clock ticking down.

Grab Your Paris Metro Tickets on the Train for Easy Transit

This is something we regretted not doing. When we arrived in Paris, we thought we could easily catch a taxi to our hotel. Imagine our shock when a driver quoted us 80 euros for a ride! Had we bought Metro tickets on the train, we could have avoided waiting in a long line of people and dodged that absurd cab fare.

Plan Your Route to the Hotel Before You Arrive

Gare du Nord is an exciting (and slightly chaotic) place to arrive in Paris, but the Wi-Fi isn’t exactly reliable. We didn’t realize this until we stepped off the train and needed to navigate our way to the hotel. Thankfully, friendly locals pointed us in the right direction, but it would have been much easier had we researched our route while still on the Eurostar.

Exchange Currency Away from Train Stations for Better Rates

If there’s one thing to avoid, it’s exchanging money in train stations or airports. The commissions are outrageous, and you’ll end up with a lot less than you expected. I recommend heading to places like Rivoli or Opera to exchange currency at much more reasonable rates once you’ve settled in Paris.

As we settled into our seats and watched the scenic countryside pass by, I realized how much easier and more enjoyable this journey had become with just a few simple preparations. From booking the right seats to avoiding long lines at the station, it all contributed to a smooth experience. But beyond these little details, what really stood out was how convenient the Eurostar was compared to flying. No airport security hassles, no baggage fees, and plenty of legroom—this train ride felt like a breath of fresh air in comparison to the stress of airports. It’s these subtle conveniences that truly set the Eurostar apart, and why I’ll choose it again over a flight any day.

3 Reasons Why Taking the Eurostar is More Convenient and Efficient Than Flying

Free Luggage Allowance

Flying may seem cheaper at first glance, but when you factor in the cost of checked luggage, it quickly adds up. With the Eurostar, we were able to bring two large suitcases and a carry-on at no extra cost. This was a huge bonus, especially when traveling with gifts or souvenirs!

No Liquid Limits

Another perk of taking the train is that you don’t have to worry about the liquid restrictions you face at airports. Whether it’s your favorite skincare products or a bottle of wine, there’s no need to downsize or leave anything behind.

Scenic Views and Comfortable Seating

The journey between London and Paris is absolutely stunning. Rolling hills, quaint towns, and beautiful countryside views make the trip feel like a mini adventure before your main destination. And with the comfortable seating and ample legroom, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

At the heart of it all, traveling is more than just moving from one place to another. It’s about finding beauty in the journey, savoring the quiet moments between destinations, and embracing the spontaneity that makes each trip unique.

Taking the Eurostar from London to Paris gave us the chance to experience travel in a way that felt romantic, slow, and intentional—exactly how I believe life should be lived. By simplifying the logistics and focusing on the small joys, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in the adventure, leaving room for wonder and discovery.

Whether you’re catching a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower for the first time or simply enjoying a cup of coffee with your travel partner, never forget to find joy in those little moments. They are what make the journey truly magical.