Ferry from Dover to Paris
For most travellers, the quickest way from Dover to Paris is either via Dover – Calais or LeShuttle through the Channel Tunnel. Both place you within easy reach of the French motorway network and make Paris reachable in a few hours by car. However, the best route depends on how you’re travelling. Drivers often choose Dover – Calais for flexibility, while rail travellers will usually find Eurostar the simplest option. If you’re starting further west in England, longer ferry crossings from Portsmouth can sometimes make more sense than travelling to Dover first.
Routes
Our experience
We have sailed Dover–Calais with every operator on the route. P&O Ferries stood out for us: competitive fares, modern ships and plenty of clean, comfortable space inside and out on deck. For most travellers heading to France, it’s usually the quickest and best-value way across.
Ferry services from Dover to Paris
Travellers heading from Dover towards Paris can choose between ferry crossings with P&O Ferries, DFDS and Irish Ferries on the Dover – Calais route, or LeShuttle through the Channel Tunnel. Alternative ferry routes from Portsmouth to Le Havre and Caen also provide access to Paris via Normandy.
Map with suggested Dover – Paris ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from Dover to Paris, with crossing times, fares and the ports they sail from. Tap a route for details, tap a port for its sailings, or zoom in for more.
Onboard experience
Dover – Calais is built around frequency and convenience, with multiple departures throughout the day. On board you’ll find restaurants, cafés, shops and lounges, but the crossing is short enough that most travellers simply take a break before continuing into France. LeShuttle offers an even faster crossing, although without the traditional ferry experience.
From northern France to Paris
Paris sits within easy reach of northern France’s motorway and rail networks. Travellers arriving in Calais can continue directly towards the capital, while those arriving via Normandy may choose to combine Paris with destinations such as Rouen, Honfleur or the D-Day region. Once in Paris, attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Montmartre make it one of Europe’s most visited cities.
By car
If you’re driving to Paris, Dover – Calais is usually the most straightforward option thanks to its frequent departures and direct motorway connections. LeShuttle can be even faster if minimising crossing time is your priority. Before entering Paris, remember that the city operates low-emission zone rules and may require a Crit’Air sticker.
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By campervan
Motorhome travellers often use Dover – Calais because of the flexibility and large number of daily departures. Many camper owners prefer staying at campsites on the outskirts of Paris and using public transport to reach the city centre, rather than driving into central Paris itself.
Still weighing up your options?
We have crossed the Channel to France more times than we can count, on most of the routes and with most of the operators. Tell us where you are starting and we will point you to the smartest way across.