Fancy a weekend getaway to Paris by car? That is perfectly possible by driving your own car to take the train or ferry and cross the channel into the world of art, croissants and wine. As an experienced traveler, let me share my secrets for a wonderful trip.
Can You Drive a Car from England to France?
You can’t drive your car all the way from England to France because there is no road connecting the two. It is easy to take your car to France by boarding a ferry or put your car on the Eurostar train and ride through the Tunnel. Tickets are sold per car and booking in advance is advised.
In this article we look at the differences between taking the ferry and the tunnel. What documents you should not forget to pack and end with a few tips to enjoy your time in France.
Can you get from England to France by car?
Yes, it is easy to get from England to France by car by taking a ferry or taking the train through the Eurotunnel. From London to Calais takes around 3,5 hours including boarding and off boarding the train. The train is the fastest way to cross the channel by car. The ferry is cheaper but slower.
However there are more ferry connections then tunnels. So depending on where you are coming from in the UK it might be faster for you to take a different route. Take a look at the map below showing the most common ferry routes between the UK and France. The longer the distance the more expensive the ferry ticket. As well as the fact that ferries are notoriously slow.
Everything about taking the train from England to France
The advantages of the train are simple, it is faster than any ferry crossing and you cannot get seasick because you are traveling under the water, not over. It is also the best way tot travel with a pet, because they stay with you in the car at all times. On the ferry you are not allowed to stay with your vehicle and sometimes have to leave your pet behind.
Do you stay in your car on the Channel Tunnel?
Yes, on the train that goes through the Channel Tunnel you stay in your own vehicle. There are toilets on the carriages but due to COVID they are closed. The ride takes 35min but the whole endeavour takes up to 1,5 hours with loading and unloading so make sure to bring plenty of entertainment for the journey.
Before departure you will be told to open all doors, windows, air vents and skylights. This is to ensure you can hear all announcements and so that the automatic fire extinguishing system will be effective in case of fire on board your coach.
Can you take a motorbike on Eurotunnel?
When you travel by motorcycle on the Eurostar from the UK to France you have to stay within 2 meters of your bike while on the train. There are no seats so it’s not a bad idea to bring a camping chair of some sorts. I recommend a Helinox One chair as they are lightweight and comfortable.
Book your ticket on www.eurotunnel.com
What do you need to drive from UK to France?
- Valid Photocard Drivers Licence
- Log book (V5C) Car Papers
- Green Card Vehicle Insurance
- Reflective Warning Triangle
- Reflective Safety Vest (at least 1)
- A GB sticker if your number plate has the Euro symbol with no flag or identifier.
When you continue traveling through Europe make sure to double check what else is mandatory to carry in your car. Use the overview below as an indication but always double check with the AA what the specific rules are.
Other regulations you have to take into account
- Using a mobile phone without a hands-free set while driving is forbidden in most EU countries;
- In some countries, the use of daytime running lights and/or winter tyres is mandatory;
- The maximum permitted blood alcohol level varies: some countries do not allow any alcohol in the blood while driving
Is driving in France difficult?
Except in Paris, driving in France is quite easy. The roads are well maintained and people drive very disciplined. Signage is usually straight forward and clear. Toll roads are great for long distance driving but can be expensive, stay on the regional roads to avoid them.
Is it hard driving on the right side of the road?
Switching sides can be quite intimidating but most people adjust very quickly by following the other traffic. Pay attention when there are no other people around because that is when people tend to forget on which side to drive.
3 tips to enjoy France
1. Don’t be rude
Don’t forget that more and more people are speaking English and especially other tourist. Thinking that you are not understood and gossip about the lady at the next table is incredibly rude.
2. Learn some French
Bonjour, Merci, Au revoir. A few French words can go a long way. Try to learn a few sentences and you’ll find that it generates a smile on most peoples faces.
3. Take is slow
The pace in the French countryside is different from your fast lifestyle in London. Let it go, leave it be. Enjoy the show. Don’t be in a hurry because there is no point.
3 unique places to visit while in France
1. Etretat Cliffs, Etretat - Normandy
Most people drive straight past Normandy on their way to the southern beaches, but this place is not to be missed. The Cliffs of Etretat are some of the most enchanting places of France and a lot less crowded that some other spots in France.
2. ”Ille-sur-Têt Organs”, Languedoc Roussillon
In the South of France, close to Perpigan you can walk around this fantastic showcase of wind erosion. The geological sight of Ille-sur-Têt Organs is a feast for the eyes and a great place for a day hike.
3. Sea of Ice, Chamonix
Spectacular is an understatement for the ice cave experience in Chamonix. Take the train up the mountain and walk through the ice feeling the cold radiate from around you. Walk down (part of) the mountain for an active day activity.
Related questions that might interest you
Is there a bridge from France to England?
No, there is no bridge connecting France and the UK. The distance is too far and it would be unpractical with the large ships passing through the Channel. Instead, engineers designed and built a tunnel that bridges the gap between the island and the mainland.
Is there a bridge from UK to Europe?
No, there is no bridge connecting France and the UK. The distance is too far and it would be unpractical with the large ships passing through the Channel. Instead, engineers designed and built a tunnel that bridges the gap between the island and the mainland.
Can you drive a car through the English Channel tunnel?
No, you cannot drive your car through the tunnel because there are only train tracks. Due to safety concerns of accidents happening in the middle of the tunnel the project was designed as a train tunnel where safety could be guaranteed. You can drive your car on the train and get to the other side within 35 min.
Can you drive between France and England?
You can’t drive your car all the way from France to England because there is no road connecting the two. It is easy to take your car to France by boarding a ferry or put your car on the Eurostar train and ride through the Tunnel. Tickets are sold per car and booking in advance is advised.