If you’re already based in Europe, the iconic Eurostar train likely needs no introduction; if you’re only visiting the continent, however, you may not be quite aware of the service or how speedy and convenient its connectivity is between the U.K. and mainland Europe.
If you’re looking for an easy (and typically cheaper) alternative to flying in Europe, then Eurostar might be just what you’re looking for. It provides easy access to several countries — if you’re short on time during your vacation, you could opt to take a day trip from London to Paris using this train service.
Eurostar began operating in 1994 and is one of Europe’s most well-known high-speed train services. The train currently offers direct service to London; Paris; Brussels; Rotterdam, Netherlands; and Amsterdam. Further connecting Eurostar services will take you to Antwerp, Belgium; Liege, Belgium; Dusseldorf, Germany; Duisburg, Germany; Essen, Germany; and Dortmund, Germany.
The fare classes on Eurostar come in three tiers. The lowest and most affordable is Standard, which is the equivalent of coach or economy class with an airline. Next up is Standard Premier, which is akin to premium economy. Finally, there’s Business Premier, which is Eurostar’s version of business class.
The fare classes are broken down as follows:
Ticket type:
– Standard
– Standard Premier
– Business Premier
Luggage:
– Two pieces of full-size luggage, plus one piece of hand luggage
– Two pieces of full-size luggage, plus one piece of hand luggage
– Three pieces of full-size luggage, plus one piece of hand luggage
Change fees:
– Unlimited ticket exchanges up to seven days before departure
– Unlimited ticket exchanges up to seven days before departure
– No change fees and free cancellation
Food and drink included:
– Food and drinks are available for purchase from the onboard Eurostar Café
– A light meal and drinks served at your seat
– A three-course meal with Champagne served at your seat
Seat assignment:
– Standard seat
– Extra legroom and more spacious seats
– Extra legroom and more spacious seats
Check-in and security:
– Standard check-in and security
– Standard check-in and security
– Dedicated fast-track ticket gates
Lounge access:
– No lounge access
– No lounge access
– Lounge access (if your departure station has one)
Wi-Fi:
– Free Wi-Fi
– Free Wi-Fi
– Free Wi-Fi
With regards to pricing, the cost of fares in Standard and Standard Premier fluctuates based on seasonality, peak periods, and destination. Business Premier, on the other hand, remains fairly consistent year-round in terms of pricing. Eurostar tickets can usually be booked up to 330 days before your return travel date.
Compared to flying to your destination and transiting through European airports, traveling via Eurostar is much more low-stress. The most obvious difference is the security experience, which, compared to that at an airport, is effortless, with no removal of liquids or large electric items. Although queues can mount up during busy periods, we’ve found that we’re through security in under 10 minutes when we travel with Eurostar.
Check-in is similar to airport check-in in that you must show your ticket and passport at a desk or kiosk. London’s St. Pancras International Station, however, is currently testing biometric face scans, which may make checking in even faster.
Regarding lounge access, it’s worth noting lounges are only available at the St. Pancras, Paris Gare du Nord, and Brussels Midi/Zuid stations. If you’re used to airline-run business-class airport lounges, you may need to lower your expectations somewhat here. Although comfortable and pleasant, the lounges are somewhat basic — don’t expect too much in the way of food.
On board the Eurostar, it’s like most modern trains you may have taken at home. The differences between Standard Premier and Business Premier are nominal. You’ll get slightly more legroom and a slightly more modern seat in both classes than in Standard. What you’re paying for in these classes is the luggage allowance and food service. If you don’t deem either of those things a huge must-have, you’ll be more than comfortable in Standard. That said, the food service on the Eurostar is much better than on most airplanes and currently features a menu designed by the renowned Raymond Blanc. Champagne and coffee services are also served free of charge in Business Premier.
To book the Eurostar train with credit cards, travel on Eurostar, booked directly with Eurostar or through an online travel provider, should be coded as travel. There are several credit cards that offer bonus points for travel expenses, along with strong welcome bonuses.
Eurostar operates its own loyalty program named Club Eurostar. For every British pound spent (about $1.27), you will earn 1.2 points. Elite members receive points bonuses when booking. Eurostar tickets can now be booked through the Uber app, and you will earn 10% back in Uber credits on Eurostar bookings and National Rail train tickets in the U.K. Additionally, you can earn 10% back when you purchase your coach tickets with certain U.K. operators.
You can redeem Club Eurostar points for train travel, and you can also transfer Eurostar points and receive Accor points. Virgin points can be redeemed for Eurostar vouchers, but it’s not recommended as it offers a lower redemption value compared to flights.
In conclusion, Eurostar is a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the U.K. and mainland Europe. It offers an alternative to flying, with easy access to several countries and the option for day trips. The fare classes provide different levels of service and amenities, and there are opportunities to earn and redeem points and miles for Eurostar travel. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground and enjoy a stress-free rail experience, Eurostar is a great choice for travel within Europe.
