How To Plan A Day Trip From London To Paris By Train Or Tour Bus

Embarking on a spontaneous day trip from London to Paris might sound like something out of a dream. But guess what? It’s totally doable!

I have lived in London for (gosh, I can’t believe it!) 7 years, and I have been to Paris multiple times (actually, my roommate back then was from Paris). So of course we’d go every so often and we tried various ways of going there. I also went on a London to Paris day trip a few times, and tried various ways of getting to the Ville Lumiere.

My day trip to Paris from London is one of my fondest memories of the time spent living in the British capital, and of my first times in Paris. So, if you’re on the fence, I highly recommend you make the most of how truly easy it is to hop on a train and in just 2.5 hours you’ve arrived in a totally different country.

In this post, I will help you plan a day trip from London to Paris, whether you’re up for a high-speed train adventure on the Eurostar or a laid-back journey via a guided tour.

I have tackled a day in Paris so you most certainly can too! But a word of warning, prepare for a jam-packed day ticking off the major sights! From the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe to indulging in Paris’s finest pastries.

Get ready to unlock the secrets to making the most of those precious hours in the City of Light with these top tips for taking a day trip to Paris from London!

How To Plan A Day Trip From London To Paris

Let’s dive into how you are going to plan your day trip from London to Paris, starting off with transport.

There are 2 main options I recommend, the first being catching the train to and from Paris and the second being taking an organized tour.

Below is a detailed breakdown to help you plan your ultimate trip to Paris from London.

Day Trip From London To Paris By Train

If you are looking for how to get from London to Paris for your day trip, the train is the right answer. Embarking on a day trip from London to Paris by train is by far one of the most convenient and affordable options.

Begin your trip by booking your Eurostar train tickets ahead of time, ideally, several weeks in advance, to secure the best prices and availability. Prices jump significantly the later you book!

Train tickets from London to Paris start at around €65 and can go up to €270+ for one-way tickets. Return tickets can cost anywhere from €129 euros to €431+.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again! Prices significantly increase the closer the departure date. So it’s essential to book tickets in advance to secure the best deal.

The Eurostar offers a range of seats, including Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier. Choose a class that suits your preferences and budget. Seats are comfortable, with ample legroom and space to store your belongings if you aren’t heading back to London on the same day.

Catching the Eurostar train from London to Paris

Your journey will start at St Pancras International Station in London. Arrive at the station at least 45-60 minutes before your departure time to allow for check-in and security procedures.

Check-in for the Eurostar is similar to flying. Have your passport and ticket ready for verification. Yes, you need your passport, don’t forget it!

After check-in, you’ll pass through security, including baggage screening and passport control.

Once through security, follow the signs to your designated departure area. The Eurostar terminals are well-signposted, making it easy to find your way. Listen for boarding announcements, and have your ticket and passport readily available.

If you get lost, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

You will be taking the Channel Tunnel train from London to Paris – yup, the one that dives underwater through the English Channel. It’s a pretty cool experience!

The Eurostar train from London to Paris takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as you pass through the picturesque countryside and the Channel Tunnel.

Eurostar trains provide Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an onboard cafe bar for refreshments. You can stay connected, catch up on work, or simply unwind during the journey.

When you arrive at Paris Gare du Nord Station, follow the signs to the exit. You’ll pass through French immigration and customs before officially entering Paris.

Gare du Nord is well-connected to the Paris Metro, which is an efficient way to navigate the city. Purchase single-use tickets or a day pass to access the metro lines and reach your desired starting spot in Paris.

When it’s time to head back to London, ensure you arrive at Gare du Nord 45 – 60 minutes in advance of your return train. Then follow the same procedures in reverse, including check-in, security, and passport control.

What time should you catch the train from London to Paris?

I suggest you kick start your day trip from London to Paris nice and early to make the most of your day. The first trains from London depart around 6:00 am and the last trains back to London are around 9:00 pm.

Note that train times differ on weekends and weekdays.

Considering alternatives?

Catching a bus– it’s a bit of a marathon, taking more than seven hours. Not the best deal, right? If you’re driving, you’ll clock in just under six hours, unless you hit traffic.

Day Trip To Paris From London By Guided Tour

Another excellent way to conquer a day trip from London to Paris is by booking an organized tour.

Organized tours often include Eurostar train tickets but will go above and beyond by offering a bus tour once you arrive in Paris, meals, and a knowledgeable tour guide.

Plus one of the key benefits of traveling by tour is the incredible people you meet.

So if you want to completely relax, leave the itinerary planning to the experts, and meet like-minded travelers taking a guided tour could be for you.

I can recommend two excellent London to Paris day tours.

Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

One of the best guided day trips to Paris from London is this luxury day trip with optional lunch at the Eiffel Tower.

Let me go into a bit more detail now.

This is a private day trip, where you will be taking the Eurostar from London to Paris (tickets are included in the price of the tour) and then once you arrive you will hop on a panoramic bus tour of Paris and finally explore Paris on foot. Visiting the city this way will be a real breeze.

During the tour you will spot iconic landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe, with glimpses of the Louvre Museum along the way.

You will also hop on a 1-hour Seine River Cruise to see more Paris attractions, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower from a unique angle.

Feeling like spoiling yourself? Opt for a lavish upgrade and indulge in a delectable 3-course lunch at a stylish Eiffel Tower restaurant.

Eiffel Tower Champagne Lunch and London to Paris Day Tour

Another excellent option is this guided tour from London to Paris that includes a visit of the Eiffel Tower and lunch with champagne.

Let’s go into a bit more detail now.

On this fully guided tour, you will arrive at Paris Gare du Nord station after having boarded the train in London St. Pancras. Once in Paris, your guide will immediately lead you to your private bus. You will tick of iconic spots such as the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, Musee d’Orsay, and Place de la Concorde.

When you reach the Eiffel Tower, hold onto your hat – the views of Paris are jaw-dropping. Plus, you’re in for a treat at Madame Brasserie with a 3-course Champagne lunch. This is a bucket list experience!

Once you are done with lunch, you will cruise down the romantic River Seine for an hour. The boat’s all glass with an open-air deck – perfect for soaking in those stunning panoramic views while you listen to your own audio guide.

You will then get back on the bus to admire the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Place de la Concorde. The tour ends in Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur area, where you will have some free time to visit the church or go souvenir-shopping before you head back to Gare du Nord to board your train back to London.

Day Trip From London To Paris Itinerary

If you want to travel independently, planning a day trip from London to Paris can be a little overwhelming since there is so much to see and do, from visiting iconic sights, tasting delicious food, and enjoying a taste of Parisian culture.

I have conquered Paris in a day and it was an incredible experience. You truly can tick off a lot of bucket list sites since Paris is such a walkable city that’s easy to get around.

Here are my top recommendations on what you should add to your 1 day in Paris itinerary.

Morning – 6:00 am – 1:00 pm

Catch an early train from London to Paris. Arrive at Gare du Nord and transfer to metro line 4 to towards Bagneux – Lucie Aubrac.

When you arrive you have a leisurely 600 meters (less than 0.4 miles) walk to your first stop: the Louvre!!

Discover world-famous artworks like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre. Even a short visit can give you a glimpse of its artistic treasures.

Remember you really need to select a time slot and buy tickets in advance to visit the Louvre. You can do that at the official Louvre website or, for last-minute bookings, you can get your Louvre tickets on a third-party booking site.

If you need a bite to eat, stop at one of the many cafes and patisseries that line the streets. Gran a croissant or a delicious pain au chocolat that will keep you going until it’s time to sit for lunch.

Next up take a 15-minute walk from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde through the beautiful Tuileries Garden. The Tuileries Garden is a public garden located in the heart of Paris and makes for a beautiful stroll.

Then take an 8-minute walk from Place de la Concorde to the Pont Alexandre III, a gorgeous bridge that makes for perfect photo ops!

Lunch 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

The next stop is a bigger walk at around 1.8 km (1.1 miles) but don’t worry because it’s time for a bite to eat and perhaps something to drink!

In 20-30 minutes you will arrive at the center of the Champs-Élysées, a famous avenue in Paris. It is known for its shops, cafes, theaters, and monuments

I’m sure you’re going to be pretty hungry by the time you get there, and ready for a break. Enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants on the Champs-Élysées, ranging from casual to fine dining.

You can dine-in at Michelin-star restaurants such as Yannick Alléno (you will need to reserve well in advance for that) or settle into somewhere more low-key such as Le Chatet du 8ème, a cozy crêperie.

Alternatively, you could have a picnic by the Eiffel Tower at the Champ de Mars. This is a quintessential Parisian experience, and there are countless reasons why I have added it to your itinerary! Pick up some fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine at a local market, and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal in a beautiful setting.

Afternoon 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

When you get to the end of Champs-Élysées you will find the Arc de Triomphe.

Climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris including the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Since you have little time in Paris, I recommend getting Arc de Triomphe tickets in advance so that you can save precious time and avoid waiting in line at the ticket counter.

Next up, take a 30-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous places to visit in Paris. The experience of going to the top of the Eiffel Tower is simply unmissable when in Paris It’s a view you will never forget, spanning all the way to Montmartre (you can see the Sacre-Coeur from up there) to the nearer Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées.

You will have the option of getting to the first or second level, and also reach the summit – needless to say, I recommend getting all the way to the summit, where you’ll be able to see Eiffel’s secret apartment (it’s tiny really, but such a unique sight!).

It’s important to point out that admission to the Eiffel Tower is timed, so you need to book a time-slot for your visit, and get tickets in advance. You can get tickets on the Eiffel Tower official website.

Evening 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

It’s time to stroll down to the Seine River for a sunset cruise.

A sunset Seine cruise in Paris is a magical experience that allows you to see some of the most beautiful sights in Paris as the sun goes down.

The warm glow of the setting sun, combined with the twinkling lights of the city, creates a truly enchanting ambiance. Spot the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum from a unique unforgettable angle.

You will need to book a Bateaux Parisienne cruise, as those are the ones that depart just by the Eiffel Tower. The cruise lasts one hour and you will have an audio-guide to accompany you along the way. After the cruise, you will be dropped off at the Eiffel Tower again.

After the Seine River cruise it’s time to head back to London! You have to go through immigration again at Gare du Nord, so plan to arrive at least 45 – 60 minutes before your departure.

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

Finally enjoy that high-speed Eurostar train ride back to London.

What Can’t You Do On A Day Trip From London To Paris?

While a day trip from London to Paris is an exciting adventure, there are certain things that might be challenging to fit into your tight schedule.

Remember, a day trip offers a glimpse into the city of Paris, but it’s impossible to capture everything in just one day. Prioritize your must-dos, embrace the adventure, and make the most of your quick visit!

Here’s what you might find difficult to do during your brief visit.

Extensive Museum Visits

Exploring museums like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay thoroughly requires significant time.

I have been to Paris a few times and have had time to explore both museums in depth – people working there like to say that you need more than a day to visit each museum.

If you have just a day in the city, you will need to prioritize specific exhibits or artworks if they are on your bucket list. Grab a map of the museum as soon as you arrive, and head straight to the pieces you want to see the most.

Relaxing Pace And Long Meals

Paris is a city meant to be savored slowly. A day trip means you’ll have to keep to a quick pace to cover the main attractions. Needless to say, you will need to get tickets in advance for the various attractions you want to visit.

Enjoying a leisurely multi-course French meal is a wonderful experience, but on a day trip to Paris from London, you’ll likely opt for quick options like a baguette to go or a crepe at a cafe.

I have also given some tips on where to stop for a meal in this post, but you really won’t have much time to linger on, I am afraid.

Exploring Lesser-Known Areas

While you can hit the major landmarks, visiting the off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods such as Le Marais, or the hidden gems of Paris might be tricky.

Finding those hidden gems or connecting with locals might require more time than a day trip allows. The are often further away from the main attractions and would require a diversion from the itinerary that would add a lot of time – when that’s precisely what you don’t have.

Unfortunately you won’t have much room for spontaneity.

Nightlife

Unfortunately experiencing Parisian nightlife, from elegant dinners to lively bars is not really possible on a day trip from London to Paris. For that, you will have to plan a different trip and spend more time – for example a week in Paris.

Immersing yourself in local life, attending events, or interacting with locals extensively won’t be to the same depth as if you were to stay longer.

Shopping Extravaganza

If shopping is your thing, a quick visit might limit your time to explore the city’s numerous boutiques and markets. Unless you actually plan your entire day trip around shopping and forget about sightseeing. But if it’s your first time in Paris, you really should not miss on the chance to explore!

Tips For A Day Trip From London To Paris

These additional tips will help you make the most of your day in Paris.

Have an early start

Kick off your day trip with an early morning departure from London. Catch the first Eurostar train to maximize your time in Paris. You can catch the last train back. This way, you will have around 12 hours in Paris and you will be able to avoid the evening rush hour.

Book in advance

To save time and money, book your Eurostar train from London to Paris well in advance. Don’t forget your passport – you’re crossing borders!

Likewise, you need to book whichever attraction you wish to visit in Paris in advance, so that you don’t waste precious time in line at the ticket counter.

Factor in getting to and from central stations

Both London’s St Pancras International and Paris’ Gare du Nord stations are centrally located, making it easy to access attractions right off the train. But do make sure you have a plan to get to and from the stations so you don’t miss the train!

Itinerary planning

Plan your must-see attractions ahead of time. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral are iconic stops you can’t miss. In this post, I have provided a suggested itinerary that allows you to visit all these places!

On the other hand, it’s also important to remember, it’s a day trip – you won’t be able to see everything. Relax, savor the moments, and make a mental list of what to explore on your next visit.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Consider using a hop-on hop-off bus to get around the city quickly and efficiently, covering major sights without wasting time.

Seine River Cruise

A boat cruise along the Seine River offers a unique perspective of Paris’ landmarks. It’s a relaxing way to see the city. If you follow the itinerary I have provided, you can easily hop on a Bateaux Parisienne cruise right after going up the Eiffel Tower.

Café Culture

Embrace the Parisian café culture. Grab a croissant and coffee for a quick breakfast or lunch on the go. Indulge in local treats like crêpes, croissants, and pastries. Trying the local food is an essential part of your Paris experience.

Language Basics

While many Parisians speak English, a few French phrases can go a long way. It shows appreciation for their culture – even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, and as long as you make an effort. I noticed in restaurants and cafes it can be particularly helpful to have a few phrases up your sleeve. At least download Google Translate on your phone.

If you need to ask for information and stop someone in the street, the first thing you need to say is “bonjour” (good day) – many won’t even answer unless you politely address them this way.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Paris is a city made for walking. Comfortable shoes will make exploring the charming streets much more enjoyable, trust me.

Safety

Whilst Paris is generally considered safe for travelers, be mindful of your belongings and surroundings. Pickpocketing and scams in Paris can be an issue in crowded tourist areas.

Alternative Days Trips From London

There are several exciting day trip options from London to other countries as well that I thought were worth mentioning if you want to explore alternatives. For all of these trips, remember to plan ahead, consider travel times, and check for any visa requirements or travel restrictions before embarking on your international day trip from London.

Here are a few of my suggestions.

Brussels, Belgium

Just a little under 2 hours away by train, Brussels offers a mix of historic architecture, delicious chocolate and waffles, and the iconic Atomium. Don’t forget to explore the Grand Place and the charming streets of this European capital.

Lille, France

Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by Eurostar, Lille is significantly lesser known compared to Paris, so you may get a bit more of a local experience. The city boasts charming architecture, lively markets, and a charming old town. Explore the Palais des Beaux-Arts and wander through cobbled streets lined with cafes.

Calais, France

Less than 2.5 hours by train, Calais is known for its iconic white cliffs and rich maritime history. Visit the Calais Lace Museum and enjoy the coastal ambiance.

If you want to take a day trip during your trip from London, but you can’t decide where to go, head over to my post The Best Day Trips From London for more ideas.

FAQs: Day Trip From London To Paris

Moving onto some commonly asked questions about taking a day trip from London to Paris.

Is it worth doing a day trip from London to Paris?

A London to Paris day trip can be an exciting adventure, allowing you to experience the essence of two iconic cities in a short timeframe.

You’ll have the opportunity to see some of Paris’s most famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. This is the perfect taste of Paris.

But it’s important to consider the travel time involved and make the most of your day, aka rise and shine nice and early!

If you opt for the train the journey is around 2 hours and 15 minutes one way. This means you’ll have to factor in at least 4 hours and 30 minutes of travel time. So if you like a sleep-in and traveling at a slower pace, you may need a minimum of 2 days in Paris.

But if you’re seeking a quick glimpse of Paris and are prepared for an efficient well-organized itinerary, a day trip can offer a taste of the infamous Paris charm!

How much does a day trip to Paris cost from London?

Eurostar Train tickets from London to Paris start at around €65 and can go up to €270+ for one-way tickets. Round trip tickets can cost anywhere from €129 to €431+.

Prices significantly increase the closer the departure date. So it’s essential to book tickets in advance to secure the cheapest tickets. To the price of train tickets you inevitably have to add the costs of the attraction you will be visiting in Paris, meals, local transportation if needed and the odd expenses too.

A London to Paris day trip isn’t exactly cheap, but I promise you it’s worth it.

Is it worth visiting Paris for 1 day?

But keep in mind that Paris has a lot to offer, and squeezing it into one day might feel a bit like speed dating – you’ll get a taste, but there’s so much more to explore if you have the chance to stay a bit longer.

Having said so, visiting Paris for a single day can be like a whirlwind adventure, giving you a snapshot of the city’s famous sights and vibes.

Wrap-Up: London To Paris Day Trip

And that wraps up my guide to planning a day trip to Paris from London!

From hopping on the Eurostar train from London to Paris, to cruising the Seine, we’ve squeezed in the Eiffel Tower, panoramic views, and even a Champagne lunch – talk about a jam-packed day.

Whether you are looking to snap pics of the Eiffel Tower, munch on croissants, or simply soak in the Parisian vibes, I hope this day trip will help you get a taste of the magic both cities have to offer.

As you head back to London, remember the cobblestone streets, extravagant bridges, magnificent artwork in the Louvre, and the feeling of gazing up at iconic landmarks.

Until next time: I am sure Paris will leave an impression that’ll stick around until your next adventure.

This post was contributed by Olivia McDonald, the founder of the travel blog Defining Decade. As a young Aussie traveller, she is the go-to guide for unlocking the world of travel in your twenties.

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