Get to England in a flash with Eurostar!

Good news for travellers between London and Europe: the Eurostar experience at London St Pancras station could soon become much smoother.

Today, travelling to or from London still involves a process similar to an airport: early check-in, security screening, customs clearance and waiting in a dedicated area. Passengers are generally advised to arrive up to 60 minutes before departure, or even more during busy periods.

But the London station wants to simplify this process. The stated goal is clear: reduce check-in time to a maximum of 30 minutes before departure and let passengers access their train more directly, without a long wait in the boarding area. This change would make the experience faster and more comfortable.

This project is part of a wider transformation of St Pancras station. Works estimated at £100 million are planned to expand the spaces and increase capacity. In the short term, the station is aiming for 2,700 passengers per hour compared to around 1,800 currently, with demand potentially tripling by 2040.

This modernisation is also preparing for the arrival of new rail operators in the Channel Tunnel, which could end Eurostar's monopoly on this strategic route.

For travellers, this ultimately means faster boarding, smoother flow and a less demanding experience when connecting London to major European capitals.

Eurostar fares vary depending on the travel date, how far in advance you book, the destination and the class chosen. Starting prices generally range between €29 and €44 one way in Standard class, depending on the route.

Eurostar currently offers three levels of comfort:

1. Eurostar Standard: the most economical option. It includes a comfortable seat, dedicated luggage space and access to basic onboard services. Ideal for travelling on a budget.

2. Eurostar Plus: more space and comfort. Depending on the route, this class includes a more spacious seat and an additional onboard service.

3. Eurostar Premier: the premium experience. It includes great flexibility on tickets, priority boarding and premium services onboard and in stations.

Sample indicative prices (one-way adult)

What factors influence the price?

• Advance booking: booking 3 to 6 months ahead gives access to the best fares.
• Seasonality: prices rise during peak season, school holidays and weekends.
• Round trip: some fares are more advantageous when booking a return directly.
• Discounts: specific offers for young people, seniors and children, subject to conditions.

Tictactrip tip: always compare the different classes before booking. The price gap between Standard and Plus can sometimes be small on certain dates. With Tictactrip, you can check timetables, compare options and combine your journey (for example from Narbonne via Paris) with ease.

Eurostar offers a free assistance service for travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility (PRM). This service provides support in the station and onboard so you can travel in the best possible conditions.

How does Eurostar assistance work?

• Support from the meeting point to the train.
• Help during security and passport checks.
• Boarding assistance via ramps or adapted platforms.
• Help getting off the train on arrival.

It is recommended to book assistance at least 24 hours in advance via the Eurostar website or customer service. On the day of departure, go to the assistance point (for example at Paris Gare du Nord, on the ground floor) about 30 to 60 minutes before departure, depending on the station.

More official information is available here: Eurostar assistance service .

Travelling in a wheelchair

Manual or electric wheelchairs are accepted under certain conditions:

• Maximum width: 70 cm
• Maximum length: 120 cm
• Maximum weight (including the person): 300 kg
• Anti-tip device required

Dedicated spaces are available onboard (often located in Premier class, at the Standard fare for those concerned). Foldable scooters are accepted if they meet the permitted dimensions.

Fares and companions

• A specific fare may apply for wheelchair users on certain routes.
• The companion may be eligible for a free or reduced-fare ticket depending on the situation.
• Guide dogs travel free of charge.

Practical tips

• Clearly state your needs when booking (wheelchair type, assistance required, presence of a companion).
• For trips to the United Kingdom, a valid passport is still required.
• From a city like Narbonne, plan an accessible connection with a TGV and SNCF's Assist'enGare service if needed.

Major stations such as Paris Gare du Nord or London St Pancras have adapted facilities to make your journey easier.

When travelling between France and England, your Eurostar train goes through the Channel Tunnel, which is 50.45 km long. The crossing takes around 35 minutes, at a speed limited to 160 km/h for safety reasons.

This underwater passage is only a portion of the total journey. For example:

Inside the tunnel, there's no outside view, but you enjoy the usual onboard comfort: spacious seats depending on the class chosen, power sockets and Wi-Fi on most trains.

For a journey from the south of France, such as Narbonne, plan a TGV to Paris Gare du Nord (about 5 to 6 hours), then a connection with Eurostar. This is often simpler and more direct than a trip combining flights or ferries.

Yes, it is possible for a minor to travel with Eurostar, but the rules vary depending on the child's age and destination.

Rules by age

• Under 4 years old: travels free if seated on an adult's lap. A ticket can be purchased if you want a dedicated seat.

• 4 to 11 years old: child fare applies. The minor must be accompanied by an adult aged at least 16.

• 12 to 15 years old: can travel alone on certain routes (e.g. Paris–London, on trains running between 6am and 5pm), provided they present a Eurostar unaccompanied minor form, signed by a parent or legal guardian at the station on the day of departure.

  The form can be downloaded here: Eurostar unaccompanied minor form .

• 16 to 17 years old: can travel alone like adults, provided they have the required documents.

Required documents

• Valid passport for all travellers (trips to the United Kingdom).
• Exit authorisation (AST) for minors residing in France travelling without a holder of parental authority. Document available here: Exit authorisation (AST) .

Please note: children under 12 cannot travel alone. Additional restrictions may apply on certain routes (particularly to or from the Netherlands).

If you're travelling from a city like Narbonne with a connection in Paris, make sure to allow enough time between trains and check that all documents are in order before departure.

Eurostar timetables vary depending on the day, season and departure station. For example, on the Paris – London route, there are generally 15 to 17 direct trains a day, departing roughly every 30 to 60 minutes, between 7am and 9pm.

The average journey time from Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras is around 2h15 to 2h30, depending on the timetable chosen.

Sample Paris – London timetables (weekdays)

• 07:09 → 08:30
• 09:03 → 10:30
• 11:10 → 12:30
• 13:09 → 14:30
• 17:09 → 18:30
• 19:09 → 20:30
• 21:09 → 22:30

Other popular routes exist:

• Lille – London: about 7 to 8 trains a day, 1h22 journey time.
• Brussels – London: about 2h journey time.
• Amsterdam – London: about 4h.

Check timetables with Tictactrip

To find out exact real-time timetables, the easiest way is to search directly on Tictactrip. You can:

• Compare all available Eurostar trains.
• View updated timetables.
• Combine a TGV + Eurostar (e.g. Narbonne – Paris – London) in a single itinerary.
• Compare with other modes of transport if needed.

As timetables may change (weekends, public holidays, engineering works), it is always advisable to check availability before booking.

Search for your route now on Tictactrip and find the timetable that best suits your journey.

Eurostar serves several major stations in France, the United Kingdom, Belgium and the Netherlands. These stations are equipped for the security and passport checks required for connections through the Channel Tunnel.

Eurostar stations in France

• Paris Gare du Nord: Eurostar's main hub in France. It's the departure point for London, Brussels and Amsterdam. The station is served by metro lines 2, 4 and 5, as well as the RER, buses and taxis.

• Lille Europe: direct connection to London in about 1h22. The station is connected to national TGVs, TER trains and Lille's urban transport network.

• Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy (Disneyland Paris): convenient station for family stays and certain connections to the United Kingdom depending on the period.

Seasonal or connecting departures are also possible from cities such as Lyon, Avignon or Marseille, generally via Lille or Paris.

Station in the United Kingdom

• London St Pancras International: Eurostar's British terminus. Located right in the centre of London, the station offers numerous connections with the underground (Victoria, Northern, Piccadilly, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan) as well as with national buses and trains.

Other major stations in Europe

• Brussels-Midi (Belgium): a strategic station for connections to London and links to other Belgian cities.

• Amsterdam Centraal and Rotterdam Centraal (Netherlands): direct connections to Paris, Brussels and London depending on the timetable.

From the south of France (for example Narbonne), you need to take a TGV to Paris Gare du Nord or Lille Europe before boarding a Eurostar. Be sure to check connection times when booking.

Eurostar offers a free loyalty program called Club Eurostar, open to all travellers aged 16 and over. It lets you earn points on every booking and use them to get discounts, upgrades or even free tickets.

How does Club Eurostar work?

• Earning points: 1 point per euro or dollar spent (1.2 points per pound sterling). Bonuses apply depending on your loyalty tier.
• Status Points: they let you move up a tier (Avantage, Carte Blanche, Étoile) and access additional benefits.
• Validity: points expire after 24 months of inactivity.

Using your points

• "Value" tickets redeemable from around 1,000 points.
• Upgrades (e.g. from Standard to Plus) from around 600 points.
• Flexible "Anytime" tickets.
• Specific benefits depending on status (e.g. companion vouchers at Étoile level).

Program tiers

• Classic: entry-level tier, standard earning.
• Avantage: priority access and bonus points.
• Carte Blanche: lounge access subject to conditions.
• Étoile: maximum flexibility and premium benefits.

Promotions and special offers

In addition to the loyalty program, Eurostar regularly offers promotional deals and flash sales accessible via its website or app. Partnerships also exist, notably with hotel groups, allowing you to convert or earn points.

Signing up for Club Eurostar is free and can be done directly on the official website. If you travel regularly (for example Narbonne – Paris – London), remember to enter your membership number with every booking to earn points faster.

Tictactrip tip: before booking your Eurostar ticket (London – Paris or any other route), check the terms of the chosen fare carefully. Cancellation rules vary greatly depending on the class and ticket type.

Conditions by fare

• Standard / Plus: Cancellation possible up to 7 days before departure, with fees of around €25 or £25 per person and per journey. Exchanges are generally free up to 1 hour before departure (with payment of the fare difference if the new ticket is more expensive).
• Premier: Free cancellation possible, up to 48 hours after the scheduled departure. Exchanges are also free (excluding any fare difference).
• Light / Basic / SNAP: Non-refundable and non-exchangeable tickets.

How to cancel or change your ticket?

This is done directly via the "Manage my booking" section on the Eurostar website or app. The refund can be issued to your original payment method, as an e-voucher or as points (depending on your choice). Processing usually takes up to 14 days.

In case of train cancellation or delay

If the train is cancelled or delayed by more than 60 minutes by Eurostar, you can request:

• A full refund of the ticket,
• Or a free rebooking on another train.

Please note: in case of no-show at departure, the ticket is forfeited and no refund is possible.

For a journey with a connection (e.g. Narbonne – Paris – London), it may be worth choosing a flexible fare if your schedule is likely to change.

Eurostar check-in works similarly to that of an airport, with security and passport checks carried out at the station before boarding for the United Kingdom.

Steps to follow

1. Online check-in (recommended): 2 to 3 days before departure, you can complete your details via the Eurostar website or app (booking reference + passport information). You then receive your e-ticket with barcode.
2. Arrival at the station: Arrive 60 to 90 minutes before departure depending on your station (75 to 90 minutes recommended at Paris Gare du Nord). Scan your ticket at the automatic gates.
3. Security and passport checks: Your luggage goes through the scanner, then you go through passport control (automatic gate if you have a biometric passport).
4. Platform access and boarding: The platform is usually announced about 20 minutes before departure. It's advisable to be ready to board 5 to 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Important times

• Check-in opens about 60 to 90 minutes before departure.
• The gates close strictly 30 minutes before departure in Standard and Plus.
• They close 15 minutes before in Premier class.

During busy periods (weekends, school holidays), allow extra time. If you're arriving from another city like Narbonne via Paris, plan your TGV connection so you have enough time for Eurostar checks.

For trips to the United Kingdom (Paris–London, Brussels–London, Lille–London), a security and passport check is carried out before boarding. Since the United Kingdom is not part of the Schengen area, these formalities are completed at the station before boarding, just like at an airport.

Checks include ticket verification, luggage scanning and identity document control. The gates close 30 minutes before departure in Standard and Plus, and 15 minutes before in Premier.

A high level of security

The Channel Tunnel has advanced safety systems: regular evacuation doors, a central service tunnel, misting fire-suppression systems, continuous monitoring and Franco-British coordination. Since the 2008 incident, no major accident has been recorded.

Comfort and services by class

• Eurostar Standard: reclining seats, comfortable legroom, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi (quality varies by route). Access to the onboard bar-buffet.

• Eurostar Plus: more spacious seats and catering service included depending on the destination. Ideal for a more comfortable journey without going all the way to Premium.

• Eurostar Premier: access to station lounges (subject to availability), priority boarding, meals and drinks served at your seat, greater flexibility on tickets.

Traveller feedback generally highlights the speed and comfort of the city-centre-to-city-centre journey, even if delays can occur during busy periods. By choosing the class that suits your budget, you can adjust the level of comfort you want.

For a journey with a connection from the south of France (for example Narbonne via Paris), choosing Plus class can offer a better balance between price and comfort on a longer trip.

Transporting animals with Eurostar depends on the type of animal and the route. Rules are stricter for connections to or from the United Kingdom.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs

Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all Eurostar routes, including to/from London. They must have the required documents (European pet passport, rabies vaccination, mandatory treatment for the UK) and it is recommended to notify Eurostar at least 24 hours before departure.

Pets to/from London

As a general rule, pets are not allowed on routes connecting to the United Kingdom (Paris–London, Brussels–London, etc.), except for assistance dogs.

Animals on continental routes (France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany)

• Small animals (under 6 kg): allowed free of charge if they travel in a closed carrier (maximum dimensions 45 x 30 x 25 cm). The animal must stay in its carrier for the entire journey.
• Dogs over 6 kg: allowed on certain continental routes with a specific ticket (approximately €30). They must be kept on a leash, wear a muzzle and stay at their owner's feet.
• Prohibited animals: birds, exotic pets and dogs classified as dangerous are not admitted.

Required documents

• European pet passport.
• Up-to-date rabies vaccination.
• Treatment against echinococcosis (mandatory for entering the UK, 1 to 5 days before travel).

The train manager may adjust seating if necessary to ensure the comfort of other passengers.

For a Narbonne – Paris – London journey, only guide and assistance dogs are allowed on the Eurostar leg to the United Kingdom. It is recommended to check current rules at the time of booking.

The Channel Tunnel, also known as the Chunnel, connects France to the United Kingdom between Coquelles (near Calais) and Folkestone. It is a strategic rail link for high-speed trains such as Eurostar, allowing fast travel between Paris and London.

At 50.45 kilometres long, including 37.9 kilometres under the sea, it is the longest undersea tunnel in the world. The structure comprises two rail tunnels dedicated to passenger and freight trains, plus a central service tunnel used for maintenance and safety. Its maximum depth reaches around 75 metres below sea level.

The idea of a tunnel linking the two countries dates back to 1802, but the modern project took shape in the late 1980s. Construction began in 1988 and finished in 1994, involving nearly 13,000 workers. The first commercial Eurostar train ran in November 1994, marking the start of direct rail links between London and continental Europe.

It's important to distinguish between Eurostar, which carries passengers between London, Paris, Brussels, Lille or Amsterdam, and Getlink (formerly Eurotunnel), the infrastructure operator that runs the Le Shuttle vehicle service. Today, the Paris–London journey takes around 2h15 on the fastest connections.

A true engineering feat, the Channel Tunnel remains a powerful symbol of the rail connection between the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, offering a fast and more sustainable alternative to flying.

Eurostar's cancellation policy depends on the type of fare chosen. It's important to distinguish between a train cancellation by Eurostar (major delay or cancellation) and a voluntary cancellation of your ticket. Conditions and refunds vary depending on the situation.

Conditions by ticket type

In case of delay or cancellation by Eurostar

• Delay of more than 60 minutes: compensation may be possible.
• Train cancellation: full refund or free rebooking on another departure.
• Requests are made via your online account or customer service.

Refunds are generally processed within 14 days, depending on the original payment method (bank refund, voucher or loyalty points depending on the case).

How to make a request?

• Via the "Manage my booking" section on eurostar.com or the app.
• Up to 60 minutes before departure for a change (depending on fare).
• If you booked via Tictactrip, contact Tictactrip customer service directly for assistance.

Important: unlike plane tickets bought online, there is no automatic 14-day right of withdrawal for train tickets. If you're unsure about your dates (for example for a Narbonne – Paris – London journey), choose a flexible fare.

To travel easily with Eurostar, the simplest option is to buy your ticket online. Booking in advance (3 to 6 months ahead) generally gets you the best prices.

Recommended official websites

• eurostar.com or the Eurostar app: direct booking, seat selection, full management of your trip and an electronic ticket with barcode.
• sncf-connect.com: handy for travellers departing from France, especially for combining a TGV + Eurostar journey (e.g. Narbonne – Paris – London) in a single booking.

Booking with Tictactrip

Tictactrip lets you compare offers and combine different modes of transport (train, bus, carpooling), including Eurostar. The advantage: you can view several possible routes and book in just a few clicks, especially if you're departing from a city that requires a connection.

By centralising options on a single platform, you save time and can optimise your journey based on your budget or travel time.

Other purchase options

• Ticket counters and machines in stations (SNCF in France, SNCB in Belgium, NS in the Netherlands).
• Accredited travel agencies.
• Online comparison sites (watch out for possible extra fees).

The ticket is generally issued in electronic format (e-ticket). Simply show the barcode on your smartphone or a printed version at the station check.

To board a Eurostar train, you must present a valid ticket, either electronic (on your smartphone via the Eurostar or Tictactrip app) or printed. The barcode will be scanned at the station access gates.

Mandatory identity document

For all international Eurostar journeys, a valid passport is required, including for babies and children. Since Brexit, a passport has become mandatory for travel to the United Kingdom.

In certain very specific cases, a biometric national identity card may be accepted for travel to/from London, but it is strongly recommended to travel with a valid passport to avoid any risk of denied boarding.

Travel to the United Kingdom: additional formalities

• ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation): mandatory for EU citizens travelling to the United Kingdom. This authorisation is completed online, is paid and valid for 2 years.
• API (Advance Passenger Information): you must provide your passport details in advance via the Eurostar website or app (generally 2 to 3 days before departure).

Special cases

• French minors travelling without a legal guardian: exit authorisation (AST) + a copy of the signing parent's ID.
• UK residents: a valid passport meeting the duration requirements for entering the EU.

When checking in at the station, you will need to present your ticket and passport before going through security and customs checks.

For a Narbonne – Paris – London journey, be sure to have: a Eurostar ticket, a valid passport and an approved ETA. Once these documents are in order, you'll pass through the checks without any issues.

As of today, there are no longer any specific Covid-19 restrictions for travelling with Eurostar. No test, proof of vaccination, health form or quarantine is required for journeys between France, the United Kingdom, Belgium or the Netherlands.

Eurostar nevertheless applies any measures decided by national authorities in the event of an exceptional health situation. The company reserves the right to adapt its terms of transport if necessary.

It is recommended to check the official information 24 hours before your departure on the Eurostar website to make sure no temporary measures have been put in place.

Documents required to travel

• Valid passport for journeys to the United Kingdom.
• Eurostar ticket (mobile or printed format).
• Exit authorisation (AST) for French minors travelling without a legal guardian.

For a Narbonne – Paris – London journey, no special health formalities are required: only the usual security and passport checks apply.

Didn't find the answer to your question in our FAQ? There are several ways to contact Eurostar customer service directly.

By phone (from France)

+33 (0)1 70 70 60 88
Available every day from 8am to 8pm (French time). Cost of a local call. This number lets you manage your bookings, changes, refunds or assistance requests.

For Eurostar Carte Blanche Club members: +33 (0)1 70 70 60 87 (specific weekday and weekend hours).

Online

• Official form: Contact Eurostar customer service
• Direct email: traveller.care@eurostar.com (remember to include your 6-letter booking reference – PNR).
• The "Manage my booking" section on eurostar.com or via the app: often the fastest way to change or exchange a ticket.

At the station

You can also speak to Eurostar staff at the stations served, including:

• Paris Gare du Nord
• London St Pancras International
• Lille Europe
• Brussels-Midi

By post

Eurostar Customer Service
112 Rue de Maubeuge
75010 Paris

For a journey from Narbonne with a connection in Paris, the French number covers your entire trip. If you need specific assistance (reduced mobility, unaccompanied minor), be sure to mention it when you get in touch.

Eurostar offers a more flexible baggage allowance than air travel: no weight limit is imposed, provided you can carry and handle your luggage on your own. However, the number and dimensions are regulated depending on the class and destination.

Baggage allowance to/from London

Continental routes (e.g. Paris – Brussels)

On some routes outside the United Kingdom, dimensions may be stricter (around 75 x 53 x 30 cm, 32 kg maximum per bag). Beyond that, extra fees may apply.

Important rules to know

• Liquids allowed with no volume limit (unlike air travel), except for specific restrictions on alcohol.
• Security checks at the station: luggage scanned before boarding.
• Prohibited items: undeclared weapons, certain animal-derived food products heading to the UK, oversized items not permitted.
• Folding pushchairs accepted free of charge.

Bikes and special equipment

• Folding bikes (≤ 85 cm once folded) can be carried on board.
• Non-folding bikes must be dismantled and placed in a bike bag, or handled via a dedicated service subject to availability.
• Skis and snowboards are allowed on seasonal routes to the Alps.

Tip: label your luggage with your contact details and arrive early to get through checks calmly. For a Narbonne – Paris – London journey, two suitcases per adult is generally enough for a typical trip.

Yes, in most cases it is possible to choose or change your seat on Eurostar, subject to availability. Selection is made at the time of booking or after purchase, via the "Manage my booking" section on the Eurostar website or app.

Depending on your journey and class

• To/from London (e.g. Paris–London): seat selection is generally free, whether at booking or afterwards. An interactive map lets you view available seats and their orientation.

• Between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany: seat selection is available in Plus and Premier classes. It is not offered in Standard or on certain promotional tickets (such as SNAP).

• Interrail / Eurail tickets: a seat is assigned automatically, but it can be changed online using your booking reference (PNR), subject to availability.

How to choose or change your seat?

1. Log in to your account via "Manage my booking".
2. Select the "View / Change seats" option.
3. Choose your seat on the interactive map.
4. Confirm the change for each passenger.

The carriage map shows the direction of travel, allowing you to avoid facing backwards if that bothers you. You can also opt for a window seat or group several seats together if travelling as a family or group.

Tip: for a journey with a connection (for example from Narbonne via Paris), book as early as possible to have a wider choice of seats.

To travel with Eurostar to or from the United Kingdom, security and passport checks are carried out before boarding. It is therefore advisable to arrive at the station 60 to 90 minutes before departure, particularly when departing from Paris Gare du Nord.

Recommended arrival times by station

How does boarding work?

• Check-in opens around 1h15 before departure.
• Checks include ticket verification, security screening and passport control.
• Gates close 30 minutes before departure in Standard and Plus.
• They close 15 minutes before in Premier class.
• The train departs exactly on time: no delay caused by the passenger allows boarding after gate closure.

Practical tips

• At weekends or during school holidays, allow extra time (up to 120 minutes during busy periods).
• If you're arriving from another city (for example Narbonne via Paris), add the connection time with your TGV.
• Always check the recommended arrival time shown on your ticket: it can vary depending on the station and your class.