Day trips to Paris from London
Known as the City of Love, Paris is famous for its stunning architecture, world renowned landmarks and rich cultural heritage.
Where is Paris and how do I get there from London?
Paris is the capital of France, located in the northern central area of the county, and is about 286 miles (460 km) away from London. Getting to Paris from London feels like a breeze with many options available depending on your preferred modes of transport.
You can take the Eurostar, a high-speed train that departs from London St Pancras International and arrives at Paris Gare du Nord in just over two hours.
Travelling by plane is another fast and easy option, taking just over one hour to both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports that offer an easy connection to central Paris.
What can I do in Paris?
Paris is home to many Unesco World Heritage Sites, recognised for its remarkable urban landscape and unique architecture.
Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur
Montmartre is one of the most charming areas of Paris and if you are brave enough to climb to the top of its infamous stairs you will be greeted with one of the most stunning panoramic views of the city. For a more relaxed journey up the hill travel by cable railway on the funicular.
Upon reaching the top, you’ll be met by the striking beauty of the Sacré-Cœur. Venture inside the 19th century Roman Catholic church, uncovering intricate statues and impressive mosaics.
Be sure to explore the surrounding cobbled stone streets where you will find pleasant restaurants and wine bars that were once a rendezvous spot for many artists back in the day. Le Consulat, a charming café in the heart of Montmartre, is the perfect spot to savour French classics, from rich onion soup to smooth duck confit. The café is a stone’s throw from Place du Tertre where you can have your portrait drawn by one of the talented local artists.
Stop by La Maison Rose, a former painting studio that has become a popular photo spot. The Instagram-famous pink house serves local cuisine, including flavoursome roast beef and a number of mouth-watering desserts.
The River Seine and the best spots to see the Eiffel Tower
See famous Parisian landmarks from the comfort of your seat as you cruise along the Seine. On this romantic voyage down the river you can enjoy a delicious three-course meal paired with musical entertainment.
Top tip: the French capital really comes alive at night with monuments illuminated along the river. Take a cruise at night to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle!
It can often feel like the whole world is contending for the best photo spot in front of the Eiffel Tower. To save you the hassle, we’ve uncovered a list of locations that guarantee a quality, crowd-free photo of this iconic landmark!
Stroll along the Trocadéro Gardens, a beautiful green space filled with a variety of plants, flowers and extravagant statues. With a terrace that extends down to the river Seine, offering an unrivalled view of the Eiffel Tower.
Rue de l’Université is one of the best areas for street photography with the Eiffel Tower looming in the background. Or head to Rue Saint- Dominique where you’ll be perfectly positioned to capture that extra sparkle the La Dame de Fer (the Iron Lady) is known for.
The Latin Quarter and La Sorbonne
Le Quartier Latin is home to La Sorbonne, one of the most prestigious universities in France. Wander small alleyways and stop by the Panthéon, the final resting place of many historic figures, from the infamous Napoleon to writer and politician Victor Hugo.
Ramble along the nearby lanes, dipping in and out of the many bookshops. Or perch yourself on one of the terraces, sipping a hot cup of coffee as you watch the locals go about their day.
Best parks in Paris
Wherever you may find yourself in Paris, you’ll never be too far from relaxing green spaces given how many are dotted around this bustling city.
Les Jardins du Luxembourg were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence and feature a mix of English and French landscaping. With geometric lawns, a large pond, an Orangerie and breath-taking orchid and rose gardens.
Le Jardin des Tuileries, located between Le Louvre and La Place de La Concorde, is one of the oldest parks in Paris. This green oasis sits at the heart of the city where its well-kept lawns are perfect for picnics after a stroll along the scenic pathways.
Le Jardin des Plantes is favoured for its collection of exotic plants and flowers. You will also find one of France’s oldest zoos at the Ménagerie. A vast wooded area where visitors will encounter a variety of animals, including red pandas, orangutans and snow leopards.
Museums not to be missed
Take a trip to Le Louvre, one of the largest art museums in the capital. Walk into the former palace where kings and queens once entertained their court. The iconic pyramid is now home to the Mona Lisa and many other treasures, including those from ancient Greece and the Italian Renaissance.
Le Musée Pompidou is a modern art museum, designed by Renzo Piano, known for its bold and innovative architecture, as well as extensive collections of contemporary art. Explore the many galleries, stopping to admire artworks by Yves Klein, Picasso, Matisse and Warhol.
Le Musée de L’Orangerie is a small museum located near the Tuileries known for its series of large Water Lillies paintings by Claude Monet and other impressionist artists.
Best foodie spots
Here are just a few of the many foodie hotspots in the city. Go ahead and indulge your taste buds in between all the exploring. It wouldn’t be a trip to Paris if you didn’t!
Stop by Le Marché des Enfants Rouges, one of the oldest covered markets in Paris. Home to lively and colourful stalls that sell a great variety of fresh produce, making it an ideal place to grab a quick bite.
If you are looking for top panoramic views, look no further than L’Oiseau Blanc, a majestic restaurant on the rooftop of The Peninsula Hotel. The restaurant takes you on a gastronomic journey with its eclectic cuisine and a weekly menu using locally sourced ingredients.
Pedzouille La Grange is another rooftop restaurant offering fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower. This spot will make you feel right at home with its generous portions of wood-fire cooked traditional meals.
Some will tell you the scent of freshly baked goods while walking the streets of the capital is the best feeling and we couldn’t agree more! Head to Angelina, a tearoom that has made a name for itself with its delightful hot chocolate "L'Africain", paired with some of the best pastries Paris has on offer. It's no wonder Coco Chanel was a regular here!
The Paris Pass
If you are looking to combine museum and food options the Paris Pass is the perfect add-on to your trip. It includes all the museums as the museum pass is part of it and offers plenty of great food offers.
What are the best day trips and tours to Paris?
It’s never been easier to combine two iconic cities in one trip, so why not pair your time in London with the City of Love? Below are several tours and day trips from London that showcase the best of what Paris has to offer.
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar. Extras can be added when making your booking: one hour river cruise, Hop-on hop-off open top bus tour and a 1 Day Zone 1-3 Travelcard
Cost: Tickets start from £215 per child and £225 per adult – concession ticket options are also available. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar with a panoramic coach tour of Paris and a walking tour. Extras can be added to your ticket: one hour cruise on the Seine, access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and skip the line access to the Louvre Museum. Guests will receive a free map of Paris and a 20% discount on beverages.
Cost: Tickets start from £279 per child and £289 per adult – concession ticket options are also available. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar with a guided tour till lunch time. Extras can be added to your ticket: two hours lunch cruise on the Seine and access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower.
Cost: Tickets start from £359 per child and £369 per adult – concession ticket options are also available. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar with a panoramic tour of Paris with your guide, entry to Le Louvre Museum, a cruise on the river Seine and a tour of Le Sacré Coeur and Montmartre.
Cost: Tickets start from £354 per child and £359 per adult – concession ticket options are also available. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
What could be more romantic than taking a day trip to Paris and exploring the City of Love? After a speedy journey aboard the Eurostar, meet your guide and start the day with a panoramic tour of Paris' must-sees, including the Champs-Elysees, Arc de Triomphe and much more. Enjoy a three-course meal at Madame Brasserie and take in the incomparable views from the first floor of the Eiffel Tower before heading to Le Louvre to admire world-class art.
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar, skip-the-line tickets at Le Louvre museum and entry to the Eiffel Tower, and a three course meal at Madame Brasserie or Le Bistro Parisien (to be selected when making the booking).
Cost: Tickets start from £359 per child and £369 per adult – concession ticket options are also available. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
Eurostar terminal, St Pancras International, Euston Road, Kings Cross, London, N1C 4QP
From £369.00 (USD 482.25)
What's included: Return tickets on the Eurostar with a private day tour of Paris with expert guide and driver, a river cruise on the Seine, access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and skip the line access to the Louvre Museum. The tour is available a maximum of three persons.
Cost: Tickets at £400 per person. Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or amended.
