one day eurostar trips to paris

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Day trips to Paris

London to Paris and back again in one day? Is it possible? Yes, it definitely is and in fact, it’s one of the best ways to make the most of Paris.

Discover Paris in a day

Whatever you have packed into your Paris itinerary you can start your day in comfort and style on a Eurostar train from London to Paris . And if you leave your return journey from Paris to London as late as possible, you’ll even be able to sample the sights and sounds of Paris at night. Oui!

So, now you know it’s possible, how will you make the most of your trip to Paris? Any day trip to Paris needs to involve the right blend of the top tourist attractions , with the best places to sample Parisian cuisine shoulder to shoulder with the locals, and the top neighbourhoods to really get that French flavour. Not only do we make Paris day trips possible on our speedy trains between the two cities, we’ve also got the inside track on the best things to do in Paris from our local team and the top tips for making Paris in a day something you’ll never forget.

Day trip in Paris itinerary

If you only have a short time in the city, it’s important to get the inside track on what to do in Paris in a day. There’s no time to waste reading guidebooks or searching on your phone for inspiration. Our expert team of local Parisian bloggers and influencers know just how to make the most of the city in a short space of time. And they’re on hand to guarantee you do just that.

If you’ve the appétit

Head south to Pierre Hermé : home of delicate macarons, indulgent Ispahan croissants and desserts that wouldn’t look out of place in the Louvre. Poilâne , with its signature sourdough loaf, and master chocolatier Patrick Roger are also good spots to pick up a tasty souvenir or two. A little further west, you’ll find Jacques Génin and the most divine caramels you’ll ever taste.

If you’re not quite ready for breakfast, go north

On your way to the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés pop into Ladurée for a box of scrumptious macarons. Wander the petite narrow streets, make your way east towards the Saint-Michel fountain, cross the bridge to Île de la Cité – and gaze at the majesty of Notre Dame.

Explore charming streets

Then, once you’ve had your fill of whispering “the bells” under your breath, continue into Le Marais: to explore charming streets, stumble upon stunning buildings, discover hidden gardens and relax in colourful cafés.

If there’s one tip to follow in the hunt for your dream déjeuner, it’s to eat where the locals eat. Luckily, there’s no shortage of choice, whether you’re vegetarian, visiting with kids or a romantic lunch à deux.

The romantic lunch

The City of Love is packed with so many  romantic things to do  for couples. Whether planning a Valentine’s Day to remember, a spontaneous jaunt just for two, or you simply want to dine in one of Paris’ stunning restaurants for an anniversary to remember, a day in Paris is the ultimate in a quick couple’s retreat. If you’re hungry for amour, head over to Le 52, take a seat at one of their marble-topped tables and prepare to be wowed by the most sensational seasonal fish dishes you've ever tasted.

The classic French bistro

Just a ten-minute walk from the hustle and bustle of Gare du Nord, make yourself at home in  La Maison Bleue . Their famous French bistro dishes look as fabulous as the mixture of modern and vintage French décor. Though if the sun has his chapeau on, it’s even lovelier to eat sur la terrasse.

Travelling with kids?

Paris really does do a fine sideline in catering for families. The boulevards are pram-friendly, the play-parks are inventive, and the museums offer state-of-the-art experiences. With so many fun things to do with the kids , Paris in a day with all the family really is a possibility. And for lunch? Chez Jeanette  serves up simple, quintessentially French food as well as kid-friendly burgers and frites. Pizza-lovers should make a beeline for  Lucky Luciano .

You’ve enjoyed the best that Paris has to offer in terms of food, now it’s time to explore –an essential part of all Paris day trips.

The islands of Paris

Two natural islands sit proudly in the midst of this stretch of the River Seine. Île de la Cité, the larger of the two, is home to the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral.

But never discount the allure of its sister Île, Saint-Louis. A short jaunt from Le Marais, one of Paris’s most fashionable neighbourhoods, the Pont Louis Philippe bridge welcomes you to intimate island life, with pretty cobbled streets and a refreshing laid-back charm. It really is amongst the city’s top sights to see.

Fancy a café or an ice cream?

Pick a café – Saint-Régis is always a favourite – and linger over lunch with a glass of rosé, while nearby street musicians fill the air with song. Then, time for a different kind of glass: Crème glacée from Paris’s original artisanal ice cream shop, Berthillon . Indulge in a scoop or two as the sun starts to dip over Notre Dame, or pack a Parisian picnic of crusty bread, gooey cheese and – bien sûr – a bottle of red, all best served with a sunset. Santé!

Think that just because you’re on a day trip to Paris from London means that you can’t enjoy the best of Paris at night? That’s where you’d be wrong. It’s time to make every moment count.

Parisian nightlife

Before you hop on the train back to London, why not sample some Parisian nightlife? If you book ahead, you could even catch a concert at the legendary, and newly-renovated, Elysée-Montmartre music hall.

See some art in the evening

Culture vultures should check out Palais de Tokyo. Europe’s largest contemporary art space is open until midnight every day except Tuesday. And that’s without mentioning the not-so-small matter of the Louvre.

For the foodies

Serious epicureans are spoilt for choix. Some of our go-to Michelin-starred picks: Le Gabriel at La Réserve Paris, Epicure at Le Bristol and L’Abeille at the Shangri-La. Pressed for time? Try Champeaux and Restaurant AG – both in the newly-transformed Les Halles district.

Craft beers

Right now, though, Paris is all about craft beers. Try brews by Brasserie de la Goutte d 'Or, Deck & Donohue and BapBap . On the Bassin de la Villette, in the 19th arrondissement, the Paname Brewing Company is a fun taproom which brews its own beer too.

Fancy some wine?

Raise a glass at an atmospheric bar like La Grande Crèmerie in St Germain. Across the Seine, Juveniles has fabulous food and, for one of the best cocktails in town, don’t miss Le Mary Celeste. If the weather’s nice, hit a rooftop bar like Le Perchoir and enjoy the view.

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Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Paris thanks to the Eurostar London to Paris trains . Time it right to get the most out of the day and take the first train out at 06.01 out and come back on last train of the day.

What are the best things to do on a day trip to Paris?

Tale a look at our recommendations of the best things to do to make the most of a full day in Paris before you head home on the last London to Paris Eurostar train ..

Where are the best places to eat on a day trip to Paris?

From friendly neighbourhood bistros dishing up tasty, locally sourced delicacies to vegan spots working plant-based wonders, Paris is a hotbed of exciting culinary experiences. Discover our best dining recommendation to enjoy on a day trip to Paris.

Is it worth going to Paris from London for just a day? Mais oui

While a day in Paris from London might seem ambitious at first, it’s easy when the journey’s so quick and comfortable. If you take the first Eurostar and come back on the last, you’ll have more than eleven hours to enjoy in the City of Light. And since Paris is one hour ahead of London, you’ll be back earlier than you might expect. In short, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the capital.

Here are some top tips for your day trip to Paris:

• Time it right : get the most out of the day and take the first train out at 06.01 out and come back on last train of the day.
• Travel in style : go Standard Premier for a more spacious seat and get breakfast served to you on board.
• Be prepared : buy your Paris metro tickets at our onboard bar buffet and avoid the queues in Paris.

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Paris in Just One Day: A Quick Exploration Guide!

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If you’ve got just one day in Paris and you’re wondering how to make the most of it, you’re in the right place. Having lived in this magical city since 2006, I’ve got the insider scoop on how to experience the best of Paris in a day.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, this itinerary is packed with must-see spots and local secrets. From the charming streets of Montmartre to the iconic Eiffel Tower , we’ll cover it all.

How to make the most out of your one day in Paris?

If you’ve ever searched for “perfect day in Paris” or “one day in Paris”, you’ve probably seen a bunch of guides and itineraries. I’ve looked through them too, and to be honest, they often leave me scratching my head.

Some are jam-packed to the brim, while others suggest you’ll barely have time to do anything. Let’s find a happy medium and plan a day in Paris that’s just right!

But let’s set the record straight: if you’re in Paris for just a day, you won’t tick off every highlight. But don’t think for a second that a one-day visit isn’t worth it. You can absolutely have a fantastic time and get a real taste of what Paris has to offer. Let’s make that day count!

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

A word of warning: This 1 day in Paris itinerary that I created for you is sportive, and you better pack your most comfortable walking shoes for Paris because you’ll be on your feet all day.

Also interesting:

• 2 days in Paris : read more here
• Paris first timer guide: read more here

In this guide I am aiming for that the sweet spot between sightseeing and joie de vivre. Because let’s be honest: you can visit the Louvre, but if you have only one or two spare hours, what’s the point?

And you can also just rush from one sight to another next on your Paris in one day tour. But if you don’t have a moment to just sit and enjoy a glass of wine on e terrace?

Visiting Paris is not a race . Paris is about pleasure and joy, about taking it all in, about being fully there.

Your Realistic iItinerary for One Day in Paris

I have been living in Paris for many years, and I put together a realistic itinerary of things to do in Paris in a day.

Everything you could and should do if you are in Paris for a day to make the most out of your stay and get a comprehensive impression of the city .

For a café on a patio and even a glass of wine at sunset. You will also see some of Paris’ most iconic sights , and I can assure you it won’t be the most stressful day of your life. And you most likely want to come back!)

What does this 1 day in Paris Itinerary cover? 

In a nutshell, these are the sights and activities you can be looking forward to if you are following more or less this one-day itinerary for Paris:

• Eiffel Tower
• Pyramid of the Louvre
• Seine River Cruise
• Sacré Coeur
• Shakespeare & Company
• Centre Pompidou
• The Bouquiniste
• a café in a Parisian street café
• of course: An authentic french croissant
• and: a glass of wine

If you are thinking now that I am out of my mind to be intending to squeeze all those activities to do in Paris in one day, that’s fair.

Though, I am good at coming up with efficient plans. Read on to see for yourself how you can maximize your day in Paris .

Paris in a Day Walking Distance: 9.5km ≡ Duration: 8h to 10h

Feel free to use the itinerary below as is, or think of it as a set of building blocks.

Depending on your schedule, energy, and personal preferences, you can easily skip parts like the Louvre Pyramid or Montmartre.

You might even want to start with Montmartre and skip the Marais. These modules are flexible and can be swapped around to suit your mood. This way, you can create a memorable day in Paris that’s tailored just for you.

Your 1 day in Paris Itinerary

Maybe you’re thinking of a quick stopover in Paris for a day while heading to Southern Europe. Or perhaps you’re in luck with a long layover in Paris, giving you enough time to venture into the city. And depending on where you’re based, a day trip to Paris could even be on the cards!

Either way, visiting Paris for one day is a fantastic way to get to know the city a bit.

If you need precise information regarding your arrival point, for example how to get into town from airports , where to park your car , etc., please read also the last section of this article

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Here’s your itinerary for one perfect day in Paris.

#1 Châtelet & Marais

Length: 4km | Duration: 1h30

Paris works really well when you’re short on time. It’s not a massive city, quite the opposite, actually, and most of its sights are centered around the same area.

That’s why I’ve picked Châtelet, a major metro and train station, as the starting point for this itinerary. Châtelet is a key public transport hub, making it easy to connect from wherever you’re arriving in Paris.

It’s directly linked to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, and to major train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, Gare Saint Lazare, and Gare de Lyon. So, getting here should be a breeze.

Tour de Saint-Jaques

After enjoying the obligatory French Croissant and are at the Metro station, head east. If you are unsure where east is, look out for the Tour de Saint-Jaques . The 52m high tower is the only remains of a gothic 16th-century church that got destroyed following the French Revolution in 1797.

Hôtel de Ville

Heading down the Rue de Rivoli, you will soon see the Hôtel de Ville , the Parisian mayor house, on your right. I suggest paying a visit to the tourist office that is located on the left side of the building.

It’s a good occasion to stuck up on some Paris knick-knack as a memory of your one-day trip to Paris, but the real reason why it’s worth to step in are the free temporary exhibitions!

24 hours in Paris – Visit the Marais! 

Starting from Hôtel de Ville, make your way north, passing the Centre Pompidou , and enter the Marais. This area was the aristocratic district of Paris until the French Revolution, and many historic buildings here are remnants of that era.

Post-revolution, the Marais transformed into a bustling commercial area and became the heart of Paris’ Jewish community . Nowadays, it’s also known as the center of LGBT culture in Paris and a hub for galleries, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and bars.

So if it comes down to what to see in Paris in one day, the Marais is definitely high up on the list. If you have a bit more time in Paris, the Marais is a wonderful district to take a walking tour for foodies!

Your Exact Itinerary: Châtelet & Marais

If you follow the itinerary below, you will come across the most interesting and representative sights within the Marais area.

The actual walking time in the Marais, according to Google, is about 53 minutes. But you should really allocate at least 1h30, if not 2 hours. The Marais is filled with charming shops and small galleries, and I did promise you’d have time for a café, right? Taking it slow here is part of the experience.

To save time, I suggest you have (an early) lunch in the Marais.

The Marais, with its strong Jewish and Middle Eastern influences, is a great spot for kosher food and, of course, falafel!

A top choice is L’As du Falafel on Rue des Rosiers . This famous falafel shop is even a favorite of Lenny Kravitz. That’s quite the endorsement (and honestly, the falafel really is delicious). You’ll spot it easily thanks to the queue, but don’t worry, they serve fast.

Alternatively, I can recommend Le Sabich Sandwich from Babka Zana near Place de Vosges on 8 rue du Pas de la Mule .

For more food ideas, check out our Paris Food Guide to discover the best eats in the city!

#2 Île de Saint-Louis

Length 300m | Duration 15min (if you make an ice cream stop!)

After you’ve visited the Shoah Memorial in the Marais, cross over the Pont Marie to reach Île Saint-Louis. While the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral might tempt you to detour, hold off for a bit — it’s not on our agenda just yet. Stay patient, there’s more to explore first!

Just when you set foot on the Île Saint-Louis, you’ll pass by Berthillon . It’s the most famous (and best) glacier in Paris, and their ice creams and sorbets are knowingly among the 10 best ice creams in the world . And isn’t time for a desert anyway? Treat yourself!

By the way, does the café in the picture above look familiar? It’s a filming location for Emily in Paris!

If you’ve got a little extra time and you’re still up for a walk, I recommend adding about 15 minutes to your schedule for some detours around Île Saint-Louis. It’s a really pleasant island and worth the extra exploration.

#3 Quartier Latin

Complete Loop 4 km |  Duration 1h30—2h

Shortcut Tour 1.2 km  |  Duration 20 – 40 min

The Quartier Latin, known as the traditional university district of Paris , still houses most of the city’s educational establishments. The area gets its name from its history — Latin used to be the language of academia!

Today, the Latin Quarter is a vibrant student hub , bustling with pubs, bars, markets, shops, and picturesque cobbled streets. It’s a lively part of the city that’s full of energy and character.

Given that you’ve already done a fair amount of walking today, it might be wise to keep your Latin Quarter tour relatively brief. The full loop on the map below is more suited for those who are particularly keen on exploring Paris or for those opting to rent a Vélib bike for quicker travel.

If you’re leaning towards the shorter route, head directly to Odette, marked as point G on the map. This will streamline your tour while still allowing you to experience a key part of the Latin Quarter.

Latin Quarter Shortcut Tour (If you lack time)

The shortcut itinerary through the Latin Quarter includes some iconic Parisian spots, starting with Odette .

This charming tea house is famous for its choux à la crème – a type of filled puff pastry. It’s a great place to either sit down for some people-watching with a tasty pastry or to grab some choux to go.

Just a short walk from Odette, you’ll find the renowned bookstore Shakespeare and Company . Specializing in English and American literature, this bookstore is a true Parisian institution and one of the city’s most unique spots.

If you’re short on time, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit in Paris, even for just a day. It’s no longer a hidden gem , but it’s absolutely worth stepping inside to explore.

When you visit Shakespeare and Company, make sure to take in the view of Notre Dame from the first floor. And while you’re there, give some love to the resident cat who lives in the bookstore (not in Notre Dame!).

For a unique souvenir, any book you buy can be stamped upon request – a nice little touch to remember your visit.

If you haven’t grabbed a bite yet, the Latin Quarter offers plenty of lunch options. But a heads-up: try to avoid the restaurants around Rue de la Harpe.

They might be cheap and look tempting, but trust me, you can find much better food elsewhere in the area for just a bit more.

#4 Île de la Cité

Length 1,8 km | Duration 40 min (if you visit the Hôtel Dieu)

From the the Latin Quarter, just cross the St. Michel Bridge and finally head over to Notre Dame . Since the tragic incident in 2019, Notre Dame cannot be visited currently.

Some blinds are put in place, so you cannot get even close to Notre Dame. However, you can still snap some pictures and the Île-de-la-Cité has a few nice places to discover, for example, the Hôtel Dieu just left from Notre Dame.

It’s not a very time-consuming activity, but a real secret tip and definitely worth it! See our post here and know more about visiting .

Editor’s advice : if you are around Notre Dame, be extra wary of pickpockets and do not stop if some girls ask for your signature for something.

#5 Seine River Cruise – Time to Relax

Book your Ticket here | Duration 1h30 

After wandering through the Marais, much of the Latin Quarter and the Seine islands, you’ve definitely earned a break!

On the Seine Island Île de la Cité, where you currently are, you find the pier for the Seine River Cruise . It’s the perfect chance to just hop on and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river!

Taking a cruise on the Seine will not only let you relax and stretch your legs a wee bit after quite a busy day, but you will also see most of Paris’ important sights (at a very fair price!)

• Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Musée de Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais
• Pont Alexandre III

There are many companies in Paris that are offering Cruises on the Seine and one is usually as good as the other, but most of them are leaving at the Eiffel Tower. So not at all where you are.

If you are visiting Paris only for a very short time and following my itinerary, you need to book a Seine Cruise with Vedettes de Pont Neuf . It’s the only company that starts in the center of Paris.

I strongly recommend booking  your Seine cruise in advance , as some time slots are very popular and superfast sold out. Check here for availabilities, schedules, and rates .

Tip : The boats are leaving from the Seine island Île de la Cité and the entrance is next to the statue of Henry IV, in the middle of Pont Neuf.

#6 The Pyramid of the Louvre

Length 1,1 km | Duration 14 min 

The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and is located in the former king’s palace, the Palais du Louvre. It’s also the largest art museum of the world, with more than 30.000 exhibited objects on 72.735 square meters.

But bad news first : you won’t have time to visit the Louvre if you are on a one day trip to Paris.

That being said, if you skip one or two of the suggested itineraries, you could make it. Just think about purchasing your tickets in advance, as even a museum like the Louvre can be sold out. Click here to reserve your spot!

Need help deciding? Read this article: Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide

The great news is, you’ve got time to see the famous Pyramid of the Louvre . This glass pyramid, situated in the main courtyard of the Louvre, was inaugurated in 1988.

Initially, it wasn’t widely embraced, but today, it stands as one of Paris’ key landmarks. Interestingly, it’s not just one pyramid – there’s also an inverted glass pyramid inside, a fact you might recognize if you’ve seen the film or read Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” .

It’s a striking piece of architecture that blends modern and historical elements, making it a must-see on your Paris trip.

(Well, there are 4 Pyramids, but those 2 are the most significant)

#7 Montmartre & the Sacre Cœur

Length 700m | Duration 25min – if you linger

Montmartre is one of Paris’ loveliest areas, and if you’ve still got a bit of energy left, consider taking an Uber up north. (The Metro is also an option, about a 30-minute ride.)

When you arrive at Abbesses Metro station, take some time to grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. I personally recommend Comptoir Breizh .

It’s a traditional Crêperie serving both sweet and savory dishes, and their offerings are truly delicious. It’s a great way to wrap up your day with some authentic French cuisine.

Right next to the Abbesses Metro station, you’ll find your first Montmartre highlight: “ Le mur des je t’aime” or the Wall of Love. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo. Then, get ready to head uphill.

Yes, there are a few stairs involved, but soon you’ll arrive at “Place du Tertre” , the famous square bustling with painters ready to sketch your portrait.

And just a bit further, you reach the grand finale of your one-day Paris adventure: the majestic Basilica of Sacre Coeur . What better way to end an amazing day than by watching the city lights come on at night from this stunning vantage point?

P.S.: Don’t forget to grab some beers or wine to enjoy as you take in the breathtaking view.

Editor’s advice: A s you descend the stairs at Sacre Coeur, keep an eye out for individuals who might approach you to tie a friendship bracelet around your wrist, often expecting money in return.

The best strategy is to simply ignore them and walk past quickly. They’re not dangerous, just quite persistent and can be annoying. Being aware and moving on swiftly is your best bet.

How to organize your day trip to Paris?

No matter how long or short you stay in Paris, there are always a few things to organize.

The most common question for travelers is understandably about how to get to Paris in the first place.

If you’re arriving by car, finding a convenient and reasonably priced parking spot is crucial. On the other hand, if you’re flying in, it’s important to know the best ways to get from the airport into the city.

The following articles will be interesting for you:

• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris: THE complete guide!
• How to use the Parisian Metro in 2022!
• Paris by bike: How to rent a bike in Paris in 2022!

1 Day in Paris: Transportation & Accomodation

Each mode of arrival requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth start to your Paris adventure.

Arriving in Paris by Plane

The paris layover tour.

If you are traveling internationally in or out of Europe with a connection in Paris, you might have some waiting time between flights. You can also plan an easy overnight layover to benefit from the occasion to explore Paris.

Paris isn’t very far from the airport, and it’s easily possible to use a layover by visiting Paris.

How to get to Paris from the Airport?

Paris has 2 airports: Roissy/Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in the north and Orly (ORY) in the south. Both airports are connected to Paris by RER B (Parisian express train) with several inner-city stops.

By Public Transport

The train from the airport , whether it’s Orly or Charles de Gaulle, takes around 45 minutes to Châtelet, the center of Paris.

By Private Transport

If you are short on time and don’t want to stress about figuring out public transportation, you can also easily book a private transfer from the airport to Paris.

I recommend you to check with Welcome Pickup because they are reliable, speak English and track your flight to be aware of delays.

Check here our very extensive guide on how to get from CDG airport to Paris!

Where to stay when traveling by Plane?

If your layover requires reserving a hotel, you can either check in to a hotel close by the airport or spend the night in Paris.

However, it depends on your flight departure time. If your plane is scheduled before noon, I suggest staying close to the airport. Traffic in Paris can be VERY busy, both on roads and public transportation.

Where to stay near Charles de Gaulle Airport (Roissy)?

A few Hotels are located directly on the Airport premise, so you don’t have to worry about transportation in the morning. The best Hotels are:

• Ibis Paris CDG (Budget)
• Innside by Melia Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Midrange)
• Pullman Paris Roissy Cdg Airport (Upscale)

Where to stay near Orly Airport?

If you are leaving from Orly in the south, you have less of a choice because there are only two hotels in the airport area. Both are good and convenient:

• ibis Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Midrange)
• Novotel Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Upscale)

Arriving in Paris by Car

If you’re heading north or south or are on a road trip through Europe, you might find yourself arriving in Paris by car . However, having a car in Paris isn’t really ideal.

I strongly recommend against driving into the city center and also suggest avoiding street parking. The traffic in Paris can be intense, and finding a parking spot is often a challenge.

Moreover, leaving all your luggage in your car while you’re out exploring Paris is not a good idea.

It’s better to find a secure parking solution or consider alternative transportation options once you’re in the city to ensure your belongings stay safe and you avoid the stress of navigating Parisian traffic.

There are many paid and surveilled parking places all around town that are close to public transportation. You can find your convenient location and even book a parking place ahead of your arrival.

You can do that for example here , but there are many parking place providers in Paris.

Rent a Hotel with Parking Place

If you’re planning to stay overnight in Paris and have a car, booking a hotel with private parking can solve your parking dilemma. I recommend checking out these hotel options.

All of them are conveniently located near Metro stations, ensuring quick access to the city center. Plus, they’re situated just far enough from the heart of the city to avoid getting caught in Paris’ notorious traffic.

This way, you get the best of both worlds – ease of travel and a stress-free place to park your vehicle.

However, parking is not free and all hotels charge a minimum of €20 per day.

Mama Shelter East: ultra-modern hotel with iMacs in each room. The hotels also have an in-house restaurant, a Pizzeria, and a bar.

Le Mireille: The nice French hotel lies nearby to the Sacre Coeur. The location is perfect for everyone who is following our one-day in Paris itinerary, as the Sacre Coeur is the end of the tour!

Arriving in Paris by Train

If you’re traveling to Paris from London, Brussels, or Cologne, you’ll most likely arrive at Gare du Nord. On the other hand, if you’re coming from the south of France, your arrival point will probably be Gare de Lyon.

Conveniently, each of these train stations is connected to Châtelet by a direct Metro line , and the journey takes about 10 minutes.

A single ride Metro ticket costs €1,90 at the time of writing and can be loaded on a Navigo Easy Travel card that you either buy at the station for €2 or load on your phone for free.

Where to stay in Paris for one night?

If you are looking for a hotel in Paris for one night, it’s best to stay in the center of Paris. This way, you are saving time in public transportation, you get the full Paris flair, and you are quickly everywhere.

But it is hard to choose the right Hotel in Paris, I know. That’s why I have a few Paris hotel guides that will help you find your perfect accommodation.

• 5 most convenient Ibis Hotels in Paris  – Budget Hotel Guide
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• The best Hotels in Montmartre; for every budget!

If you’re planning to follow this itinerary and need to catch a flight from Charles de Gaulle Airport later, it’s actually a smart idea to look for a hotel in Montmartre .

This location offers you a convenient route back after a day of sightseeing, and it also means a shorter trip to the airport, as both Montmartre and Roissy Airport are in the northern part of the city.

Plus, Montmartre is an incredibly beautiful area, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee before you head to the airport. Staying there not only simplifies your logistics but also adds a charming start to your departure day.

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FAQ: One Day in Paris

One day in Paris may not be enough to explore the city to its core, but it is enough time to get a good glimpse of the city and to take in that exceptional Paris vibe.

Absolutely. Paris is surprisingly small, especially if you compare it to London, Berlin, or New York. Everything is close together, and crossing Paris on foot from North to South takes not even 3 hours. If you stroll around Paris for one day, you see a lot and surely can check off a few of your bucket list items.

Paris is a safe city to visit, especially if you roam around the center. However, avoid having your valuables at places, that are easily accessible because pickpockets are everywhere.

Paris is easily visited from London for a day. The Eurostar takes not even 2.5 hours from London to Paris, and the station is very close to attractions and sights.

The cheapest way to travel around Paris is the Metro, 1,90€ one way.

If you find this post useful, share it! 🙂

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

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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!

Paris 1-Day Trip With Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Curious about how you can experience the magic of Paris in just one day? Imagine gliding from London to Paris on the legendary Eurostar train, and then having the freedom to discover Paris on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. The sights, the sounds , the history – all within reach.

But, what exactly does this day trip have in store beyond the iconic landmarks? Explore the allure of Paris with a touch of luxury and convenience – a journey that promises unforgettable moments at every stop.

• Enjoy a seamless journey to Paris on Eurostar with comfort and scenic views.
• Explore Paris landmarks at your own pace with the hop-on hop-off bus tour.
• Customer reviews highlight service quality issues for potential improvements.
• Pricing starts at £225 per person for a full day in Paris with upgrade options available.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Ranthambore National Park Safari Booking
• The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea
• The Ultimate Jack the Ripper
• The Cloak and Dagger Tour in London

Trip Overview

Set out on a thrilling 1-day adventure to Paris with the Paris 1-Day Trip package, which includes travel on the high-speed Eurostar train and a hop-on hop-off bus tour to explore the City of Light at your leisure.

The sightseeing options are vast, allowing travelers to visit landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum , and Notre Dame Cathedral. This trip provides unparalleled travel flexibility, enabling visitors to create their itinerary and spend as much time as desired at each stop.

The hop-on hop-off bus concept ensures convenience and ease in navigating the city, with narrated commentary enhancing the experience. Travelers can upgrade to the Standard Premier Class on Eurostar for added comfort during their journey.

Eurostar Train Experience

Enjoy the high-speed luxury of the Eurostar train experience as you journey from London to Paris for a day of exploration and discovery. When traveling on the Eurostar, you can expect:

Eurostar comfort : Plush seating, ample legroom , and onboard dining options for a relaxing journey.

Sightseeing flexibility : Enjoy the scenic views as you glide through the English and French countryside.

Convenient amenities : Free Wi-Fi and power outlets to stay connected throughout the trip.

Efficient travel : Arrive in Paris swiftly, ready to embark on your hop-on hop-off bus tour without wasting any time.

Experience the seamless blend of comfort and convenience as you make your way to the City of Light aboard the Eurostar.

More Great Things To Do Nearby

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Discover the charm of Paris with the flexibility of the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, allowing you to explore iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace.

With the sightseeing options provided by the bus tour, travelers can easily hop on and off at various stops to visit attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum , and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

The transportation choices offered ensure convenient travel between sites, giving visitors the freedom to create their personalized itinerary.

Whether opting for a guided tour or simply enjoying the narrated commentary onboard, the bus tour provides a comprehensive and informative way to see the city.

Embrace the convenience and versatility of the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour to make the most of your Parisian adventure.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Explore the customer feedback and ratings to gain insights into the firsthand experiences of individuals who’ve participated in the Paris 1-Day Trip with Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus excursion. Reviews highlight aspects of the service quality :

• Chaotic and unorganized experience at a high cost.
• Late arrival of tour representative causing delays.
• Lack of helpful information for finding the bus in Paris.
• Overall service rating stands at 2.7/5.

These reviews provide valuable feedback on areas that may need improvement to enhance the overall customer experience during the trip.

Pricing and Additional Information

Let’s explore the pricing and additional information provided for the Paris 1-Day Trip with Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus excursion.

The tour starts at £225 per person, offering a day full of exploration in Paris. For those interested in giving this experience as a gift, there’s an option available.

Tour scheduling is essential, as the train departs from London to Paris early in the morning and returns to St Pancras International station in London at 9:40 PM. This excursion provides a unique opportunity to discover Paris at your own pace, with the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Plus, there’s an option to upgrade to the Standard Premier Class for extra comfort during the Eurostar journey.

Paris Exploration Details

As visitors embark on the Paris 1-Day Trip with Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, they can enjoy the vibrant cityscape at their own pace, exploring iconic landmarks and attractions with the convenience of a flexible bus tour. Here are some key details about the Paris exploration:

Flexible Itinerary : Travelers have the freedom to create their own schedule, deciding how long they want to spend at each stop.

Sightseeing Options: From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, participants can choose which landmarks they want to visit and explore.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Enjoy the ease of hopping on and off at various stops throughout the day.

Upgrade to Standard Premier: For added comfort, there’s an option to enhance the Eurostar travel experience.

With these options, travelers can tailor their Paris adventure to suit their preferences and interests.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• London Eye River Cruise and Standard London Eye Ticket
• London by Night Sightseeing Tour – Open Top Bus
• The Beatles London Walk
• Private Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London
• Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge Including Bath and Lacock Day Tour From London
• White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Cathedral Tour From London

Common questions

Are Meals Provided During the Eurostar Train Journey?

Eurostar provides a range of food options onboard, catering to various tastes and dietary needs. Passengers can enjoy meals, snacks , and beverages during the journey. The amenities ensure a comfortable and satisfying travel experience.

Is There a Restroom Onboard the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Paris?

Yes, there is a restroom onboard the hop-on hop-off bus in Paris, ensuring comfort during the tour. Visitors can conveniently access this facility while exploring the city’s landmarks at their own pace.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Landmarks You Can Visit During the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour?

When exploring Paris on the hop-on hop-off bus tour, travelers have the flexibility to visit various landmarks without restrictions. The tour allows for personalized itineraries, offering the freedom to see iconic sights at one’s own pace.

Can I Bring Luggage With Me on the Eurostar Train and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus?

Yes, travelers can bring luggage on the Eurostar train and hop-on hop-off bus, but there are restrictions. It’s advised to check the luggage policy beforehand for size limitations and packing tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Is There a Guide or Representative Available Throughout the Day in Paris to Assist With Any Questions or Issues?

While in Paris, visitors can get assistance despite a potential language barrier . There is a guide available throughout the day to assist with questions or issues. Emergency contact information and communication options are provided for convenience.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Private Transfer From London to Paris
• London: Private Guided Tour of Top Highlights by Car
• Stonehenge and Oxford by Private Car
• London: Sherlock Holmes Tour by Black Cab
• London City Airport Private Transfers To/From London (Postcode WC1 to Wc2)
• 4 Hour Private Guided Tour: Tower Of London and Tate Modern
• London Westminster Abbey Fast-Track Tickets, Guide, Pickup
• London: Private City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
• 8-Hours London Private Tour Full Day
• Private Full Day Tour to Oxford and Cambridge From London With Hotel Pick up
• Private London Westminster Abbey Tour for Kids and Westminster Sightseeing Walk

Experience the magic of Paris in just one day with the Paris 1-Day Trip With Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus.

From the comfortable ride on the Eurostar train to the flexibility of exploring the city on a hop-on hop-off bus, this excursion offers a convenient and unforgettable way to see the City of Lights.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn about the beauty and history of Paris.

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BEST of Paris in One Day: Most Complete Itinerary (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 18, 2024

Are you planning to visit Paris for a day and wondering what you can see and do in such a short time? In this guide, we share a suggested 1-day Paris itinerary that will bring you to all the must-see spots and help you make the most out of your time. Find out!

Paris, France, is a fascinating city that has a lot more to offer than you could ever see in a week, let alone in a day. So figuring out an itinerary that allows you to see the best of Paris in one day can be overwhelming. But – with some advance planning and preparation – it’s definitely possible.

Below, you can find our recommended itinerary that allows you to see many of the ‘musts’ in Paris in one day. We also share a map as well as useful information and our experience-based tips to help you plan your first visit to this fascinating city.

Keep in mind that there is not one ‘best’ itinerary to follow for a day trip to Paris. So this is just one of many possibilities. The aim of this itinerary is to show you what’s possible and how you could plan your time if this is your first time in the city and you want to experience the very best of Paris in one day. Take a look!

Top Experiences to Book for Paris in a Day:

• Sainte Chapelle .
• River Seine Cruise .
• The Louvre .
• Eiffel Tower .

Some planning tips and info to make the most out of your day in Paris:

Further below, you will find a detailed itinerary indicating what to see, plus approximate hours based on the time that you need in order to get to and visit the places. Please note that these are only meant for your reference, to give you a better idea of how it all could fit together and how to help you plan your time and pre-book time slots for all the sights.

Important to know: If you are exploring Paris on your own, you will need to book timed-entry tickets for all the attractions that you want to visit!!!

For this itinerary, you will need tickets to Sainte-Chapelle , either the Louvre OR d’Orsay Museum , the Eiffel Tower , the Seine cruise , and also Arc de Triomphe . If you decide to see the show at the famous Moulin Rouge , you will need to reserve that well in advance too!

TIP: If you find it all too overwhelming to plan a good Paris 1-day itinerary on your own, take a look at this highly-rated day tour . It takes you to many of the best spots in Paris in a day and you don’t have to worry about tickets or timing and how to make it all fit together. It’s a great option if you are short on time and want to make the most of it without having to stress about anything.

This tour has a somewhat similar itinerary as the one described below and ends at the Eiffel Tower. So you could easily visit the places that we recommend seeing in the evening after doing this tour as well.

And now, let’s take a look at what your day in Paris could look like – see below!

1-Day Paris Itinerary – Overview

Here is an overview of our recommended Paris itinerary for one day. Further below, you’ll find all the details about each place we recommend visiting.

As you can see, this is a very full itinerary that starts very early in the morning and ends late at night. We did our best to create a very complete itinerary that shows you as much as possible in a day.

If you feel like this is way too much for you, you can easily adjust this itinerary to suit your interests. For example, skip the places/activities that are marked as optional. Not interested in spending 2 hours inside a museum? Just see the architecture of the Louvre from the outside. Not interested in the sightseeing river cruise? Head straight to the Eiffel Tower, etc.

But this gives you a good idea of what can be done in Paris in a day, which places are worth it the most on the first visit, and how to plan your time.

Here is our recommended Paris 1-day itinerary in a nutshell:

• 7-8.30 am: Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (optional).
• 9-11 am: Île de la Cité ( Sainte-Chapelle , Notre Dame, early lunch).
• 12-2.30 pm: The Louvre or Musée d’Orsay .
• 2.30-3.30 pm:Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (optional).
• Walk, taxi, or metro.
• 4 – 5.30 pm: Eiffel Tower *.
• 6-7 pm: Seine Cruise .
• 8-9 pm: Arc de Triomphe .
• Evening: Champs-Élysées and dinner.
• Metro or taxi to Moulin Rouge or back to your hotel.
• 11 pm: Moulin Rouge (optional).

* Good to know: If you opt to visit the Eiffel Tower summit (instead of just Levels 1 and 2), you’ll need at least 1 hour more, so skip something else and adjust the rest of your itinerary as needed.

Map & Getting Around

To give you a better idea of where everything is located and how to plan your time, we created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. See below!

If you want to make the most of your day in Paris, it’s best to cover all the biggest distances by metro. For smaller distances, you can walk or take a taxi/Uber.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

This is our recommended Paris itinerary for one day:

Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (Optional)

7 – 8.30 am

If you want to make the utmost out of your day in Paris, start with a visit to Montmartre . This is one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city and you could easily spend a day here alone. But even if you just come for an hour, you can see the best parts!

Start by taking the metro from your hotel to Abbesses station. Check out the Wall of Love ( Le Mur des Je t’aime ), and then take the stairs or funicular to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica . The church is usually open from 6.30 am so you can even visit inside (it’s free).

Enjoy the stunning city views from the stairs in front of the church, then turn right, and walk to Place du Tertre . This charming square is the heart of the Montmartre.

During the day, it’s very lively, full of local artists and tourists. In the morning, you will likely find it very quiet, so the atmosphere won’t be the same, but it’s worth visiting either way. You will also find many cafes and restaurants here. Many of them are open from early morning, so this could be a nice place for a coffee or breakfast.

Depending on how much time you have, you could explore a bit more of the neighborhood. For more tips on what to see, take a look at our detailed guide to this neighborhood via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Montmartre

Next, take a metro to the Cité station in the center or a taxi/Uber straight to your next destination – Sainte-Chapelle.

Good to know: We indicate this as optional because we realize that not everybody will be able/want to start their day this early. Plus, Montmartre is quite out of the way from all the main attractions in the city center. But if you want to get the maximum out of your day in Paris and see different facets of the city, then definitely consider a short visit here.

Île de la Cité: Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame

9 – 11 am

Île de la Cité is the heart of Paris. This little island on the Seine River is best known as home to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, but there is so much more to see here!

With just a day in Paris, you will have to be selective, however. So we recommend just focusing on the two main landmarks – Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle.

TIP: Book the earliest possible time slot for Sainte Chapelle and head there first ( reserve timed-entry tickets here asap – it’s extremely popular!). This Gothic masterpiece with 1113 stained glass windows will take your breath away! It’s the most impressive church to see in Paris, and I promise you, it will be one of the highlights of your day!

Then walk to Notre Dame to admire its impressive exterior. Keep in mind that the church is still closed for restoration after the devastating fire, so you cannot visit it inside. The opening is now foreseen for December 2024.

Early Lunch

Now it could be a good time to find something for lunch. There are many cafés on Île de la Cité, or you could just grab a crêpe (French pancake) on the go.

You could stop by the restaurant called Aux Vieux Paris d’Arcole (it’s quite famous for its Instagrammable exterior). But it looks more charming in the photos than in reality, and quite frankly, there are better price/quality places nearby.

Recently, we had a very good low-key lunch at the nearby café Sur le Pouce. But both of these cafes are a bit out of the way for this itinerary.

Anyway, you will find many other good places in this area too. There are a few nice crêperies on the way to the Louvre which would probably fit this itinerary the best. We indicated all these places on our map further below.

Louvre Museum OR Musée d’Orsay

12 – 2.30 pm.

Next, you could visit one of the most famous museums in Paris – either the Louvre or d’Orsay Museum .

The Louvre is somewhat closer by, about 15 minutes walk, and the d’Orsay Museum is on the opposite side of the river, about 30 minutes walk from Notre Dame.

If you go to the Louvre, you could also see the Hôtel de Ville (the City Hall of Paris) and Pont Neuf on your way there. This iconic bridge can also be seen on the way to the d’Orsay Museum. 

No matter which museum you choose, a walk to get there along the shores of the Seine is really nice. You will pass the famous green Parisian Bouquinistes kiosks selling old books, posters, and postcards. Often, you will also see street vendors selling roasted chestnuts (one of the traditional French foods you should try in Paris !)

Musee d’Orsay is located inside an old train station and the interior is stunning. It also has an incredible art collection. The must-see here is the Impressionist section with some of the best works by Monet, Renoir, Manet, and many others. You can also see some masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh.

At the Louvre , you can see the famous Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Venus de Milo, and countless other famous masterpieces. In addition, you will see the famous Louvre pyramids. 

Considering all this and its location, for this itinerary, I think I would recommend choosing the Louvre, especially if this is your first time in Paris. On the other hand, d’Orsay Museum is usually a bit less crowded. But both are among the most popular Paris attractions, so it will be very busy either way.

Important! If you want to visit any of the museums, count to spend about 2 hours inside (or you won’t have much time left for the other places). Also, you absolutely have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance! Here you can book tickets for the Louvre and here – for d’Orsay Museum .

If you decide to visit the Louvre, below, you can find a link to our detailed guide with useful tips (such as which entrance to take in order to avoid the biggest crowds).

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum

Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (Optional)

2.30 – 3.30 pm.

Located just next to the Louvre is the famous Tuileries Garden ( Jardins de Tuileries ), one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. You can also easily get here from d’Orsay Museum – just cross the bridge to the other side of the river.

If you are coming here from the Louvre, you will also pass Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel . This triumphal arch was built earlier, before the famous Arc de Triomphe de Etoile which you can see in the distance from here (and can visit in the evening – see further).

Next, you will pass Place de la Concorde , one of the biggest squares in Paris. In the center, you can see an ancient Egyptian Obelisk, and there is a really nice fountain here too.

Walking towards the river, you will arrive at Pont Alexandre III , the most decorative bridge in Paris.

Good to know: I indicate these places as optional since visiting them all adds quite a bit of walking to this itinerary (about 1.8 km (1.1 miles) – at least 20 minutes of walking time). You could also skip these places to save time, or just walk through the garden and then take a metro from Concorde station.

Next, make your way to the Eiffel Tower. A walk from the Alexandre III bridge is another 1.6 km (1 mile). The distances may not look big, but it all adds up throughout the day, also in terms of time… So you may want to take a taxi or a metro.

Eiffel Tower

4 – 5.30 pm.

No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower ! You can just walk around admiring its impressive structure, but you’ll probably also want to go up and see the views from the top.

In that case, you really have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance!!! And you have to choose which levels you’ll visit in advance when booking your ticket.

Good to know: Eiffel Tower has three levels that you can visit: Level 1, Level 2, and the Summit. Level 2 tickets include levels 1 and 2, and the Summit tickets include all levels. In addition, for the first part – up to level 2, you can choose between taking the elevator or the stairs. The summit can only be reached by a separate elevator from the second level.

While going all the way to the summit is a very unique experience, the city views are probably somewhat better from the second level. From the top, you can see much further, of course; it’s just a different perspective really.

Also, it takes much more time to visit the top since the queues for the elevator can be really long. Realistically, you need about 1.5 hours for levels 1 and 2, and 2.5 hours if you visit the summit.

So with just a day in Paris and limited time, visiting level 2 is probably a better option. But if standing at the summit of the Eiffel Tower is high on your bucket list, then definitely go for it! In that case, you’ll probably need to skip something else from this itinerary.

Good to know: You can book Eiffel Tower tickets on their website and also on sites like GetYourGuide or Tiqets . Depending on how long in advance you book, often, Summit tickets on the official site might not be available anymore, but you can still find them on these other sites, sometimes in combination with e.g. a Seine Cruise or other popular attractions. Tickets for the second level are easier to get, but also there, if you want to be able to choose the best time slot, try to book asap!

TIP: Alternatively, you could also opt for this Eiffel Summit + Seine Cruise ticket combo . Keep in mind that you’ll need to foresee extra time if you go to the summit.

Seine River Cruise

6 – 7 pm.

Next, take a scenic cruise on the Seine River . It’s a great way to see more of Paris and at the same time rest your legs a bit after all the walking and sightseeing. A river cruise is something that should be on any Paris bucket list, so don’t miss it!

There are many cruise options departing from various locations. For this itinerary, exactly as described here, you could take this sightseeing cruise . It starts near the Eiffel Tower and has regular departures throughout the day. The ticket is valid for any boat on the selected day (more info via the booking link above). Or, as said earlier, simply get this popular Eiffel Tower + Seine Cruise combination ticket .

TIP: If you feel like this itinerary is already full enough as it is and would like to call it a day after this, opt for a Seine Cruise with dinner !

If you are determined to make the most out of your day in Paris, next, make your way to Arc de Triomphe. You can walk there from the Eiffel Tower, take a metro, or get a taxi/Uber. If you walk, you can enjoy nice views of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero Gardens on the other side of the river. If you are visiting in winter when it gets dark early, you might be lucky to catch a sunset and/or see how the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the dark. 

Good to know:  Eiffel Tower lits up a few minutes after sunset. In addition, the tower ‘sparkles’ for 5 minutes on the hour every hour, between dusk and 11 pm.

Arc de Triomphe

8 – 9 pm.

The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris and needs no introduction. You probably have seen it in countless movies, usually in a scene involving cars trying to navigate the 12-fork roundabout around the Arch.

Also here, you have two options. You can simply admire the Arch from the outside or you can go all the way to the rooftop to enjoy some amazing views of Paris. Inside, you will also find a small museum. And on the outside, you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The 360° views from the top of the Arch are amazing. It’s one of the most impressive viewpoints in Paris ! Just below, you can see the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The view of the Eiffel Tower is great too and in the distance, you can see the modern La Défense district, Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Basilica, and many other landmarks of Paris.

Good to know: Arc de Triomphe is extremely popular at sunset. The views can be magical indeed, but it’s also crazy busy… Depending on the season when you visit, it’s possible that you will be here around sunset, but with just a day in Paris, I wouldn’t time your visit just for that. You’ll have difficulties squeezing in all the top sights in a day already, so just come here when it suits your itinerary the best.

The views are really nice in the dark as well, and the Arch stays open until late (usually around 10.30 pm).

TIP: If you want to go up, we also highly recommend booking your tickets in advance . At the moment, they are not timed (so are valid at any time during the day of your choice), but purchasing them online saves you a long queue at the ticket desk. You’ll still have to queue at the security check, but that can’t be avoided anywhere.

Champs-Élysées & Dinner

9 – 10.30 pm.

End your day in Paris at the city’s most famous boulevard – Avenue des Champs-Élysées .

This street is a few miles long, but the nicest and the liveliest part is right at the Triumph Arch. Here you will find many famous fashion designer stores and this area also has tons of restaurants.

If you are visiting on a weekend or want to dine at a specific place at a specific time, be sure to reserve in advance. Otherwise, it should be possible to find something on the go. 

TIP: Restaurants on Champs-Élysées are very expensive and price/quality-wise not always the best. But in the side streets, you can often find much better value for your money. Despite the touristy location, we had a really good dinner at La Flamme, just 5 minutes walk from the Triumph Arch. I indicated it on our map below.

Alternatively, if you are heading to Moulin-Rouge, you can find some very good restaurants in that area (more local and much cheaper too).

Moulin Rouge (optional)

If you want to experience the very best of Paris in a day and think that you’ll still have some energy left, we highly recommend seeing a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge.

It’s a very professional show with fantastic artists, dazzling acts, colorful costumes, and great music. Furthermore, a traditional Parisian cabaret is something that you can only experience in Paris! It’s an experience you won’t quickly forget!

Good to know: You’ll need to take a taxi/Uber to get here. There are two shows here every evening – at around 9 pm and at 11 pm. The Moulin Rouge show tickets usually sell out at least a few weeks in advance, so you really have to book them asap ( see here for the availability and to book ).

They also have a dinner + show combo , but dinner starts at 7 pm already and these tickets usually sell out at least a month in advance.

TIP: If Moulin Rouge tickets are sold out, check if there is availability at other cabarets in Paris . While the Moulin Rouge is the most iconic and best known, many others – like Paradis Latin or Crazy Horse are just as good.

Where to Stay

Even if you only have just one day in Paris that probably means that you’ll spend at least 1 or 2 nights in the city. 

Since you will be sightseeing all day, the location of your accommodation doesn’t matter that much. Ideally, it’s close to a metro station so that you can easily get to wherever you start/end your sightseeing itinerary.

For this itinerary (if you visit everything), you could stay close to Montmartre/Moulin Rouge. That way, you are close to your hotel in the morning and in the evening too. And if you decide to go to Moulin Rouge in the evening, you could even quickly change clothes before the show.

Here are some highly-rated hotels in this part of Paris:

• €€€€€ Manolita Paris .
• €€€ Hôtel des Arts Montmartre (great value).
• €€ Hotel Darcet .

So, this is our recommended itinerary that brings you to all the must-see places in Paris in a day.

I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect, what to see, and how it could all fit together.

As you can see, it’s packed, so you may want to adjust it a bit to suit your interests, time, and budget.

Once again, you really have to book timed entry slots for all the main attractions . It’s not just a matter of wasting time at the ticket desk anymore. Without advance reservations, you can’t even expect to visit most places at all, especially in the high season.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Know Before You Go: Paris Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

More travel inspiration for Paris:

• Traditional French Food
• Best Museums in Paris
• Best Views in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum
• Best Things to Do in Montmartre
• Paris Itinerary for 4 Days
• Paris in October

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Barcelona (Spain)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in London (UK)
• 1 Day in Madrid (Spain)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Rome (Italy)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Seville (Spain)
• 1 Day in Toledo (Spain)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)
• Read also our top tips for traveling to Europe (includes itinerary suggestions and so much more).

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Aimee Morland

Sunday 4th of February 2024

We will have 2 full days in Paris. I love your one day tour. My husband is interested in visiting Versailles but I know it is a whole hour away. Do you think it make sense to do your one day itinerary in Paris and then the other day to go to Versailles? Or should we skip Versailles and spread your one day itinerary into two days?

Thank you!!

Monday 5th of February 2024

@Jurga, Thank you! That is helpful. We will do Versailles on the second day. I just booked a combined Eiffel Tower and Siene River cruise from a link from your page. It says "get your guide" and "Full Suitcase" at the top. I want to make sure this is a legit website as it was more money and it doesnt give you a ticket but just a meeting place to pick up your ticket. My second question is in regards to the river cruise. I would like to book the time but I don't see how to do that. It just says use anytime after the Eiffel Tower visit. But will all the cruises be booked for the rest of the day? We only will be there for one day. Thank you for your help!

Hi Aimee, the Palace of Versailles is well worth a visit, but you can easily visit the Palace and see some of the gardens in about half a day. So you could 'spread' this itinerary over 1.5 days and then visit Versailles in the afternoon of day 2. You can also take a look at the first two days of our suggested 4-day Paris itinerary and see if it looks more doable for you. It's more relaxed on day 1 and includes Versailles on the second day. There are literally countless ways to plan any trip to Paris, so pick the places that interest you the most, see what makes sense location and timing-wise, and you can easily adjust this to plan your own dream trip. Hope this helps.

Thursday 10th of August 2023

i am going to Paris with my 3 kids. I think the most important tip is to plan the entry tickets well in advance. If you want to go to the TOP of the eiffel tower without spending an arm and a leg on fees for tourist agencies or without queuing the day itself, you should buy tickets EXACTLY 2 months before your visit and EXACTLY at midnight 12 pm. Five minutes later, the top-tickets will be sold out.

Friday 11th of August 2023

Yes, it is very important to plan ahead nowadays, Koen. I didn't know Eiffel Tower has gotten this crazy this summer. It was not nearly as difficult last fall, so it's likely just in the peak season and hopefully, it gets better again as the summer is over. But yes, if you travel in any major city in Europe and don't think to prebook all your tickets in advance, you won't be able to visit (m)any of the top sights... Btw, we have this and many other useful tips for visiting Paris in this article.

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

We just returned from Paris and followed this itinerary to the t. It was such a great day. Well thought out and we saw so much. We would have never been able to do all this without you! PS We bought the Paris City Card as you suggested and it was very easy. Moulin Rouge was sold out so we went to Crazy Horse 😊. Thanks, Tim & Tina

Wednesday 9th of August 2023

Thanks for sharing your experience, Tim. Glad to hear that you had such a wonderful time in Paris!

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

What a brilliant itinerary. Thank You! We followed it to the t and had the best time in Paris. Sadly, Moulin Rouge was sold out but we booked a dinner cruise which was amazing.

Saturday 1st of July 2023

Glad to hear that, Frances, and appreciate your feedback. Happy travels!

Michael Cicchi

Monday 17th of April 2023

I will make sure to try Sur La pouce and La Flamme restaurants. Musée d'Orsey is on my must do for next Paris visit.👍

@Jurga, Hello again, I was thinking that I could help you make some sponsorship $$ if I followed some of your suggestions.🙂

Oh, Michael, there are SO MANY restaurants in Paris! These are just a few that we chose on this particular trip. :) And yes, d'Orsay Museum is absolutely worth a visit next time you are in Paris!

• Tours from London - Out of London Tours >

Paris Day Tour from London with Eurostar Tickets & Travelcard

Our Paris day tour from London includes return Eurostar tickets and is ideal if you wish to explore the city independently. Choose to include a Paris Travel Card with access to all metro lines and buses for quick access to the famous Paris landmarks.  Alternatively, take a relaxing River Seine cruise, or an open-top bus tour to help you get acquainted with the city. The comfortable highspeed Eurostar Train travels between Central London and Central Paris in just 2 hours and 15 minutes. Take advantage of low-price Eurostar tickets, which are often cheaper than booking directly with Eurostar. Enjoy the convenience of adding a Travel Card river cruise, or a hop-on-hop-off open-top bus tour with your Eurostar tickets.

We have included below some ideas on our Paris from London day tour with Eurostar tickets.

And, of course, you will have plenty of time to stop for coffee and a meal as and when you want.

Why Choose this Tour?

We offer many tours to Paris on our website. Here are a few helpful reasons to choose this tour or to go on another Paris Tour. Please note that all of our tours included Eurostarstar return train tickets.

• This is the only tour we offer that does not include guiding services, so it is perfect if you wish to explore the city by yourself
• The Eurostar ticket price is often cheaper than booking directly
• If you would like to include some attraction tickets or a lunch on the Eiffel Tower, please consider our other Paris Tours

Travel Card, Open Top Bus or River Cruise

River Seine Cruise

TravelCard (if selected)

With the 1 day Travelcard, you have access to all public transport: metro, RER, bus, tram, and Montmartre funicular in zones1-3 of Paris, covering all of Central Paris. Paris public transport is very efficient and is a fast way to get around the city.

Open Top Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus tour (if selected)

You can hop on and hop off at any one of ten stops covering a circular route through central Paris. The stops are conveniently located close to many of the most famous sites, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame.

You can see a map here>>>

River Cruise (if selected)

Admire the world’s most romantic city as you cruise along the River Seine. The one-hour cruise passes many of Paris’s highlights, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. From the river, absorb the feel of this stunningly beautiful city.

The river cruise departs from the foot of the Eiffel Tower on the riverside ” Port de Suffren, “very close to bus stop #9.

London from Paris with a travel card, Open Top bus or River Seine cruise

Place des Vosges in the Marais District

Monday to Friday 

• 5.30am: Meet your travel representative at Paul Express coffee shop, St Pancras Station
• 7.01am: Eurostar train departs for Paris from London, with a journey time of 2hr 16m. There is a 1-hour time difference between London and Paris, so you will arrive at 10.17am
• 10.16am: Arrive in Paris, Gare Du Nord train station
• 8.13pm: Depart Paris Gare du Nord train station. (Please arrive at least 45mins before departure time.)
• 9.30pm: Arrive back at London St Pancras train station
• 6.25am: Meet your travel representative at Paul Express coffee shop, St Pancras station
• 7.55am or 8.01am: Eurostar train departs for Paris from London, with a journey time of 2hr 16m. There is a 1-hour time difference between London and Paris, so you will arrive at 11.17am
• 11.17am: Arrive in Paris Gare du Nord train station
• 8.13pm: Depart Paris Gare du Nord train station. {Please arrive at least 45mins before departure time.)
• Our tour of Paris includes return Eurostar train tickets
• You can choose to include a bus tour, river cruise
• Audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, Italian and German on the bus
• The tour does not include any food or drink
• Our Paris from London tour is non-refundable

Important Travel Information

• Tickets are issued under the lead passenger’s name
• Reserved seats on the train
• You are required to carry a valid passport with you, which will be validated at the check-in desk in St Pancras.
• Please check your visa requirements before you travel.
• Eurostar train timings can change. You will receive the exact train timings in your email confirmation after booking.
• Any delays or cancellation of trains is the sole responsibility of Eurostar
• Please note there is a 1-hour time difference between London & Paris

Further ideas of places to visit

• Eiffel Tower
• The Louvre museum
• Musee d’Orsay museum
• Champs Elysee and Arc de Triomphe
• Notre Dame Cathedral and the Isle de la Cite
• Montmartre and Sacre Coeur

Alternatives

• Canal Saint Martin (Trendy neighborhood for young Parisiens and students)
• Rive Gauche and the Sorbonne University
• The Luxembourg Gardens
• Place des Vosges
• Rent a bike
• Picasso Museum
• Villa Windsor (home of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor)
• Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Rooftop Gardens of the Galleries Lafayette Department store for great view

Map Of Paris

Tour Booking

Please note the following upgrades are currently unavailable

Eiffel Tower:

Visit the most iconic landmark in Paris. You’ll get to visit the second floor of the Tower and enjoy amazing views of Paris. Enjoy views of the  Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Cœur, the Pantheon and much more!

Louvre Museum*

Visi the museum that is home to the most famous painting of all time – The Mona Lisa. The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world that is home to an incredible collection of artwork.

*The Louvre does not open on Tuesdays. You will visit Musee d’Orsay instead.

Upgrade to Standard Premier Eurostar 

Choose to upgrade your Eurostar train tickets to Standard Premier. Standard Premier tickets include a light meal served at your seat, spacious seats and a generous luggage allowance of 2 bags around 85cm long and one small piece of hand luggage. You will also receive complimentary magazines and charging points for your phone or tablet.

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

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Day tours to Paris from London by fast Eurostar train service

Visit paris in a day from london, with discounted tour - lunch on eiffel tower.

The Eurostar high speed train service to Paris take just 2 hours 15 minutes to travel between London St Pancras International station to Paris. The terminus in Paris is the Gare du Nord Station which like St Pancras is on the periphery of the centre of Paris.

It is a long full day in Paris, but the Eurostar trains enable around 7 hours sightseeing in Paris.

Eurostar train fares are very volatile. At short notice the whole cost of a Paris day tour can be significantly cheaper than a walk-up Eurostar train fare.

At Easter and Christmas/New Year, special longer duration versions of the 3-day tours are commonly made available.

See our range of day tours from London to Paris below , including options for independently minded visitors as well as guided options.

And right now there's a SALE: 3-course lunch on the Eiffel Tower and cruise on the River Seine day tour from London , making it the best value yet - not much more than the Welcome to Paris guided option. Grab yourself a bargain while it lasts.

All tours offer a River Seine Cruise , and you can choose your level of guiding to suit.

Paris special day tour - unguided   Welcome to Paris day tour - guided   SALE: Lunch on the Eiffel Tower - luxury  

Three day tours to Paris to choose from - guided or independent?

Choosing a Paris day tour depends on your requirements. On this page we give you three options, from very independent through to fully guided. The choice is yours.

• The Paris Special 1-day tour  is for independently minded visitors and includes day return tickets on the Eurostar train together with the services of a guide for assistance and tips. Paris maps and information on getting the most from your day are provided and a one hour Paris river cruise is included.
• The Welcome to Paris escorted 1-day tour  adds a panoramic coach tour of the highlights of Paris to the train tickets plus a river cruise. You then have substantial free time to visit those Paris icons like the Eiffel Tower you want to spend more time at, or perhaps go shopping or take in Paris people watching from a typical Parisian cafe.
• The Luxury Paris 1-day with 3 course lunch on Eiffel Tower is the ultimate day in Paris including all that the standard tour offers plus a 3 course lunch on the newly renovated restaurant on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower, in addition to a Seine river cruise in the afternoon.

Common features of all day tours to Paris from London

The common feature of all day tours to Paris is the Eurostar train service and the services of a tour manager for guidance and information.

In London the railway station is St Pancras International Station, just to the north of the very centre of London.

No hotel transfers are included to or from St Pancras.

It is an early start, you will need to be at St Pancras by 6 am to meet the tour representative. The tour representative will help you with check-in.

Note: you will need a passport and if applicable to your home country, a visa valid for visiting France.

You will have reserved seats on the Eurostar train. The train is scheduled to take around 2 hours 15 minutes to the centre of Paris.

On arrival in Paris, and through customs what happens next depends on the grade of tour purchased, (see detail below).

All tours include a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine but the cheapest tour does not offer the panoramic coach tour of Paris.

The return journey leaving Paris means you will be at check-in around 6 pm. (Note Paris and London are not co-ordinated on time zones and daylight summer saving. Most of the time Paris is 1 hour ahead of London.)

(Note the Louvre is closed every Tuesday and many Paris museums are closed one day a week - so if you have a particular place in mind to check out its opening days before you book.)

Day tour 1 - Paris Special - escorted day trip to Paris

Paris Special with escort day on-board Eurostar day trip includes:

• Round-trip Eurostar tickets with seat reservations
• One hour River Seine cruise
• Map of Paris including public transport information
• Time for shopping and sightseeing

The entry level escorted tour takes care of course of all the ticketing involved. One of the advantages of taking a tour is that the tour operators can offer a fixed price tour company rate. Eurostar trains have very volatile dynamic prices. At short notice and at popular times the price of the whole tour can be half the price of the fares being offered.

This tour also includes a 1-hour river cruise on the River Seine.

PARIS SPECIAL WITH ESCORT ONBOARD EUROSTAR

Paris in one day tour from London including Eurostar

• Adult from £259 • Child (4-11 years) from £249 • Senior & student from £256

• Seat reservation on Eurostar • Map of Paris including public transport information • Time for shopping and sightseeing • 1-hr Seine river cruise

Day tour 2 - Welcome to Paris - escorted with panoramic coach tour + river cruise

Welcome to Paris day trip with professional guide includes:

• Panoramic guided coach tour of Paris

On arrival in Paris you will taken on a panoramic guided tour of the world's most romantic city. Enjoy spectacular views of Notre Dame, Le Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and more.

During the day you will have the chance to visit the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame etc or perhaps head off to the shopping district on your own or relax and enjoy lunch while soaking up Parisian life. You can also enjoy a one hour river cruise on the Seine.

WELCOME TO PARIS DAY TRIP WITH PROFESSIONAL GUIDE

Paris in one day tour from London including Eurostar with Seine river cruise

• Adult from £309 • Child (4-11 years) from £299 • Senior & student from £306

• Seat reservation on Eurostar • Guided coach tour of Paris • 1-hr Seine river cruise • Map of Paris • Time for shopping & sightseeing

Day tour 3 Luxury escorted day tour to Paris 3 course Lunch Cruise on Eiffel Tower

Luxury escorted Paris day trip with lunch on Eiffel Tower & River Seine cruise:

• Seat reservations on the Eurostar
• Fully guided panoramic coach tour of Paris
• 3-course lunch including wine and coffee on the Eiffel Tower (1st floor)
• Fast entry access to the Eiffel Tower 1st Level
• Cruise on River Seine

Upon arrival you will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city taking in all the major sites including Champs Elysees, Opera House and the River Seine before arriving at the Eiffel Tower. What better way to enjoy lunch than on the Eiffel Tower itself, one of the world's most famous monuments?

Fast entry ticket means you will have priority access and reserved seats in the newly opened restaurant. Sit back and enjoy a fabulous three course meal while soaking up the atmosphere of arguably the world's most beautiful city.

Reopened in June 2022, the 1st floor fully renovated brasserie is run by 2 Michelin stars chef Thierry Marx, offering contemporary brasserie cuisine. The restaurant opens 360 degrees onto the Iron Lady’s metal structure for you to enjoy its beauty, and offers a breathtaking view of the Trocadero and the Palais de Chaillot.

After lunch you can enjoy a romantic cruise on the River Seine with spectacular views of Notre Dame, Musee D'Orsay and Place de la Concorde.

In the early evening you will head back to Gard du Nord for your return journey to London.

LUXURY ESCORTED PARIS DAY TRIP WITH EIFFEL TOWER LUNCH + RIVER CRUISE

Paris in one day tour from London including Eurostar with 3 course lunch on the Eiffel Tower with river cruise

• Adult £359 £323.10 • Child (4-11 years) £349 £314.10 • Senior & student £356 £320.40

• Fully escorted • Seat reservation on Eurostar • 3 course lunch on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower including wine & coffee • Guided coach tour of Paris • Fast track entry to Eiffel Tower • Cruise on River Seine

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Paris is undoubtedly one of the most culturally captivating cities in the world. Discover the beauty of the city with our range of Paris day trips and overnight breaks that start from just £178. The day trips and great value breaks travel by Eurostar train through the channel tunnel and will take you to central Paris in just 2 hours 16 minutes.

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Home > Paris Travel Tips > Eurostar London to Paris Day Trip

Eurostar London to Paris Day Trip

London and Paris are two excellent city break destinations, each with their own unique quirks and charms . It might be that you are only able to squeeze one into your travel plans. But who’s to say you can’t enjoy both?

If you settle in London, you can still head out on a London to Paris day trip. The Eurostar London to Paris train is fast and reliable, and you can be in the French capital in only two hours and 20 minutes. Take the first 6 am train from Saint Pancras straight to Paris Gare du Nord, and you will have a full day in Paris for yourself!

You can take a Eurostar London to Paris tour as part of a full package or a self-guided trip. Here are some proposals for your Paris day trip from London for every type of traveler:  

TIP: If you are interested in a trip from London to Disneyland Paris, head to this post .

Eurostar London to Paris Day Tour (Guided)

If you want a hassle-free experience, why not go on a London to Paris day tour. This London to Paris tour is ideal for groups of friends or solo travelers, especially for those with limited time.

This Eurostar London to Paris day trip includes:

• Return Eurostar tickets
• Eiffel Tower admission (up to the second floor)
• Louvre Museum admission (or Orsay Museum tickets if you travel on Tuesday when the Louvre is closed)
• Panoramic tour of the city
• 1 hour River Seine cruise
• Map of Paris
• Friendly and informative guide
• Light meal on the Eurostar (for standard premier tickets)

This day tour London to Paris starts early. Guests need to meet at Chop’d Coffee Shop at 6 am.

This tour is fantastic for first-time visitors to Paris and a good value to see some of the most famous landmarks in Paris in one day. It is also wonderful seeing the city from so many different angles, from the bus to the river cruise, from the top of the Eiffel Tower to inside the Louvre, and their knowledgeable local guides make for a more informative trip. The return Eurostar train departs at 8:13 pm from Gare du Nord train station.

This tour is only held a few days per week, so be sure to plan ahead and book your Paris day trip from London.

Click here to book your guided trip from London to Paris

Flexible Eurostar London to Paris Tour

People opt for this 1-day tour from London to Paris because of its flexibility. This Flexible London to Paris day trip offers a structured guided tour or a flexible independent excursion. If you already know what you want to see, the independent day trip will be right up your street. If you want someone else to take the reins, try the escorted trip.

This day trip London to Paris includes:

• Transportation from London to Paris (Eurostar)
• Public transport information and city map
• Small group tour of Paris (on a small private coach)
• Sightseeing cruise
• Hop-on hop-off tour (for the self-guided tour option)

If you decide to take the guided tour, you will pass by the Seine River, Notre Dame Cathedral, Hotel de Ville, the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and Basilique du Sacre-Cœur de Montmartre. It should be noted that this tour doesn’t allow for time to go up the Eiffel Tower, but it is one of the places that you will pass by.

This trip is ideal if you want to get an overview of the city. It is jam-packed with sightseeing opportunities, and you’ll always be on the go. With their highly informed guides, you’ll learn so much about Paris.

Click here to book this Flexible day trip London to Paris

Self-Guided London to Paris Day Trip

If you don’t want to be restricted by the confines of a Eurostar London to Paris tour, then why not go it alone. A self-guided Paris day trip from London is for those who want flexibility and a fun-filled day.

To make the most out of your 1-day tour from London to Paris, you’ll want to set out early. We, therefore, recommend you take one of the earliest trains from St Pancras and one of the last trains from Paris Gare du Nord.

The first train departs at 5:59 am and arrives at 9:17 am (remember Paris is an hour ahead), and the last train back to London departs Paris around 8 pm. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of the first train and category (standard, standard premier, and business premier) – Click here to see train times and prices

With one day in Paris, you don’t want to spend half of the time waiting in line! We suggest buying skip-the-line tickets for the main attractions online in advance. Tourist attractions like the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, or the Sainte-Chapelle require booking a specific date and time slot.

Here’s our proposed itinerary for a self-guided London to Paris day trip :

When you arrive at Garde du Nord , you should take the Metro Line 4 to Saint-Michel Notre Dame station on Île de la Cité . Here you can marvel at the Sainte Chapelle , one of the most popular Paris attractions and well known for its remarkable stained-glass windows. You’ll need to book the tickets (date and time slot) to the Sainte-Chapelle in advance .

Next explore the western side of Île de la Cité. Place Dauphine is one of the Royal Squares in Paris , an attractive public square that embodies true Parisian elegance. Few venture to the western tip of Île de la Cité, but head there, and you’ll discover Square du Vert-Galant.

Next, cross over the Pont Neuf bridge over the River Seine towards the iconic Louvre Palace . You can marvel at it from the outside or decide to go inside the glass pyramid to visit some of its most popular artworks – Click here to buy your Louvre skip-the-line tickets

TIP: Here’s how to visit the Louvre Museum in 2 hours or less!

The nearby Tuileries Gardens are lovely to stroll around. Why not grab a bite to eat at one of the park’s kiosks, or if you packed a picnic eat on the grass?

Next, head to the Place de la Concorde . This is where King Louis XVI was beheaded during the French Revolution . In the center of this square, you can see the Egyptian Obelisk that was gifted to France during the 19th century.

The afternoon can be spent walking the Champs-Élysées up to the Arc de Triomphe . This London to Paris day trip doesn’t allow for much time, so make sure you book tickets to go up the Arc de Triomphe in advance . At the top, you’ll see some of the best views of Paris .

No trip to Paris is complete without some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower . From the Arc de Triomphe, take Metro Line 9 to Trocadéro station. Cross over the River Seine for a closer view of this iconic French landmark. Depending on your pace, you may have time to climb up to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Make sure you plan in advance and book Eiffel Tower skip-the-line tickets (with a specific date and time slot) to maximize your time in Paris.

Take the glass-roofed Batobus (the only Paris hop-on hop-off river cruise ) from the base of the Eiffel Tower past Notre Dame or to the Jardin des Plantes if you have time. To get your Eurostar London to Paris return train, take the Metro Line 5 from Austerlitz station.

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

A first-timer’s guide to taking the Eurostar

May 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Plan your train travels with this guide to the international Eurostar service © Eurostar

It’s been 30 years since the Eurostar first connected London to mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel. As an Australian living in London, I cannot tell you how excited I was the first time I arrived at St Pancras “International” to board a Paris -bound train. 

A few trips later, including a recent long weekend in Amsterdam with my kid to celebrate a milestone birthday, I have put together a first-timer’s guide to riding the Eurostar. 

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re traveling the Eurostar on a Standard class ticket. And if you want to grab a bargain, sign up for emails to be the first to know when the cheap tickets drop.

Where do you catch the Eurostar train from?

In London, it’s St Pancras International, which is right next to King’s Cross Station. There’s plenty of public transportation and dozens of places to eat and drink before you board, whether inside the train station or nearby at Coal Drops Yard (north of the station). Heading south over beyond Euston Rd, the area has a slight ghost town feel after dark.

In Paris, the train departs from Gare du Nord, which is located in the 10th arrondissement . Queues to buy tickets for onward travel on the metro are notoriously long, but you can buy tickets on the Eurostar. Be aware it’s also a prime target for pickpockets and scam artists. Don’t be distracted or, like me, you may lose a handbag while being asked a seemingly genuine question by a stranger.

When catching the Eurostar from Amsterdam Centraal , you’ll find the outbound platform is tucked away. Although in 2024 the station is having an upgrade, so watch this space. Stock up on provisions before you go through passport control. The area around the station is busy so take normal precautions, including looking out for trams and cyclists , who have right-of-way no matter what.

At Brussels Midi Station, you may notice a police presence due to heightened security in Europe. The station area is fairly safe, but it can feel less so after dark with fewer people around.

For Lille and Rotterdam , both smaller cities, the stations where the Eurostar alights are centrally located with shops, cafes and sights nearby. Public transport is easy to navigate, but these are also very walkable cities (if you're not carrying a lot of luggage).

First time visiting France? Here’s what you should know

What can I take on the Eurostar?

You can take two bags up to 85cm/33.5in (at its widest/ longest point), plus one piece of hand luggage on the Eurostar. There’s no weight limit, but you do need to be able to lift your bags onto the train and potentially up to the rack above your seat.

There is luggage storage space at the end of carriages, but be aware that as we passed through Brussels on our way to Amsterdam, announcements were made to keep an eye on your belongings as thieves have been known to lighten the train’s load.

The best bit of traveling by train compared to flying: there are no restrictions on liquids. You can take all the products and bottled water you like (note that there is nowhere to refill on board). And if you’re up for a tipple, you can take one bottle of wine or bubbly or four cans of beer on board – except for during some major events, but you’ll get notified if that’s the case. 

What else should I bring on the Eurostar?

There are UK and European plug sockets to recharge phones and laptops, although there are no USB sockets with Standard class seats. BYO book or download content to your devices in advance as the wi-fi and phone signal drops out regularly.

Can I buy food onboard the Eurostar?

There is a cafe carriage selling snacks and light meals for Standard class travelers (Premium classes get a meal delivered to their seats like on a plane). The menu changes twice a year, but the options are limited, so it’s often better to bring your own food, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

Buy your train supplies before you pass through passport control as the options inside the terminal at St Pancras were very busy the morning we traveled, while at Paris and Amsterdam they’re virtually non-existent.

What can’t I take with me on the Eurostar?

There’s a list of things you cannot take on the Eurostar on the website , most of which follow common sense: firearms, flammables, illegal drugs…. Perishable items like meat, fish and dairy are also on the list, but I am sure I could smell some scrumptious Dutch cheese in somebody’s bag on our way home! 

Sadly taking a bike with you is a lot harder than one would hope, given the increase in interest in cycling to get around and cycling holidays in Europe. For full-sized bikes, you need to pre-book passage and disassemble your bike to check it in as luggage. Folding bikes and children’s bikes can be brought on board with you, but they need to be in a protective bag.

Do I need to print my Eurostar tickets?

Print your ticket out if you want a paper back up, but you can scan tickets directly from the Eurostar app at arrival gates. If your seat has changed for whatever reason, a fresh paper ticket will be printed for you at the gate.

Next, you move onto border control via security, like you do at an international airport.

Do I need a visa as well as my passport?

Make sure you are up-to-date on what documents you need for European travel, which varies by nationality. 

As well as your passport, from late 2024 biometric information (a face scan or fingerprints) will be collected at European borders, which is expected to slow down the check-in process and may have a knock-on effect on the number of passengers that can be booked and processed per train.

Also note that from 2025, all non-EU citizens (that includes the British, obviously) will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) – a €7 visa-waiver scheme like the US ESTA – to enter Europe.

Wondering about your visa situation? We have guidance for France , the UK and Belgium

Do you really need to get there 90 minutes before your Eurostar train departs?

Yes, you really do. Cutting it fine can work out, but there are sometimes multiple trains from St Pancras, so queues can build quickly. Also seating inside terminals is limited, so do yourself a favor and get there on time.

What happens if I miss my train?

This has happened to me (or should I say, yes, I did this to myself), and Eurostar kindly rebooked our group on the next service headed to Paris. However we did lose our seat bookings and found ourselves in the backward-facing seats with no window views on the later train. Luckily the cafe carriage has large windows, so we congregated there for most of the journey.

How do you choose seats?

You’ll be allocated seats with your booking, but you can change these online or via the app. I recommend you do that as soon as you can because (as mentioned) there are seats on the Eurostar with no or partial views, and while 30 minutes is under the Channel, the rest of the journey is a chance to see the changing landscape.

Some Eurostar travelers also recommend bringing some kitchen towels or wet wipes and giving your window a clean – inside and out if you can – to improve the view.

Are there sleeper trains from London?

You’ve probably seen the headlines about Europe’s new golden age of train travel with more passengers embracing the greener alternative to short-haul flights. In 2024 there has been an uptick in sleeper train services in Europe, with new overnight routes from Paris to Berlin and Vienna to Hamburg on ÖBB's Nightjet. 

There’s talk of the European Sleeper company connecting London to its night services via the Eurostar, so watch this space. And a sleeper train direct from London to further European cities may well be on the horizon.

Despite the challenges Brexit has put in its path, Eurostar maintains its ambitions to reach 30 million passengers by 2030. Given the London-to-Paris train journey emits 10 times less carbon per passenger compared to flying (22kg of CO2 per person versus 224kg of CO2), it really does make sense to get to and from Europe by rail.

Planning your first journey on a sleeper train? Here are our top tips

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12 Things You Need To Know Before Riding Eurostar Between Paris and London

Riding Eurostar between Paris and London is an amazing travel experience. Not only is it a smooth and fun ride, but it can save you time and stress when compared to flying. If you’ve never ridden Eurostar before, here are some tips to help you have a better trip.

• 1 How Early Should I Arrive For The Eurostar Train
• 2 Are Passports Checked on the Eurostar Train
• 3 How Long Are You Underwater on the Eurostar
• 4 Is Eurostar Quicker Than Flying
• 5 Does the Eurostar Feel Fast
• 6 Is It Better To Fly or Take Eurostar to Paris and London
• 7 Is Eurostar Scary
• 8 Is Eurostar a Double Decker Train
• 9 Can You See Underwater on Eurostar
• 10 Does Eurostar Check Your Bags
• 11 Do You Keep Your Luggage With You On Eurostar
• 12 Are There Tables on Eurostar
• 13 Booking Train Tickets In Europe

How Early Should I Arrive For The Eurostar Train

You should arrive at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure on Eurostar. On our recent ride it took 30 minutes to get through customs and immigration on our way to London. On top of getting through these security checks, you’ll want to arrive early enough to enter the train when boarding opens, which is 20-30 minutes before the train leaves.

Are Passports Checked on the Eurostar Train

Passports are checked when riding on the Eurostar train. You passport will be checked at the Gare du Nord station in Paris before boarding the Eurostar train from Paris to London. There are separate lines for EU passport holders and all other passport holders. The check is made after you go upstairs to the London Hall.

How Long Are You Underwater on the Eurostar

The speed limit in the Channel Tunnel for trains is 160kph / 100mph. The Channel Tunnel is under the English Channel for 37.9 km or 23.5 miles, which is the worlds longest undersea tunnel. When riding the Eurostar you’ll be underwater for about 13 minutes.

Is Eurostar Quicker Than Flying

It takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to go from Paris to London on Eurostar. With security and customs checks taking an additional 30 minutes, your total travel time from the city center can be 3 hours. Eurostar is quicker than flying due to airport security taking longer than train security and the location of the airports.

Does the Eurostar Feel Fast

The Eurostar does not feel fast while you are riding on it. It is a very quiet and smooth train and you’ll have trouble figuring out how fast you are going without looking at a speedometer. Even though you’ll be travelling at around 100mph through the tunnel and 160mph outside of the tunnel, it won’t feel that fast.

Is It Better To Fly or Take Eurostar to Paris and London

It is better to take Eurostar to Paris and London versus flying. When riding on Eurostar the stations are in the city center, which will save you time and money once you reach your destination. If you fly, you’ll be landing at a remote airport and need to take a train into the city. It is also a big time saver to ride Eurostar versus flying.

Is Eurostar Scary

Eurostar is not scary and will not feel different than riding any other train. Most trains go through several tunnels at some point, and the Channel Tunnel will feel just like any other tunnel, just a little longer. If you didn’t know you were underwater you wouldn’t be able to tell. Riding Eurostar should not be a frightening experience as it is a very smooth and quiet train ride.

Is Eurostar a Double Decker Train

The Eurostar is not a double decker train, it is a single level train. Seats can be purchased in 3 separate classes, but all classes are on the same level. There are no stairs to negotiate when riding on Eurostar. You’ll have a choice of sitting in the direction of travel or away from it, but there are no levels to choose from.

Can You See Underwater on Eurostar

Eurostar trains have nice picture windows at the seats that let you see outside. When you are in the underwater section of the ride you will only see the inside of the Channel Tunnel. You cannot see underwater while riding on Eurostar, so no you will also not see any fish.

Does Eurostar Check Your Bags

There is a bag check before boarding Eurostar. Since you are changing countries while on the train, your bags must pass through customs, where they will be scanned and checked. It is a much quicker check than at an airport. You’ll load all of your luggage onto the belt and it’ll be scanned in a matter of seconds.

Do You Keep Your Luggage With You On Eurostar

When riding Eurostar you’ll keep your bags with you on the train. Your bags will either go in the luggage racks at the end of the car, or in the overhead space above your seat. There is plenty of space for your bags. You’ll need to label all of your bags with your name before riding. Simply put your bags on the racks, find your seat and enjoy the ride, then grab your bags on the way off the train.

Are There Tables on Eurostar

Each train car on Eurostar will have tables. Not every seat will have a formal table though, as most just have a fold down tray from the back of the seat in front of them. If you want to sit at a table, reserve seats that face each other, as those seats have tables between them.

Booking Train Tickets In Europe

We book our train tickets in Europe using either Trainline or Rail Europe . These services offer an easier customer experience as we’ve found our credit cards work better when booking through these sites. Eurostar Tickets can be booked on either platform. In addition Rail Europe offers rail passes if you are planning a longer trip.

Eurostar is a marvel of the train world. What many once thought was impossible is now possible by travelling under the English Channel. It is certainly one of the most unique and memorable short rides on a train you can take.

No matter if you are travelling from Paris to London on Eurostar or the other way around, we hope you have an enjoyable and memorable trip!

Robert Marmion

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

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19 unforgettable day trips from paris by train.

Paris is not only an amazing European city that deserves your time, it’s also a great hub for day trips to stunning castles, charming towns, other cities, and to a few of the neighboring countries.

With the fast trains running these days, there are so many day trips from Paris by train you can choose from so you don’t have to get stuck in traffic. Trust me, you just don’t want to waste your time on that.

I’ve driven into Paris before and it’s such a waste of time. You can literally take the train to London and back in the same time you try to get out of Paris by car during rush hour. Not to talk about the environmental impact of driving in those queues.

You should at least spend 2 to 4 days in Paris to get the most out of the city, but if you have more time after that, make sure you take at least one of these train trips from Paris.

As the city is situated in the northern part of France, you can easily get on train rides from Paris to the neighboring countries, explore, and be back the same day.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

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How to take the train from Paris

There are many big train stations in Paris and I’ll go through the main ones. You can buy your tickets at the train station on ticket machines with cash or card, in the ticket office, or online .

One of my top Paris travel tips when traveling by train is to check if your ticket is pre-validated or not. You have to validate your ticket before you board your train. In case you forget, look for the conductor before he or she finds you, to make them validate it for you.

Gare du Nord

Paris has several large train stations, Gare du Nord being the main train station and Europe’s busiest. From here, you can take the high-speed trains Eurostar to London, or TGV to pretty much all over France and beyond.

Gare Saint-Lazare

Gare Saint-Lazare is the oldest train station in Paris and second busiest. The train station serves trains to the north-west of the country.

Gare de l’Est

Gare de l’Est is mainly known for the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, known from Agatha Christia’s crime book “Murder on the Orient Express”.

But the train station serves most of north-east of France and neighboring countries.

Gare de Lyon

Gare de Lyon is the third busiest train station in the country and serves trains towards the southeast and east. Dijon, Lyon, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain are some of the destinations from there.

Gare d’Austerlitz

This train station has a dark history. It was used for transporting Jews to the camps during World War 2. On the other hand, it was also where they evacuated children to safety in the countryside.

Gare d’Austerlitz is the train station serving central and southern France.

Gare de Montparnasse

Gare de Montparnasse is said to be the world’s second-ugliest building. How is that for being Paris?

Nevertheless, it’s a useful building. It gets you to all of the western and southwest of the country and as far as northern Spain.

👉 PRE-BOOK TRAIN TICKETS HERE

Best day trips from Paris by train

Are you ready to check out train trips from Paris? There are some pretty cool destinations here that you might not have thought about.

The amazing city of Metz, mainly recognized for its astounding cathedral, is one of the best train trips from Paris and the perfect day trip. The charming city is flourishing with flowerbeds and green spaces, especially along the river and there are plenty of things to do in Metz .

The Gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral is one of the tallest in Europe, with its 42 meters, and can be seen all the way from the highway when passing the city. Its construction started in 1220 and took more than 300 years to finish.

Stroll through the charming Imperial Quarter or visit the permanent covered market, Marché Couvert, a must for any foodie.

Another basilica worth visiting is the Église St-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, one of Europe’s oldest churches dating back to 380 CE. However, the structure was first declared a house of God in the 7th century. Originally it was built to be the gym of a Roman spa.

Visit Metz Art & History Museum or marvel at the medieval architecture at Place Saint-Louis, in the old town. Close to the square you also find the church of Saint-Maximum which is well worth a visit.

Take the train from Gare de l’Est to Metz.

By Lily of Imperfect Idealist

Dijon, France  is the capital of Burgundy and the birthplace of Dijon mustard. The town is small but charming and is easily explored by foot in one day.

There are multiple trains from Paris to Dijon daily; the cheaper regional train (TER) takes 3 hours one way, and the faster train (TGV) takes 1,5 hours.

Dijon is perhaps best known for its mustard, which you can sample in the Maille or Edmond Fallot mustard shops. Edmond Fallot is especially fun, as they have a mustard vending machine.

The architecture of Dijon is also famous, featuring half-timbered houses and colorful tiled roofs. For the best examples of this traditional Burgundian architecture (and a great spot for those Instagram pics), visit Place François Rude and Hôtel Aubriot.

Rue Verrerie is another beautiful place to wander and admire, as it’s full of half-timbered houses, dessert shops, and unique stores.

If you’re a fan of museums, you can visit the nearby Musée des beaux-arts for free; be sure to at least walk around the courtyard, as the museum’s white stone architecture is beautiful – the building actually used to be a palace for the dukes of Burgundy!

Before heading back to the train station at the end of the day, stop by at the Jardin de l’Arquebuse, a nearby botanical garden with a free museum of natural history.

Strolling through the garden is always pleasant, but is especially nice in the spring, with the flowers and wisteria-covered archway. 

By Elisa of Travel France Bucketlist

Colmar is one of the most beautiful towns in the French region of Grand Est and a must-stop of the  Alsace Wine Route  in Eastern France. It is also one of the biggest towns so there are plenty of things to do in Colmar to keep you busy for a while.

Colmar is located 500km southeast of Paris, with fast connections by TGV train. The train ride from Paris Gare de l’Est to Colmar takes less than 3 hours and is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Paris by train.

People visit Colmar mainly for sightseeing, the town has beautiful traditional architecture of half-timbered houses. Colmar also has water canals which make the town even prettier.

It is possible to navigate some parts of the canals by small boats but the lines to get one are always long!

Colmar is the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty in New York. The town has a small museum dedicated to him where visitors can learn more about this artist and his masterwork.

A day trip to Colmar is also a good opportunity to taste the regional cuisine and do some wine tastings and perhaps buy some bottles of your favorite wines.

Rambouillet

By Lucile of LucileHR

Located only one hour west from the capital, Rambouillet will be among your favorite day trips from Paris by train and a  great way to travel locally . It truly has something for everyone from nature, to culture, and even delicious cheese.

There are so many hikes you can do for all levels in the forest and whether you prefer a light stroll or long-distance running, you are sure to find a circuit you enjoy.

One of my favorites is the one going from Le Perray train station to Rambouillet’s, passing through beautiful lakes and rivers and going along a 17th-century aqueduct. It takes between 3 and 4 hours depending on the route.

The forest hosts a wide range of wildlife and is a protected natural space. If you’re lucky, you might even see one of the few Wallabies that chose Rambouillet as their new home after escaping from a nearby zoo.

After you’re done hiking, you can head to the Bergerie Nationale for some snacks. You’ll find fresh cheese made on-site, as well as all kind of dairy products. If you have kids or really like animals, you can also visit the farm and play with really cute goats.

If you are into culture, Rambouillet is also the place for you, as it used to be a residence for Kings, Emperors, and the summer residence of Presidents until 2009. Make sure you plan for a visit of the gardens, as they are really gorgeous.

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

The name “Chartres” is virtually synonymous with the town’s magnificent Cathedral, which is undoubtedly the main attraction of any visit here.

It’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is often referred to as the high point of French Gothic architecture. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral is remarkably well preserved, considering how old it is.

The two main highlights of the Cathedral are the fine sculptures on both the interior and exterior and the colorful stained glass windows.

Most of the windows were created between 1210 and 1250, while the sculptures range from the 12th to the 18th centuries. Those on the façade date from the construction of the original Gothic Cathedral, while the ones on the choir screen inside were a much later addition.

Once you’ve thoroughly explored the Cathedral, climb to the top of the tower for gorgeous views of Chartres town and the French countryside surrounding it. Supposedly you can even see the Eiffel Tower from here on a clear day, though you’d have to be pretty lucky with the weather.

Strolling through town, you’ll see plenty of picturesque half-timbered houses with flower pots in the windowsill.

There are several restaurants serving traditional French cuisine, and the Thai restaurant Le Pailin is probably the best option for vegetarians and vegans, though it can’t compare to the  great vegan restaurants in Paris . Trains run regularly between Paris Montparnasse and Chartres and take just over an hour.

By Leyla of Offbeat France

If you plan on visiting the best-known  chateaux of the Loire Valley , the city of Blois is the perfect jumping off point. Less than 1h 30 from Paris-Austerlitz, it’s the kind of day trip from Paris that can satisfy your yearnings for history, culture and discovery all in one.

Blois is known for its royal castle, first and foremost, the residence of kings for centuries and if you’re coming for a day, half of it should be spent exploring this extraordinary castle, with four distinct architectural styles and where, rumor has it, Catherine of Medici plotted and planned the downfall of her enemies.

With only a day to spend, you have a choice: you can explore Blois, or you can jump on the chateau Navette bus and spend the afternoon in either Chambord or Cheverny.

If you stay in Blois, walking around is the ideal way to see this town, with its many religious buildings and half-timbered houses. For the best photograph of the city, start walking away from the center of town and cross part of the bridge over the Loire, then look back.

The city as seen from the water is stunning, and if you can be there at sunset, even better.

Should you decide to visit another chateau, then Chambord will give you greatness and space, while Cheverny will entertain you (a museum in honour of Tintin plus a kennel with 150 hunting dogs) and delight you with its perfect decor.

Either way, you’ll return feeling you’ve been on a real journey, not only in space but in time.

Château de Chantilly

By Norbert of World in Paris

Château de Chantilly is one of the  best castles near Paris  to visit, a fairy-tale castle located in the town of the same name. It is not a royal castle but it is so pretty that it was admired (and sometimes envied) by Kings and Queens.

In addition, Château de Chantilly is surrounded by magnificent French-style gardens designed by André Le Notre, the same landscape designer who worked on the Gardens of Versailles.

Chantilly is very easy to reach by train. Trains to Chantilly Gouvieux train station leave hourly from Paris Gare du Nord for a train ride of 25 minutes. From the train station, it’s a pleasant 10-minute walk through the forest to reach Château de Chantilly.

Château de Chantilly was built in the 19th century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was destroyed during the French Revolution.

Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used the château to display all his artworks and show them to his guests.

His collection of antique paintings is very large – only second after the Louvre – and visitors can see it displayed exactly like when the Duke was living in the castle.

Not far from the château, the Great Stables of the Princes de Condé with the Horse Museum are also interesting to visit. The entrance ticket to the Great Stables usually comes with an equestrian show.

By Larch of The Silver Nomad

The pretty city of Reims is just a short 46-minute train journey from Paris’ Gare de l’Est to the north-east of Paris. Full of history, four UNESCO World Heritage sites and the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, it is not to be missed.

The gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is the first of the UNESCO World Heritage sites to be visited. For more than 1,000 years, the kings of France were crowned at the Cathedral. Famed for its stained-glass windows and statues, including the Smiling Angel, the 13 th  Century Cathedral saw the crowning of 33 French kings.

Next to the Cathedral is the Palace of Tau. The Palace which was once the residence of the Archbishops of Reims is now a museum which hold many of the items used in the coronations of the kings as well as statues and tapestries.

The Mars Gate, built in the 3 rd  Century AD, was a Roman-built set of four arches. Only one remains intact today, but at 32 metres long and 15 metres high and is highly decorated.

Reims is also the home to the St. Remi History Museum, the Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum, the art-deco Carnegie library, Gallo-Roman cryptoporticus, the 15th century Hotel Le Vergeur Museum, Reims Planetarium and the Reims Opera House.

No trip to Reims is complete without a visit to one of the champagne houses. There are many to choose from including Veuve Clicquot-Ponsardin, Taittinger, Pommery and Mumm. The perfect way to round off your day in Reims.

By Jonathan of Journey Maxx

As the last stop before going through the Channel Tunnel, Lille is perfectly situated almost equidistant between Paris, London and Brussels. It makes it to the list of the best Paris day trips by train, and can be reached in only an hour.

What is most striking about this city is how much closer it feels to Flemish rather than Gallic in influence and especially when looking at its buildings. This most notable in the Place Charles de Gaulle in the heart of Lille and the ornate details of La Vielle Bourse and the Belfry Tower.

If there is one unique thing to Lille you must try then it has to be the glorious sweet treat known as a Merveilleux. This concoction of what happens when you combine a meringue with a chocolate gateau cake is the pride and joy of this region and no better place to sample one than in the Aux Merveilleux bakery.

There is also the Palais des Beaux Artes which is also an essential place to visit to see a wide selection of artworks from the 15th Century to the 20th, and a natural history museum as well worth checking out too.

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Sitting on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is a fantastic day trip from Paris by train. The city can easily be reached by high-speed train in only 2 hours. Being on the border, you get an interesting blend of culture that makes up this Alsatian city.

One of the highlights here is the massive Gothic style Strasbourg Cathedral. It’s one of the tallest churches in the world and can easily be seen while walking around Strasbourg’s Petite France historic district.

Petite France is full of beautiful half-timbered buildings that line canals branching from the Rhine River. One of the popular things to do here is to take a river cruise along the canals to see the city. If you are  visiting France in the winter , this is the perfect day trip to explore a traditional Christmas Market. Strasbourg hosts a massive Christmas Market every year that is spread across the old town and is lit up by Christmas Trees and lights.

While in Strasbourg, you should be sure to try some of the traditional foods. There are plenty of bakeries, candy shops, and restaurants set around Petite France that are worth popping into.

Strasbourg has a completely different vibe than Paris and feels more like exploring a fairy-tale village than a city. Its compact historic district is perfect to spend a day in to explore more of France.  

By Stephanie of History Fangirl

Perhaps the most popular day trip from Paris by train, visiting Versailles is easy and, quite simply, a must-do on your trip.

If you’re learning anything about the French Revolution during your time in Paris, you need to see the opulent palace for yourself to understand the inequality the people of France were facing leading up to it.

To get to Versailles by train, you will need to buy a ticket to the Versailles-Chateua Rive Gauche station. The cost to get from Paris to Versailles on this train line is less than eight Euros per person for the round-trip fare.

When you get your ticket, you will receive two tickets, one for each way of the destination. Hold on to the second ticket!

Once you arrive in the town of Versailles, you have a quick fifteen-minute walk to get to the palace. You should purchase a skip-the-line ticket if you’re arriving after the park opens.

Getting a skip-the-line ticket, which you can purchase ahead of time or in the office, allows you to go straight in and avoid spending what could be hours in line!

While here, tour the main palace, little Versaille, and Trianon, as well as the gardens. I encourage you to spend your entire day here since there is so much to see and do at Versailles.

If you drink, you can purchase a small bottle of champagne to enjoy on the grounds. You can also spend time pursuing the gift shop, which is a great place to look for souvenirs from your trip to France!

Disneyland Paris

By Krisztina of She Wanders Abroad

If you’re planning to  visit Paris  and you’re a Disney fan, you can’t miss out on visiting Disneyland Paris! It’s only a one-hour train ride away from the city, which makes it one of the best day trips from Paris.

In order to get to Disneyland Paris, you need to board a RER A train at Gare de Lyon and it will take you directly to the entrance. If you have a Navigo Pass or any other type of passes that are valid for Zone 5, you can use them for the train and you don’t even need to buy a separate train ticket.

However, if you don’t have such passes, you can buy a one-way or return ticket at one of the ticket booths at the station.

There are two parks right next to each other, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

You can buy a combined ticket which is valid for both parks or you can buy tickets separately as well. Depending on the number of parks you want to visit and your selected dates, you can usually get an adult ticket between 59-109 EUR for one day.

There are many interesting rides inside the park and it’s impossible to visit everything in just one day, so if you have more time, you can buy a multi-day pass as well. For an even more memorable experience, stay at one of the hotels onsite!

Day trips from Paris by train to other countries

There are also a whole lot of amazing day trips from Paris by train to other countries you can take. Here are some of the best!

London, England

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

Taking the Eurostar from Paris to London for a day trip is quick and easy, the train takes less than 2 hours and 30 minutes and you can maximize your time by planning for your day out in London ahead, having breakfast or a snooze if you get up early for the trip! 

There are 17 trains a day taking this route!  The train takes you right into the center of London where you can kick off your day by taking a tour on one of London’s iconic red double-decker buses. 

Once you’ve seen things from ground level head to the top of St Paul’s Cathedral for an awesome view. 

You can easily add some museums to your London itinerary as so many of them are free to enter and we recommend the Natural History Museum for a great exploration on a quick trip.

Wrap up your your day in London with a cruise on the Thames or a trip up the London Eye to see darkness fall over the city and then zip back to St Pancras Station and catch your train back to Paris!

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

By Sharon of Dive into Philippines

Only two hours away by TGV from Paris is the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, one of those small countries that only European history seems to throw up. Bigger than a city-state (it’s Europe’s largest mini-state) there’s a lot to cover in a day trip.

That said, it is dominated by Luxembourg City in terms of things to do. By far the biggest city, it was once a strategically important fortress and one of the attractions of the city is to walk around the still impressive city fortifications, walls and casements.

My favourite attraction to visit in Luxembourg City is the Grand Ducal palace. They may not be the most well known royal family going around but they are nice enough to let people tour their palatial home over the summer months when they are taking their holidays or staying at their castle just out of town. As a real life palace, it is cool to visit.

For a small city, Luxembourg City has a lot of art galleries and museums. The Nazis stole a lot the country’s best historical works but there are some worthwhile contemporary galleries to visit if you enjoy art.

Of significant historical interest is the American war cemetery, located in Hamm on the edge of Luxembourg City, where General George S. Patton was buried following his death in 1945.

There’s more to do than just Luxembourg City in Luxembourg and the country has a good network of trains with frequent services. The station in Luxembourg City is the terminus for all the country’s lines and this also serves as the stop for TGV services departing from Gare du l’Est. From there it’s only a short walk into the heart of the city.

Brussels, Belgium

By Paula of Paula Pins The Planet

One of the best things about Europe is the ability to travel around quickly, easily, and cheaply. One of the best day trips from Paris by train is to Brussels. It’s only about 195 miles (314 km) direct from Gare du Nord in central Paris to Brussels-South Station in 1:25 hours. 

The best option is the high-speed Thalys train that you can book directly on their website. I recommend booking it as soon as you know your plans, as the standard class tickets start at $32 but can shoot up to $100 if you purchase them last minute. 

There are many amazing things you can see and experience on a day trip to Brussels , Belgium’s incredible capital. The good thing is that Brussels is a very compact town and the main sights can be visited on foot.  

Start your visit to Brussels at the Grote Markt (Grand-Place), considered one of the most important squares in Belgium. While there you can also visit the city museum and the Brussels Town Hall.

The cathedrals of St. Michael and St. Gudula, with the stunning gothic architecture, are so worth a visit too. Take a picture of the famous Manneken Pis Statue, it sounds weird, but it’s a classic tourist attraction. 

You can’t miss tasting Belgian waffles, they are to die for, and don’t forget to buy a large bag of Belgian chocolate to bring home, it is definitely the best chocolate in the world. 

Namur, Belgium

By Philipp of Journication

Destinations in Belgium? I’m sure that Brussels, Antwerp or Liège will be in the top 5. But certainly not Namur. You should reconsider: The capital of Wallonia offers great conditions for a nice city trip: Exciting history, a great old town and picturesque views.

You can reach Namur by train from Paris in around 3 hours – a reasonable distance for a day trip if you don’t have the time for a Wallonia road trip .

The old town can be easily reached on foot from the train station. Here you can experience the old splendor of Wallonia. The Place du Vieux Marché with the old stock exchange and the belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly worth seeing. Funny sculptures in front of the stock exchange show the characters Joseph and Francois, the heraldic animal of Namur: The snail!

From there, you can stroll at a leisurely pace through the old town, over old marketplaces, past splendid merchants’ houses and for refreshment in one of the many restaurants and bars. Because what is Belgium famous for? – Right: good beer!

The huge citadel shows the strategic importance of Namur at the confluence of the Maas and Sambre rivers. From above you have a magnificent view of the old town and the entire region.

There is a lot to discover in the extensive fortress area. Old gates, defense towers and the castle of Namur. The guided tours in the underground facilities and exhibitions, which provide a lot of information about the history of the city and the citadel, are particularly exciting.

Liege, Belgium

By Paulina of Paulina on the Road

If you’re planning for day trips from Paris by train, make sure to book a ticket for Liege, Belgium. It is the third-largest city of Belgium in terms of population and likewise is an attractive tourist place. 

It’s worth visiting Liege, Belgium, because of its unique style of churches, buildings, museums, art galleries, and many more, all designed like-heaven.

This city is also recommended for offering treats and amazing food such as chocolates, waffles, and Belgian fries. Of course, you’ll indulge in the best Belgian beer too! Additionally, various events and festivals operate throughout the year in Liege. 

Alongside this, there are various  things to do in Liege, Belgium . It includes touring historical places, like the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege, Archeoforum of Liege, St Paul Cathedral, Church of St Bartholomew, Palace of the Prince-Bishops, Grand Curtius, and so on. Besides that, you can explore outdoor-activities, like climbing the Montagne de Bueren or marveling at the Liege-Guillemins Station.

For a day trip to Liege, Belgium, from Paris, it’s best to take a train as it covers more distance (approx. 373.1km) in a shorter time-duration (of 3hr and 50 min), as compared to a bus/car. Also, trains are readily available for this route as there are around 26 trains per day and two direct trains to Liege. 

Though, if you want to avoid paying a hefty amount, you need to book tickets beforehand, which generally costs almost $98 (€83). The best time to visit Liege, Belgium, is from May to October when the weather is exceptionally soothing, lively, and less humid. 

Bruges, Belgium

By Kat of World Wide Honeymoon

If you are dreaming of medieval architecture, romantic canals, and incredible food, then Bruges in Belgium should be on the top of your list of day trips from Paris by train!

A day trip to Bruges is perfectly do-able as it is only about 2,5 hours from Paris. One of the first things to do in Bruges is the Grote Markt, or the market square. This is home to the 12th century Belfry that you can also go inside and the Provincial Court. During the holiday season, the whole square turns into the most charming Christmas market too! 

After visiting the Grote Markt, a canal ride is a must to take in the stunning scenery, and, of course, a visit to a waffle shop like House of Waffles is necessary. Then, you’ll want to either visit a brewery like Bourgogne de Flanders or sip some tasty Belgian beer at a pub. 

Next up is a stop at the Church of Our Lady, and then you cannot leave without admiring the city at night with the bridges and trees lit up. Bruges is a stunningly beautiful place and small enough to make it the perfect spot for a day trip.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

By Maartje of The Orange Backpack

One of the best day trips from Paris is the Dutch city of Rotterdam . The city is known for its modern architecture, street art and must-visit hotspots. One day should be enough to get to know this must-visit in the Netherlands, but you’ll for sure want to come back.

The best things to do in Rotterdam is walking around to spot the beautiful architecture and street art, stopping at some nice coffee and brunch places along the way. Or even better: rent a bike and bike around as the locals do.

One of your first stops will be the train station where you’ll arrive. The train platforms are beautiful during sunny days because of the light play from the glass ceiling. The main hall is a sight as well.

Then head to the yellow footbridge where you could stop at the rooftop of Op het Dak for breakfast or lunch with a view. The historic City Hall and Post Office will be along your route to the immense Markthal with its impressive ceiling painting and great food.

You might want to visit one of the yellow cube houses, have some drinks at the old harbor (‘Oude Haven’), go shopping at the Pannenkoekenstraat or Meent street or visit one of the museums at the museum park.

You can easily get to Rotterdam from Paris with the direct Thalys train. It takes just over 2,5 hours. 

Responsible day tripping

Let’s not forget to be responsible travelers when going on these amazing train rides from Paris. Make space for respecting and talking to the locals to learn more about the place you’re visiting. This will make the trip much more pleasant for the locals, especially in popular destinations like Colmar and London.

Take with you a reusable water bottle on your day trips from Paris so that you don’t have to buy single use plastic bottles on the way. If you’re an addict of coffee on the go, why not bring en eco-friendly reusable coffee cup too.

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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)

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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!

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London travel news LIVE: Elizabeth line and trains blocked from Heathrow Terminal 5

LIVE – Updated at 06:43

Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express trains are unable to run to part of Heathrow Airport after a tunnel was closed over safety concerns.

Trains are unable to run to Heathrow Terminal 5 due to faulty tunnel ventilation, Transport for London has warned.

There is no service between Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 and Heathrow Terminal 5 and disruption is expected until the end of the day.

Meanwhile lines have reopened on the London Overground between Clapham Junction and Willesden Junction after disruption due to an earlier faulty train. There is now a good service on the Overground.

Earlier on Thursday, Eurostar trains in and out of London St Pancras International were delayed by up to two hours due to a power cut.

Live updates below.

Queues on major road after crash

A busy London road close to King’s Cross Station is closed after a crash.

There is queuing traffic on the A501 Pentonville Road Eastbound from A5200 Gray's Inn Road (Kings Cross Station) to A201 King's Cross Road after the collision on Thursday afternoon.

Congestion is being reported up to University College Hospital.

Disruption to tram services in south London

There is no tram service between Arena and Elmers End, according to TfL.

There are also minor delays on all other routes due to a shortage of trams.

Severe delays on London Overground

There is currently no service between Willesden Junction and Clapham Junction and severe delays between Stratford and Richmond while TfL fix a faulty train at Willesden Junction.

Severe delays on Metropolitan Line

TfL says there are severe delays on the Metropolitan Line, between Rickmansworth and Amersham/Chesham, following an earlier signal failure.

Heathrow Express investigating tunnel issue

The Heathrow Express has said it is investigating an issue that has suspended services to and from the airport.

No trains to Heathrow Terminal 5 due to safety concerns

Elizabeth Line trains and the Heathrow Express are unable to travel to Heathrow Terminal 5 after a tunnel was closed for safety reasons.

Transport for London has said the it is fixing faulty tunnel ventilation between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow.

Disruption is expected until 8pm.

Part of Victoria station closed due to flooding

Victoria Station is closed to some District and Circle Line services due to flooding, TfL has said.

40-minute delays on the M25

Drivers are facing 40-minute delays on the M25 due to a collision between a car and a lorry.

The collision has been cleared but there is around four miles of congestion.The incident happened between Junction 15 (M4) and Junction 16 (M40).

Power outage fixed but Eurostar delays expected to continue

All lines have reopened, following the earlier power outage between Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International.

But National Rail warns Southeastern trains could still be cancelled, or delayed by up to 30 minutes.

Eurostar also said on X that delays are to be expected.

The disruption is expected until 3pm.

Euston trains hit by hour-long delays after person was hit by train

Trains to and from London Euston have been delayed by up to an hour after a person was hit by a train.

National Rail said lines have reopened between Rugby and Milton Keynes Central after the incident and emergency services have safely completed their work.

But trains may still be delayed by 60 minutes or cancelled.

Disruption is expected until 3pm.

Trains unable to run on Elizabeth Line to Heathrow

There is no service on the Elizabeth Line between Heathrow Terminals 2&3 to Heathrow Terminal 5 while Transport for London fix faulty tunnel ventilation.

South Western Railway apologies for 'extensive disruption'

South Western Railway has apologised for extensive disruption on its network on Wednesday.

A police incident at around 3.30pm meant all four tracks at Wimbledon, one of the busiest parts of its network, were turned off.

Trains were unable to move for around 90 minutes sparking lots of cancellations.

Stuart Meek, interim managing director at South Western Railway, said: “As trains were then unable to leave London Waterloo there were large crowds at our stations and delayed services were exceptionally busy.

“We are now working with Network Rail to review last night’s incident and avoid such extensive disruption in the future.

“I know many of you faced a long wait to return home last night, and so once again, we’re very sorry for last night’s disruption, and appreciate your patience.”

Trains unable to run on Metropolitan and Piccadilly Lines

There is no service on sections of the Metropolitan and Piccadilly Lines due to a trespasser on the track in Hillingdon.

Trains are unable to run on the Metropolitan Line between Harrow-on-the-Hill and Uxbridge.

Trains are also unable to run on the Piccadilly Line between Rayners Lane and Uxbridge. There are also severe delays between Acton Town and Rayners Lane.

Euston trains hit by delays and last-minute cancellations

London Euston services are suffering long delays and last-minute cancellations after a person was hit by a train.

The incident happened between Rugby and Milton Keynes Central.

National Rail has warned that trains may be delayed by up to 30-minutes.

Disruption is expected until 12am.

Eurostar passenger complains of being stuck in Channel Tunnel

One Eurostar passenger has complained about being stuck in the Channel Tunnel due to the power cut.

The traveler said they have been stuck on the train to London for an extra two hours.

Eurostars arriving into London delayed by up to two hours

Eurostar trains travelling into London have been delayed by up to two hours due to a power cut.

The 7.42am service from Paris is not expected to reach St Pancras until 11am, according to the service’s departure board.

Meanwhile two services are predicted to be an hour late into London.

Eurostar service delayed by over an hour

Two Eurostar services have been hit by long delays following a power cut.

The 8.01am service to Paris was hit by 70-minute delays because of the issue, according to the Eurostar’s live departure board.

The 9.31am service to Paris has also been hit by 40-minute delays due to the problem.

Trains from London St Pancras International hit by hour-long delays

Trains between St Pancras and Kent have been delayed by up to an hour due to a problem with overhead power lines.

A failure of the electricity supply between Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International means some lines are currently closed. There are delays between St Pancras and Broadstairs, Dover Priory, Faversham, Maidstone West, Margate, Ramsgate and Sandwich.

Disruption is expected until 10.30am.

Minor delays on the Piccadilly Line

There are minor delays on the Piccadilly Line between Acton Town and Uxbridge due to train cancellations.

Trains to London Victoria hit with delays

Trains between West Croydon and London Victoria have been hit with delays due to a points failure.

The issue between Norwood Junction and Crystal Palace means journeys are taking 20 minutes longer than normal.

Trains to London Waterloo running as normal

Following the police dealing with an incident near the railway on Wednesday South Western Railway services are now able to run through Wimbledon as normal.

Minor delays on the Jubilee Line

There are minor delays on the Jubilee Line due to a shortage of trains.

South Western Railway trains hit by second day of delays

Lines have reopened after a police incident near the railway at Raynes Park on Wednesday evening.

Services running through Wimbledon are returning to normal but some trains may still be cancelled or delayed.

Disruption is expected until 10am.

Thameslink are no longer affected by the disruption.

Minor delays on the Northern Line

There are minor delays on the Northern Line due to a shortage of trains.

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Also are there 2 stations at the St Pancras International Train Station -- stop A and M? And if there are, which should we get off for our hotel in Westminster ?

Thank you for any info and help.

19 replies to this topic

Just a point about the etiquette of queuing. The last time I used a black cab from St Pancras, there was a long line of taxis and a pick up point at the front. As passengers queued up, the front taxi accepted the front person in the queue, the next taxi edged forward to the pick up point and so on. All very organised and civilised.

Then a loud American voice said ' no need to get in line, we can get one further down' and marched off down the line of taxis.

He was studiously ignored by the waiting taxis, who refused to open their doors and continued to edge forward to the front and the pick up point. Civilisation - one. Barbarian - nil

Typical "'merkin" attitude there!

Black Cab Drivers have an unofficial rule for Taxi Ranks that none of them jump the queue - any that do are ostracised by the rest for a very long time!

Where did this "merkin" thing come from? There's so much gratuitous rudeness here that one begins to suspect that 1776 still rankles! Perhaps the American in question was so used to chaotic taxi scrums that he didn't realize there was an organized process. But hey, it's a Yank so let's assume the worst (and then imply that we're all clueless and obnoxious).

It's the behaviour that is clueless and it's not only Americans I'm sure.

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

# 13 '''' Perhaps the American in question was so used to chaotic taxi scrums that he didn't realize there was an organized process. ''''

Thank you for confirming my earlier summation of Civilisation - 1 Barbarian - nil

Terrible behaviour. Etiquette demands you go outside and flag down a taxi on the road. You're still sort of jumping the queue, but the important point is no-one sees you do it.

if you want an Uber then exit into the Pancras rd

I agree, vnrose52, I could do without the anti-American comments too. The vast majority of Americans I have met have been super friendly and polite.

I will add, however, that to look at an orderly queue, with taxis moving forward to pick up the people at the front and think "Well there's no system here, it's clearly a free for all, let's just grab the nearest taxi," is a particularly idiotic move. We are all, sadly, let down by the worst of our own countrymen.

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