From Crossing Platforms to Changing Stations, View all You Need to Know About Train Changes in the EU
If you’re headed across Europe by train, it’s likely you’ll likely have to change trains! This will commonly happen in Paris, Brussels, or Lille; the Eurostar’s termini.
If you are connecting from the Eurostar to an onward destination, Railbookers will always allow enough time for you to connect – whether you’re changing stations or simply finding a different platform. You will likely need to change stations in Paris, where in Lille or Brussels you’ll probably only need to leave the Eurostar arrivals and find your connecting platform. We can also provide private transfers at your request!
Connecting in Paris:
Eurostar arrives into Gare du Nord in the north of Paris. If your onward train requires a station connection rather than a platform change, please refer to the information below. Railbookers are also able to book transfer services between stations if you require them. Just speak to one of our Travel Consultants.
Gare de l’Est is a short walk away from the Eurostar terminal.
Gare Saint-Lazare is just one stop on RER line E, or is about a 30-minute walk from Gare du Nord (not recommended with heavy luggage). As an alternative to the Metro, we can include a private transfer for you!
Gare d’Austerlitz is accessible directly on the Metro. Travel on line 5 in the direction of Place d’Italie. As an alternative to the Metro, we can include a private transfer for you!
Gare de Lyon can be reached on RER line D, heading towards Melun or Malesherbes. Be aware that although the station is only two stops away, the station gets very busy. As an alternative to the Metro, we can include a private transfer for you!
Gare Montparnasse is the furthest station from Gare du Nord, though is still a direct journey. Take line 4 on the Metro in the direction of Mairie de Montrouge. As an alternative to the Metro, we can include a private transfer for you!
Connecting in Brussels:
Eurostar trains arrive in Brussels at Brussels Midi Station (also known as Brussels Zuid Station). Many trains to the rest of Belgium and Europe run from this station. If you are connecting in Brussels, you will likely just have to find a new platform. Platforms will vary depending on the type of train you are getting. High-speed trains, such as Thalys and ICE services, will normally leave from platforms 3 and 4. For local trains, be sure to check the departure board located in the main terminal. Your Railbookers Travel Consultant will be happy to advise you on timetables.
Connecting in Lille:
This will generally be a platform change if you are connecting to high-speed services, such as a TGV. Some local rail services also operate from Lille-Flandres, a short walk away. Sign up for special offers to receive a free EU Route Map.
Stations:
What to expect at the train station as you start and continue your adventure
Train stations in Europe range from ornately sculpted, historical caverns to ultra-modern, “destination stations” of enormous scale. In many cases, the station will be your first taste of a city and the beginning of your adventure. If you are leaving the UK by rail, your first port of call will be one of Eurostar’s three termini:
St. Pancras International:
Eurostar’s main hub is situated in the centre of London, connected to stations in the rest of the UK by both Kings Cross, St. Pancras, and nearby Euston stations, as well as by six London Underground lines. Railbookers can organise your UK rail tickets with your holiday, coordinating timings so you arrive in plenty of time to check-in for Eurostar.
Parking: We recommend taking public transport to St. Pancras International. There is an NPC car park located at the station in Pancras Road, NW1 2TB. More information can be found at www.npc.co.uk or by calling NPC directly on 0845 050 7080. Remember that the London Congestion Charge may apply if you are diving to St Pancras International.
Eurostar trains no longer run from Waterloo International. Eurostar’s London station is now St Pancras International.
Ashford International:
Some, though not many, Eurostar services also stop at Ashford International. The station is a 10-minute drive from Junction 10 of the M20 or can be reached by train.
Parking: There are 2,000 car parking spaces located at Ashford International. Parking can be pre-booked by visiting http://ashfordintl.co.uk/parking.
First-Class Lounges at Stations in Europe:
Larger stations across Europe will often have lounges available for first-class ticket holders. Facilities will vary, but you will invariably be greeted with a quiet, peaceful place to wait for your train. Some lounges also offer beverages and free Wi-Fi internet access. Your Railbookers Travel Consultant will be able to advise you of the facilities available on your holiday.
Passport, Visa, and Insurance Requirements:
To leave the UK and travel into Europe, the USA, or beyond, you will need to make sure you have satisfied your destination’s passport and visa requirements. All passengers, including infants, are required to have a valid passport. Please check your documents to ensure all passports and visas are valid prior to purchasing your tickets. If your passport is in your maiden name this should not normally cause any difficulties, please take a copy of your marriage certificate with you when you travel.
For information relating to visa requirements, please refer to the relevant embassy. Some are listed below.
France
French Embassy – tel: 020 073 1200
Italy
Italian Embassy – tel: 020 7312 2200
Belgium
Belgian Embassy – tel: 020 7470 3700
The Netherlands
Dutch Embassy – tel: 207 590 3200
Germany
German Embassy – tel: 020 7824 1300
Switzerland
Swiss Embassy – tel: 020 7616 6000
USA
US Embassy – tel: 020 7499 9000
Canada
Canadian Embassy – tel: 0207 004 6000
Insurance:
It is a condition of booking with Railbookers that you have sufficient travel insurance to cover your trip.
If you have any further questions regarding ID requirements or insurance, please contact one of our Travel Consultants on 020 3327 2440.