Embarking on a budget-friendly journey from London to Turin offers various practical options for backpackers.
How to Travel from London to Turin by Bus?
Bus travel is typically the most budget-friendly way to get from London to Turin, though it involves longer travel times. This journey usually requires at least one transfer, commonly in Paris. Individual bus segments typically range from €15-€40, though longer international routes might see slightly higher fares. For instance, a London to Paris bus (e.g., FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus) generally costs €20-€40 and takes around 8-10 hours. A connecting bus from Paris to Turin (e.g., FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus) usually costs €25-€50 and takes 8-12 hours. The total journey time can range from 16-24 hours, often including overnight travel.
What’s the Train Route from London to Turin?
The train route from London to Turin typically involves an international high-speed service to Paris, followed by a connection to Turin. You would generally take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, a journey that usually takes about 2.5 hours. Eurostar tickets typically start from €50-€80 when booked several months in advance for standard class. From Paris Gare de Lyon, you can then take a TGV or Frecciarossa high-speed train directly to Turin Porta Susa or Porta Nuova, which typically costs €30-€80 and takes about 5-6 hours. The total train journey time, including transfers, is generally 7-10 hours.
Can I Use Rideshare for London to Turin?
Rideshare platforms like BlaBlaCar are more practical for segments within continental Europe than for the entire London to Turin journey due to the English Channel crossing. While less common for London-Paris, rideshares are a viable option for the Paris to Turin leg. Individual rideshare segments (e.g., Paris-Turin) typically cost €20-€40, fitting within the general €10-€30 range often found for shorter or less premium routes. Travel times are similar to driving but are subject to driver schedules and route variations. Booking a few days in advance can help secure a spot.
How to Save Money on Your Journey?
Booking your transport in advance is crucial for significant savings. Booking 2-3 weeks ahead typically saves 20-30% on bus and train fares compared to last-minute purchases. Always compare prices across different operators and platforms like Omio or Trainline. Consider overnight buses for longer segments to save on accommodation costs. Once you arrive, use tools like AllInMap to locate free amenities and services in both London and Turin, helping you stick to your budget.