How early should I arrive for Eurostar to Paris?

Paris Bound? How Early Should You Arrive for Eurostar?

The thrill of a Eurostar journey to Paris is undeniable – the sleek train, the anticipation of the City of Lights. But before you’re sipping Parisian café au lait, there’s the matter of getting to your train on time. Rushing through a bustling station is the antithesis of a relaxing start to your vacation. So, how early should you arrive?

While official Eurostar check-in opens 75 minutes before departure, we strongly recommend arriving at least 90 minutes early. This seemingly small buffer zone makes a significant difference to your overall experience.

Here’s why:

• Ticketing and Baggage: Even if you’ve checked in online, you may need to collect tickets or address baggage queries. Allowing extra time eliminates the stress of last-minute ticket snafus or dealing with oversized luggage.

• Security: Eurostar security procedures, while efficient, still require time. Unexpected queues can occur, especially during peak travel periods or holidays. Arriving earlier mitigates the risk of missing your train due to security delays.

• Unforeseen Circumstances: Life happens. Unexpected delays with transportation to the station, navigating the station itself, or even a simple misplaced passport can significantly impact your schedule. Building in extra time provides a safety net against these unforeseen events.

• Relax and Enjoy: The best part? Arriving early gives you a chance to simply relax before your journey begins. Grab a coffee, browse the shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the station. This calm prelude will set a positive tone for your entire Parisian adventure.

In short: While 75 minutes is the minimum required, aiming for 90 minutes will provide peace of mind and ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your Eurostar journey. Don’t let a stressful arrival overshadow the excitement of your trip to Paris! Remember, a little extra time is a small price to pay for a relaxed and memorable beginning to your Parisian holiday.