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Yes, you really can do a London to Paris day trip in just one day
I’ve done it plenty of times myself! Hopping on the Eurostar in the morning and eating a fresh croissant by lunchtime doesn’t get old, and I’ve always done it fully self-guided (no tours required!). If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to squeeze in the highlights of Paris in just one day, the answer is an enthusiastic oui.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your own London to Paris day trip: how to get there, essential tips to make it smooth and stress-free, and a ready-to-go one-day Paris itinerary. Whether it’s your first time in France or you just fancy a day trip from London, this post will show you exactly how to make it happen.
Can You Really Do a London to Paris Day Trip?
Yes – you absolutely can! Of course, you won’t see everything Paris has to offer in a single day, but if you’re short on time, it’s the perfect way to get a little taste of the city. You’ll have enough time to tick off some of the major sights, enjoy a lovely meal, and wander through Paris’s famously beautiful streets.
How to Travel from London to Paris for a Day
The easiest and most popular way to get from London to Paris in a single day is by train. However, there are plenty of tours if you want a stress-free option. Here are the details.
Taking the Eurostar: The Fastest Way
The Eurostar takes you from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord in as little as 2 hours 15 minutes, making it by far the quickest option. Trains run from early morning (the first one usually leaves around 6:00 am) and return late into the evening, so you can maximise your time in Paris without needing to stay overnight.
Prices vary depending on how far ahead you book, but expect to pay anywhere from £60–£200 return. Booking early usually means cheaper fares and a better choice of departure times. With such an easy journey, you can enjoy a coffee at St Pancras in the morning and be snapping photos of the Eiffel Tower by mid-morning – it’s really that easy.
Book Your Eurostar Tickets in Advance
Seats sell out quickly and prices rise closer to departure, so the earlier you book your Eurostar tickets, the better the deal you’ll get.
👉 Book via RailEurope here for the best date and price comparison.
Other Transport Options: Flights & Tours
While the Eurostar is hands-down the best way to do a London to Paris day trip, there are a few other options to consider.
Flights – You can fly from London to Paris, but with airport transfers, security, and boarding times, it usually ends up taking longer than the train. Unless you find a super cheap fare, it’s not the most practical choice for just one day.
Organised Tours – If you prefer everything arranged for you, day trips from London to Paris are available that include transport, guided sightseeing, and even lunch cruises on the Seine. They’re pricier but can be a stress-free option, especially if you don’t fancy planning your own itinerary.
Essential Tips for a Smooth London to Paris Day Trip
Don’t Forget Your Passport – You’ll need it to cross the border, so double-check before leaving home – no one wants a last-minute panic at St Pancras!
Timing: Best Trains to Take – Early morning departures give you the maximum time in Paris, and late evening returns mean you can see the city lights before heading back.
What to Wear & Pack for Paris in a Day – Comfortable shoes for walking and a small bag for essentials will make your day much more enjoyable – and leave room for a few souvenirs!
Money, Language & Local Etiquette – Bring some euros for small purchases, brush up on basic French phrases, and remember the polite “bonjour” and “merci” – Parisians will notice the effort even if they don’t show it!
London to Paris Day Trip Itinerary (One Day in Paris)
So, you’ve hopped off the Eurostar, grabbed your first croissant, and you’re ready to go. Here’s how to make the most of a single magical day in Paris.
Morning in Paris: Iconic Landmarks
Start your day with the big hitters. Head straight to the Eiffel Tower for the all-important photos, then wander along the Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe. If you’re feeling energetic, climb to the top for sweeping views of the city (totally worth it).
Midday: Seine Cruise or Louvre/Musée d’Orsay
Next, choose your main activity: art lovers should head to the Louvre (hi Mona Lisa!) or the Musée d’Orsay, while those who prefer to sightsee at a slower pace can enjoy a Seine river cruise. Either way, you’ll soak up plenty of Parisian charm.
Lunch: Classic French Café or Bistro
By now, you’ll be hungry – so stop at a local café or bistro for a proper French lunch. Think croque monsieur, steak frites, or a big leafy salade. I’d pair it with a glass of wine (you are in Paris, after all).
Afternoon: Explore Montmartre or Notre-Dame Area
Spend your afternoon exploring the winding streets of Montmartre, popping into little shops and watching artists at work in Place du Tertre. Don’t miss the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best views over Paris.
Evening: Quick Shopping & Return Train
Before heading back to Gare du Nord, squeeze in a final stroll along the Seine or a quick peek at Notre-Dame. If time allows, do a little shopping for pastries or a bottle of French wine to bring home – the perfect souvenir from your Parisian day.
FAQs: London to Paris Day Trip
Still got questions about squeezing Paris into just one day? You’re not the only one! Here are some of the most common things people ask before planning a London to Paris day trip.
1. How long is the train from London to Paris?
The Eurostar takes around 2 hours 20 minutes from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, making it the quickest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities.
2. Do you need a passport for the Eurostar?
Yes – you’ll need a valid passport to travel from London to Paris, as you’ll go through border control before boarding the train on both sides.
3. Can you do Paris in one day?
Absolutely! While you won’t see everything, you’ll have plenty of time to tick off major sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Montmartre, plus enjoy a French meal and a stroll along the Seine.
4. How much does a London to Paris day trip cost?
Eurostar tickets usually range from £60–£200 return, depending on how early you book. Add in meals, transport in Paris, and activities, and you’re looking at around £150–£250 total for the day.
5. What’s the best time of year for a day trip to Paris?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal, with mild weather and plenty of daylight. Summer is vibrant but busy, while winter brings shorter days but magical festive vibes.
6. Is a London to Paris Day Trip Worth It?
Yes – if you’re short on time, it’s a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Paris in just one day. It won’t replace a longer stay, but it’s perfect for a taste of the city and a nice break from London.
Round Up: London to Paris Day Trip Complete Guide
So there you have it – everything you need to know to plan the perfect Paris day trip from London. With the Eurostar making the journey quick and easy, you really can swap Big Ben for the Eiffel Tower in just a few hours.
Whether you’re after art, shopping, great food, or simply a taste of Parisian charm, a day trip is a brilliant way to dip your toes into the City of Love. Book your tickets, pack your passport, and get ready for a whirlwind adventure you’ll never forget – Paris is waiting!
