Paris to Calais train with SNCF TER

Trains from Paris to Calais

Journeys on trains from Paris to Calais run throughout the day, and there are approximately 20 services operating on this stretch across Northern France every day. Train services run at regular intervals every couple of hours or so, and the journey lasts between around two hours and three hours.

Paris to Calais train time: daily departures

On a normal weekday, trains from Paris to Calais leave every two hours or so, although there may be more than one in each two-hour slot. The earliest train to leave Paris leaves before 7:00 a.m., although this may require one change at Gare de Calais - Fréthun in order to make the onward journey to the centre of Calais. It is often possible to arrive in Calais before 9:00 a.m. Train services run into the evening, with the last train arriving into Calais just before midnight.

How long is the journey by train from Paris to Calais?

The journey on a train from Paris to Calais takes around three hours. Some services, even those involving changes at stations such as Gare de Lille Flandres, can complete the journey in around two hours and 42 minutes. Some take much longer, and last over three hours - and may require two changes.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Paris to Calais?

Departure train station: all trains heading north to Calais depart from Paris Gare du Nord, which is located on lines 4 and 5 of the Paris Metro and is also connected to the RER fast trains. It takes around 40 minutes to reach the centre of Paris on foot, or around 15 minutes by taxi or public transport. Services at the station include cafes, food outlets, toilets, waiting rooms and access for travellers with limited mobility. 

Arrival train station: trains on this route arrive at either Calais Les Fontinettes, which is 25 minutes' walk from central Calais, or at Gare de Calais Ville, which is more central and only takes around 13 minutes to reach the centre of town. Both stations have basic facilities, including toilets, waiting rooms and taxi services outside.

Which train companies travel from Paris to Calais?

Travelling on the train from Paris to Calais is always operated by SNCF, although sometimes the services are branded as TGV Oui. Although TGV is a high-speed line, there are no differences to travel time on this route, with all services taking between two and three hours to complete the journey.

SNCF/TGV: Paris to Calais

Trains from Paris to Calais are simple thanks to SNCF/TGV. While neither offer direct trains, most permit the distance to be cleared in three hours or so - with many options for travel throughout the day.

Paris to Calais trains: services on board

SNCF/TGV offers a range of passenger assistance options for disabled people or travellers with limited mobility, including being met at the station by an Accès Plus representative. Passengers with pets need to book in advance and specify the size of the animal. First-class is available, while passengers can even book their luggage to be delivered to their doors if they can't carry it onto the train. Bicycles, meanwhile, can be carried provided there is space available on board.

How to find cheap train tickets from Paris to Calais?

It is usually quite easy to find cheaper train tickets for services from Paris to Calais. The easiest way to ensure you are getting the lowest price for tickets is to book in advance, with many services becoming more expensive as the date gets closer. Travellers that are flexible with their travel time and day of the week are also more likely to grab a good saving.