What is the Eurostar Snow Train (formerly Eurostar Ski)?

Lauren Ryan

Published: Sep 2, 2026

Updated: Oct 16, 2026

What is the Eurostar Snow Train (formerly Eurostar Ski)?

Eurostar’s Snow Train is a seasonal service that runs in the winter period specifically for passengers heading off on a ski trip. If you’re planning on hitting the slopes in 2026/2027, being in the know about Eurostar’s ski train is a bit of a travel hack – but you need to know exactly how it works and when it’s available.

That’s why we’ve gathered all the details for taking the Snow Train: from what to where to when, we’ve answered all your questions about the Eurostar ski service.

What is the Eurostar Snow Train?

The Eurostar Snow Train is a ski service that connects London and the French Alps, specifically designed for passengers travelling with ski equipment. It includes extra space on board for your skis or snowboards, and these are also included in your luggage allowance in addition to the standard 2 suitcases + hand luggage.

The Eurostar ski train runs throughout peak ski months and involves a simple change at Lille before boarding a train to your ski resort destination.

Where does the Snow Train go?

The Eurostar Snow Train map includes routes to key destinations in the French Alps, including:

Bourg-Saint-Maurice: A major train station in the alpine town of the same name that offers access to multiple ski resorts such as Les Arcs, La Rosière, Val d’Isère and Tignes. If you show your train ticket, you’ll get a free ticket for a resort bus or the direct funicular from the town to Les Arcs 600 that runs every 20 minutes, taking just 10 minutes. This is the easiest resort to reach and is a good choice for both beginners and snowboarders. The train station also has direct services from Paris, Lyon and Geneva.

Moûtiers: The ski train to Moûtiers station is where you’ll head for travel to one of the resorts of Les 3 Vallées. You’ll find bus transfers to many resorts here, including La Tania, Val Thorens, Les Ménuires, Méribel and Courchevel.
Aime-La Plagne: This station is located in Aime and serves the neighbouring ski resort of La Plagne, with buses running to bring you to the resort. You’ll find plenty of picturesque villages and tree-lined pistes at this resort.

Eurostar Snow Trains also stop at Chambéry, Albertville and Landry for access to numerous other ski resorts in the area.

Snowy mountain village with wooden chalets

How does the Eurostar Snow journey work?

Since the pandemic, Eurostar no longer offers direct connections on its ski trains from London – all routes require a change at Lille before continuing on a Eurostar service to your ski destination. Luckily, this is a same-station change and pretty straightforward – just check your platform on the departure boards upstairs once you arrive before going back down to platform level to board your train.

Travel time on Eurostar Snow trains takes about 7 to 9 hours depending on your destination – you’ll depart at 09:01 from London St Pancras International and arrive between 17:00 and 17:45. If it’s your first time taking the Eurostar, our comprehensive Eurostar travel guide has all the general information you need for preparation, arrival times, check-in and more.

When does the Snow Train run?

The Eurostar Snow Train 2026 runs during the peak ski months in winter – the 2026/2027 dates are from 19 December 2026 to 28 February 2027. Trains depart from London St Pancras on Saturdays and return on Sunday mornings or selected Saturday afternoons.

These travel dates are perfect for ski travellers planning both 7-day trips and shorter breaks. Travelling Saturday to Saturday/Sunday for a full week gives you 6 full days on the slopes and is the most traditional, standard choice in terms of accommodation and bus transfers. Weekend travel times also allow families and groups to limit days off from work or school and maximise time on the slopes.

Why is Eurostar Ski now named Eurostar Snow?

Eurostar Ski was a direct ski service from London to the Alps, which Eurostar operated until the pandemic. Eurostar has now launched Eurostar Snow, renamed following its merger with Italian train company Thalys to reflect the change from direct ski services to indirect. The ski train now requires a change at Lille, along with other changes to travel times, season and routes.

Eurostar Snow FAQs

Is the Snow Train direct?

No, the Eurostar Snow Train is not a direct service; it requires a change at Lille, France. Eurostar’s previous ski service, the Eurostar Ski, was a direct service from London to the Alps, but this was cancelled during the pandemic.

How long does Eurostar Snow take?

The Eurostar Snow takes 7 to 9 hours, depending on the direction of travel and where you get off. This includes change time at Lille.

Is Eurostar Snow better than flying?

The Eurostar Snow has many advantages over flying for a ski trip. For one thing, you don’t have to pay an additional charge for your ski equipment – your skis/snowboard are included in addition to your 2 large suitcases and 1 piece of hand luggage (all without weight restrictions). You can also enjoy more spacious, comfortable seating and stunning views of the French countryside as you travel more sustainably.

Do you need to book early for Eurostar Snow?

Yes, booking early is essential for the Eurostar Snow, as travel times are limited. Fares also tend to fluctuate depending on demand, so the earlier you buy, the better chance you have of securing a lower price. Fares start at £125 each way – book your ski travel with Trip.com now!

How much does the Eurostar Snow train cost?

Eurostar Snow train tickets start at £125 per person each way. This includes your ski equipment in addition to your 2 suitcases and small personal bag. However, as travel times are limited, these cheaper Eurostar Snow tickets can sell out – so it’s best to book early.