Top 10 Tips for Your First Eurostar Trip
Taking the Eurostar for the first time is exciting — but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are our top 10 tips to make your maiden voyage as smooth as possible.
1. Book as Early as Possible
Eurostar tickets go on sale up to 330 days in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper your fare will be. Last-minute tickets can cost three to four times more than advance purchases.
2. Arrive at Least 60 Minutes Early
Unlike a domestic train, the Eurostar requires passport control and security screening. Check-in opens 90 minutes before departure and closes 30 minutes before. Give yourself plenty of buffer.
3. Know Your Station
- London: St Pancras International (not King's Cross, although they're adjacent)
- Paris: Gare du Nord
- Brussels: Brussels-Midi/Zuid
- Amsterdam: Amsterdam Centraal
4. Pack Smart — No Luggage Fees
There are no checked luggage fees on Eurostar. You can bring:
- 2 bags per adult
- 1 small bag (handbag or laptop bag)
- Maximum dimensions: 85cm x 85cm per bag
5. Download the Eurostar App
The app provides real-time updates, mobile tickets, and lets you manage your booking easily. It's essential for a smooth journey.
6. Bring Snacks and Entertainment
While there's a cafe bar onboard, prices are high. Pack your own sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Also bring a book, download movies, or prepare a playlist — the journey is comfortable but you'll want entertainment.
7. Remember the Time Zone Change
When travelling from London to mainland Europe, clocks go forward one hour. If you arrive at 12:30 local time in Paris, it's only 11:30 in London. Plan your connections accordingly.
8. Use the Wi-Fi Wisely
Free Wi-Fi is available but can be slow when the train is full. Download what you need before boarding — streaming may not work reliably in the tunnel.
9. Explore Seat Selection
- Forward-facing window seats offer the best views
- Seats near the ends of carriages are quieter
- If travelling as a group, book a table seat for four
10. Consider Connections Beyond Paris
The Eurostar connects to the wider European rail network. From Paris Gare du Nord, you can easily reach:
- Lyon in 2 hours via TGV
- Geneva in 3 hours
- Barcelona in 6.5 hours
Use FlipEarth to plan multi-city European train itineraries and find the best connections.
With these tips in your back pocket, your first Eurostar trip will be a breeze. Welcome aboard!