- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
Shuttle train journeys from Folkestone, UK to Calais, France are available all year long, operating 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The first shuttles depart at 00:16 and the last at 23:36 from Folkestone’s LeShuttle Building. Once aboard the train, crossing the English Channel takes only 35 minutes. Prices for this route range from €119.00 to €293.00. Book your tickets from Folkestone to Calais right here on Ferryscanner!
Cross the Channel Tunnel from Folkestone to Calais with LeShuttle (Eurotunnel)
With LeShuttle, you can bring your vehicle with you from the UK to France.
Folkestone to Calais Shuttle Schedule
Just want the facts? We’ve compiled this handy chart for you.
Can I take a train from Folkestone to Calais?
Absolutely! LeShuttle, formerly Eurotunnel, allows you to extend your road trip to France by providing a quick, comfortable transfer underneath the English Channel by train. There are upwards to 4 crossings per hour between Folkestone and Calais every day, 7 days a week. You can bring vehicles of any size, bicycles, and motorcycles aboard the shuttle to Calais. Use our search engine to browse availability.
How long is the shuttle ride from Folkestone to Calais?
Once your vehicle is on board LeShuttle, your trip through the Channel Tunnel will be complete in only 35 minutes! Please remember to arrive at least 40 minutes early, as boarding to Calais begins 25 minutes before your departure time. It’s the fastest way to travel with your vehicle from the United Kingdom to France.
How many passengers can ride together?
Headed from Folkestone to Calais for a family reunion, or with a big group of pals? You’re in luck! The price of your ticket includes up to 9 passengers per vehicle, and as much luggage as you all can safely pack on board.
Can I do a day trip from Folkestone to Calais?
Yes, a day trip between Folkestone and Calais is totally possible. You could take the shuttle in the morning (LeShuttle’s operating schedule begins at 00:16) and return to Folkestone in the evening, as late as 23:36. That being said, why not spend the evening in Calais? There’s so much to do! Scroll down the page for some inspiration.
How often do Folkestone to Calais shuttles operate?
LeShuttle’s Folkestone, United Kingdom to Calais, France shuttle operates approximately 210 crossing per week, with up to 40 trips a day, Sunday to Sunday. This schedule allows for plenty of flexibility and comfort with your booking. If you happen to miss your train, you needn’t wait long to hop on the next one available.
The Folkestone to Calais route summary is updated regularly based on current data. However, schedules may vary due to seasonal changes, LeShuttle’s policies, and adjustments to availability. For the most accurate and detailed information, we recommend using the Ferryscanner search and booking tool.
Exploring destinations near Calais
These popular travel spots are all within 100km (or under 2 hours) from Calais by train or ferry.
Ticket prices from Folkestone to Calais, France
LeShuttle tickets from Folkestone to Calais range from about €119.00 to €293.00 depending on the time of your departure and the size of the vehicle you’re traveling with.
Train offers
Occasionally there will be special deals available on LeShuttle tickets between Folkestone and Calais. If you want to stay on top of early bird discounts, short-term promos, or seasonal sales, check out Ferryscanner’s social channels and blog. You can also subscribe to the Ferryscanner Newsletter to get this info straight to your inbox!
Channel crossings from Folkestone to Calais
Departure day info
On the day of your shuttle, please arrive at the Folkestone Terminal check-in no later than 1 hour and no earlier than 2 hours before your departure. The check-in booth address is Terminal Service King Rd, CT18, Folkestone, which you can access directly by exiting the M20 motorway at 11A. Please note that following the terminal’s postal address (CT18 8XX) on GPS/Satnav will not lead to the booth.
Once inside the terminal building, signs and staff members will guide your vehicle onto the train depending on its size. The trip across the channel will take 35 minutes end to end. While you will be able to get out and stretch your legs under the tunnel, it’s recommended to stay in your vehicle during the journey. Upon arrival to Calais you will present your passport to the French Immigration officers. To drive in the EU, UK residents require a UK sticker, V5C log book and their insurance certificate. Leased or rented cars require a VE103 certificate.
As of October 2025, non-EU nationals may encounter the EU’s new Entry/Exit System at the border. This process includes photographs and fingerprint scans. To learn more, check out our post on EES.
If you have any extra accessibility requirements, including adapted vehicles, please inform Ferryscanner’s customer support team during the booking process to ensure you receive the best assistance and price available. Terminals at both Folkestone and Calais are fully accessible for people with mobility restrictions.
Once you’ve passed Immigration in Calais, you’re all set to continue your continental roadtrip! Bon voyage.
Speed–and sustainability–with LeShuttle
Every year, LeShuttle transports more than 2 million vehicles and 10 million passengers. For over 3 decades, they’ve used 100% electric rail traction, preventing the emission of 1.7 million tons of CO2e per year. This makes LeShuttle not only the fastest way to get from UK to France under the English Channel, but also the most environmentally responsible. Fun fact: The limestone marl from the tunnel’s construction was used to create England’s Samphire Hoe nature reserve!
Can I take the Folkestone to Calais shuttle train on foot?
No, you cannot board the shuttle from Folkestone to Calais without a vehicle. At present, LeShuttle accepts cars, motorbikes, bicycles, campervans, coaches, and more, but does not carry foot traffic passengers. See below for more information on transporting children and pets. Pregnant women can safely ride LeShuttle after consulting the opinion of their physician. If traveling to Calais without a car, we recommend taking a ferry from Dover, which is a 15 minute drive from Folkestone. For more information about the Dover to Calais ferry, see our informational section below, or browse availability with the Ferryscanner search tool.
- LESHUTTLE - EUROTUNNEL- LeShuttle
- LESHUTTLE_EUROTUNNEL- LeShuttle (dev)
.
What type of vehicle can I take on LeShuttle?
LeShuttle accepts all types of vehicles from Folkestone to Calais. Cars (petrol, diesel, hybrid, electric), motorcycles, vans, minibuses, caravans, campervans, trailers, and coaches are accepted.
- LESHUTTLE - EUROTUNNEL- LeShuttle
LPG, CNG and dual-fuel vehicles are not permitted, nor are heavy goods vehicles, which use dedicated freight shuttles. If you have questions about whether you can board with your vehicle ahead of time, we recommend sending a note to our customer service team.
Motorcycles on the shuttle
You can take your motorcycle aboard LeShuttle. Be sure to provide your license information during the booking process, and remain seated on your bike during transportation through the tunnel.
Bicycles on the shuttle
Bicycles are permitted aboard LeShuttle, but you can’t ride it on to the train yourself. Cyclists must book a special bike transfer service with their ticket, which includes transportation on a mini shuttle bus and safe storage of your bike.
Fees for the bicycle shuttle are always displayed during the booking process.
Luggage on board
There are no luggage restrictions when traveling on LeShuttle. Whatever you can safely pack on your vehicle, you can bring! One vehicle ticket permits the passage of 9 passengers and all of their baggage. Please note that since Folkestone to Calais is an international transfer, you must be cautious of what types of belongings you’re including on your trip. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for your passengers, their medications, and pets. Commercially transported dangerous goods are forbidden, and cash amounting to more than €10,000 must be declared.
- LeShuttle - Eurotunnel: Up to 0kg per passenger.
Please note that certain accessories count towards the size of your vehicle when booking. Roof and bicycle racks, trailers, and any other external items must be declared and included in your reservation information, or you may risk being denied boarding.
Under the tunnel
LeShuttle carries you and your vehicle from Folkestone to Calais underneath the English Channel, reaching depths of 75 m below sea level. You remain in your own vehicle during the 35-minute crossing. You may exit the car briefly to stretch or grab snacks, but you must stay within designated safe zones and leave your vehicle’s parking brake engaged. Washrooms are available inside the shuttle: in the double-deck sections every third carriage, and in the single-deck loading wagons. In emergencies, trained LeShuttle staff administer first aid and follow structured evacuation protocols, with firefighters stationed onsite. The tunnel itself includes two rail tunnels and a service tunnel, engineered with robust concrete lining, drainage systems, and safety infrastructure to manage seepage and protection under the seabed.
Traveling with pets
LeShuttle welcomes all kinds of pets, big and small, aboard their service. Check the specifications for your four-legged friend here:
- Dogs, cats and ferrets must have a microchip, rabies vaccination, Animal Health Certificate and/or EU Pet Passport.
- Rabbits, rodents, reptiles and birds require a veterinary certificate that will be inspected by border control agents.
- Horses, donkeys and zebras may travel in the single deck passenger shuttles with appropriate transporters. Contact customer service before booking.
If you have any questions about bringing your pet aboard the shuttle from Folkestone to Calais, our customer service team is always happy to help.
Folkestone Terminal
LeShuttle’s Folkestone terminal sits about 1 hour from central London by motorway links. Its check-in address is Channel Tunnel, Ashford Rd, Folkestone CT18 8XX, United Kingdom. To reach it, please exit the M20 at Junction 11A and follow signs (avoiding “Terminal Service Rd” via SatNav). There is no short-term or long-term parking at the terminal—travelers must meet or drop off elsewhere. The terminal is fully accessible: it is on a single level, has accessible toilets, changerooms, and priority access for reduced-mobility passengers. Inside the terminal you’ll find restaurants and cafés (Leon, Starbucks, La Gare, Burger King), washrooms, shops (WH Smith, duty free, motor accessories), vending machines, baby changing, pet exercise area, charging points, information screens and a customer service desk.
Here you can view a map of the terminal and its facilities.
Want more inspiration and tips to make the most of your experience in France? Check out the Ferryscanner blog.
Other ways to reach Calais
Did you know that the Dover to Calais ferry route is one of the most popular in all of Europe, serving millions of passengers and vehicles year-round? Dover is a quick 15-minute drive from Folkestone and a popular port for many ferry crossings over the English Channel. It’s a popular choice for passengers not traveling with vehicles. If you’d like to browse ferry options to Calais, we recommend using our search engine, which will guarantee the best price available for your trip.
Calais and beyond
Calais, France, is a fascinating and historic city warmed by the beauty of its coast. Take a stroll down the wide sandy beach, steal a bite of lemony seafood from a local brasserie, or indulge in a traditional French gaufre (waffle). Whether or not Calais is your final destination or simply a stop on your eurotrip, we recommend checking out the city’s hidden tunnels accessible under La Citadelle. Wilderness fans can opt to take a trip to the Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez cliffs for dramatic views of the English Channel—the very water you just sped underneath! If Paris is the next stop on your French adventure, you can take the A16 then A1 motorway to arrive in about 3 hours depending on traffic. Cyclists looking to hop on a train can take the TGV from Calais-Fréthun to Paris Gare du Nord for a 1.5 hour journey, or ride their own wheels on the EuroVelo 5 (Via Francigena) for a gorgeous ~5 day trip.
Compare prices and book 4500 routes from 125 ferry companies to 500 destinations.
Best Price Guarantee: Find a better deal within 48 hours of booking and we’ll refund the difference.
Free cancellations for most routes with specific policies always shown during the booking process.
Quick Support: Our team replies via chat within 40 seconds, 5 days a week.
Cleaner Seas: Support cleaner seas through Enaleia with every ticket you book.Your shuttle from Folkestone to Calais
Learn more about LeShuttle’s stainless steel car shuttle trains, each equipped with two locomotives and a series of enclosed wagons to carry your vehicles!