Bristol
United Kingdom
600 km
7-8 hours driving
Paris
France
Distance
600 km
Drive Time
7-8 hours
Est. Fuel
£50-£65
Est. Tolls
£20-£28
Route Overview
Bristol to Paris is around 600 km with two good route options: Portsmouth ferries (2 hours from Bristol) for a western approach, or drive to Folkestone (3 hours) for the Eurotunnel. Both routes work well.
Best crossing option
Portsmouth-Le Havre or Eurotunnel
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £220-£313 |
| Ferry | £120-£190 | £190-£283 |
| Fly + Hire | £100-£260 | £175-£440 |
Estimated costs for 2 adults, standard car. Actual prices vary by season, booking time, and vehicle. Use our calculator for personalised results.
Tips for This Route
Portsmouth is only 2 hours from Bristol — ferries to Le Havre or Caen cut French driving time significantly.
The Portsmouth-Le Havre ferry puts you 2.5 hours from Paris on the A13 autoroute.
If using the Eurotunnel, the M4/M25 route to Folkestone takes around 3 hours from Bristol.
Bristol Airport has some seasonal flights to Paris CDG — worth checking if you don't need a car.
Western ferry routes are generally less busy than Dover-Calais, especially during peak summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Bristol to Paris?
The cheapest option is typically the Portsmouth-Le Havre ferry combined with driving, at around £190-£283 one way. Portsmouth is just 2 hours from Bristol, and the western ferry puts you closer to Paris than the Dover-Calais route. Flying from Bristol Airport can be competitive for solo travellers.
How long does it take to drive from Bristol to Paris?
The total journey takes 7-8 hours. Via Portsmouth-Le Havre, it is 2 hours to the port, 3.5 hours crossing, then 2.5 hours to Paris. Via the Eurotunnel, it is 3 hours to Folkestone, 35 minutes crossing, then 3 hours to Paris.
Should I use the Portsmouth ferry or the Eurotunnel from Bristol?
Both work well from Bristol. Portsmouth is closer (2 hours vs 3 hours to Folkestone), and the Le Havre ferry puts you closer to Paris in France. The Eurotunnel is faster overall but involves more driving. If you prefer a relaxing crossing with on-board facilities, the ferry is better.
Get an exact cost for Bristol to Paris
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare Bristol → Paris