Taking the Channel Tunnel to Germany

Booking the Channel Tunnel

First step is booking your crossing from Folkestone to Calais. Vehicles from cars to motorcycles, campers and caravans can use the shuttle. (As long at you don't use LPG) Fares vary but start around £55 for motorcycles and £120 for cars each way. For live availability, see our tickets page or check the timetable.

Routes from Calais to Germany

From the Calais terminal you join the A16 motorway. Depending on your destination in Germany, you can choose different routes. The most common options are listed below:

*Times depend on traffic and chosen stops.

Map of the tunnel routes to Germany

If you need other guides, read here how to get to Disneyland, France or The Netherlands from the Channel Tunnel.

Things you should know before driving

• France charges motorway tolls, unlike Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Expect about £13 to £17 in tolls before reaching the German border.
• Speed limits: Germany’s autobahn has sections without limits, though many areas are controlled. France allows up to 81 mph, Belgium 75 mph, and the Netherlands has the lowest limit at 62 mph on most roads.
• Environmental zones: Many German cities require a green emissions sticker (Umweltplakette). Arrange this before entering city centres.
• Fuel: Petrol and diesel are generally cheaper in Luxembourg. Many travellers detour there for refuelling. Especially if you travel to Frankfurt, Stuttgart of Munich this is the best option.

Driving times to popular German cities

Best way to estimate your total travel time is when the train leaves the station to add the times below and add 35 minutes.

• Calais to Cologne: approx. 5.5 hours (via Belgium)
• Calais to Düsseldorf: approx. 6 hours
• Calais to Frankfurt: approx. 7.5 hours (via Luxembourg)
• Calais to Munich: approx. 10 hours (via Luxembourg and southern Germany)
• Calais to Berlin: approx. 9 to 10 hours (via Netherlands)

Euro Tunnel vs ferry to Germany

Some travellers consider taking a ferry instead of the tunnel. Ferries from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk take around 90 minutes and are sometimes cheaper, especially for motorcycles. However, the Channel Tunnel vs ferry comparison shows the tunnel is faster overall, avoids delays at sea, and gives direct motorway access towards Germany.

Low price vs high speed connection

The Euro Tunnel is the quickest way to reach mainland Europe when travelling to Germany. From Folkestone to Calais in 35 minutes, followed by clear motorway routes across Belgium, the Netherlands or Luxembourg, you can reach Cologne in under six hours. With advance booking on our tickets page, you save money and secure the best travel times.

Before setting off, also check our safety guide and the FAQ for practical questions about the journey.