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All You Need To Know About Eurostar Train

Embark on the Eurostar, a high-speed rail journey that connects the heart of London to major European cities like Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. As you travel beneath the English Channel via the iconic Channel Tunnel, you’ll be transported through lush English countryside, rolling French fields, and the vibrant urban landscapes of Europe. From the historic landmarks of London to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Grand Place in Brussels, or the canals of Amsterdam, Eurostar opens the door to some of Europe’s most famous sights. Offering spacious seats, onboard dining, and seamless border crossings, this service ensures a hassle-free experience, making it a perfect choice for travelers who seek both efficiency and adventure.

Eurostar Routes

Eurostar train at platform in London station ready for departure.

Core Routes:

London to Paris
London to Lille & Brussels
London to Rotterdam & Amsterdam

Eurostar train traveling through scenic countryside in Europe.

Other Routes:

Eurostar Ski Train to the French Alps
Direct Eurostar to Lyon, Avignon, Marseille
London to Disneyland Paris 
Ebbsfleet & Ashford

Eurostar Trains - Need to Know

  • Frequency: Eurostar keeps you well-connected across Europe with frequent trains. London to Paris runs 17 times on weekdays (19 on Fridays), including seven non-stop options, while London to Brussels has 10 services, with three direct. 
  • Peak Times: More frequent services are available in the mornings and evenings; plan ahead to secure your preferred slot.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: The schedule may vary during peak holiday seasons and special events, including additional services for ski trips in winter and beach destinations in summer.
  • Duration: Typically 2 to 3 hours depending on the route; London to Paris in 2 hours 16 minutes; London to Brussels in 2 hours; London to Amsterdam in 3 hours 52 minutes.
  • Distance: Up to 500 km on cross-Channel journeys.
  • Recommended Tickets: Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Standard Premier, Business Premier; Eurail Global Pass and Interrail Pass holders can travel on Eurostar with seat reservations.
  • Reservation: Seat reservations are included with your ticket purchase.
  • Stops: Major stops include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Lille.
  • Ticket Types: Standard, Standard Premier, Business Premier.
  • Requirements: Eurostar ticket; valid passport or travel ID; visa may be required for non-EU travelers.
  • Facts: High-speed train reaching up to 300 km/h, with direct routes connecting the UK to Europe via the Channel Tunnel. It’s known for its comfort and efficiency.
  • For details on time, schedule and fares, we recommend that you check Eurostar’s pages.

Eurostar highlights:

  • High-speed travel: Journey from London to Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam in as little as 2 hours, traveling at speeds up to 300 km/h.
  • Channel tunnel: Experience the thrill of traveling through the world's longest underwater tunnel, connecting the UK to mainland Europe.
  • Seamless border crossings: Skip the airport queues with hassle-free customs and immigration checks at departure stations.
  • Onboard comfort: Enjoy spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and a variety of food and drinks from the onboard café bar.
  • Sustainable travel: Reduce your carbon footprint by opting for a more eco-friendly mode of transport than flying.
  • Frequent departures: Multiple trains run daily, offering flexible travel options for business and leisure.

Types of classes

Standard Class: Comfortable and Affordable
Standard Premier: Extra Space and Service
Business Premier: Ultimate Comfort and Flexibility
Family seated in Eurostar train Standard Class, Rail Europe journey.
  • Standard Class offers a comfortable, air-conditioned, and carpeted experience. 
  • Unidirectional setups and around tables of four, perfect for families or groups.
  • Power sockets and reading lights at every seat.
  • Fixed or drop-down tables are available with free Wi-Fi throughout the journey.
  • Access to café-bars; personal food and drinks are allowed.
  • Slightly reclined seats on newer and refurbished models (e320 and e300).
Passengers seated in Eurostar train Standard Premier cabin
  • First-class atmosphere for leisure and budget-conscious business travelers.
  • Wider seats with more legroom and elbow space; arranged in a 2+1 configuration.
  • Complimentary cold light meal with drink options (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).
  • Power sockets and USB ports are available at every seat with Free Wi-Fi. 
  • Quieter and more relaxed, it is ideal for travelers seeking luxury without the Business Premier price.
  • Slightly reclined seats with options for solo or face-to-face seating.
Eurostar train attendant serving meal to passenger in Business Premier seats.
  • Highest class on Eurostar, tailored for business travelers.
  • Fully flexible and refundable tickets.
  • Spacious seating similar to Standard Premier, designed for maximum comfort.
  • Access to exclusive business lounges for a premium experience.
  • Faster check-in process for added convenience.
  • Hot meal served at your seat, accompanied by champagne, wine, or other beverages.
  • Amenities like power outlets, USB ports, free Wi-Fi, and a personal reading light.
  • Ideal for those seeking the ultimate Eurostar experience, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

How to Buy Eurostar tickets

  • Official Eurostar website: Visit the Eurostar website to book tickets directly. This is the most convenient way to check fares, availability, and special offers.
  • Eurostar app: Download the Eurostar app to make easy bookings on your mobile device. You can also store e-tickets in the app for convenient access.
  • Train booking platforms: Websites like Trainline or Rail Europe allow you to purchase Eurostar tickets along with other European train tickets.
  • Station ticket counters: Eurostar tickets can be bought in person at ticket counters in major train stations that serve Eurostar routes.
  • Eurail/Interrail: If you have a Eurail or Interrail pass, you can reserve a seat on Eurostar by purchasing a discounted reservation through the respective pass websites. Eurostar tickets can be booked up to 11 months in advance.
Access Eurostar with Eurail Pass

With Eurail Pass

You can purchase a Eurail Pass by choosing between mobile or paper passes, which can be activated online or at any train station.

  • Easier planning: With a Eurail Pass, you can book your Eurostar seat in advance at a discounted fare, ensuring you have your seat reserved for this high-demand route..
  • Added perks: You can enjoy discounts on accommodation, museums, and attractions across Europe with your Eurail Pass.
  • Cost savings: This flexible offer includes discounted reservations on Eurostar.
  • Class options: Available in both First and Second Class.
  • Activation: Activate your pass within 11 months of purchase through the Eurail app or at a train station.
Access Eurostar train with Interrail Pass

With Interrail Pass

European residents can purchase the Interrail Pass from the official Interrail website for a convenient journey.

  • Eligibility: Interrail Passes are only for European citizens or residents.
  • Travel flexibility: Choose between flexible travel days or continuous travel periods.
  • Class options: Available in both First and Second Class.
  • Activation: Activate the pass through the Interrail app or at a local train station within 11 months of purchase.
  • Simplified journey: Travel when you want without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for every trip.
  • Cost-effective: Interrail Pass gives you unlimited access to various rail networks, including discounted seat reservations for Eurostar.

Are Eurostar tickets refundable or changeable?

Lady traveller at ticket counter

Standard and Standard Premier tickets

You can exchange the departure date and/or time of your ticket with no fee up until one hour before your original departure time. You can’t change your destination.

Tickets are refundable seven days or more before the date of departure for a fee. can be changed without a fee if modified at least 7 days before departure. Changes made within 7 days incur a fee (£30 in Standard or £40 in Standard Premier) plus any fare difference.

Man at ticket counter

Business Premier tickets

Offer full flexibility, including refunds until 1 hour after the departure time. Tickets are non-refundable more than 1 hour after departure time.

You can exchange the departure date and/or time of your ticket with no fee up until 1 hour after your planned departure time. You can’t change your ticket after this cut off point and you can’t change your destination station at any time.

If the cost of your new ticket is more than the cost of your original ticket, you will be required to pay the difference. However please note that if the cost of your new ticket is less than the cost of your original ticket, you will not receive a refund of the difference.

Plan Your Eurostar Train Journey

Eurostar Train Types
Train Types Identification
Perks of traveling on Eurostar
Accessibility on Eurostar
Eurostar train traveling through scenic countryside.

e320 Trains: Modern and Fast

  • Form the majority of Eurostar's fleet with 17 trains in total
  • Run at a maximum of 300 km/h on the London-Paris route. 
  • Sleek, contemporary design with spacious comfortable interiors 
  • Accommodates up to 900 passengers
  • Runs at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph)
  • Free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and a dedicated family area.
  • Accessible facilities, including spaces for wheelchair users and accessible restrooms.
Eurostar train traveling through lush green countryside in Europe.

e300 Trains: Refurbished Originals

  • Classic design, focusing on a relaxed travel experience.
  • Seats around 750 passengers, ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
  • Travels at a similar speed of up to 300 km/h
  • Onboard catering services, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets are available in most seating areas.
  • Designated wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
Asian couple in Europe checking train tickets

To identify your Eurostar train type, you can follow these steps:

  • Booking confirmation: Check your booking confirmation email or ticket. It typically specifies the train type (E320 or E300) along with the train number.
  • Eurostar website/App: Visit the Eurostar website or use their mobile app. Enter your travel details, and the train type will be displayed alongside the schedule and other information.
  • Station information: At the train station, look for departure boards that often indicate the train type next to the train number and destination.
  • Ask staff: If you're still unsure, Eurostar staff at the station can help you identify your train type.
Train attendant serving meals to passengers on Eurostar train journey.
  • Speed and convenience: Eurostar connects major cities like London, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam in just a few hours, saving you time compared to flying.
  • Comfortable seating: All classes, including Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier, offer spacious, comfortable seats with ample legroom, ensuring a relaxed journey.
  • Free wi-fi: Stay connected throughout your journey with free Wi-Fi access available in all travel classes.
  • Onboard dining: Enjoy a selection of snacks, meals, and drinks, with complimentary meals and drinks served in Standard Premier and Business Premier classes.
  • Eco-friendly travel: Eurostar is a sustainable choice, emitting up to 90% less carbon than an equivalent flight, contributing to greener travel.
  • Fast city-center connections: Unlike airports, Eurostar stations are centrally located, allowing you to arrive in the heart of cities, eliminating long transfers.
  • Seamless border control: Pass through security and border checks efficiently at Eurostar’s dedicated terminal areas, reducing wait times and making your travel smoother.
Eurostar train staff assisting family in standard class coach.
  • Wheelchair access: All Eurostar trains are equipped with dedicated spaces for wheelchair users. Accessible toilets are also available onboard.
  • Booking assistance: All you need to do is to notify Eurostar at least 48 hours before travel in case you require assistance. You can do this by calling their customer service or using the online booking system. The team is ready to help with everything from boarding to navigating the station.
  • Travel companions: If you need a travel companion, you need not fret as they can travel free of charge. Just make sure to inform Eurostar when you book your ticket.
  • Additional support: Upon arrival at the station, specially trained staff will be on hand to assist you, ensuring a smooth boarding process. Just head to the assistance area, and they’ll take care of the rest.

Frequently asked questions about Eurostar Train tickets

What cities does Eurostar connect to?

Eurostar connects London with Paris, Lille, and Brussels. Additionally, it offers routes to Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Lyon, Avignon, Marseille, Disneyland Paris, and the French Alps.

Is there any weight limit on luggage in Eurostar?

There’s no weight limit on your luggage, meaning you can bring every little essential with you. All we ask is that you’re able to transport your bags safely on and off the train and that they’re stored out of harm’s way in our dedicated areas. And don’t forget to label your luggage clearly, too.

When is the best time to book Eurostar tickets for the best deals?

It’s best to book tickets early and avoid peak travel times, especially Friday or Sunday afternoons. Tickets can be as low as £52 if booked months in advance but may cost up to £200 if bought on the day of travel. However, if you're checking availability far in advance, especially more than 3 months ahead, bear in mind that some trains may not yet appear due to factors like track maintenance.

Can I travel with children on Eurostar, and what are the ticket policies?

Under 4: Travel for free without a ticket but must have a passport. Aged 4 to 11: Require a child fare ticket. Aged 12+: Charged at the adult rate. Children under 12 must travel with an adult, while unaccompanied minors (12-16) need a signed consent form.

Can I use an Interrail or Eurail pass on Eurostar?

Yes, Interrail and Eurail passes are accepted on Eurostar, but a passholder fare must be paid. Check the respective pass websites for more information on pricing and booking.

How can I change my seat after booking a Eurostar ticket?

You can manage your booking, including seat changes, by visiting the Eurostar website, clicking on "Manage Booking," and entering your booking reference and surname.

Are pets allowed on Eurostar trains?

Pets are not allowed on trains to and from London, between Brussels and Lille, or on our Eurostar Sun and Snow routes. You are free to travel with your pets on all other routes between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. However, it's important to thoroughly check some rules to follow that Eurostar has for pet parents, which you can find on their official website.