London
United Kingdom
950 km
10-11 hours driving
Bordeaux
France
Distance
950 km
Drive Time
10-11 hours
Est. Fuel
£75-£95
Est. Tolls
£45-£60
Route Overview
London to Bordeaux offers two distinct route options: the Portsmouth-Caen ferry for a western approach, or Eurotunnel/Dover followed by the A10 autoroute through Tours. Both routes take 10-11 hours including crossing time.
Best crossing option
Portsmouth-Caen or Eurotunnel
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £250-£355 |
| Ferry | £120-£200 | £235-£350 |
| Fly + Hire | £110-£270 | £185-£450 |
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 Portsmouth-Caen ferry route cuts out northern France entirely and brings you closer to Bordeaux.
If driving via Calais, the A10 autoroute via Paris/Orléans/Tours is the most direct route.
Bordeaux is a wine lover's paradise — plan time to visit nearby Saint-Émilion or the Médoc region.
Avoid crossing Paris if possible — the A10 autoroute bypasses the capital to the west.
French fuel is typically 10-15p per litre cheaper than UK fuel, so fill up after crossing the Channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from London to Bordeaux?
The cheapest driving option is typically the Dover-Calais ferry with the A10 autoroute route, coming in around £235-£350 one way. Flying from London to Bordeaux can be very competitive, especially with budget airlines offering fares from £40-£100 per person.
How long does it take to drive from London to Bordeaux?
The total journey takes 10-11 hours including the Channel crossing. Via the Eurotunnel, it is about 1.5 hours to Folkestone, 35 minutes crossing, then 7-8 hours driving through France. The Portsmouth-Caen ferry route takes a similar total time.
Should I take the ferry from Portsmouth or the Eurotunnel?
The Portsmouth-Caen ferry is ideal if you want a relaxed crossing with cabins and restaurants, and it puts you closer to Bordeaux in France. The Eurotunnel is faster overall if you prefer to drive straight through. Both cost roughly the same in total.
Get an exact cost for London to Bordeaux
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare London → Bordeaux