Leeds
United Kingdom
700 km
8-9 hours driving
Paris
France
Distance
700 km
Drive Time
8-9 hours
Est. Fuel
£60-£75
Est. Tolls
£20-£25
Route Overview
Leeds to Paris is around 700 km via the A1/M1 to the Channel, then Eurotunnel to Calais and south to Paris. The journey takes 8-9 hours including crossing time — a long day but manageable in one go.
Best crossing option
Eurotunnel or Dover-Calais ferry
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £210-£300 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £160-£240 |
| 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
The A1/M1 route from Leeds to Folkestone takes 3.5-4 hours before you even reach the Channel.
Consider flying from Leeds Bradford Airport to Paris CDG if you don't need a car.
French fuel is typically cheaper than UK fuel — fill up after crossing rather than before.
Paris parking is notoriously expensive — budget £25-£40/day for city centre parking.
The A26/A1 autoroute from Calais to Paris is straightforward and well-maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Leeds to Paris?
The cheapest driving option is the Dover-Calais ferry, costing around £160-£240 one way. Flying from Leeds Bradford Airport is often cheaper for 1-2 people, with budget fares from £50-£120 per person. For a family of 4, driving is usually better value.
How long does it take to drive from Leeds to Paris?
The total journey takes 8-9 hours including the Channel crossing. Leeds to Folkestone is 3.5-4 hours via the M1/M20, the Eurotunnel takes 35 minutes, and Calais to Paris is about 3 hours on the A26/A1.
Should I fly or drive from Leeds to Paris?
For 1-2 people without much luggage, flying is usually cheaper and much faster (1.5 hours vs 8-9 hours). For families of 3+ or if you need a car in France, driving becomes more economical as crossing costs are per vehicle, not per person.
Get an exact cost for Leeds to Paris
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare Leeds → Paris