©Nohcab Crossing the Channel from Calais: ferry, tunnel and formalities
Just 50 km from the English coast, Calais is the busiest crossing point in Europe between the Continent and Great Britain. Every year, more than 20 million travelers cross the Channel here, either by ferry to Dover or through the Channel Tunnel to Folkestone. Whether you're heading out for a day trip or returning from a holiday in France, here's everything you need to know: transport options, required documents, and customs regulations for food products.
Crossing the Channel from Calais
Car ferries and access to the Port of Calais
Three car ferry companies operate this crossing: P&O Ferries, DFDS et Irish Ferries, with up to 50 crossings per day. The ships take on vehicles and passengers day and night for a crossing of 1h30.
It is possible to take the ferry as a foot passenger with the P&O Ferries company or with a bicycle, a service provided by the DFDS and P&O Ferries companies.
Boarding on the French side is at new car ferry terminal at the port of Calais, north of the city. The terminal is connected to the motorway network (A16 and A26) and close to the city centre (10 minutes by car).
The Balad'in is a free shuttle that connects Calais city centre (Calais train station) to the port of Calais, providing a transport service for pedestrian passengers.
Boarding on the English side takes place at Dover, on the main routes serving the south of England and London.
Crossing schedules
©Nohcab The Channel Tunnel
Since 1994, Eurotunnel shuttles have been crossing the Channel Tunnel. This rail train takes vehicles and passengers day and night for a short 35-minute journey. Boarding on the French side is at Coquelles, to the west of the Calais conurbation. The terminal is easily accessible from the A16 motorway or the centre of Calais (7 minutes by car). Boarding on the English side is at Folkestone, along the M20 motorway which crosses Kent to go to London.
The Shuttle, Channel Tunnel shuttles
©getlink Passport and ETA required!
The United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union and therefore passport is required to get there. Travelers from the European Union, including French citizens, will need to obtain a Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom, unless they have a visa, settled status, or pre-settled status. An ETA is required for all travelers, including children and infants. It costs £10. Applications are made directly on the official British government website. The British authorities have announced a response time of up to 72 hours. It is strongly recommended to complete this process several days before departure.
The complete notice from the French governmentMake change
Have you decided to go to Great Britain or are you returning from there for a stay in Calais?
Remember to exchange money before your trip. If you haven't had time, don't panic, you can also exchange money on board the ferries by going to the counters.
In Calais:
MW Currency Exchange Office — 3 Royal Street
MW Exchange Office — Terminal Car Ferry
In Coquelles:
Currency exchange office — Eurotunnel Terminal
What you can (and cannot) bring back from France to England
Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, strict customs rules apply to entry into British territory. These rules concern both travelers returning home after a stay in France and tourists passing through Calais.
What is prohibited
Meat and processed meats are strictly prohibited, regardless of quantity. Dairy products are also forbidden, including cheeses, even hard cheeses like Comté or Parmesan, as well as butter and cream. Certain fresh fruits and vegetables are also subject to restrictions depending on their origin.
What is allowed
Chocolate, confectionery, bread, cakes, biscuits, and pasta remain permitted without any particular restrictions. Alcohol and tobacco are allowed within quantitative limits set by British customs. Food intended for infants and medical products are subject to specific exemptions.
These rules apply to both hand luggage and vehicle trunks. Checks may take place upon arrival in Dover or Folkestone.
See the official British note
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