paris day trip from uk

How to Plan a Day Trip to Paris From London by Train

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

A day trip to Paris from London is the perfect addition to a trip to England!  Thanks to the fast and efficient Eurostar train, it’s never been easier to visit Paris for a day. The train takes just two hours and 20 minutes.

Honestly, one day isn’t enough for Paris — ideally, you should spend as much time there as you can. I would gladly stay in Paris for weeks on end.

But not everyone has lots of extra time on their trip. So is it worth it if you only have one day to spare?

Absolutely — taking the train from London to Paris is always worth it. Even if all you have is one day, you can still make it the best day ever.

But if you’re only visiting Paris for one day, it’s best to plan your trip carefully so that you get as much out of it as you can. I’ve laid out all the steps you need to take and a suggested itinerary for someone visiting the French capital for the first time.

Let’s take a look at the itinerary! I want you to have the best day trip ever.

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Paris Day Trip from London FAQ

The best way to get from London to Paris is by train . It goes from St. Pancras Station in London to Gare du Nord in Paris and takes about two hours and 20 minutes.

No matter what the weather is, you should dress neatly and wear shoes with good arch support. I usually wear jeans, black flats, a faux leather jacket, and a scarf.

Yes, you need your passport to go from London to Paris or vice versa. You will go through immigration. This goes for EU residents too, as due to Brexit the UK is no longer in the EU.

The perfect one-day itinerary in Paris includes exploring Notre-Dame and the Marais, having my favorite crepes and galettes in the world for lunch, visiting a gorgeous art museum, and seeing the Eiffel Tower up close.

Take the train from London to Paris

The train is far and away the best way to visit Paris for a day.  Eurostar trains depart from London’s St Pancras International Station, arrive at Paris’s Gare du Nord, and take about two hours and 20 minutes each way. You can buy Eurostar tickets here.

This is the Channel Tunnel train to Paris that goes underwater, beneath the English Channel. You go from the center of London to the center of Paris, plus the train journey is exceedingly pleasant.

The bus from London to Paris, by comparison, takes more than seven hours. Not worth it. Driving takes just under six hours if you don’t hit traffic.

You could fly from London to Paris, but I wouldn’t recommend it for a day trip. The flight only takes about one hour and 10 minutes, but you have to factor in getting to the airport 90 minutes before your flight, plus nearly all of the London airports and all Paris airports are located significantly outside the city and take a long time to get there.

(If you insist on flying to Paris for the day, I recommend either flying from London City Airport, which is centrally located though often very expensive, or flying from Heathrow and taking Heathrow Express from Paddington Station, which takes just 15 minutes.)

You need your passport when going from London to Paris, whether it’s by train, plane, or any other method. Even if you’re an EU citizen. Britain is neither in the Schengen Area nor the European Union anymore.

What time should you book the train for? If it were me, I would book a very early train to Paris and a very late train back to London. Perhaps even the last train. I would want to have an early start and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in Paris.

Book Eurostar train tickets from London to Paris here.

Alternatively, book a day tour from London to Paris via train here .

Be realistic about how much you can see on a Paris day trip from London.

One day is not enough for Paris, nor is it enough for everything you will personally want to see on a day trip to Paris from London. You can’t see the Louvre Museum and the Musée d’Orsay and go to the Eiffel Tower and go to Hemingway’s bars and walk around Montmartre and see the show at the Moulin Rouge.

In fact, I wouldn’t advise visiting more than one museum on a day trip to Paris.

I encourage you to choose one or two activities that are absolute musts and to plan your day around them. Supplement your day with activities that are close to your main priorities.

For example, if seeing Notre-Dame is a priority, you can easily fit in nearby destinations like Saint-Chappelle, Île Saint-Louis, Shakespeare and Company bookstore, and either the Marais or St. Germain des Prés.

If you want to spend part of your day in Montmartre, visit the Sacré Coeur, take a long walk down Rue Lepic, see Amélie’s Café des Deux Moulins, and walk down to the Opéra before checking out the rooftop terrace at Galeries-Lafayette.

And if you absolutely must visit the Louvre on your Paris day trip, take time to wander the Tuileries Gardens, visit the Palais Royal, and grab a hot chocolate at Angelina before window-shopping at the jewelry shops of Place Vendôme.

Include downtime in your itinerary.

It’s easy to spend a Paris day trip going from attraction to attraction, but I think the magic of Paris is found in the in-between moments. Sitting in a cafe with a coffee or a glass of red wine. Wandering cheese and pastry shops. Crossing the Seine over and over again with no destination in mind.

It doesn’t take a lot of effort to get of the beaten path — just go to a new neighborhood and wander in whatever destination pleases you.  I wrote a whole post about it.

This free time is where the Paris magic happens.

What to Do on a Day Trip to Paris

I always tell people to travel to the destination that makes their pulse race. And that goes for Paris, too. Prioritize the things that make you excited — the things that are most important to you personally, not the things that you think you should do. If you’re not into art, you don’t have to go to any museums! You can have a day trip to Paris from London without seeing the Mona Lisa .

If your favorite movie in high school was Moulin Rouge! or Amélie , spend time walking around Montmartre.

If you love Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, go to the Musée d’Orsay for the best collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world.

If you’re a die-hard Doors fan, go see Jim Morrison’s grave at Père Lachaise Cemetery.

Beyond that, I think how you should explore Paris depends on your travel experience level. If you’re an experienced traveler, you can handle exploring by metro on your own.

If you’d like something a bit easier, or if you or your companion have limited mobility, a hop-on-hop-off Paris bus tour is a great option for getting around. These bus tours take you from attraction to attraction and let Paris unfold in front of you.

Bonus: if you book the full day tour from London to Paris by train , they include a hop-on hop-off bus tour for free.

Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Paris

Book an early train from London to Paris and a late train back to London.

You have two options:

1) You can book London to Paris train tickets here.

2) You can book a day tour that includes train tickets and a hop-on-hop-off bus tour in Paris here.

From that point on, this is my idea of a nice Paris itinerary that takes in a lot of the central sights. It’s a particularly good option for a first-time Paris visitor.

Morning: Notre-Dame and Vicinity

Arrive at Gare du Nord and transfer to the metro line 4 toward Mairie de Montrouge. Get off at Saint Michel Notre-Dame.

Stop for a quick coffee if you’d like and go see Notre-Dame. (Unfortunately, Notre-Dame has been closed since the awful fire. But you can still admire it from the outside.)

Next, walk east to Île Saint-Louis and wander the streets. If you’re feeling really indulgent, get an ice cream at Berthillon ! This ice cream is fantastic and world-famous.

Head north toward the Hotel de Ville and explore the streets of the Marais, heading further upward. Stop by Pierre Hermé for macarons — they’re the best in the city. Just be sure to eat them the same day. Good macarons aren’t built to last.

12:00 PM: Lunch at Breizh Cafe in the Marais

Breizh Cafe is home to outstanding Brittany-style buckwheat galettes and sumptuous crepes. There are several locations in Paris now; you want the Le Marais location at 109 Rue Vieille-du-Temple.

I usually get a galette with egg, cheese, and artichoke followed by a salted caramel crepe for dessert, along with their delicious homemade cider.

Make a reservation in advance if possible ( they finally do online reservations, but only two weeks in advance ); if not, try showing up when they open at 11:00 AM.

Alternative lunch: Walk up to Rue des Roisiers and wait in line at L’As du Falafel, one of the best cheap lunches in Paris. Order your falafel and walk a few streets away to Place des Vosges, where you can enjoy your falafel “sur l’herbe” or sitting on a bench.

Alternative gluten-free lunch: As I update this post in 2023, I realize that neither galettes nor falafel are ideal for gluten-free travelers. If that’s the case for you, find any adorable Parisian-looking cafe in the Marais and dive into their menu. You can always find meat, fish, or an omelette with vegetables.

My friend Jodi creates extremely well-researched gluten-free travel cards that communicate what you can and can’t eat in the local language. Here’s the French card. Well worth the investment!

Afternoon: Museum of Your Choice

Visit one of Paris’s world-class museums in the afternoon. Since you’re visiting Paris on a day trip and have limited time, I urge you to buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and be sure to double-check which museums are open that day.

The Centre Pompidou (Beaubourg) is a short walk from Breizh Cafe; if you’re a fan of modern art and architecture, this is a great choice. (If not, I’d go somewhere traditional instead.) There’s a fabulous view of the Eiffel Tower from the top, too. Buy skip-the-line tickets to Centre Pompidou here.

Another option? Head to the Louvre and see the Mona Lisa  (La Joconde) for yourself! The Louvre can be overwhelming; I recommend limiting yourself to two or three sections of the museum (I happen to love the golden Gallerie d’Appolon).  Buy skip-the-line tickets to the Louvre here.

My favorite Paris museum is the Musée d’Orsay, which is home to incredible Impressionist paintings in a fantastic old train station. Buy skip-the-line tickets to the Musée d’Orsay here. Don’t forget to get a photo from the second level.

Not a museum fan? Check out a cool neighborhood instead! My top recommendations are Montmartre (18th arrondissement) or St. Germain (6th arrondissement). Pick out a destination in each — perhaps Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre, or Les Deux Magots in St. Germain — but spend the bulk of your time wandering.

Late afternoon: See the Eiffel Tower up close

How you see it depends on how much time you have. You can take a hop-on-hop-off cruise down the River Seine if that interests you. I recommend taking the Metro Line 9 to Trocadéro for the most stunning surprise view of the tower when you turn the corner. From there you can take all the photos you want.

I do not recommend actually climbing the Eiffel Tower. Why? Because you won’t be able to see it in your photos! But if you insist, once again I recommend buying skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets due to your limited time. Make sure it includes the summit.

Instead, you can enjoy the most wonderful view from the Trocadéro Gardens and on the other side, Champs de Mars, a big long park.

I recommend getting a good view from the nearby Arc de Triomphe. It’s a 20-minute metro ride on the 6 from Bir-Hakeim/Champs de Mars Tour Eiffel to Charles de Gaulle Étoile, five-minute cab ride, or 30-minute walk.

Climb the Arc (once again…yep, skip-the-line Arc de Triomphe tickets are best here) and enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower as well as down the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde.

A free alternative is to go to the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette department store in the 9th. It’s not quite as close as the Arc, but it’s free to visit with a fabulous view — and a great way to experience your Paris sunset. Just don’t get sucked into the shopping!

75 minutes before your train: arrive at Gare du Nord

You have to go through immigration again at Gare du Nord, so it’s wise to arrive 75 minutes before your departure.

If you’re coming back from the Eiffel Tower, your best route is to take the 9 from Trocadéro to Mairie de Montreuil and switch to the 4, taking it to Gare du Nord. It should take around 35 minutes.

Enjoy that high-speed Eurostar train ride back to London, awash in your Paris memories. Now would be an excellent time to dive into those macarons you procured earlier!

Do’s and Don’t’s For a Day Trip to Paris from London

I’m not going to begrudge you for doing what you think is best for yourself, but here are some tips:

Do keep track of the time change. Paris is one hour ahead of London.

Do research opening times in advance. Especially so for museums. The Louvre and Centre Pompidou are closed Tuesdays, while the Musée d’Orsay and Musée Rodin are closed Mondays, to start.

Do say, “Bonjour, madame!” or “Bonjour, monsieur!” whenever you enter a shop or restaurant. This is considered basic manners in France and if you don’t, you may be treated rudely in return.

Don’t leave central Paris. This tacks on a lot of time to what is already too short of a trip. Versailles, for example, is just outside the city center but can easily eat up more than half a day. That also goes for Chartres, Giverny, Reims, the Loire Valley, the beaches of Normandy, Disneyland Paris, and other day trips from Paris.

Do guard against pickpockets. If you use a purse, I recommend using a black crossbody purse that zips shut , preferably made of leather or faux leather. Keep your hand on it. You can also keep valuables in the hidden pocket in a  Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf  — I guarantee nobody will pickpocket you there!

Don’t leave love locks anywhere. They’re damaging to structures and your lock will be removed anyway. Just enjoy the city of love without vandalizing it in the process.

Don’t go to the top of the Eiffel Tower.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. This may seem like shocking advice, but when you’re on top of the Eiffel Tower you can’t see the Eiffel Tower.

It’s like going to the top of the Empire State Building in New York — the most iconic building will be missing from your photos.

Definitely go to the base of the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero Gardens for the best views, but if you want a good view from a building, I recommend the top of the Arc de Triomphe (close proximity), the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette department store in the 9th (a bit further away), or the top of the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre (furthest away but sweeping views over the whole city).

Do not, under any circumstances, forget an umbrella! Paris’s weather is similar to London’s, but only London gets the overcast weather fame. The weather changes quickly in Paris and rain can come out of nowhere, even on an otherwise sunny day. This travel umbrella is small enough to pack away but strong enough to hold its shape on a windy day.

What to Wear on a Day Trip to Paris

Parisians have a well-earned reputation for being among the best dressed in Europe. So what should you wear on a day trip to Paris?

It depends on the season, but my go-to outfit is a nice top or sweater, slim or skinny dark jeans, a faux leather moto jacket ( this one is similar to mine) or sleek winter coat, and a beautiful scarf or pashmina ( Speakeasy Travel Supply makes gorgeous scarves with a secret hidden pocket — perfect for Paris!).

For shoes, I recommend a pair of black flats with good arch support (I swear by black Abeo flats from the Walking Company ). If it’s cold, you might prefer  a pair of black boots .

My go-to stylish sneakers are these white leather Cole Haan sneaks . Top your look off with tasteful makeup, nice jewelry, and a pair of dark sunglasses .

You might enjoy dressing up a bit, especially if it’s warmer out. Wearing a nice dress makes for better photos and could earn you more cordial treatment from locals or even get you mistaken for being local.

What not to wear: Shorts, athletic sneakers, baseball caps, old-looking t-shirts, and anything with a university name on it will immediately brand you as a foreigner anywhere in Europe, but especially so in Paris. I recommend leaving these items at home.

Ready to go? Book train tickets from London to Paris here!

More on Paris:

• Solo Female Travel in Paris — Is it Safe?
• Where to Stay in Paris: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels
• 33 Most Famous Streets in Paris
• How to Spend a Layover in Paris
• 100 Travel Tips for Paris
• The Art of the Chilled Out Trip to Paris

Have you done a day trip to Paris from London? Share away!

29 thoughts on “How to Plan a Day Trip to Paris From London by Train”

Great opportunity for a city break! Thank you for the tips!

Interesting ! Do you have something like USA/Canada sightseeing day trips ? That would be nice if you write bit more about USA & Canada, crossing the border, transport, etc ? This is difficult to find the information. Last time l did stay at Tallinn and went on a day trip to Helskini. That was wonderful.

I wrote about this specific trip because it’s very popular. In the US, the only places where I think people would do day trips would be between Seattle and Vancouver and between Montreal and Burlington, VT. Not nearly as popular, and for that reason I wouldn’t write about it.

Yes! I did a day trip to Paris with my partner a few years ago from London (I’ve lived in London for several stints so I’m very comfortable there, but had barely been to Paris before). We did basically exactly as you suggested – one must-do (for us go up the towers of Notre Dame) and besides that we just wandered around. Didn’t even go into any museums.

One thing I might note for the readers – the time difference between London and Paris. Even if you take an early morning train from London, you’re still getting to Paris around lunchtime with the hour time difference. It makes it more pleasant to go back to England that evening and gain back an hour, though!

That is an EXCELLENT point and one that I should have included in the post. I’ll update it now. Thanks!

I’m so glad that finally a travel blogger isn’t like “oh you must spend at least a week in this destination otherwise don’t even bother going at all”.

Limited time is a reality for many people, and London is the perfect base for many day trips – e.g. I got the BritRail pass once, and from London did many day trips to Brighton, Bath, the Dover white cliffs, Oxford-Cambridge etc.

Its actually easier to do a day-trip in many cases since you dont’ have to take luggage and spend time getting to a hotel. Hell, I even did a daytrip to Moscow on the fast train from St Petersburg, taking the 6am train out, and the late night train back (again was limited on time since I was on the 3-day free ferry visa, the only feasible possibility for US citizens who didn’t want to go through a long and expensive application process).

I did that same trip on the ferry to St. Petersburg last September, though I fell in love with St. Petersburg so hard I spent the whole time there!

This is so perfect! What a romantic notion to be able to do a day trip to Paris. Wish that was possible from Canada 😉 But I am loving this advice – especially about picking one big thing to see/do and then other smaller activities nearby. And your itinerary sounds just perfect. When I think of day trips from London, I always think of Bath, Stonehenge, etc. but Paris is such a great idea!

I’m in France and I was looking for a guide. I found this post. really useful. Tomorrow I try to go to the Breizh Cafe. thanks

Just got back from Paris and London and I second all of your advice. My husband had his heart set on the tower and even he admitted after that going to the top of the Arc de Triomphe was a much better use of our time. We had flown into Paris for just a weekend from Edinburgh before heading back to London via the train and the process was so easy that I’d absolutely recommend it. The best parts of Paris were the evenings when we just took it slow, ate what we wanted, drank what we wanted and strolled.

I’m glad to hear that you agree on Eiffel Tower viewing!

“Amazing” London is the city of young heart and Paris is devotional. both are the best place to visit, but I prefer London first because London has many interesting things and thing to do in London such as most famous buildings, art, entertainment, shopping, dining, food, and history, it’s impossible to be bored in London.

A day trip to Paris is always worth it when you get to eat galettes and crepes for lunch! YUM!

I grew up in Paris and my parents still live there. So I tend to think of it more as home than a holiday destination. But I now live in London and eurostar tickets if booked in advance can be cheap. Plus I don’t even need to pay for a hotel. So really I’m not making the most of it

London and Paris are our favorite cities in Europe! Especially we love Paris for its glamour, traveler vibes, people and food! We have made list of free things to do and how to travel with family in Paris based on our experiences. Reading and knowing about Paris can never get boring, just like the city. Thanks for sharing this great post!

Hello..Good day Traveller..As I saw your pictures in London to Paris, I was like Im in That kind of place too..I feel your experience in travelling there..That was so nice place..If I could afford to go there..I will surely go there..LOL.

Hi Kate. Love your article. Very informative and helpful. I’m interested in a day tour of Paris with a tour guide/group. However I want to do it via train from Birmingham. Any suggestions? When I click on the link provided for viator London is available but not London.

I actually wouldn’t recommend doing that same trip by train from Birmingham. It adds on a few more hours to your itinerary on either side, plus you end up in a different station — Euston as opposed to King’s Cross.

so what would you recommend since viator is available for London but is not available but not Birmingham? do you know of any tours with guides, to Paris from Birmingham if I possibly fly from Birmingham?

Not direct from Birmingham — I think your best move would be to fly and hire a guide to meet you, as you probably wouldn’t be able to work within the limits of a group tour.

wow the most impressive thing about this article is that you know trains from Birmingham go into Euston!! Have you lived over here??

ps if i was from Birmingham i would just leave there…for good.

Thank you Kate nice guide 🙂

Hi I plan to travel in Jan 2019 from London to Paris. Could you suggest some good accommodation for a single traveller near Gare du Nord and extend the trip for another day Regards

I have an entire guide for that: https://www.adventurouskate.com/where-to-stay-in-paris-best-neighborhoods-and-accommodation/

I’m planning my honeymoon with my husband and we plan on taking a day trip to Paris from London. In your article you talk about the view from Trocadero Gardens and the Arc.

I was wondering if we wanted to do both what would be the best thing to do? Would we take metro 9 to the Gardens and then get back on the metro and take line 6?

Thanks and thank you for such a great article!

Hi Kate. Love your article. Very helpful! Traveling into Paris via Easy Jet on Aug 5th, 2019. Can you please map out an itinerary for myself and boyfriend. We arrive into Paris at 10am and our flights leaves Paris at 9.00pm. Thanks so much! Chowie

Chowie, I suggest you follow the itinerary that I listed in this blog post! 🙂

Awesome Kate. We did the London-Paris Euro-star on an overnight trip in 2010 while in London for our son’s soccer tournament. I wish we had the information you provided in your blog post. Your attention to the critical details is inspiring – and provides relief that we can try this again. Will follow your one-day recipe late August ’19- now better armed with great guidance from you. Thanks so very much.

This is a guide to bookmark. Thank you so much for this!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The 5 Best Paris Day Trips From London [2024 Reviews]

While there may be water separating them, did you know it’s actually pretty easy to get from London to Paris in the same day? If you’re already in the British capital, you can’t miss taking a day to explore the French one.

Known for its incredible history, architecture, art, fashion scene, and food, you’d be crazy not to check out the City of Lights. I’ve done the trip myself, and there’s many ways to go about it, depending on the time, budget, and your preferred way of travel.

Without further ado, here are the best day trips to Paris from London tours!

Best Day Trips to Paris From London

Quick answer: the 5 best rated paris day trips from london for 2024.

• From London: Luxury Paris Full-Day Trip
• Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train
• Guided Paris Day Trip from London
• Paris Rail Day Trip from London with Optional Guided Tour or Sightseeing Bus
• Paris Rail Day Trip from London

Paris Day Trips From London Reviews

1. from london: luxury paris full-day trip.

• Duration: 14 hours
• Departure:  St. Pancras International Station
• Departure Time: 6:00 AM
• Includes:  Transfers by Eurostar,  Fast-track entry to the Eiffel Tower,  Cruise on the River Seine,  Transportation in Paris by panoramic coach

By now, you probably are very well aware that London is a fascinating place to visit, from its royal history and traditions to world-class museums and theaters.

It has a more “consistent” type of beauty, whereas Paris has perhaps even more beauty but areas that are much worse, as well. If you’d like to check out the former, sign yourself up for the From London: Luxury Paris Full-Day Trip tour !

Start out by meeting your guide and the rest of your group to catch the Eurostar at the crack of dawn, and rest easy knowing that all transfers will be taken care of. Seats are very comfortable, clean, and the inside of the vehicle is climate-controlled with big windows for viewing.

Arrive at the London St. Pancras station where you’ll be escorted onto the 06:55 train to Paris – this is a truly relaxing and beautiful journey!

Once in the opulent French capital, you’ll hop on a bus to see some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, such as Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, along with the upscale designer stores on the elegant main street of Champs-Elysees.

Then, you’ll have the opportunity for a VIP tour of the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll skip past the always-long lines and head straight to your reserved lunch at the recently-relaunched ‘Madame Brasserie’ location on the first floor.

Once you step inside the restaurant and sit down, you’ll enjoy full 360-degree views over the Trocadero, Palais de Chaillot, and even get to see the iron tower’s structure up close, which is pretty cool.

Enjoy a Michelin-star, 3-course meal and sink into your new Parisian life before heading to a lovely Seine river cruise with glass roofs. No Paris trip is complete without a visit to the intimidating Louvre Museum, where you’ll take some photos.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. welcome to paris day trip from london via train.

• Duration: 14.5 hours
• Departure:  Euston Rd, Kings Cross, London N1C 4QP
• Includes:  Guided panoramic tour of Paris,  Round-trip transportation between London and Paris via train,  1-hour river cruise,  Live tour commentary provided in English

If you’ve never been to Paris before, you’re in for a real treat with this next tour that will take you by means of a cool, high-speed train.

The Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train tour  is the best way to get to know the capital city, showing you around by various means of transportation.

Just make sure you bring some comfortable walking shoes and a sense of adventure, because you’re sure going on one today!

Your 14.5-hour tour kickstarts at St. Pancras Station, where you’ll be escorted to your comfortable seat aboard your high-speed train. Actually, the train ride itself is worth it, seeing as you get such phenomenal views from the clean windows and have WiFi, snacks, and coffee to enjoy meanwhile.

Once you arrive in the City of Lights, you’ll follow your guide for your panoramic Parisian tour by private bus where you’ll get to pass by popular tourist spots like the Opera House, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Elysees.

It’s time now to trade wheels for water, on a 1-hour, serene river cruise down the green Seine, which inspired countless legendary authors, painters, and just about every other great mind you can think of.

Cruise right next to the looming Notre Dame and various other notable buildings, until you get to the Eiffel Tower. Once there, you’ll have the freedom to walk around and take photos, head up to the top, or grab a coffee inside.

If you’d like, you can also opt to grab some food or coffee at a local spot close to the Tower. It is important to mention that while many of these places are more expensive due to the area they’re located in, there are  many  tasty spots with authentic local food.

The guides usually keep a few solid recommendations handy, so don’t be afraid to ask!

Search For Other London Experiences You May Enjoy

3. guided paris day trip from london.

• Departure:  St Pancras International, Euston Rd, London
• Departure Time:  6:00 AM
• Includes:  Professional guide, Round-trip transportation between Paris and London via train with reserved seating, Seine River cruise to see more Paris attractions, including Notre Dame Cathedral, Welcome travel pack with map of Paris & public transport information, Air-conditioned vehicle

You may be thinking to yourself, “I really want to go see Paris, but there’s no way I’ll be able to see enough in just one day”. You may be right in that analysis, if you decide to take things into your own hands and try to navigate a city new to you.

However, partaking in a tour like the Guided Paris Day Trip from London tour provides you with an expert guide who knows all the best places to go so that you don’t feel like you missed out on anything!

Just like with every other tour on our insider’s guide, you’ll meet up to be picked up in the early morning to head to St. Pancras International station to take the high-speed train to Paris.

There’s no need to worry if you’re at the right platform or if you’re going to make it on time, because your guide has everything organized seamlessly for you. These trains are such a pleasure to ride, as you watch the interesting architecture and green landscapes fly by.

Once you arrive, take a bit of time to stretch your legs before hopping on a panoramic bus tour where you’ll get to pass by the Opera House, the infamous Moulin Rouge, the enormous Louvre Museum, Arc du Triomphe, and many more iconic places.

You may have seen the Eiffel Tower in the distance by now and become excited, so it only makes sense that you head down to get to know the landmark up close and personal.

Once there, make your way down the stairs for a Seine river cruise in a glass-covered boat so you can take in the classic landmarks without obstruction!

It’s amazing to realize how close so many of these landmarks are to one-another, which makes it pretty easy to see a lot when you’re with someone who knows where to go. What’s even cooler, is that the guides are so knowledeable and provide interesting commentary as you see them.

After the cruise, it’s time to stretch those legs again – this time by exploring on your own, or taking a recommendation or two from the guide for good eats or coffee.

4. Paris Rail Day Trip from London with Optional Guided Tour or Sightseeing Bus

• Duration: 15 hours
• Departure: St Pancras International, Euston Rd, London
• Includes:  Paris travel pack (public transport information and city map), Fully escorted Rail Tour from London to Paris with Expert Guide, Small Group Tour of Paris and Sightseeing cruise (if escorted option selected), Return Eurostar tickets with reserved seats, Luxury small private coach in Paris – if you selected for Escorted tour Light Meals on Eurostar, if you selected for Standard Premier tickets

We love a good versatile tour – one that you don’t have to stick to a rigid schedule with. If you’re looking for just that, then you’ll love the Paris Rail Day Trip from London with Optional Guided Tour or Sightseeing Bus .

The title pretty much says it all, but with this excursion you’ll be able to choose if you’d like a guide to lead the way or if you’d like to take Paris by the reins and explore on your own terms.

The first part of the tour, everyone will be doing the same thing: heading to St. Pancras to take the new Eurostar high-speed train to Paris. However, you do have the option of choosing either standard-class seats or first-class travel.

In all honesty, the standard-class seemed like first-class by my American standards, admittedly, but first-class is even more luxurious with top-notch customer service.

Once you arrive in style ot Paris’ Gare du Nord, you’ll get to choose how you want to do your excursion – either free from a schedule or with your guide to lead the way. We recommend the latter, as these guides are simply amazing – they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and will maximize what you see and how you see it.

However, if you just want to lounge around charming sidewalk cafes, chow down at trendy restaurants, or go shopping for treasures at boutiques, that’s great, too!

The guided day trip will show you through the Place de la Concorde which was known for having been the place where Marie-Antoinette, Louis XVI, and many others lost their lives here.

Not to worry though, things have calmed down quite a bit since then. See the main street of Champs-Elysees , where you’ll pass by the famous Arc du Triomphe, the Grand Palais, and many high-end designer stores.

Something we weren’t huge fans of, though, was that a skip-the-line ticket wasn’t included for the Eiffel Tower. While you could go to the Louvre or Musee D’Orsay instead, understandably most woudl like to go inside the tower.

5. Paris Rail Day Trip from London

• Duration: 13 hours
• Includes:  Return train tickets on the Eurostar, Optional extra to upgrade to Standard Premier, Welcome pack with map of Paris Paris, Visite Pass to travel by Metro while in Paris

Last but not least, we have the Paris Rail Day Trip from London Tour.  Lasting 13 hours, it’s a more relaxed way of seeing the city compared to the other tours, which really pack in a lot of activities.

That’s not to say you can’t still see a lot, but you’ll do it with leisure in mind, really soaking the whole experience in.

Hop on an affordable Eurostar in the morning for a rail day trip to head straight to Paris – it’s a nice way to get some sleep before you arrive or watch the beautiful scenery zoom by.

What’s really convenient is that your Eurostar tickets also come with a 1-day Visite Paris Pass which allows you unlimietd travel on the Paris metro and bus network, so you can come and go as you wish. We found the metro to be really easy to navigate, clean, and overall a great way to get around.

With no fixed itinerary to have to stick to, you have all the freedom in the world to check out everything Paris has to offer. We highly recommend checking out the most obvious spots, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Arc du Triomphe, and Notre Dame.

These are all located quite close from one another, and having unlimited metro access makes it that much easier. If you do decide to go to the Louvre, just remember that this place is  huge  and will require at least 2-3 hours to see the most popular art and artifacts.

Afterward, rest those feet and grab a bite to eat at a nearby cafe or restaurant – after all, Paris is known for having some of the best food and coffee in the world! The city center is also very walkable, so take some time to stroll around the wide sidewalks, bridges, and parks.

One-Day Trip Paris Itinerary

Let’s say you decide to take one of the tour options where you get to plan your own itinerary. That’s a lot of responsibility, but you got this! Here’s our personal favorite 1-day Paris itinerary that makes sure you see the main sights without missing out on anything. Of course, this should be tailored to your interests as well, so feel free to add or subtract!

We highly recommend starting your day out at The Louvre and get there a few minutes before it opens if you don’t have a skip-the-line ticket. The lines here can get absolutely insane, and while the staff is truly great about moving people through efficiently, you can still easily spend an hour queuing.

Originally built as a fortress, just the building alone is worth seeing – it’s intimidating, it’s the largest museum in the world, and it’s incredibly old. Oh, and did we mention the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Nike of Somothrace, and countless other masterpieces sit inside?

Eiffel Tower

You’ll be able to see the top of the Eiffel Tower pretty much from anywhere in Paris, but if you want the best views, you’ll need to get up close! A fun way of appreciating it from a distance is to grab a coffee and some pastries and sit at the Champ de Mar gardens right in front of it.

It’s not quite as relaxing, but another great view is from the Trocadero on the other side – just be prepared for street vendors to haggle you into buying souvenirs.

However, if it’s your first time in the city, we highly recommend actually going up inside the tower, which has 3 floors. The first two levels have delicious, upscale restaurants, but as you can imagine, have prices to match.

You’ll likely want to make a reservation beforehand if this sounds like fun to you, as it fills up fast!

Seine River Cruise

A great way to kick back and relax is by hopping on a soothing Seine River Cruise. The Seine is honestly beautiful no matter the time of year, and as you can depart right next to the Eiffel Tower, it’s super convenient.

You’ll have many different cruise types available, from the quick ones that last about an hour to Paris dinner cruises where you’ll actually be served a meal.

On top of that, some come with fully-educational commentaries about the different areas and landmarks as you cruise by while others do not.

Arc de Triomphe

Honoring those who fought and died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, the arch is wonderfully impressive, even just driving around it. However, did you know you can also climb to the top? If you can climb 284 steps, you can enjoy fantastic views of Paris!

For me, it was actually much bigger than I thought it was going to be and even though it’s a little out of the way, I always try to see it at least once every time I’m in the city.

Champs-Elysees

If you’re at the Arc you’re already here, so may as well check it out! This major street gets pretty crazy during Bastille Day, so if you’re around there during the 14th of July, be prepared. Otherwise, it’s a great place to go shopping and take some photos or grab a bite to eat.

Tour Montparnasse

If you love taking photos, this is a must-see. This is a controversial take, but if you want the best views, you’ll find them at the top of this tower rather than the Eiffel Tower.

Standing 210 meters tall, it’s home to 2 different observation decks: one has a restaurant, and the other has an open top-floor deck which is where all the influencers go to take photos. It makes sense why they do it, too, as it’s simply postcard-worthy.

Getting To Paris From London

There are many ways to get to Paris from London, but which method of transport works best for you and your schedule? Did you know that these two capitals are just 214 miles apart?

The Eurostar train is probably the easiest way to go about this journey. Fast, efficient, and cheap, what more could you want? The trains are very comfortable, and you never have to worry about them arriving late.

Not to mention, they leave from the center and arrive to the center of both cities, so you won’t have to spend more just trying to get to the tourist spots. A standard ticket usually costs around 44 euro.

Flying is super fast in terms of the flight (approximately 1 hour), but going through security and boarding, you’ll still likely spend more time traveling than you would if you just took the train. EasyJet, Vueling, British Airways, Air France – they all offer nonstop flights between the two. You can snag a flight for around 100 euro, though we’ve seen them sometimes as low as 29!

Thanks to the construction of the Eurotunnel as well as the ferry, you can actually drive between the two cities! The first time I ever made the trip, I naively didn’t even know the Channel tunnel or “chunnel” was even a thing.

I thought we’d just be boarding a ferry, when I started to feel my ears pop. It was then that I realized we were going  underwater . This is the faster option of the two, and you can transport basically any vehicle of your choosing.

The ferry is also a fun time! It’s obviously more scenic, and you have tons of comfortable seating and activities to do on board. There are shops, various cafes, and a large restaurant with a food court.

Tour Guides

The Luxury Paris Full-Day Trip is our Editors Choice for the best day trip to Paris from London.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Country and language

United Kingdom

United States

Deutschland

@media (max-width: 37.5rem){.css-vo707v{font-size:1.5rem;}} Log in

Verify it's you, @media (max-width: 52.5rem){.css-1qvpg8e{font-size:1.375rem;}} no account.

Join Club Eurostar for FREE

• Travelling with Eurostar
• Frequent travellers
• Manage your booking

Frequent or Premium Pass

Please log in to use your subscription pass.

Didn't get the code? Send again

Paris city breaks

Make your holiday to Paris one to remember with our city trip guide. Discover tips on things to do and see and where to stay and eat.

Paris holidays and city breaks

Things to do in paris.

There’s never a shortage of things to do in Paris. Proud of its enduring revolutionary spirit, the city is dotted with reminders of its long and storied history: Roman ruins, royal palaces and imposing monuments to France’s illustrious writers and artists. Once you’ve ticked culture off your list of Paris activities, there’s still plenty left to do: hit the shops for vintage and designer goods, eat your way around upscale pâtisseries, or hop on a Vélib’ – the local shared bikes – for a cheap and cheerful tour of the city. Don’t forget the capital’s laid-back nightlife: an evening spent in a cosy wine bar or an underground cocktail den has to rate as one of the top things to do in Paris.

Three days in Paris

A 3-day itinerary including ideas, tips and addresses to get the most out of your stay.

Two days in Paris

A 2-day itinerary to help you make the most out of a weekend in Paris.

Romantic things to do in Paris

Romance can get stressful if you don't know where to go. Use this handy guide to help you.

Things to see in Paris

Paris is laid out in 20 arrondissements, each a distinct neighbourhood with its own unique atmosphere and tourist attractions. Home to the delicate portrait of the Mona Lisa, the Louvre museum is a must see in Paris, though it’s just one of many stops on a tour of the most iconic Paris attractions. Paris sightseeing is best done on foot: head across the river to the galleries and cafés of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or north to the Sacré Cœur and its jaw-dropping views over the city. See if you can spot the towers of Notre Dame, or the broad boulevard of the Champs-Elysées leading to the Arc de Triomphe – if you can tear your eyes away, that is, from a certain iron tower.

The Eiffel Tower

Unpopular when first unveiled in 1889, this feat of steel has stood the test of time: you’d be hard-pressed to find a more recognisable symbol of a city. With crowds naturally keen to reach – by lift or leg power – the dizzying heights of its 300 metres, it’s worth planning ahead to visit the Eiffel Tower. Book online to beat the queues, and make sure to avoid peak times; early mornings or late afternoons will have the best golden light for your snaps. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Café Lignac, just a stone’s throw away: the elegant bistro makes a fitting finale.

Le Moulin Rouge

Topped by the sugarwork dome of the Sacré Cœur, the Montmartre neighbourhood was once famed for its artistic community and bohemian lifestyle. Hip boutiques and restaurants now line its charming cobbled streets, but traces of its glamorous, decadent past still endure. Chief among these is the Moulin Rouge , a luxe cabaret showcasing Cancan dancers whose confident swagger and high kicks have changed little since the days of Toulouse-Lautrec. You’ll easily spot it by the red windmill that gives it its name. For a glimpse of the Belle Epoque glitz inside, make sure to book ahead.

Notre-Dame de Paris

In spite of the fire that devastated it in 2019, Notre-Dame cathedral still stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture – and the spiritual heart of the city. It may now be a building site, but it’s still worth circumnavigating its perch on Ile de la Cité, if only for the informative placards giving insight into the herculean restoration underway. If the distant sight of its majestic towers still leaves you pining for holy wonders, head to the glorious Sainte Chapelle nearby, or to Berthillon for a scoop of sorbet – nothing short of miraculously refreshing on a balmy day.

The Louvre museum

Once a medieval fortress, then a Renaissance palace, the Louvre sealed its fate as a cultural treasure (and treasure trove) with the addition of IM Pei’s striking glass pyramids. This sprawling museum is worth more than one return visit, so you can linger over Renaissance masterpieces or ancient Egyptian wonders as the mood takes you. Outside, the Jardin des Tuileries calls for leisurely walks, or pony rides for little ones. Pop in to the Musée de l’Orangerie to gawp at Monet’s vast lily pad paintings, and end your outing at nearby Angelina with a pastry worthy of Marie-Antoinette.

The Paris Catacombs

Channel your inner Goth: for those of a macabre disposition, a visit to the Paris Catacombs makes for a fascinating tour of the city’s underbelly. The labyrinthine ossuary packs in some of the city’s more lurid history, from Merovingian times through to the Revolution, the Résistance and the occasional illegal rave. You’ll find the entrance near the Denfert-Rochereau station in the 14th arrondissement. It’s a bit out of the way of the usual tourist itineraries, but a detour to the nearby Fondation Cartier – a striking glass temple to modern art – certainly makes the trip worthwhile.

Synonymous in the collective imagination with the excesses of life at court, the Palace of Versailles is just as gilded and opulent as its reputation would have you believe. Louis XIV’s residence hosted royal families for just two generations before the revolution struck, but its ostentatious displays of power endure. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, a masterful reflection of the Sun King’s monumental ego, and Marie-Antoinette’s pastoral hamlet on the Trianon estate. Make a day trip of it: the sprawling palace gardens and their spectacular fountains are a joy to explore.

Les Grands Magasins

Though some prefer a more intimate shopping experience, Paris’s grand department stores have lost none of their appeal since they opened in the 19th century. Start at La Samaritaine , newly reopened and worth the visit for its restored art nouveau interiors alone. On the Right Bank, Printemps and Galeries Lafayette offer floors of designer goods, luxe fashion and covetable homeware. The former’s known for its beauty hall; the latter for its Insta-worthy stained-glass dome. On the Left Bank, Le Bon Marché has a seriously good food hall and arguably the best escalators in town.

Fondation Louis Vuitton

It’s hard to miss the Fondation Louis Vuitton ’s sail-like silhouette in the leafy expanse of the Bois de Boulogne. Designed by Frank Gehry, the deconstructivist building plays host to a permanent art collection, twice yearly big-ticket exhibitions and a live music metres. Look out for the bold, cartoon-like creations by Takashi Murakami, which memorably found their way onto a special Louis Vuitton collection. Multi-media commissions are dotted in and around the galleries: wander through Olafur Eliasson’s Inside the Horizon , an ethereal and kaleidoscopic sonic installation.

Where to stay in Paris

With its broad boulevards, cheap metro system and handy landmarks, Paris is a breeze to navigate on foot. When choosing a good area to stay in Paris , consider location as well as budget. The Marais beckons with its markets, cobbled streets and café terraces. Shopaholics would do well to book near Opera, within easy reach of the department stores and the luxury shops of Faubourg St Honoré. Culture vultures could opt for Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where arthouse cinemas, legendary Jazz venues and the bohemian Shakespeare & Co bookshop are just a short stroll away. Charming boutique hotels have cropped up recently near Gare du Nord – worth considering if you’re deciding where to stay in Paris for a weekend.

Where to stay in Paris with kids

Finding a family-friendly stay in Paris can be tricky: the city centre may float your boat, but your little ones will need somewhere to blow off some steam. The quaintly Parisian 19th arrondissement is slightly out of the way, but it’s budget-friendly and has two huge parks with plenty for kids to do. In the 5th arrondissement, pick up street eats on rue Mouffetard, then head to the Jardin des Plantes for a picnic and a stroll around its bijou menagerie. The 12th arrondissement, with its quick train link to Disneyland Paris and the nearby forest of Vincennes, is another good option.

The best areas for sightseeing

Wondering where to stay in Paris with Eiffel Tower views? Luxe hotels near Trocadéro come with postcard-worthy vistas, but hefty price tags. For a lighter-on-the-wallet option, try the sleepy 15th arrondissement. The 1st arrondissement is arguably the best area for sightseeing in Paris : the Louvre, Pompidou Centre and Notre Dame are just a short stroll away. Don’t miss the Palais Royal , with its elegant arcades and 260 monochrome columns. For a more ostentatious glimpse of Paris, the 8th arrondissement’s broad boulevards, Grand Palais and imposing Arc de Triomphe are hard to beat.

Where to stay in Paris on a budget

Predictably, the cheapest areas to stay in Paris are furthest from the city centre, but there’s much to enjoy off the beaten path. North of Montmartre, up-and-coming Saint-Ouen is best known for its charming flea market, but hip eateries and boutique hotels are sprouting up there too. Bohemian Belleville is another neighbourhood that's worth a look. Drop in on La Bellevilloise for free jazz gigs or a lively buffet brunch, climb to the top of bucolic Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or pay your respects to the likes of Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde in the Père Lachaise cemetery.

Best places to eat in Paris

Where to eat in Paris

Whether you’re after traditional French food or a romantic restaurant in Paris, it’s worth asking around for tips on where to eat in Paris . There’s always something exciting launching in the capital of gastronomy. New Ménilmontant hotspot Fripon has TV darling Pauline Séné at work in the kitchen: expect delicate small plates and round-the-world flavours. A hop and a skip from Gare du Nord, Les Deux Gares serves dishes as inventive as its tortoiseshell ceiling. If you’re in an old-school mood, La Grande Brasserie near Bastille does starched linen and classic French fare with style.

Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris

With some hundred Michelin-starred restaurants to its name, Paris is one of the best cities in the world for a memorable meal. Do plan ahead if you have a particular spot in mind: the most famous restaurants in Paris are often fully booked weeks if not months ahead. Casual-cool Septime still tops the list of the top restaurants in Paris; make time for its seven-course tasting menu, each paired with something exquisite from the wine list. Colourful cooking is the order of the day at MoSuke . Stop by for fusion flavours drawing from Mali, Senegal and Japan.

The best bakeries in Paris

Best time to visit paris.

Ella Fitzgerald sang of Paris as a timeless town, where each season is blessed with a particular beauty and atmosphere. What could be a better endorsement of Paris weather? There is no bad time to visit: average temperatures in Paris are often mild, though you’ll need a warm cover-up to enjoy the city’s dazzling Christmas lights. An urban beach takes over the banks of the Seine during the sizzling summers. The city’s less crowded then, but some restaurants and shops shut until September. Autumn’s golden leaves and light are a delight; the Paris Fashion Week makes for top-notch people-watching, too. Spring, perhaps, is when Paris is at loveliest: the city’s in bloom and terrace life can start in earnest again.

Paris in spring

Paris's parks, gardens and museums come alive in spring.

Paris in summer

All the best things to do in Paris in summer.

Paris in autumn

See Paris in a different light during the autumn season.

Paris in winter

Hot cocoa and Christmas window displays...there's plenty of reasons to visit Paris in the winter.

Frequently asked questions

.css-5vuhm9{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;max-width:100%;border:none;text-align:left;width:100%;background:none;cursor:pointer;position:relative;padding:1.5rem 1rem;}.css-5vuhm9:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#00286a;}.css-5vuhm9:focus-visible{border-radius:1px;outline:2px solid #00286a;outline-offset:2px;}@media (min-width: 37.5rem){.css-5vuhm9{padding:1.5rem;}} .css-4ujqbu{height:0.188rem;display:block;position:absolute;left:0;right:0;top:0;margin:-2px 0 0;opacity:0.4;border-bottom:2px solid #00286a;border-radius:60%;} .css-1ro6ief{--grid-columns:12;--grid-columnspacing:0rem;--grid-rowspacing:0rem;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;min-width:0;box-sizing:border-box;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:calc(var(--grid-rowspacing) / -2) calc(var(--grid-columnspacing) / -2);-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;width:100%;padding:0rem;} .css-1fiqx1u{--grid-columns:12;--grid-columnspacing:0rem;--grid-rowspacing:0rem;-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 10 / var(--grid-columns));-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;min-width:0;box-sizing:border-box;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:calc(var(--grid-rowspacing) / -2) calc(var(--grid-columnspacing) / -2);-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}@media (min-width:37.5rem){.css-1fiqx1u{-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 12 / var(--grid-columns));}} .css-2pnwxm{--grid-columns:12;--grid-columnspacing:0rem;--grid-rowspacing:0rem;-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 12 / var(--grid-columns));-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;min-width:0;box-sizing:border-box;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:calc(var(--grid-rowspacing) / -2) calc(var(--grid-columnspacing) / -2);-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}@media (min-width:37.5rem){.css-2pnwxm{-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 10 / var(--grid-columns));}} .css-w6gvpm{-webkit-box-flex:1;-webkit-flex-grow:1;-ms-flex-positive:1;flex-grow:1;} .css-11yytic{font-family:'abc social bold','arial','sans-serif';font-weight:normal;color:#00286a;text-align:left;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:1rem;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;font-size:1.25rem;line-height:1.5rem;color:#00286aimportant;margin:0remimportant;display:blockimportant;}@media (min-width: 52.5rem){.css-11yytic{font-size:1.375rem;}} what are some recommended paris tours or experiences .css-1k89mew{--grid-columns:12;--grid-columnspacing:0rem;--grid-rowspacing:0rem;-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 12 / var(--grid-columns));-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;min-width:0;box-sizing:border-box;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:calc(var(--grid-rowspacing) / -2) calc(var(--grid-columnspacing) / -2);-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}@media (min-width:37.5rem){.css-1k89mew{-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 1 / var(--grid-columns));}}@media (min-width:0rem){.css-1k89mew{-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;}}@media (min-width:37.5rem){.css-1k89mew{-webkit-box-pack:end;-ms-flex-pack:end;-webkit-justify-content:flex-end;justify-content:flex-end;}} .css-h58ukj{--grid-columns:12;--grid-columnspacing:0rem;--grid-rowspacing:0rem;-webkit-box-flex:0;-webkit-flex-grow:0;-ms-flex-positive:0;flex-grow:0;-webkit-flex-basis:auto;-ms-flex-preferred-size:auto;flex-basis:auto;width:calc(100% * 2 / var(--grid-columns));-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;min-width:0;box-sizing:border-box;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:calc(var(--grid-rowspacing) / -2) calc(var(--grid-columnspacing) / -2);-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:end;-ms-flex-pack:end;-webkit-justify-content:flex-end;justify-content:flex-end;} .css-19f252s{-webkit-align-self:center;-ms-flex-item-align:center;align-self:center;padding-top:2px;} .css-16gm2n{margin:0rem 0rem 0rem 1remimportant;width:1.5remimportant;height:1.5remimportant;display:inline-block;background-color:#00286a;-webkit-mask:url(https://static.eurostar.com/ui/design-system/icons/chevronbrandeddown.svg);mask:url(https://static.eurostar.com/ui/design-system/icons/chevronbrandeddown.svg);-webkit-mask-size:contain;mask-size:contain;-webkit-mask-repeat:no-repeat;mask-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-mask-position:center;mask-position:center;-webkit-mask-size:contain;-webkit-mask-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-mask-position:center;}@media (forced-colors: active){.css-16gm2n{background-color:buttontext;}.css-16gm2n:hover{background-color:buttontext;}}.

Make your Paris holiday one to remember by booking discounted tickets and tours to the top attractions in Paris including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles and Orsay Museum. You can also get 20% off a Paris open top bus tour with our partner Tootbus .

Is Paris good for solo travellers?

Paris is a safe city to explore as a solo traveller so you can explore and enjoy the city to its fullest. Create your own itinerary for a 2 or 3 Paris city break.

Is there a direct Eurostar train to Paris?

Yes, you can travel direct on a London to Paris train in just 2 hours and 16 mins.

Can I purchase a multi-day pass for public transport in Paris?

Yes, you can. Enjoy unlimited travel in Paris on all public transport networks by purchasing the Paris Visite travel pass which is valid for either 1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days. The pass allows you to travel anywhere in Paris (zones 1-3) and the Île-de-France region (airport connections, Disneyland Paris® and Château de Versailles).

Book Train + Hotel to save on your stay

Plan your trip from route to room with Eurostar.

You may also like

London to Paris trains

Taking the Eurostar from London to Paris is quick, easy and enjoyable. Journey from one world-famous capital city to another in just 2hrs 16 mins.

Eurostar destinations

Between Amsterdam's canals, Paris' botanical gardens, Bruges' architecture, and London's royal parks, Eurostar has something for everyone.

Disneyland® Paris holidays

We all need a little magic in our lives and where better to rediscover your inner child?

• Stonehenge Tours
• London Tours
• Harry Potter
• Paris Trips
• Out of London
• Rock 'n' Roll
• Other Tours Open Top Bus Downton Abbey Lunch and Afternoon Tea Tower Of London London Eye Windsor Castle Evening Tours
• Contacts UK 020-7713-1311 US 1-800-815-4003

The Premium Tours representative will meet you at St. Pancras International Train Station, in front of Le Pain Quotidien Coffee Shop at the check-in time stated below.

From 1st April -

Mon - Fri Outbound 7:01am (6:00am check-in) & Saturday Outbound 7:31am (6:30am check-in). Return train at 20:13pm arriving back to London at approx. 21:30pm.

• On some occasions the train time may change. In this case the customer will be informed of the revised check-in time after booking.

TRIP ITINERARY

A great value day trip to Paris including return tickets on Eurostar, guided coach tour of Paris.

Join us at St. Pancras International train station where our staff will help check you in and introduce you to our guide who will escort you on board Eurostar and throughout the day in Paris. Travelling at speeds of up to 186mph, you will be in Paris in just 2 hours 15 minutes. You will travel through the channel tunnel before arriving in central Paris and from here join a panoramic tour of the world's most Romantic city. Enjoy spectacular views of Le Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and more.

A Seine river cruise ticket is also included so why not take a romantic cruise on the River Seine that boasts spectacular views of Notre Dame, Musee D'Orsay and Place de la Concorde.

Alternatively head off to the shopping district on your own or relax and enjoy lunch while soaking up Parisien life.

In the early evening we head back to Gare du Nord for our return journey to London.

Inclusions:

• Seat reservation on Eurostar
• Guided Panoramic coach tour of Paris
• New - One hour River seine cruise
• Map of Paris
• Time for shopping and sightseeing

Exclusions:

• Hotel pick up and drop off in London

Please note:

• Half escorted Tour
• You are required to carry a valid passport with you. Please also check your visa requirements before you travel.
• Due to Eurostar requirements, only children between the ages of 4 - 11 years old qualify for a child fare.
• Once booked, we are not able to cancel your booking and as such cannot offer you a refund, cancellation or amendment.
• Premium Tours will have no liability if Eurostar trains are delayed for unforeseen circumstances such as security alerts, third party action or bad weather as this is beyond our control. In such cases, please contact Eurostar directly to discuss any compensation that may be due.
• The Paris 2024 Olympics & Paralympics closure: The tours are not available between 20 th  July - 11 th  August and between 25th August - 9th September.
• New train times starting 1st April: Mon - Fri Outbound 7:01am (6:00am check-in) & Saturday Outbound 7:31am (6:30am check-in). Return train at 20:13pm arriving back to London at approx. 21:30pm.

[email protected]

Copyright © Premium Tours 2024

The Ultimate Paris to London Day Trip Itinerary (+ London Travel Tips)

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

Categories Day trips from Paris , France , Paris , Travel Guides , UK

Home » The Ultimate Paris to London Day Trip Itinerary (+ London Travel Tips)

• 242 Share on Twitter
• 358 Share on Facebook
• 779 Share on Pinterest
• 279 Share on LinkedIn
• 549 Share on Email

Paris is beautiful, but have you ever wanted to take a day trip away from the French capital and explore London?

Most people visiting Paris choose to spend the day away at Monet’s Gardens in nearby Giverny or on a day trip to the beautiful champagne region of France .

These are both great options, don’t get me wrong.

But if you’re looking for something a bit different, why not take a day trip to London? It’s the perfect way to explore two of Europe’s most iconic cities in one day.

Taking a day trip to London from Paris is possible (and relatively easy) with the right planning.

It’s definitely one of the best things you can do if you want to maximize your time in Europe! A trip to London is my top choice when it comes to the best day trip to take from Paris to other countries in Europe .

In this post, we’ll take a look at all the transportation options available to you, as well as provide some helpful tips on how to navigate each one.

We’ll also dig into the best places to go and things to see in London , as well as provide an itinerary that allows you to make the most of your day trip from Paris .

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes all the best foods to eat in Paris, where to eat, the top things to do and see in Paris, including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more. Find out the best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area. Links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

In this post, you'll find...

How far is London from Paris?

London is located about 280 miles away from Paris, just across the English channel.

This might seem like a long way to travel in one day, but it’s actually quite doable with the right transportation option!

Can you visit Paris and London in one trip?

The answer is yes – with some careful planning and the right transportation options, you can have an incredible day trip from Paris to London!

Depending on your travel dates, you can get there and back with time to spare for exploring both cities. The high-speed Eurostar train service makes it easy to get from Paris Gare du Nord station to London’s St. Pancras Station in just a few hours.

P.S. You can find all my Paris travel articles, resources, and recommendations here 👈

Is a day trip from Paris to London worth it?

There is so much to see in London and it really deserves more than just one day. But if you have limited time and are looking for a great way to experience both cities, a day trip from Paris to London can be an incredible experience!

With the right itinerary and transportation options, you can make the most of your day in this iconic city.

The Best Things to See in London on a Day Trip

When it comes to sightseeing, there’s no shortage of things to see in London!

Here are some of the must-see London attractions:

• Windsor Castle – one of the official residences of The Queen

• Tower Bridge – one of the most iconic bridges over the Thames

• Big Ben – a clock tower housing one of the world’s largest bells

• The London Eye – a giant Ferris wheel offering unparalleled views of the city skyline

• Buckingham Palace – the official residence of former Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal family

• Trafalgar Square – one of London’s most recognizable public spaces.

• Tower of London – a medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site

• St. Paul’s Cathedral – one of the largest churches in England, with an impressive dome

• British Museum – one of the world’s oldest museums, housing over 8 million artifacts from around the world

Of course, there is so much more where this came from! London is home to world-class museums, galleries, parks, and monuments. There are over 1,000 activities and attractions that you can see here!

I recommend checking out some of the most popular London attractions and activities and planning out in advance what you want to see.

Best way to get to London from Paris for a one-day trip

For a day trip to London from Paris, the best way is to take the Eurostar high-speed train. A train ride on the Eurostar from Paris will typically last around 2 hours and 15 minutes. You’ll be dropped off in the center of London’s city center, at St. Pancras Station.

Eurostar tickets from Paris Gare du Nord station to London St Pancras station start at €60 (one way). You can book tickets for the Eurostar on Omio .

Note : Eurostar is best when booked in advance. It is possible to buy tickets on the day of your visit, but you may find yourself paying more for tickets, or not being able to get a seat on the day you choose to travel.

The next best option for getting to London from Paris is by plane. Flights from Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport in Paris will get you to Heathrow airport, London’s major international airport, in just under one hour.

Flights on budget airlines such as EasyJet can be found as low as €20 one way if booked in advance. However, flight times are limited to a few hours a day and you have to factor in the time it takes for getting to/from the airports, security queues, and baggage collection.

I typically use WayAway to find the best deals on flights and get cashback. You can search for flights on WayAway here 👇

For those looking for an even cheaper option than taking Eurostar, there is also the option of traveling by train. Regional trains run from Gare du Nord train station in Paris to London St Pancras station twice a day, with an approximate travel time of 7-8 hours.

Prices for these tickets start at €19 one way if booked in advance. Train tickets can be booked online with Omio .

Driving to London from Paris is also an option, though it’s not ideal only for a day trip. London is about 280 miles from Paris, or a 6-hour drive. It’s technically feasible if you get an early start, but it’s really not worth it with such limited time to spend in London.

If you decide to drive, remember that you will need to pay for gasoline and tolls for crossing the English Channel tunnel.

There is also the option of taking a bus from Paris to London. Buses are generally slower than trains or planes and take around 11 hours to get from one city to the other. Prices are cheaper than Eurostar and flights, with tickets starting at around €25 one way if booked in advance.

Obviously, an 11-hour bus ride is less than ideal with only one day to spend in London. But it is an affordable option if you don’t mind the long ride. I always use FlixBus to book my bus tickets.

Finally, if you really want to make the most of your one day in London, there are also special day trips available that include a guided tour and transport. Usually, these will pick up from central locations in Paris such as the Eiffel Tower or Sacré Coeur. Prices for these tours vary depending on what’s included but usually start around €100.

How to spend one day in London: One-day Itinerary

Once you’ve arrived in London, there is a lot that can be done! Ideally, you’ll have a full day here to really maximize the time you have to visit London.

Depending on what time you arrive, here is a suggested itinerary of how to spend one day in London :

• 9:00 am – Arrive in London and get breakfast at Borough Market. After breakfast, start your day with a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Next, head over to Tower Bridge and take some time to admire the view of Thames River.

• 10:30 am – Explore Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Nearby, you’ll also find Big Ben and the London Eye.

I recommend taking a ride on the London Eye for a bird’s eye view of the city! It’s kinda like the view from the top of the Eiffel Tower, but so much better.

This area is also home to Buckingham Palace, one of the iconic symbols of London. Wrap up the morning with a stroll in St James’ Park or check out the historic Trafalgar Square.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana • Where Tiana Travels (@tianabaaaby)

• 12:30 pm – Have lunch in one of the many pubs or cafes in Soho. Afterward, take a walk through China Town and visit Carnaby Street for some shopping. You can even take a walk along the Southbank, stopping at art galleries such as Tate Modern or the National Gallery.

• 2:00 pm – Visit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. These two parks are great for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day in London. If the weather is bad, take a quick tour of the Natural History Museum or Victoria & Albert Museum .

Entrance to the Victoria & Albert museum is free, and you don’t need to book in advance. This makes it a great option for those on a day trip, especially if you’re visiting London on a budget.

• 3:00 pm – Spend some time exploring the British Museum , one of London’s top attractions. Afterward, take a stroll around Covent Garden and soak up some of the local culture. You can even join a Secrets of London walking tour with a professional guide who can give you some secret history of the area.

Or hop on a 3-hour Secret British food tour of London !

• 4:00 pm – As the day draws to an end, head over to Notting Hill and explore its bohemian streets and colorful houses. Finish your day with some afternoon tea at one of London’s famous cafes like The Goring Hotel or Claridge’s .

• 5:00 pm – End your day with dinner in one of Shoreditch’s trendy restaurants and pubs. Dishoom and Blacklock Shoreditch are two of my favorites here!

• 6:00 pm – Head back to the train station or airport for your journey back to Paris.

If you don’t want to stick to an itinerary while in London and prefer to just go with the flow, I’d recommend getting on a hop-on hop-off Big Bus sightseeing tour of London . It’s a great way to explore the city and get a feel for the different neighborhoods. You can easily hop off at each stop and explore the attractions you want to see!

Getting Around in London

Navigating London can seem daunting even to native English speakers, so if it’s your first time in the city it’s a good idea to plan ahead on how to get around most efficiently.

The best way to get around London is by using public transport such as the Tube (London Underground). London’s public transportation system is widely considered one of the best in Europe, and it’s very easy to use.

The best way to save money is by getting an Oyster card, which allows you to pay per ride and get discounts on longer journeys. You can buy one from any Tube station or online.

Without the Oyster card, you can just pay with cash or credit card at the station, but you will be charged a higher fare. Ticket fares are typically around £6 each way when you pay with cash or card.

The Tube runs from 5 am until midnight, but there are also buses and night buses that run after midnight if you miss the last train.

You can also get around London by bus, which is a great way to see the city’s sights as you travel from one place to another. Bus fares are £1.50 per journey when you use an Oyster card and £2.40 without it.

Walking in London is also a great option as most of the major attractions are located close to each other. However, London is a lot bigger than Paris and can be quite tiring, so make sure to plan your walking route ahead of time.

You can also use Uber or a black cab for shorter distances, but it’s usually more expensive than the Tube.

Where to stay in London – Best areas & Hotels

London is way cool and definitely deserves more than just a day trip. If you plan on staying overnight ( which you absolutely should ), there are a few areas I recommend checking out.

Central London is my favorite area and the best place to stay if it’s your first time in town. It’s home to some of the city’s main attractions like Buckingham Palace and The Shard, but also some of its coolest neighborhoods like Soho, Marylebone, and Covent Garden.

Hotels like St Pancras Renaissance Hotel , The Montcalm Royal London House-City of London , or The Langham are all great options for a luxurious stay in Central London.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, check out the East End neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Hackney, and Whitechapel. The area is full of cool bars and restaurants as well as some really nice budget hotels like Generator London or CitizenM London Shoreditch .

No matter where you decide to stay in London, make sure to book in advance as accommodations fill up quickly!

Search through over 1000 hotels and apartment rentals in London here 👇

Essential Travel Tips for London & the UK

Now that we’ve got transportation, activities, and accommodations sorted, it’s time to talk about a few last travel tips.

• Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip – London weather can be unpredictable. And don’t forget to bring an umbrella! London is a very rainy city and you’ll want to be prepared.
• The currency in London is the British Pound (GBP). You can easily exchange your Euros at any bank or exchange office.
• Tipping is not a big part of the culture in the UK, so don’t feel obligated to tip unless you’re really impressed with someone’s service.
• London is a lot more expensive than Paris so budget accordingly!
• Carry cash with you in case your card doesn’t work in some places.
• Most public restrooms in London require a payment of £0.30 – you can use coins or a contactless card.
• Download Google Maps for offline navigation and make sure to turn on mobile data roaming before you arrive.
• The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. Drinking in public places is illegal so make sure to stick to bars and pubs.
• Don’t forget to bring your passport with you! Since the UK is no longer in the EU, you’ll have to present your passport at customs when crossing the border from France. This applies even if you’re only taking a day trip.

Thanks for reading!

And that’s it! Visiting London for one day on a day trip from Paris is totally doable.

Of course, there is much more to London than what can be done in just one day, but with careful planning and an itinerary like the one I suggested above it’s definitely worth it.

By the end of your day trip from Paris to London, you’ll have seen some of the most iconic sites in two of Europe’s most amazing cities!

Pin this post for later!

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

• 459 Share on Facebook
• 70 Share on Twitter
• 233 Share on Pinterest
• 89 Share on LinkedIn
• 213 Share on Email

8 Easy Day Trips from Paris (to other countries in Europe) | Where Tiana Travels

Saturday 6th of May 2023

[…] P.S. Check out my full Paris to London day trip itinerary + my top London travel tips here […]

Visiting Monet's Garden on A Day trip to Giverny from Paris | Where Tiana Travels

Thursday 4th of May 2023

[…] a day trip to London from Paris or a trip to the Champagne region of France, day-tripping to Giverny from Paris is a breeze. There […]

Europe Chevron

France Chevron

Ile-de-France Chevron

Paris Chevron

The Best Time to Visit Paris for Cheap Flights and Fewer Crowds

By Matt Ortile

The question of when is the best time to visit Paris was answered by Audrey Hepburn in the 1963 classic Sabrina : “ Paris is always a good idea.” A spring stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, a summer evening along the Canal Saint-Martin, a fall morning whiled away sur la terrasse avec un café , twinkling holiday markets in the winter—it all sounds so fabulous that one single trip can’t cover it all. But if you’re someone who strategizes around attending (or avoiding) big events in the French capital, or would like to cash in on prime deals for hotels and flights, there is of course a slight science to it all.

To get some expert advice on the best time to visit Paris, I spoke to two of Condé Nast Traveler ’s Top Travel Specialists : Nick Cunningham, the destination manager for Europe at Scott Dunn; and Camilla Davidson, the head of destination management for France at Red Savannah. Both offered tips about the city’s cultural calendar, the must-see sights, and other insider tips that will make your Paris experience—much like Audrey Hepburn’s in Sabrina —one to write home about.

Paris in the spring remains one of the best times to visit for temperate weather and fewer tourists.

What is the best time to go to Paris?

The best times to visit Paris are the months that shoulder the summer season: April, early May, September, and early October. “The days are still warm and balmy but without the sweltering heat of peak summertime,” says Davidson of Red Savannah. You’re more likely to avoid the crowds at this time too, when many of the families traveling with kids are back at work and school.

Cunningham of Scott Dunn agrees that avoiding the months of June, July, and August are a smart idea; temperatures all over Europe are rising , and the city heat and humidity of Paris can feel oppressive. September is his favorite time to visit the French capital, since you won’t need a coat: “Though, it is Paris. In case fall does come early, any excuse is better than none to don a fashionable coat and make the streets of Paris your very own runway.”

When is peak season in Paris?

Peak season in Paris begins at the end of May with the Roland-Garros (a.k.a. the French Open) and runs through the summer, ending in the middle of September . Davidson notes that many Parisians also take their grands vacances in August, when they decamp to the beach or the mountains, so many small boutiques and restaurants close for the month. Also, this means August may feel more packed with tourists than usual because all the locals are away, and you may not get to experience all the insider Paris recs you got from your friends for things like hole-in-the-wall wine bars and must-visit thrift shops.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the fashion world’s calendar, Cunningham cautions: “Despite the fantastic opportunities for spotting A-list celebrities , be warned that if you visit during fashion weeks, especially womenswear, it’s possible you will see higher prices everywhere during seemingly surprising times of the year in the fall and spring.” For what it’s worth: the women’s ready-to-wear shows—what most people call “Paris Fashion Week”—occur in late February or early March and late September or early October .

There are plenty of historic cafés in Paris like Les Deux Magots where you can while away the day.

What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?

Generally, the cheapest time to go to Paris is in the window from mid-November to mid-December, says Cunningham, “after the insanely busy summer tourist season, but before the holiday season , when prices leading just up to and after New Year’s skyrocket.” During this time, you avoid most of the major events on the annual calendar like fashion week, the French Open, and the like, giving you plenty of room at hotels and shorter lines at the main tourist attractions.

With the Olympics happening in France this year, the cheapest time to go to Paris in 2024 is after the summer, specifically October and November, according to Laura Lindsay, the global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, the search aggregator and travel agency. As for 2025, the beginning of the calendar is looking like a good time to book your flights, she says. January , February, and March have flights starting at $330 roundtrip from the United States to Paris.

For cheaper plane tickets to Paris, Lindsay recommends playing with your itinerary. Roundtrip flights from and to the most convenient airports are most desirable and often priced accordingly by airlines . “Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly out with one airline and back with another,” she says. “You can also look at flying in or out of one airport and back to or from another. This is especially handy for cities with multiple airports like Paris, London, and New York. It can take a bit of playing with the flight search, but it can result in finding great flight deals.”

How many days in Paris do you need as a first timer?

Both Davidson and Cunningham suggest four to five days in Paris for the average first-time visit. Travelers can cover a handful of must-see sights in Paris, but an extra fifth day can offer some breathing room and time to enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace. This is Paris after all. Simply strolling through the streets for a bit of French flânerie will always yield some new-to-you discoveries, be it a café , a bakery, a boutique, or some small patch of green.

By Jessica Puckett

By Madison Flager

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Julia Eskins

Crowds are a given at the Louvre, but time your arrival strategically for a calmer experience

What are the must-see places in Paris?

Naturally, the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre , and the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre are among the must-see tourist attractions in Paris, but be prepared for crowds to be there year-round. Try going early when you can; watching the sunrise at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur with a view overlooking the French capital is definitely worth the wake-up call and the hike up the hill. Additionally, the boat rides along the Seine are one of the tourist attractions that even Parisians can appreciate; Cunningham suggests going at golden hour, just as the city lights come to life at dusk, for a truly mesmerizing display of the City of Light.

As for more off-the-beaten-path experiences, Cunningham recommends a guided tour of the Palais Garnier , the most famous opera house in the city: “It’s a very brief visit that doesn’t take much time, but it delivers perhaps one of the most interesting tours you can do in the city.” Davidson also offers a useful strategy for seeing art and culture in the city: “Paris is so filled with museums, galleries, and art exhibitions that I always suggest visitors to pick just one gallery and focus on that, to avoid ‘museum fatigue’ and focus on a particular area of interest for you.”

Note that the Notre Dame Cathedral is due to reopen at the end of 2024 after extensive reconstruction and restoration in the wake of the devastating fire in the spring of 2019. It’s one of the most anticipated reopenings happening in the city this year, the other being that of the Grand Palais. Book tickets early, if you want to go, and be prepared to muscle through the crowds.

What else should I know before visiting Paris?

Always make sure to greet shop owners and staff when entering a store, a restaurant, a hotel—any building in Paris, really. “It’s considered rude to wait for them to greet you,” Cunningham explains. Bonjour and merci will get you far; you’ll find that just saying hello and thank you will make your experience in the city all the more pleasant.

Davison also suggests bringing comfortable walking shoes . Much of the city is walkable, and you’ll miss a lot of the beautiful city scenery if you’re just shuttling back and forth between tourist sites via the Metro or taxis. She also recommends visiting a museum on the first Sunday of the month, which is when many art institutions offer free admission. “It’s a great way to explore some of the lesser-known museums, with less commitment than an expensive ticketed admission.”

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Ultimate Paris to London Day Trip (Itinerary)

Have you ever thought about taking a break from the beauty of Paris to explore London for a day?

While many visitors opt for trips to the Versailles Palace or the Champagne region , there’s something exciting and different about venturing to another iconic European city.

As someone who has been living in Paris for almost five years and visited London numerous times, I can assure you that it’s not only possible but also relatively easy to plan a day trip to London from Paris with the right preparation.

In my experience, embarking on a day trip to London is one of the best ways to make the most of your time in Europe.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the must-see sights in London and offer a helpful itinerary for your day trip from Paris. To make your trip even smoother, I’ll cover essentials like how to get to London from Paris, getting around in London, accommodation, and travel tips for both cities.

As you follow this guide, you’ll soon realize how much fun and adventure a Paris to London day trip can offer!

⚡ Related read: The 6 Best International Day Trips to Take from Paris (by Train)

Table of Contents

How far is London from Paris?

Here’s a fun fact: Paris and London are about 280 miles apart, just a hop across the English Channel.

Sounds like a lot, but guess what? It’s actually doable in one day with the right transportation! In no time at all, you can go from enjoying croissants in Paris to sipping tea in London.

Here’s a quick overview of travel time:

• Train (Eurostar) : approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes
• Car : approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes
• Flight : approximately 1 hour

As someone with firsthand experience, I can confidently say that a day trip from Paris to London is not only possible, but also an amazing adventure.

Can You Visit Paris and London in One Trip?

Absolutely! With a bit of planning and the right transportation, it’s totally possible to enjoy a fantastic day trip from Paris to London.

To make the most of your trip, use the high-speed Eurostar train service . It’s a breeze to travel between Paris Gare du Nord station and London’s St. Pancras Station in just a few hours.

Here are some quick tips for a fun day in both cities:

• Choose your travel dates wisely to optimize exploration time
• Plan a London and Paris itinerary to make the most of your visit
• Stay caffeinated and energized for a full day of sightseeing
• Bring comfy shoes to explore the best of Paris and London on foot

Is a Day Trip from Paris to London Worth It?

Although there’s so much to see in London, a day trip from Paris is totally doable and an awesome experience, especially if you’re short on time.

Here’s a quick tip : plan your itinerary wisely and choose the right transportation options. You’ll be amazed at how much you can experience in the UK capital.

Of course though, with so much to see and do in London, it will be impossible to do it all in one day. I highly recommend spending more than one day here if you have the time. You’d need at least a week to really experience all the major sites and attractions this city brings.

However, one day in London can give you a good idea of the city’s iconic sites and can be a great option for an introduction to the city.

The Best Things to See in London on a Day Trip

As someone who’s visited London many times, I’ve got you covered with my own top 10 must-see attractions for a day trip to London:

• Windsor Castle: The Queen’s official residence, steeped in history and architectural wonder. Don’t miss the changing of the guard!
• Tower Bridge: This iconic Thames crossing is a sight to behold, especially when it’s illuminated at night.
• Big Ben: Actually the name of the massive bell inside, this historic clock tower is currently undergoing restoration. Still worth a visit, though.
• The London Eye: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this giant Ferris wheel. Perfect for the ‘gram.
• Buckingham Palace: Pay a visit to former Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal family’s residence. Keep an eye out for royal sightings!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana (@wheretianatravelss)

• Trafalgar Square: A bustling public space filled with people, art, and history. A great spot for people-watching.
• Tower of London: Step back in time at this medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meet the Beefeaters and marvel at the Crown Jewels.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: Stand in awe of the magnificent dome and vast interior at one of England’s largest churches.
• British Museum: Art and history buffs will love exploring this treasure trove, home to over 8 million artifacts from around the globe.
• Hyde Park: Take a leisurely stroll or picnic in this massive green space, a favorite retreat for both locals and tourists.

These spots are just the tip of the iceberg—London has a thousand more things to see and do, so plan your day wisely.

How to get to London from Paris? Best Travel Options for a One-Day Trip

Although a flight from Paris to London lasts a mere hour, it’s not the most convenient option for day-trippers.

When you factor in time spent traveling to and from the airport, navigating security, and waiting for luggage, it eats into your precious sightseeing time. That said, if you find a great deal on flights through WayAway , it can be worth considering.

By high-speed train

In my experience, the Eurostar high-speed train is the best way to make the Paris-London journey.

With a quick journey of about 2 hours and 15 minutes, you’re conveniently dropped off in central London, ready to explore. Keep in mind that booking in advance on Omio can save you money, as last-minute purchases might end up being more expensive.

Regional trains

Another train option, although less ideal, are the regional trains connecting Paris and London. They take significantly longer – close to 7-8 hours – but can be cheaper, with tickets starting at €19 one way. Like the Eurostar, plan ahead and book your tickets with Omio to save some cash.

Driving the 280-mile distance between Paris and London is achievable but not recommended for day trips. To be honest, the 6-hour drive is not worth the valuable exploration time you’ll lose. If you do decide to brave the drive, factor in gasoline and tolls for crossing the English Channel tunnel.

Busing from Paris to London is a more budget-friendly option, with tickets starting at €25 one way. The downside? A 6-hour journey that eats up most of your day. While it’s not ideal, frugal travelers can book their tickets using FlixBus .

Joining Guided Tours

If you want to maximize your day in London, consider guided tours that include transportation from Paris. These tours often pick up from central Paris locations and vary in price, usually starting at around €100.

As an avid traveler between these two incredible cities, I’d personally recommend the Eurostar for a seamless and efficient day trip. You can spend more time enjoying London’s gems and less time on the road.

How to spend one day in London: One-day Itinerary

So, you’ve got one day in London and you’re wondering how to make the most of it?

I’ll guide you through a fantastic itinerary that’ll help you see the best of London in just one day.

Let’s dive in!

9:00 am – Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Borough Market . With a full stomach, explore St Paul’s Cathedral, a majestic sight you can’t miss. Then, head to Tower Bridge and gaze at the beautiful Thames River.

10:30 am – Visit Westminster Abbey , Houses of Parliament , Big Ben , and finally the London Eye . Trust me, the view from the London Eye is even better than the Eiffel Tower!

Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square are also nearby, so why not give them a visit?

12:30 pm – Time for a tasty lunch in Soho! After that, take a stroll through China Town, visit Carnaby Street for shopping, and admire art at Tate Modern or the National Gallery along the Southbank.

2:00 pm – Enjoy a leisurely walk in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens . If it starts raining, no worries – The Natural History Museum or Victoria & Albert Museum are both fantastic indoor options!

3:00 pm – Check out the British Museum , followed by a walk around Covent Garden . Feel like uncovering hidden gems? Join a Secrets of London walking tour or indulge in a 3-hour Secret British food tour of London!

4:00 pm – Head to the charming Notting Hill for colorful houses and bohemian vibes. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a classic afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel or Claridge’s .

5:00 pm – Wrap up your day in London with dinner in Shoreditch. I personally love Dishoom and Blacklock Shoreditch for a fantastic dining experience.

6:00 pm – Time to say goodbye to London and head back to Paris. Safe travels!

If sticking to an itinerary isn’t quite your style, don’t fret! The hop-on hop-off Big Bus sightseeing tour is a fantastic way to explore London at your own pace and enjoy the diverse neighborhoods. Just hop off at each stop, and discover the attractions that interest you the most!

Getting Around in London

Navigating London might seem like a challenge, even for native English speakers like me, but with a little planning, you’ll be zipping around the city like a pro in no time!

Public transport, especially the Tube (London Underground), is your best friend in London. As someone who’s visited London multiple times, I’ve found their public transportation system to be one of Europe’s finest.

To save some bucks, I suggest grabbing an Oyster card, which lets you pay per ride with sweet discounts on longer journeys. You can easily get one at any Tube station or online. Without it, you’ll pay a higher fare of around £6 per trip.

The Tube operates from 5 am to midnight, but don’t fret if you miss the last train—there are buses and night buses to the rescue!

Speaking of buses, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy London’s sights while commuting. With an Oyster card, you’ll pay £1.50 per bus journey, while non-cardholders pay £2.40.

If you’re up for some urban exploration, walking is another excellent option since many attractions are nearby. But keep in mind, London is way bigger than Paris, so plan your walking route to avoid exhaustion.

For shorter distances, you can always hail an Uber or a classic black cab. They’re usually pricier than the Tube but can save your tired feet at the end of a long day.

To make the most of your London adventure, consider these popular transportation options:

• The Thames River: Consider a river cruise for a leisurely sightseeing experience.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: It’s a convenient way to explore the city at your own pace and see top attractions.

In a nutshell, London’s public transport scene is vibrant, efficient, and user-friendly. Just remember to plan ahead, and you’ll be navigating the city like a true Londoner!

Where to Stay in London – Top Areas & Hotels

As I mentioned, there’s too much to see in London to only stay one day here, and I highly recommend staying a couple nights to really experience the city.

If it’s your first time in London, Central London is an excellent choice, with iconic attractions like Buckingham Palace and The Shard nearby. Plus, you’ll be in the heart of vibrant neighborhoods such as Soho, Marylebone, and Covent Garden.

For a luxurious experience, consider hotels like St Pancras Renaissance Hotel , The Montcalm Royal London House-City of London , or The Langham .

However, if you’re on a budget, East End neighborhoods, like Shoreditch, Hackney, and Whitechapel, offer affordable accommodations without compromising on style or substance.

Accommodation options like Generator London or CitizenM London Shoreditch are worth checking out. You’ll also find cool bars and restaurants in these areas.

To make the most of your time in London, consider its proximity to airports like Heathrow and Gatwick. As an experienced traveler, I found these areas to be superb for accessibility and convenience.

Keep in mind that accommodations fill up fast in London, so make sure to book your stay in advance!

Essential Travel Tips for London & the UK

As someone who’s been living in Paris for almost 5 years and visited London many times, I’ve got some crucial tips to share with you.

• Weather & Clothing: London’s weather is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get! So, check the forecast before leaving and bring an umbrella because London loves its rain.
• Currency: London uses British Pound (GBP), so go ahead and exchange your Euros at a bank or exchange office.
• Tipping: In the UK, they don’t tip like they just won the lottery, only tip when you’re truly impressed.
• Budget: Keep in mind, London can be more expensive than Paris, so plan your finances accordingly.
• Carrying cash: Try having some cash handy in case your card goes on a strike in certain places.
• Restrooms: Bring £0.30 to access public restrooms – they accept coins or contactless cards.
• Navigation: Download Google Maps for offline use and make sure to have mobile data roaming before you arrive.
• Drinking age & Public drinking: In the UK, you can buy a pint at 18, but don’t chug it in public spaces – stick to bars and pubs instead.
• Transportation options: London offers a vast public transport network, or you can grab a London Pass for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

Lastly, remember your passport as the UK is no longer in the EU, so even if you’re just visiting for a royal day, you’ll need it at the border.

Thanks for reading!

So there you have it, folks! Taking a day trip from Paris to London is not only possible but absolutely worth it.

Sure, you’ll only scratch the surface of what London has to offer, but you’ll still be rewarded with amazing experiences in two of Europe’s top cities. Armed with these tips, you’ll feel like a local during your London visit.

Happy travels!

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes:

• Practical tips for visiting Paris
• The best foods to eat in Paris
• The best restaurants in Paris (my top picks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• The top things to do and see in Paris (including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more)
• The best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area

All links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Paris to London Day Trip (Itinerary)”

• Pingback: 6 Best Day Trips from Paris by Train (to other countries in Europe) - My Paris Itinerary
• Pingback: Day Trip to Champagne from Paris (Itinerary) - My Paris Itinerary

Comments are closed.

• 21 Share on Facebook
• 28 Share on Twitter
• 45 Share on Pinterest
• 53 Share on WhatsApp
• 18 Share on Email

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

How to Spend 3 Days in Paris — Luxury Hotels, Natural Wine Spots, and Under-the-radar Museums Included

From picturesque walks to souvenir shopping, a longtime Francophile shares her ideal three-day Paris itinerary.

Paris in One Day

Paris in one week.

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

On a recent layover in Paris, I spent 15 minutes weeping outside a boulangerie, hands clutching my croissant like a stress ball as I spiraled into decision-paralysis mode. How do I make the most of 24 hours here? I asked myself, my mind racing over how to fit a week’s worth of explorations into one day. The answer ended up being: Stop stressing. Walk around. Eat the crushed croissant, and drink a glass of wine with lunch. 

Paris provides endless temptations: art and architecture, Michelin-star restaurants, unrivaled vintage shopping, fantastic hotels, and four-euro wine. There’s no way to do it all, so allowing yourself some grace to wander aimlessly — the French call it flânerie — is key to making the most of your trip. To that end, I suggest basing yourself around the incredibly walkable Marais, which marries classic Parisian architecture with hip restaurants and shops. I’d spring for the new cool-kid hideaway, Le Grand Mazarin , a maximalist hotel that boasts an indoor pool and hammam to revive you after a long day. 

Here, I’ve curated a jam-packed three-day itinerary for a quick trip to Paris, in a bid to prevent myself and everyone else from ever ruining a perfectly good croissant out of choice-anxiety again. Pick what works for you, skip what doesn’t (but not Musée Bourdelle ). Keep in mind that many of the city’s attractions and restaurants close on Sunday and/or Monday, so be sure to check their hours in advance. Whatever you do, I hope you people-watch at a cafe somewhere, lingering long enough to convince yourself you might be picking up French by osmosis. I hope you notice how the limestone avenues absorb the light, and maybe a little piece of you, too. 

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

After an overnight flight, I always start my day with my favorite French comfort food: a galette complète from Breizh Café , which has several outposts around the city that whip up some of the best buckwheat crepes in Paris. Tucking into their famous complète oignons — layers of ham and Comté cheese topped with a sunny-side up egg and onions decadently caramelized in cider from Brittany — is the warmest welcome you’ll find in the French capital.   

Walk off your breakfast with a stroll through the Marais , making your way toward beloved concept store Merci to satisfy all your souvenir needs, from stationery to expertly curated home goods, clothing, and beyond. If jet lag is setting in, grab a coffee at their Used Book Café , or down the road at the oft-Instagrammed Boot Café . 

Mosey over to Place des Vosges, the oldest square in the city. In the warmer months, it’s a lively picnic destination for locals and tourists alike. The manicured trees, stone fountains, and red brick archways surrounding the leafy square are stunning from any angle, but if you’re looking to experience the square’s royal history from a whole new perspective, consider splurging on a room at Cour des Vosges . The refined five-star hotel offers luxuriously intimate accommodations without fuss or ostentation — plus, exclusive views onto the square from the comfort of your bed. 

Hidden just beyond the square are the courtyard and gardens of the Hôtel de Sully, a quieter green space offering a wonderful respite from the bustling Rue Saint-Antoine. From there, walk down to the Seine and cross over to Île Saint-Louis, a jewel-sized island where you can admire the elegant 17th-century architecture and stop by L’Étiquette , a beloved natural wine spot that offers takeaway bottles and wine tastings with the owner, Hervé. 

While the Notre-Dame cathedral is still under renovation (it’s set to reopen in December 2024 ), you can still admire its striking Gothic facade before walking to nearby Shakespeare and Company , the city’s famous English-language bookstore. 

Post up at the counter of L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre for a light lunch of Basque-style tapas (don’t skip the seared foie gras) and, oui , more wine. Afterward, wander around the chic side streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to Paris institutions like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, plus a bevy of art galleries and upscale shops that are better to visit here than on the over-crowded Champs-Élysées; some favorites for window shopping include Le Bon Marché (the Left Bank’s grand dame department store), the fabulously decorated Hermès store, and Officine Universelle Buly , which crafts spectacular candles that make for ultra-chic souvenirs. If you’re up for it, pause to people-watch at the always-bustling Bar du Marché before heading back to your hotel to rest up before dinner.

To finish the day, book a table in the bustling 11th arrondissement at Le Bistrot Paul Bert , which serves elevated comfort food — think steak frites, seafood, and epic desserts — that’s earned a devout fan base. 

Today’s the day to pack in your museum visits and sightseeing. Wake up early and grab breakfast at your hotel, or treat yourself to a top-notch coffee and croissant at a cafe.

Walk over to the Louvre, where you should arrive 30 minutes before opening if you’re hoping to snap a selfie with the Mona Lisa. Frankly, if you only have three days, I’d skip it in favor of visiting some of the city’s other world-class museums — but be sure to at least stroll around the iconic I. M. Pei-designed glass pyramid and the historic courtyard. While you could head straight to the Tuileries Garden from here, I love to detour to the Palais-Royal Garden first, an oasis that’s home to a picture-perfect fountain rimmed by those iconic green Sénat chairs. 

Pass through the palace’s inner courtyard on your way there, where you can scramble around Daniel Buren’s famous black-and-white Colonnes de Buren installation. Just beyond the garden is Galerie Vivienne, a breathtaking 19th-century covered passage with mosaic floors, antique glass ceilings, and a delightful bookshop. When I think about some of the places that first sparked my love of Paris more than a decade ago, these are what come to mind.

Make your way back to the Tuileries Garden and on to your next museum. Impressionist lovers who are short on time should prioritize the Musée de l'Orangerie to bask in the beauty of Monet’s "Water Lilies," or plan to linger a little longer across the river at the expansive Musée d'Orsay , which is housed in a former Beaux-Arts train station.

Sculpture fans should check out the nearby Musée Rodin , or consider the worthwhile trek into Montparnasse to be blown away by the works and former studio of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle at the lesser-known Musée Bourdelle . Whichever museums you choose to visit, be sure to book your ticket in advance to avoid massive lines. 

For lunch, book the three-course tasting menu at Substance , a sleek and modern Michelin-starred restaurant in the 16th arrondissement that boasts one of the finest Champagne lists in all of Paris. It’s right around the corner from Place du Trocadéro, an elevated (but typically tourist-swarmed) plaza that offers sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

From there, hop on the metro line 6 (or in a taxi, if you prefer) to the Arc de Triomphe. The panoramic view from the top is both fantastic and incredibly crowded; I’d rather enjoy the cityscape later on with a drink in hand at Bonnie , SO/Paris hotel’s trendy terrace restaurant that’s back over in the fourth arrondissement. But first, take your time wandering the iconic Champs-Élysées, making your way toward the storied Place de la Concorde — the famous site of Marie Antoinette’s beheading by guillotine. Chances are, you might need a drink after that; duck into Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, to check out the opulent Bar Les Ambassadeurs . (Pro tip: Be sure to snap a selfie in the marble bathroom.) 

Stick around the area for dinner. Try to nab a table at the ultra-trendy Hotel Costes — reservations are hard to come by, but the red-lit atmosphere is glamorous, and the legendary DJ sets continue late into the night.

For a new perspective on the city, take yourself up the steep steps of Montmartre , Paris’ longtime artist haven. You’ll beat the crowds if you arrive early in the morning, and the best place to start is Place Dalida, where you’ll be rewarded with a bucolic view of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Climbing the cobbled slope of Rue de l’Abreuvoir is a chance to travel back in time, bearing witness to a nostalgic snapshot of what this neighborhood used to feel like. Whatever the season, this street is utterly charming — bursting with wisteria in summer and framed by red and golden leaves in autumn. Pass by the pink facade of La Maison Rose to snap some classic shots on your way up to Le Clos Montmartre, Paris’ only vineyard. (It’s privately owned, but guided tours are organized a few times per year.)

This part of the city feels like walking through a film set — it’s all steep stone steps framed by vintage street lamps, with a sprinkling of bistros thrown in. To that end, peek around Place du Tertre, a definitively touristy but still-charming square (if you get there ahead of the crowds, that is), which is filled with artists who will ask to paint your portrait. (Note: This area is known for pickpocketing, so keep your belongings secure.) Next, ogle the majesty of Sacré-Coeur, which offers one of the most spectacular views of Paris spread out below. 

If it’s still early enough, head over to the Musée de la Vie Romantique (Museum of Romantic Life) for a coffee and pastry at the Rose Bakery tearoom, tucked into their unsurprisingly romantic courtyard and greenhouse. But don’t spoil your appetite — you won’t want to miss the inventive small plates and next-level wine list at Mokonuts , an intimate lunch spot run by a Japanese-Lebanese couple serving up what has consistently ranked among my favorite meals in Paris. The food is fantastic, the 11th arrondissement space is unfussy, and the reservations are hard to come by (call and hope for a cancellation — it happens more often than you’d think). Order the entire menu (it’s small), including at least two desserts. Trust me. 

If it’s warm out, go lounge along Canal Saint-Martin or the banks of the Seine, where locals picnic, read, smoke, and smooch — take your pick. On colder days, round off your museum visits with a trip to the Centre Pompidou for modern art or Musée Carnavalet (housed in two fabulous mansions) to delve into the history of Paris. 

For dinner, few restaurants charm so instantly as Le Clown Bar — famous for their veal brains and sweetbreads, I choose to go for the delightfully kitschy Belle Époque clown decor. On a recent trip, I skipped the brains and went for the Japanese-inspired beef tartare — few days have passed that I haven’t thought about it. There’s an abundance of natural wine that will appeal to a range of palates, including those who think natural wine is “too funky.”  

If you’re looking for a nightcap (it’s your last night in Paris!), Little Red Door serves up exceptional and inventive cocktails around the corner.  

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’ve only got one day in Paris — perhaps you’re on a long layover — you’ll need to remind yourself from the beginning: You can’t do it all. I’ve nearly ruined several brief trips by thinking about all the things I should have packed in, rather than feeling present in the few that I was able to manage. 

If it’s your first time, I’d combine the itineraries for days one and two. Base yourself a bit more central to the main attractions — for a night of absolute pampering, treat yourself to a stay at Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, or Le Meurice — two luxury properties just off the Tuileries Garden. Wake up early and indulge in room service or grab a fresh croissant from a boulangerie near your hotel, and savor every second of that interaction — the greasy bag, the warm dough, the flaky mess of it all. Start at the Palais-Royal Garden and Galerie Vivienne before ducking over to see Notre-Dame. 

Unless you’re a serious art history buff, I’d avoid spending your one day inside a museum, but you should still wander around the Louvre courtyard and Tuileries Garden — Le Cafe Marly is a pricey lunch, but offers classic French dishes served with iconic views of the pyramid. 

Grab the metro over to Place du Trocadero for some Eiffel Tower time, wander the Champs-Élysées, then stop back at the hotel to freshen up before taking yourself a bit further afield for dinner — go for Bistrot des Tournelles , another excellent spot for homemade pork terrine, steak frites, chocolate mousse, and other French comforts. 

Page Light Studios/Getty Images

La chance! (What luck!) You can take your days a bit easier than the itinerary suggested here, lingering a little longer at cafes perhaps and spreading out more museum visits (you really shouldn’t miss Musée Bourdelle in this case). While you could easily spend the whole week in Paris, you might want to plan an overnight to Versailles, where you should book a royally exceptional stay at the opulent Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle , the only hotel on the palace grounds. 

If you’re visiting Paris in winter , you’ll want to make time for the festive holiday markets, while in summer, the Seine beckons with its faux beach. Whatever the season, the best thing you can do with your extra time is allow yourself to wander aimlessly, letting the city reveal its magic to you. 

Related Articles

6 Great Day & Weekend Trips From Paris

P aris is a compact city, so with a decent pair of walking shoes—and a few tiny tickets to the metro—you can cram a bunch of museums and major landmarks into just a few days. That leaves a good amount of time left for at least one day trip, many of which are just an hour or so away by train.

Wherever you go, plan ahead. Like Paris itself, most of the restaurants throughout France are closed in-between lunch and dinner, and while not always required, reservations are recommended, especially for small towns with limited options. Here’s where to go when you don’t want to rely on just a train sandwich to get you through the day.

Vous Restaurant

Yes, Versailles is a feast for the eyes, but it’s an assault on just about every other sense. Shake off your overstimulation at Vous, a bright and airy restaurant that’s just a 12-minute walk from the train station. The seasonal menu sources most of its ingredients from Northern France, like mussels from Normandy served in a fragrant coconut broth, and the indoor dining room and terrace are a lovely place to decompress after a day of squeezing past tour groups. If you know you won’t make it in time for lunch, book a spot for dinner and grab a pint at Craft Beer Lab next door or a glass of wine at one of the nearby bistros while you wait for your table.

Positive Café

Louis XIV probably didn’t laze on the grounds of his palace eating a veggie burger (he was more a formal banquet kind of guy), but you certainly can. Outside food isn’t allowed in the palace or formal gardens, but access to the park is free, and that’s where you can picnic with falafel bowls, an Indian-leaning lentil burger with raita, and jackfruit tacos from Positive Café. It’s less than 10 minutes away from both the train and one of the park’s two picnic areas, so either tour the palace first and then pop out to get lunch, or picnic before heading inside for a Hall of Mirrors selfie. 

Le Jardin Des Plumes

There aren’t many places to eat in tiny Giverny itself, so reservations are essential at Le Jardin des Plumes, which is where you’ll want to be after wandering through Monet's house and studio. You’ll find it inside a 1913 house-turned-boutique hotel, with a couple of bright, inviting dining areas that overlook a big, lush garden that’s almost as beautiful as Monet’s. The food here is French, but not French-French—lobster is cooked with yuzu, fish with almond milk, and beef with eel. Expect to spend €95 on the three-course lunch menu, €145 on five courses, or €175 on seven. 

Restaurant Tulip

This Lebanese restaurant is in the town of Vernon, where you’ll catch the train back to Paris after a day of looking at Impressionist art at Le Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny . It’s open all day and serves healthy-ish small plates like garlicky labneh, babaganoush, skewers, and rikakat, cigars of crispy phyllo dough filled with jibneh cheese. This is a great spot if you’re looking for something quick and easy and don’t want to get locked into a reservation elsewhere. 

La Régalade

The town of Chantilly is pretty quiet. There are fewer tourists, and the main attraction is the Chateau, which isn’t nearly as blingy as Versailles (though, truly, nothing is). The train doesn’t take longer than a half hour, so if you leave Paris early enough, you can have lunch at La Régalade after touring the Chateau and its enormous gardens and forest. The food is classic French, so expect a seasonal menu that’s heavy on beef, seafood, and cheese, plus natural wines by the glass. The last lunch seating is at 1:30pm and it reopens for dinner an hour after the Chateau closes, which gives you time to have a glass of Sancerre at La Belle Époque while you wait.

FONTAINEBLEAU

There are two very different dining spaces at Le Patton, a French restaurant in a beautiful early 19th-century house. The formal dining room is lit by chandeliers with velvet chairs and damask curtains and tablecloths, but we like the back solarium that overlooks the garden and gets flooded with light, even on grim winter days. The food is French, but leans Italian—think roasted lamb with polenta, gnocchi with crushed tomatoes, and veal sweetbreads with black rice in a foie gras sauce. It’s great for a meat-heavy meal after visiting the Chateau and rowing a boat around its lake, or working up an appetite tromping through the lush forest of Fontainebleau. 

LOIRE VALLEY

Brut maison de cuisine.

All of the vegetables at this small, modern French spot in the town of Blois come from within 12 miles, the meat is all from the Loire region, and the wine list includes bottles from the restaurant’s own backyard. Expect a tight menu that changes weekly based on what produce is at its peak, like autumn butternut squash with duck breast or a summery cucumber gazpacho with bonito and a blanket of fresh herbs and pickled cherries. 

Even in the depths of a gray northern France winter, the bright dining room at L'Auberge, part of a boutique hotel in the town of Cheverny, still feels warm and inviting. The restaurant works with Loire Valley producers to serve dishes like heirloom tomatoes with basil and goat cheese or a wood-fired guinea fowl with chickpea and tomato fricassee in winter. In warm weather, eating on the terrace feels like hiding out in a secret garden, when the trellis walls of the pergola that shades the outdoor tables are covered in vine leaves.

Le Vivarais

Bouchons in Lyon are what bistros and brasseries are to Paris, and having a meal at one is an essential experience when you’re in town, even if they skew a bit touristy. The exception is Le Vivarais, where all ingredients come from within a 40-mile radius, like cheese from Isère or frogs from the wetlands of the Dombes. It’s a good spot for a hearty, casual weekday prix-fixe lunch, where you should definitely order their pâté en croûte, which contains nine types of meat and has won awards in the Pâté-Croûte World Championships—yep, that’s a thing.

Les Mauvaises Herbes

French cuisine is pretty faithfully lard-spiked and vegetarian-unfriendly, so Les Mauvaises Herbes was served a little side-eye when it opened in 2018. But it won over both plant-based folks and open-minded meat eaters with fancy dishes that are more affordable than most fine-dining places around town. The airy, split-level space feels rustic, with a little corner of couches upstairs and plants spilling from the railing over the downstairs area. We love dishes like zucchini and pomelo ceviche, romaine leaf tacos with candied lemon tabouleh, and papas arrugadas, or wrinkly potatoes, in a herby green sauce.

Paris Tour from London - 3 Days

Our 3 day Paris tour from London is available every Saturday, departing from London St Pancras International Train Station. This is a great way of getting to and discovering Paris from the UK Capital and includes 2 nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel in the centre of Paris, as well a guided coach tour, river cruise, lunch at the Eiffel Tower and tickets to the Lido de Paris. Our tour package offers great value for money and is often a cheaper way of visiting Paris than booking independently.

Depart London St Pancras International train station at 07:00, arriving in Paris just over 2 hours later at 09:15. You’ll be met at Paris Gare du Nord train station by a staff member who will escort you to your hotel. From here, you’ll begin a day tour of Paris, beginning with a panoramic coach tour of the city. This is followed by a scenic cruise along the River Seine, where you’ll get to see the highlights of Paris including the Musee d’Orsay, Place de la Concorde and Notre Dame Cathedral. Next stop is the Eiffel Tower, and the Paris tour package includes fast track entrance to the site and lunch on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower!

Enjoy lunch at Madame Brasserie two Michelin stars chef Thierry Marx, with local and seasonal products creating contemporary brasserie cuisine. Located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, it offers amazing views of the Trocadéro and the Palais de Chaillot.

day 2 & 3:

Day 2 & 3 of our Paris tour from London are unescorted. You’ll be able to explore Paris on your own. Highlights of the city include the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre, Jardin du Luxembourg as well as the fabulous cafes, bars and restaurants that Paris is famous for. Paris is a walking city, and enjoy a stroll along the Champs-Elysees and the fabulous gardens that dot the city.

Our package also includes tickets to the Lido de Paris , the famous Paris cabaret dinner show. Every evening, talented artists perform on stage including breathtaking acrobats, amazing ice skaters, and the most glamorous, elegant dancers in Paris, the Bluebell Girls! This tribute to the City of Light will leave you with stars in your eyes.

accommodation

The package includes 2 nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel in the centre of Paris. Breakfast is included. If you require a single room, there is an extra charge of £160. Extra nights are charged at £85 per person.

The Eurostar is a high-speed train service that connects London with Paris in just over 2 hours. You’ll travel under the English Channel through the Channel Tunnel on what is perhaps one of the most unique train journeys in the world. Our 3 day Paris tour from London includes reserved seating on the Eurostar and members of staff will meet you in London and Paris train stations and guide you along the way.

• Fully escorted on the first day
• A member of staff who will meet you at London St Pancras Station with a Paris travel pack including a map of Paris
• Reserved seats on the Eurostar train London-Paris-London
• 2 nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel including breakfast
• Guided coach tour of Paris & River Seine Crusie
• Fast track entrance to the Eiffel Tower 1st level
• 3-course lunch on the Eiffel Tower including wine and coffee
• Ticket to the  Lido – Paris Cabaret and Dinner Show
• Hotel pickup and dropoff
• Gratuities (optional)
• Tour departs from St Pancras International Station at 7.01am on Mondays to Fridays & at 07:52am on Saturdays.
• Check-in is at 6am on Mondays to Fridays, & 6:30am on Saturdays in front of Le Pain Quotidien Coffee Shop.
• You will arrive back in London at approximately 21.00-22.00pm.

Further details:

• You must carry a valid passport and check visa requirements before you travel
• A Paris city tax applies to each passenger of 2,47€ per person and per night, paid directly to the hotel
• Please inform us ahead of time of any food allergies or particular needs
• Occasionally lunch at the Eiffel Tower is unavailable. In this case, you’ll enjoy a 3-course lunch on the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise
• Any delays or cancellation of trains is the sole responsibility of Eurostar
• Once booked, this tour is nonrefundable or amendable

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

Isle of Skye Tour from Glasgow - 3 Days

Harry Potter Studio Tour London Hotel Package

3 Day Isle of Wight Small Group Tour from London

3 Day Stonehenge, Bath & South West Coast, Small Group Tour

This tour is currently unavailable

View alternative tours >>>

6 Great Day & Weekend Trips From Paris

photo credit: L’Auberge

Sophie Friedman

June 21, 2024

Paris is a compact city, so with a decent pair of walking shoes—and a few tiny tickets to the metro—you can cram a bunch of museums and major landmarks into just a few days. That leaves a good amount of time left for at least one day trip, many of which are just an hour or so away by train.

Wherever you go, plan ahead. Like Paris itself, most of the restaurants throughout France are closed in-between lunch and dinner, and while not always required, reservations are recommended, especially for small towns with limited options. Here’s where to go when you don’t want to rely on just a train sandwich to get you through the day.

Vous Restaurant

Yes, Versailles is a feast for the eyes, but it’s an assault on just about every other sense. Shake off your overstimulation at Vous, a bright and airy restaurant that’s just a 12-minute walk from the train station. The seasonal menu sources most of its ingredients from Northern France, like mussels from Normandy served in a fragrant coconut broth, and the indoor dining room and terrace are a lovely place to decompress after a day of squeezing past tour groups. If you know you won’t make it in time for lunch, book a spot for dinner and grab a pint at Craft Beer Lab next door or a glass of wine at one of the nearby bistros while you wait for your table.

photo credit: Positive Cafe

Positive Café

Bakery/Cafe

Louis XIV probably didn’t laze on the grounds of his palace eating a veggie burger (he was more a formal banquet kind of guy), but you certainly can. Outside food isn’t allowed in the palace or formal gardens, but access to the park is free, and that’s where you can picnic with falafel bowls, an Indian-leaning lentil burger with raita, and jackfruit tacos from Positive Café. It’s less than 10 minutes away from both the train and one of the park’s two picnic areas, so either tour the palace first and then pop out to get lunch, or picnic before heading inside for a Hall of Mirrors selfie. 

Le Jardin Des Plumes

There aren’t many places to eat in tiny Giverny itself, so reservations are essential at Le Jardin des Plumes, which is where you’ll want to be after wandering through Monet's house and studio. You’ll find it inside a 1913 house-turned-boutique hotel, with a couple of bright, inviting dining areas that overlook a big, lush garden that’s almost as beautiful as Monet’s. The food here is French, but not French-French—lobster is cooked with yuzu, fish with almond milk, and beef with eel. Expect to spend €95 on the three-course lunch menu, €145 on five courses, or €175 on seven. 

Restaurant Tulip

This Lebanese restaurant is in the town of Vernon, where you’ll catch the train back to Paris after a day of looking at Impressionist art at Le Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny . It’s open all day and serves healthy-ish small plates like garlicky labneh, babaganoush, skewers, and rikakat, cigars of crispy phyllo dough filled with jibneh cheese. This is a great spot if you’re looking for something quick and easy and don’t want to get locked into a reservation elsewhere. 

La Régalade

The town of Chantilly is pretty quiet. There are fewer tourists, and the main attraction is the Chateau, which isn’t nearly as blingy as Versailles (though, truly, nothing is). The train doesn’t take longer than a half hour, so if you leave Paris early enough, you can have lunch at La Régalade after touring the Chateau and its enormous gardens and forest. The food is classic French, so expect a seasonal menu that’s heavy on beef, seafood, and cheese, plus natural wines by the glass. The last lunch seating is at 1:30pm and it reopens for dinner an hour after the Chateau closes, which gives you time to have a glass of Sancerre at La Belle Époque while you wait.

FONTAINEBLEAU

Fontainebleau

There are two very different dining spaces at Le Patton, a French restaurant in a beautiful early 19th-century house. The formal dining room is lit by chandeliers with velvet chairs and damask curtains and tablecloths, but we like the back solarium that overlooks the garden and gets flooded with light, even on grim winter days. The food is French, but leans Italian—think roasted lamb with polenta, gnocchi with crushed tomatoes, and veal sweetbreads with black rice in a foie gras sauce. It’s great for a meat-heavy meal after visiting the Chateau and rowing a boat around its lake, or working up an appetite tromping through the lush forest of Fontainebleau. 

LOIRE VALLEY

Brut Maison De Cuisine

All of the vegetables at this small, modern French spot in the town of Blois come from within 12 miles, the meat is all from the Loire region, and the wine list includes bottles from the restaurant’s own backyard. Expect a tight menu that changes weekly based on what produce is at its peak, like autumn butternut squash with duck breast or a summery cucumber gazpacho with bonito and a blanket of fresh herbs and pickled cherries. 

Even in the depths of a gray northern France winter, the bright dining room at L'Auberge, part of a boutique hotel in the town of Cheverny, still feels warm and inviting. The restaurant works with Loire Valley producers to serve dishes like heirloom tomatoes with basil and goat cheese or a wood-fired guinea fowl with chickpea and tomato fricassee in winter. In warm weather, eating on the terrace feels like hiding out in a secret garden, when the trellis walls of the pergola that shades the outdoor tables are covered in vine leaves.

photo credit: Romain Chambodut

Le Vivarais

Bouchons in Lyon are what bistros and brasseries are to Paris, and having a meal at one is an essential experience when you’re in town, even if they skew a bit touristy. The exception is Le Vivarais, where all ingredients come from within a 40-mile radius, like cheese from Isère or frogs from the wetlands of the Dombes. It’s a good spot for a hearty, casual weekday prix-fixe lunch, where you should definitely order their pâté en croûte, which contains nine types of meat and has won awards in the Pâté-Croûte World Championships—yep, that’s a thing.

photo credit: Les Mauvaises Herbes

Les Mauvaises Herbes

French cuisine is pretty faithfully lard-spiked and vegetarian-unfriendly, so Les Mauvaises Herbes was served a little side-eye when it opened in 2018. But it won over both plant-based folks and open-minded meat eaters with fancy dishes that are more affordable than most fine-dining places around town. The airy, split-level space feels rustic, with a little corner of couches upstairs and plants spilling from the railing over the downstairs area. We love dishes like zucchini and pomelo ceviche, romaine leaf tacos with candied lemon tabouleh, and papas arrugadas, or wrinkly potatoes, in a herby green sauce.

Suggested Reading

The Hit List: New Paris Restaurants To Try Right Now

We checked out these new restaurants—and loved them.

The Best Bistros In Paris

Massive chocolate mousses, chalkboard menus, french fry perfection, and more.

The Best Restaurants For When You’re Visiting Paris

25 of the best bistros, cafes, boulangeries, and more essential spots in the City of Light.

The Best Bars In Paris

The city’s drinking scene goes well beyond the old-school brasserie.

10 best day trips from Paris

With the 2024 Summer Olympics about to turn Paris into one of the world's busiest destinations, the City of Light is getting ready to welcome all sorts of travelers. While Paris is a treasure trove of activities and sights, sometimes you need to escape the crowds for a moment or two of quiet.

Whether you're headed to Paris to cheer for the athletes or just to enjoy some Parisian people-watching, these day trips will offer you a delightful escape and a chance to savor the diverse beauty around the French capital. So, grab your sense of adventure (and maybe a baguette for the road) and check out the 10 best Paris day trips.

Distance from Paris: One hour and 30 minutes by bus or train.

Getting there: Hop on a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, followed by a short bus or bike ride.

What to do: Entering Monet's Garden in Giverny is like walking into a real-life painting. This is where the magic of Monet's art is on full display, with its lily ponds, weeping willows and vibrant flowerbeds. You can picture the artist himself, setting up his easel and capturing the tranquility. Spend your time wandering through the house and gardens, admiring the Japanese bridge and the riot of colors. It's a peaceful retreat that feels like stepping back into a simpler, more beautiful time. Book your tickets online for a reserved time slot in advance for 13 euros ($14) per adult.

Distance from Paris: 45 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take the RER C train to Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche or the L train to Versailles Rive Droite.

What to do: If there's one word to describe Versailles , it's opulent. The Palace of Versailles is a jaw-dropping testament to the grandeur of French royalty. From the glittering Hall of Mirrors to sprawling gardens that seem to extend forever, every inch of the palace is designed to impress. Don't miss the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's private escape, where you can get a more intimate glimpse of royal life. Whether you're a history buff or just love beautiful places, Versailles is a must-see. Tickets to the palace cost 21 euros ($23) per adult; tickets to the Petit Trianon cost 12 euros ($13).

Distance from Paris: Two hours by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg.

What to do: Strasbourg's Petite France neighborhood feels like a fairy tale. With its charming half-timbered houses, winding canals and cobblestone streets, it's an eye-catching melange of French and German influences. Spend your day exploring the quaint shops and cozy cafes, take a boat ride through the canals, and visit the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral. The whole area is a feast for the senses, making it a delightful day trip from Paris.

Distance from Paris: One hour and 30 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen.

What to do: Rouen's Notre Dame Cathedral isn't just another church — it's the tallest cathedral in France and an awe-inspiring example of Gothic architecture. Inside, you'll find magnificent stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the stone floors. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town of Rouen , with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. This city is rich in history and charm, plus its many cheese shops are a veritable edible tour through the region's famous fromages.

Getting there: Take a high-speed Thalys train from Gare du Nord to Brussels Midi station.

What to do: Why not hop over to another country while you're in Paris? Brussels is just a quick 1 1/2-hour train ride away, and it's packed with charm and character. Start at the Grande Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is jaw-droppingly beautiful with its ornate guild halls and town hall. Then, venture a few blocks west to snap a photo of the cheeky Manneken Pis statue.

Indulge your taste buds with some Belgian waffles, chocolates and maybe a few local beers — after all, when in Belgium. Art enthusiasts will love the Magritte Museum, which dives deep into the surreal world of Rene Magritte. Finish your day with a walk through the lush Parc du Cinquantenaire, or take a trip to the Atomium for a bit of futuristic flair. Brussels is an alluring alternative to Paris, thanks to its history, culture and delicious food. You might even want to make it more than just a day trip.

Distance from Paris: 30 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux.

What to do : Under an hour from Paris, Chateau de Chantilly is a royal retreat brimming with art, history and equestrian elegance. This year, it's extra special with the Paris Games Polo Challenge on Aug. 7, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1924 Olympic Polo Tournament. Hosted by the U.S. Polo Assn., this event will blend thrilling polo action with chic festivities. Explore the chateau's fine art in the Musee Conde, walk through Andre Le Notre's classical gardens and visit the Great Stables for an impressive horse show. Chantilly offers a delightful blend of cultural and sporting excitement.

Auvers-sur-Oise

Distance from Paris: One hour by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Auvers-sur-Oise.

What to do: Auvers-sur-Oise is a charming village that holds a special place in the hearts of art lovers. This is where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days, and visitors can visit the Auberge Ravoux — the inn where he lived and died. The picturesque village has winding streets and pastoral fields that inspired many of Van Gogh's masterpieces. Walk in the footsteps of the great artist and see the landscapes that captured his imagination.

Distance from Paris: Two hours and 15 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux.

What to do: Bordeaux is synonymous with wine, and there's no better place to immerse yourself in the world of viticulture. Start with a visit to the La Cite du Vin cultural center and wine museum ( tickets from $24 per adult), where you'll learn about the history and craft of winemaking. Then, indulge in a tasting session at the center's tasting room or at Le Bar a Vin near the city's glorious Place de la Comedie to sample some of the region's best wines. If you're lucky enough to be in town during the Bordeaux Wine Festival , you're in for a treat — this celebration of wine with tastings and activities (June 27-30, 2024) is a feast for the senses.

Distance: 45 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est to Reims.

What to do: Reims is the Champagne region's epicenter, bubbling with history and nuance. Start your adventure at the magnificent Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries. The gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows are a sight to behold. Next, dive into the world of Champagne on a tour and taste it at one of the renowned Champagne houses such as Ruinart or Taittinger. Check out the historic cellars, learn about the intricate process of Champagne making and, of course, sample some of the sparkling wines. Finish your day by walking through the charming streets of the city center, perhaps to the Romanesque (and UNESCO-listed) Basilica of St. Remi for a last dose of history.

Disneyland Paris

Getting there: Hop on the RER A train from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallee/Chessy station.

What to do: Need a little magic in your life? Disneyland Paris is the ultimate day trip for families, Disney fans, or anyone eager to sprinkle some fairy dust on their adventure. As soon as you step off the train, you'll be greeted by the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. Cue the gasps and Instagram posts.

Get your adrenaline fix on Space Mountain, channel your inner pirate on Pirates of the Caribbean, or dance along with Mickey and friends in one of the enchanting parades. Don't forget to check out Walt Disney Studios Park for a backstage pass to movie magic and a chance to meet your favorite Pixar characters. With thrilling rides, delightful shows and enough churros to fill Cinderella's coach, Disneyland Paris promises a day of fun and wonder that's just a hop, skip and train ride away from the city.

Whether you're a history buff, art lover, wine enthusiast, foodie, architecture aficionado or just someone who needs a break from busy Paris during the Olympics, these day trips offer a variety of experiences for francophiles and first-timers alike.

Disneyland Hotel, Paris review: heaven for seven year olds and fashion editors alike

Will a visit to Disneyland Paris be as magical as our fashion director remembers from her childhood? Victoria Moss found out

When I say I’m taking my seven year old daughter to Disneyland there’s usually two reactions: either abject horror or bemused sighs of what a nice parent I am. It might seem off-brand for a fashion editor, but I adore Disney . I love the naff kitschiness, the inane tones of It’s a Small World, the implication that nothing bad could ever happen, the pure homely, apple-pie weirdness of it all.   

The last time I came to Disneyland Paris was the early Nineties. We stayed at the Davy Crockett themed hotel, which was essentially caravans covered in plastic logs cosplaying as cabins in the woods. I adored it. It remains a childhood highlight, a strange sort of magic of scream-inducing thrills, sugar highs and unfathomable excitement over people dressed up as cartoon characters. 

I’ve been waiting until my daughter was old enough so that she could remember it, and be tall enough to get on the good rides. 

We started our trip with a couple of days in Paris, in theory we were going up the Eiffel Tower and seeing all the sights the City of Lights has to offer. Unfortunately after an accident on our first day we spent most of our time in the children’s hospital with my daughter requiring minor surgery on her hand (she was thankfully fine, and side note — I can’t recommend the French medical system more). I was slightly reticent if after this Disney was a terrible idea. When I told the hospital nurse we were going as she prepared my daughter for surgery she looked as if she might call le social services. 

But given that we still had the rest of the week before our flight back home, I wasn’t sure what else to do. Apart from anything she was already livid about the hospital, taking Disney away would instigate a drama of epic proportions. Life is short, I thought. Go to Disneyland! 

The trip from central Paris was easy and, thrillingly for my daughter, on a double decker train with Mickey Mouse signage. We arrived at the branded gates rather battered, bruised and in need of some serious cheering up. 

The weather was grotty. But walking into the entrance, all mouse-motif landscaping and piped music was soporific bliss. As we hummed I asked her, “How long until you think the music gets annoying?”. “What music?” she said. Perhaps the anaesthetic was still wearing off, I worried. 

We swayed on over to the pink vision that is the Disneyland Hotel, in its plum territory bordering the gates of the park. Inside was somewhat chaotic but I think the spirit is to lean into it all. Under the giant chandelier in the hall-like reception area, children span around in glitzy Disney-merch outfits, in one corner there was a Beauty and the Beast enactment going on. At check in, we almost fell into the arms of the reception staff (sorry, cast members) who immediately started referring to my daughter as ‘princess’. 

We swept up the grand staircase to our room; I made a Titanic joke which she didn’t understand. The hotel has been recently renovated, and the room has a set up which has been carefully thought through for ultimate ease, with a few dashes of Disney-magic, too.

Our ‘superior’ room double beds were framed with Belle artwork, the bathroom tiles if you looked closely showed Cinderella. A magic drawer opened to unveil glasses, tea cups and the like; coffee machines and kettle; the giant mirror was a television; elegant benches sat at the end of our two double beds. Don’t bother packing adaptor plugs as there are USB plug-ins. There was a child-size robe and slippers which thrilled my mini-break buddy. A knock on the door and we were presented with a box of chocolates disguised as a book. All catnip to my daughter, who’d come equipped with an array of Minnie Mouse and Disney outfits to wear in the park. We like to dress the part. 

The joy of staying at the Disneyland Hotel is its proximity to the action; there’s even a special gate in to avert from too much queuing. Personally, I wouldn’t take a child younger than my one, last year she wouldn’t have got on as many rides and would definitely have whinged a lot more with the daily step count. There’s the much touted ‘Magic Hour’ whereby you can enter the parks an hour before anyone else, but we never quite made it in time. 

There are two restaurants in the hotel plus the Fleur de Lys bar. Both eateries sit next to one another. The Royal Banquet offers what it calls ‘gourmet banquet’ which is a fairly extensive buffet option. At breakfast there are all the usual pancake, cereal, yoghurt, bacon and egg elements you’d imagine. Fruit, perhaps not surprisingly for the crowd, is in rather short supply. I was hoping for an array of freshness, but on both days we ate here there was but a rather sad bowl of mixed fruit salad. This of course didn’t trouble my daughter in the least who wolfed down as much Nutella with hot chocolate chaser as she could stomach. 

Dinner is the real catch here — primarily because you will be visited by Mickey and friends in their suitably regal attire. It’s not just the kids who are giddy and star-struck.  A woman at the next table pulled up her husband’s trousers to show his giant Donald Duck tattoo to, you guessed it, the duck himself. 

The food was again a bounteous looking buffet, but I was surprised that there weren’t that many explicitly kid friendly options. My daughter isn’t that fussy, but she wasn’t up for the rich meat dishes drenched in sauces and so largely existed on the Mickey-shaped potatoes (admittedly delicious) and crudités selection. A pizza and simple pasta station would be a useful addition here. Equally while the patisserie desserts were beautifully decadent, what she really wanted was some ice cream. For the cost of the meal (€50 for kids, €100 for adults) I did expect a little more.   

Next door is the La Table de Lumière billed as a fancier, more high cuisine option (this is also where you’ll get to mingle with the Disney Princesses). 

Overall the food at Disney is disappointing and expensive. Throughout the park there are various options all offering fairly uninspiring fast food experiences riffing off Disney hits. The best we found was Pizzeria Bella Notte which takes its thematic cue from Lady and the Tramp (which sucked me right in). The pasta here wasn’t half bad (comparative to everything else) and they do Mickey shaped kids pizzas which delighted her majesty. It’s probably worth venturing into the ‘Disney Village’ for dinner if you’re staying in one of the themed hotels outside the park, there are far more options here than inside the park and include high street chains in which you might fare better. But ultimately bring snacks, keep your expectations fairly low and prepare to wince at every bill. 

One treat which went down very well with my daughter was the ‘My Royal Dream’ makeover experience which is available to hotel guests. There are various levels of commitment to the bit: our appointment included a dress and shoes of her choice from the Royal Collection boutique (which houses merch exclusive to the hotel), hair and makeup, plus full photo session. I think in a year’s time she’d be reluctant to do it, but it certainly sealed off her princess era with hilarious panache. I for one can’t wait to bring out the pageant style pictures of her trussed up as Belle on her 18th. 

While the hotel provided a luxe and extremely comfortable base (coming back to hot chocolate in bed, with a fairytale story left on our pillows at turn down — heaven) the main attraction was of course the attractions. 

Our first stop in the park was for Minnie ears, of course. Main Street was pretty much as I remembered it, those pastel, hokey Americana store-fronts. I would argue that the Disney treats and merch were better in the Nineties, everything feels a little flimsy and unimaginative and certainly isn’t cheap. Do prepare to spend a lot of time fending off requests to buy the endless items which are available on repeat on stalls and stores across the two parks (The Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney Studios). 

Some do’s and don’ts: Definitely download the app. You can see how big the queues are on each ride and the interactive map is a huge help when you inevitably get lost. 

We went in the school holidays and the crowds were impressive; if you want to catch the parades (currently showing is the fun Disney Symphony of Colours) then start milling around the central area in front of the Sleeping Beauty castle early.

If you can, plump for Premier Access, which means you can skip at least halfway to the front on most rides. I’d call it a lifesaver. It meant that by the end of our first day we’d got round most of the rides we wanted to and then could spend the rest of time heading back around on our favourites. 

Do catch a show at Walt Disney Studios — they’re really great and a brilliant way to have a sit down. But again, you do need to get in there early to get a spot. We saw the Pixar character dance show and it was fab. 

My daughter is a complete thrill seeker, but the Avengers Assemble ride (which will fling you upside down) was too much for her. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror however — where you’re ‘dropped’ down a lift shaft over and over again — was her hands down favourite. She forced me on it a stomach-churning three times. I adored the Ratatouille ride which was a delight! 

We walked ate least 15,000 steps each day — so take comfy trainers — plus a waterproof. It rained on and off for most of our three days there, which while not a total dampener did mean we had to shell out for a plastic poncho for my daughter (a personal red line, for me). 

All in all it was very much what I wanted it to be; she adored it and sobbed when we had to pack up and ship out. I found my seven year old buddy to be the very best park companion, up for everything, entranced by the whole schtick and cheered up immeasurably after our rocky start. Additionally, I was calmed by the opportunity to unleash all my pent up emotion from our hospital detour by screaming into the black oblivion of as many roller coasters as possible. Forget therapy, just give me Star Wars Hyperspace mountain. 

Enjoy a one-night stay at Disneyland Paris from £463 per person, including accommodation at Disneyland Hotel with access to the Disney Parks for two days and direct return flights with EasyJet. To book visit: disneylandparis.com . Terms and conditions: Price is based on two adults and two children (aged 3-9) sharing a Superior Room at Disneyland Hotel, with direct return economy flights from London Luton to Paris Charles de Gaulle. Price is based on a departure date of 3rd November 2024. All prices and itinerary correct as of 13th June 2024 and subject to availability and change.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Kanye West’s wife Bianca Censori suffers wardrobe malfunction in barely-there tape outfit

Share this with

Bianca Censori suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction while enjoying a lavish night out with husband Kanye West .

The model and architect, 29, is in Paris with her controversial rapper husband, 47, for Paris Fashion Week, pictured on Thursday enjoying a dinner at Gigi Paris where reports say West splashed out more than $50,000 (£39,500) .

Censori attended in one of her signature racy outfits , rocking up to the eatery in an outfit seemingly fashioned from tape to create shorts and two straps across her breasts.

She posed alongside her stylist Gadir Rajab for photos posted to Instagram , but seemed unaware that her outfit was starting to come apart.

Pictures posted online of Censori show gaps between the tape forming on the side of her legs – but she seemed blissfully aware while smizing for the camera.

According to reports, Kanye invited around 30 guests to a private apartment in the city, and splurged $40,000 (£31,600) just on drinks alone.

The Sun US  reports that he splurged on five bottles of pinot noir, at just under $4,000 (£3,161) each, as well as $10,000 (£7,900) on Bordeaux and more than $7,000 (£5,530) worth of champagne.

She was joined by pals for the night, and posed for pictures to celebrate Rajab’s birthday, with the Eiffel Tower shimmering behind the restaurant.

Before her photo mishap, Censori narrowly avoided causing an awkward scene as some of the tape began peeling away from her trousers as she climbed out of the car on her way into the venue.

Her latest risqué outfit comes as she sparked outrage in Japan over her almost-nude thong outfit.

@brandon.doggett was not expecting to see kanye when i walked out of the bathroom to say the lease #fyp #fypシ゚viral #kanyewest #biancacensori ♬ sad SpongeBob music – michael

West and Censori jetted off to the country on economy flights, shocking fellow passengers who didn’t expect to see the superstar couple.

Once they arrived, Censori enjoyed a shopping trip in Ginza Six, Tokyo, wearing a sheer grey bodysuit –  with no trousers .

The couple previously  risked being banned from Venice  over inappropriate outfits and shop assistants at the luxury shopping complex looked shocked by her getup.

While in Venice last year, they headed on a boat ride during which  Ye was pictured with his trousers down  and his bum out as Bianca kneeled between his legs, leading to the  Tourism and Promotion office  in Florence slamming the spouses.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : 00s movie icon’s ‘cringe’ Netflix film ripped apart by unimpressed viewers

MORE : Movie fans will feel ‘sick to their stomachs’ after watching ‘nightmarish’ 2024 film

MORE : Things are only getting worse for the ‘worst movie of 2024’

Get us in your feed