{"section": "routes", "title": "All ferry routes", "text": "The Eurotunnel connects Calais in France with Folkestone in England through a 50-kilometer tunnel under the English Channel. The journey takes just 35 minutes, making it significantly faster than the ferry connection. The tunnel consists of two separate tubes for train traffic in both directions and a service tunnel."}
By car through the tunnel
Drivers can use the "Le Shuttle" shuttle train. The vehicles are transferred to special transport wagons in Calais-Coquelles. Passengers remain seated in the car during the journey. The terminals are well signposted from the French highway A16 and the English highway M20. In Folkestone, follow the M20 towards London.
[Calais — Folkestone]
By train to London
The Eurostar high-speed train connects Paris Gare du Nord and Brussels South directly with London St Pancras International. From Germany, you can reach the Eurostar via Paris or Brussels. The journey time from Paris to London is approx. 2 hours and 15 minutes, from Brussels approx. 2 hours. The Eurostar offers various travel classes and has on-board restaurants.
Alternative 1: Ferry from Calais
As an alternative to the tunnel, there are regular ferries from Calais to Dover. The crossing takes around 90 minutes and is offered by three shipping companies: P&O Ferries, DFDS and Irish Ferries. P&O Ferries is the only company that also transports pedestrians.
The ferries are equipped with restaurants, stores and viewing decks and offer special travel comfort with sea views. You can reach London from Dover via the A2/M2 or A20/M20 in around two hours.
[Calais — Dover]
Alternative 2: Ferry from Dunkirk
Another option is the ferry connection from Dunkirk to Dover, which is operated exclusively by DFDS. The crossing takes two hours, but Dunkirk is usually quicker to reach from Germany than Calais. p>
The route is less frequented and the prices are often cheaper. These modern ferries also offer all the amenities for a comfortable crossing. As with the route via Calais, the onward journey to London is via the A2/M2 or A20/M20 highways.
[Dünkirchen — Dover]
Tips & practical advice
Bookings for Eurotunnel and Eurostar should be made as early as possible. Check-in for the car shuttle must take place at least 45 minutes before departure, for the Eurostar at least 30 minutes before departure. A valid passport is required to enter the UK. The terminals offer extensive services such as restaurants, stores and waiting rooms. In winter, it is advisable to book flexibly, as extreme weather conditions can lead to delays.