Here’s a practical guide for backpackers traveling from Bordeaux to London:
How to Travel from Bordeaux to London by Bus?
Traveling by bus is generally the most budget-friendly option from Bordeaux to London, typically involving a transfer in Paris or Lille. Bus operators like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly Ouibus) offer routes from Bordeaux to Paris, with tickets typically ranging from €15-40. The journey takes approximately 6-9 hours. From Paris, you can connect to another bus service to London, which includes a ferry or Eurotunnel crossing, with tickets typically costing €25-60. The entire bus journey, including transfers, can take 15-25 hours and an estimated total cost of €40-100.
How to Travel from Bordeaux to London by Train?
Traveling by train offers a faster, albeit often more expensive, route from Bordeaux to London. The journey involves taking a TGV (high-speed train) from Bordeaux to Paris (Gare Montparnasse), which typically costs €30-80 when booked in advance and takes around 2 hours. From Paris (Gare du Nord, requiring a transfer from Gare Montparnasse), you’ll take the Eurostar to London St Pancras International, with tickets generally ranging from €50-150+. Booking Eurostar tickets several weeks or months in advance is crucial for lower prices. The total estimated journey time is 5-7 hours, with an estimated cost of €80-230+.
What are the Cheapest Ways to Book Transport?
To find the cheapest fares, booking bus and train tickets 2-3 weeks in advance can typically save 20-30% on average, especially for high-speed trains like TGV and Eurostar. Compare prices across different operators (e.g., FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for buses; SNCF, Eurostar for trains). Consider overnight bus journeys to save on accommodation costs. Rideshare platforms like BlaBlaCar can also offer routes between cities, with prices typically ranging from €10-30 for shorter legs, though finding direct Bordeaux to London rides is unlikely.
Where Can Backpackers Find Free Amenities in Bordeaux and London?
When you arrive in Bordeaux or London, AllInMap is a useful resource for backpackers looking to locate free amenities like public toilets, Wi-Fi hotspots, drinking fountains, and charging stations, helping you save money on the go.
