Hi,
I plan to arrive from the states into CDG at 0830 and want to take Eurostar to London that day. How much time will it take me to get through customs and take the RER to Gard Du Nord?
thanks
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Personally, I wouldn't book anything earlier than 1:00 or 1:30.
Posted by
Kansas
1175 posts
It's only 2.5hours to Paris. I would allow at least 4 hours from scheduled landing to leaving Gare du Nord. To do otherwise risks missing the Eurostar. I hope you have already purchased your Eurostar tickets since the cheap tickets go on sale 6 months prior to your travel date and don't last long. If you get to GDN with plenty of time, enjoy the shops and get some lunch or maybe a bottle of wine to enjoy on the trip to London -- yes, wine is OK on the train. So is a long nap......
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Remember that the Eurostar requires you to check in at least 30 minutes in advance of the scheduled departure time. I assume the above responses already accounted for that, but it's one more reason for you to navigate the airport as quickly as possible.
Posted by
Paris
2466 posts
Depending on what time of year you'll be arriving, Eurostar can be extremely crowded.
If your flight arrives on time and your checked baggage is off-loaded in a reasonable amount of time, you should count on 60 - 90 minutes wait time to go through PassportControl (you do not go through Customs unless you have something to declare). The mornings are very busy, since many tour groups arrive before noon.
Buying the RER ticket and travel time will run about 45 minutes to Gare du Nord.
Due to increased security, and the fact that you will be arriving at a busy time of day, it would be best to check in for Eurostar one hour in advance. Bring a pen so you can fill out the declaration slip. There is a nice lounge area upstairs with coffee bars, etc.
If you haven't already bought the Eurostar ticket, you should do so as soon as possible.