"One train can hide another"

When you hear the name Eurostar, you likely think of that famous high-speed train that zips through the Channel Tunnel to link Paris and London in just 2 hours and 15 minutes. That was certainly the case from 1994 until May 2022. Since May 1, 2022, Eurostar has also encompassed the Thalys trains, those iconic red and white rail cars that have been running between France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany since 1996.

In reality, these two rail giants decided to combine their expertise, passion, and infrastructure into a single, more powerful entity: Eurostar Group. The company chose to keep the name Eurostar, leveraging its established brand recognition to solidify its position across the European market.

The same name, more destinations

The strategy seems to be working. By operating across 5 countries (France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and the United Kingdom) and serving a region of 245 million people with 51 high-speed trains (25 Eurostar and 26 Thalys sets), the new Eurostar Group is already positioning itself as the largest international high-speed rail network in Western Europe. It connects cities like Brussels, Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Cologne, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h (about 186 mph), with the exception of the Channel Tunnel, where speeds are capped at 160 km/h (about 100 mph). It is a significant technical achievement for Eurostar Group as it aims to shift travelers away from cars and planes in favor of rail.

Giving cars and planes a run for their money

To provide a compelling alternative to road and air travel, the group, which counts the SNCF (French National Railway Company) as its majority shareholder, emphasizes its environmentally friendly trains and high-level comfort. Amenities include free, fast Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, an onboard cafe car, a strict zero-plastic policy, and dedicated baby changing areas. Other benefits include 3 travel classes, a loyalty program, tickets that can be modified or canceled up to 7 days before departure, and access to lounge areas. Passengers can access these services for both Eurostar and Thalys routes through a single website where you can book tickets, check schedules, and find current deals.

Discover all offers
https://www.eurostar.com
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Reviews of Eurostar

Summary of 6 reviews
3/5
Average rating
+12 recs +18 -6 Score weighted by contributor expertise level: a recommendation from a level 3 member counts as 3.
Total recs

Average ratings by criterion

Customer service
3.5/5
Reliability
3.2/5
Value for money
2.5/5

Nothing special but pricey

I had the chance to take the Eurostar twice, and each time the price really surprised me. The tickets are honestly so expensive compared to flying. The onboard service is fine, I have nothing special to report about that. Even though it is less eco-friendly, I will still prioritize flying for budget reasons, unfortunately.

6
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Expensive and lots of issues

I have taken the Eurostar many times to get to London. While the comfort and service on board are high quality, on average, you still have to pay 300 euros for a round trip. It is pricey, especially during the Christmas season, which almost every year sees delays, strikes, and cancellations. Going through customs at Gare du Nord can take a lot of time, so I advise you to get there well in advance. Despite everything, it remains more convenient than flying.

On the other hand, I have only traveled once with Thalys to go to Brussels. There was nearly an hour delay on both the way there and the way back, with no real explanation. Prices are more affordable than for London, however. I have never had to deal with customer service, but you have to fight on the internet to get compensation and refunds.

4
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Less interesting than flying

Eurostar prices are way too high. I am willing to make an effort for the environment, but you can find plane tickets two or three times cheaper. In Paris, you have to go to Gare de l'Est to take the Eurostar, but you are asked to arrive way too early. In the end, you lose almost half a day, just like if you were taking a plane.
On the other hand, I have to admit that the trains are very comfortable and that the Channel Tunnel is a technological feat... unfortunately not very useful. You do arrive right in the center of London, though.

4
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Eurostar is not bad for doing Paris to Brussels

I have taken the Thalys train several times to go from Paris to Brussels.

I think this mode of transport offers a very good value for this trip:

- Departure from Gare du Nord in Paris (well connected with the RER E and the metro).
- Arrival at Bruxelles-Midi, which is also fairly well served by the Brussels metro.
- The trip lasts less than 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- The conductors are nice, even if they are there to do their job (you won't get any freebies :) )
- If you book in advance (about 1 month), you can find round trips for around 50 euros.

In short, that is quite a few advantages!

On the other hand, if you buy promotional tickets... watch out, do not miss your train, as the promotions are neither refundable nor exchangeable... and you will pay full price to get a new ticket (I am speaking from experience :( )

3
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Better than the SNCF

I really like that we're treated like royalty compared to SNCF! Too bad I can't find a promo code for my trips! Happy New Year!

5
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Zero organization in case of an incident

What is my take on this company? In two words, zero organization and zero sense of customer service. Zero organization: Following a serious technical incident on a Thalys TGV Cologne-Brussels, we were kicked off and abandoned at the Brussels Midi station on a Sunday night at midnight without any assistance or hotel solutions. Only 2 agents were present for 500 passengers with no loudspeakers. Zero sense of customer service: This company shows its total incompetence when it does not even offer a full refund for the train ticket, which should be obvious in such a situation, not to mention the very high taxi costs that they refused to acknowledge.

5
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