day trips to paris eurostar

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!

A Day Trip to Paris with Eurostar

By: Author Amar Hussain

Posted on Last updated: May 5, 2020

We teamed up with Eurostar this month to do a little travel experiment; can you do Paris in a day?

A post shared by Guillaume Dutreix (@guillaume_dx) on Aug 19, 2016 at 8:53am PDT

Quick Links

Why travel to Paris with Eurostar?

Extra eurostar benefits, getting around paris by metro, paris tourist attractions and nearest metro stops, paris day trip route, want to do your own day trip to paris.

Eurostar seemed like an obvious choice to do a day trip to Paris from London. First off, the Eurostar timetable is frequent and the journey times are reasonable when you consider that you can check in is 30 minutes before and you’ll be hurtling along at 186mph. For you eco-warriors out there is also the green aspect to consider. We discovered that you use an 11th of the CO 2 emissions per passenger travelling on a return journey by Eurostar than you would if you flew to Paris. The best thing in my opinion is the location, at either ends. London St Pancras and Gare du Nord are both Zone 1 of their respective cities. At 6ft2 comfort on transport is always been my issue but I had no problem on Eurostar. The staff were also very quick to help us when we needed it so hats off to the Customer Service.

There are additional benefits to travelling with Eurostar in the form of Eurostar Plus.

Eurostar Plus Culture is a unique partnership between Eurostar and some of Europe’s most popular museums and galleries in Paris, Lille and Brussels. Travellers simply present their Eurostar ticket to take advantage of 2-for-1 entry into paying exhibitions. Paris galleries include: Musée d’Orsay les Galeries nationales du Grand Palais, Le musée du quai Branly , la Cité de la musique , le Jeu de Paume , le Musée d’Art moderne de la Ville de Paris.

Eurostar Plus Shopping gives passengers a 10% discount at the Galeries Lafayette Paris and Lille stores. At the Galeries Lafayette flagship store on Paris’ chic boulevard Haussman passengers can also receive an invitation to a private fashion show.

Paris is very easy to navigate by Metro and you’ve got several ticket options.

Single tickets are €1.70 or you can buy a Carnet of ten single tickets €12.70.

Mobilis tickets allow unlimited travel within a given zone. You can get a one day pass for Zone 1-2 for €6.40.

Paris Visite is a card that not only allows travel but also comes with partner benefits. A Zone 1-3 pass will cost you € 9.75 for the day. You can see the list of benefits here .

You’ll have to balance up your own needs. With Eurostar Plus you get discounts so you might not need a Paris Visite card and a Mobilis ticket would be more cost effective.

Arc de Triomphe – Charles de Gaulle Etoile, Line 2.

Champs Elysees – Champs Elysees, Line 1 or 13.

Eiffel Tower – Bir-Hakeim, Line 6.

Galeries Lafayette – Chaussee d’Antin La Fayette, Line 7.

Louvre Museum – Palais Royal, Line 7.

Notre Dame – Cité, Line 4.

Paris Opera – Opera, Line 7.

Sacr̩ Coeur РAnvers, Line 2.

If you’re going to do a day trip to Paris, you have to be selective about what you plan to see. It’s also best to plan it out beforehand so that you don’t waste time going back and forth on the metro.

We planned a route around Paris to take in the major sites that was also a loop on the Metro.

This route also takes in some of the city’s iconic landmarks. To find the best locations for snaps, check out this Paris Photography Guide .

We started off at Gare du Nord and took a short 10 minute train (Line 4 and then Line 2) to Anvers. Head out of the station and follow the line of souvenir shops up the hill and viola; Sacré Coeur! Great views of Paris from the top and a magnificent building inside and out.

Jump back on Line 2 in the same direction and 13 minutes and 9 stops later you’ll be at Charles de Gaulle Etoile. Pop out from underground and you’ll be right by the Arc de Triomphe. Careful with the roads here, it get’s a bit crazy. Want the perfect shot of the Arc? It’s more sensible than it sounds but stand in the middle of the road! Cross the road and stand by the traffic lights in the middle. You’ll get something that looks like this:

Now from here you have two options. If you’re really short on time or the weather isn’t great then you can grab Line 6 down to Bir Hakeim for the Eiffel Towel. Alternatively, walk down the Champs Elysees. It’s a picturesque spot for lunch however it’s certainly not a budget place to eat. If you want to mind the budget I would suggest heading down one of the roads leading off Champs Elysees to find a slightly cheaper restaurant.

You can walk all the way down the Champs Elysees to the Concorde or alternatively cut off and head south towards the river which is what we did. It’s a very manageable walk and walking down the river towards the Eiffel Tower is something everyone should do.

Cross over the bridge and walk under and through the Eiffel Tower. There’s a lot of green on the other side and we did spend a fair amount of time tanning on the grass. Once the sun got too much we did the short walk to Ecole Militaire. Grab Line 8 followed by Line 7 to Palais Royal for the Musée du Louvre.

Here we watched tourists taking all sorts of bizarre pictures of themselves trying to hold the tip of the pyramid or making it look like they were leaning on it. Then I got bullied by some pigeons but still loved being here all the same.

From here it takes 10 minutes to get to Cité via Line 7 and 4 to Notre Dame.

We had ended up with some spare time so we ended up buying ice cream, sitting on a wall and watched the shadows on Notre Dame change as the sun started to set.

When we were ready to move on we jumped on Line 4 back to Gare du Nord which took all of 10 minutes. It had been a long day but it was a stress free whip through border control and we were on the train and fast asleep.

The whole day I kept commenting on how I didn’t feel like I was in Paris because it was so easy to get there by train. I normally associate going to another country with the hassle of a flight but this just felt too easy. So can Paris be done in a day? Of course not. Like any city it would take an age to see and do everything but if you wanted to see the highlights in a day it’s perfectly achievable by Eurostar. My advice would be to plan what you want to see carefully before you go.

Well you’re in luck. Eurostar currently have a September sale on until the 15th September 2012 in which tickets can be used between 18th September and 19th December 2012. The sale includes thousands of seats from £59 return to either Paris or Brussels. Maybe you want an impromptu trip now while the weather is good (was 27 degrees yesterday while I was there) or perhaps a winter break to look forward to? Head to Eurostar now to pick up a bargain!

Thank you to Eurostar for providing Gap Year Escape with tickets to see what we could do with a day in Paris!

Amar was born and raised in England and embarked on an 11-country round-the-world gap year after graduation and then became well and truly hooked. The first gap year inspired a second, which ended up being a 23-country down-the-world trip from Canada to Antarctica. Since then, Amar has spent the last 14 years traveling the 7 continents.

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norwood price

Thursday 30th of March 2017

Disappointed- I took the Eurostar from London to Paris. I paid 180 pounds sterling. The train had no wifi and was 90 minutes late. Over 60 minutes and you get a refund. Eurostar told me it was only 55 minutes late, so no refund. I know how long it took. This was faked to avoid a refund. I think this happens often. Next time, I will fly.

I travel often. My last trip was four months- Iceland to New Zealand. I love it. If Eurostar makes a promise, they should keep it.

Let's see how long this negative post stays up.

Gap Year Escape

Sunday 2nd of April 2017

That's a shame you had a negative experience. I've travelled with them a few times over the years and found it quite an enjoyable experience.

Exploring the South Eastern Region of France

Monday 27th of October 2014

[…] access any of the main cities by train from Paris, perhaps having travel over from the UK on the Eurostar. Hiring a car allows you to take your time and stop off in some of the central regions of the […]

Saturday 8th of September 2012

Eurostar provided me a good service. I liked how they treat customers which are very accommodating. Cant wait to get back there to Paris.

Friday 28th of September 2012

Yeah, you really can't fault the service!

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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 explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., 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.

• 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.

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

Prices are seasonal - the 'from' prices below reflect the price for the autumn and spring seasons, outside the busier summer months.

Paris special day tour - unguided   Welcome to Paris day tour - guided   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 from £359 • Child (4-11 years) from £349 • Senior & student from £356

• 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

MOST POPULAR TOURS FROM LONDON 2024

Visiting stonehenge and/or windsor and/or bath, visiting cotswolds and/or oxford and/or stratford and/or warwick, visiting canterbury, leeds castle & dover, special theme tours, day tours by train to liverpool, paris & scotland, 2 to 12 day tours covering great britain, ireland, paris & amsterdam.

Paris Tours from Eurostar Trains Tours from the Eurostar trains at Gare Du Nord Station

Award winning day trips of paris direct from the eurostar trains from london and europe, including collection/return to gare du nord station..

• Paris' ONLY fully guided tours direct from the Eurostar trains: No left to wandering around
• Make the most of an opportunity - A hassle free day trip to discover the best of Paris
• Choose from our range of tours to Paris, Versailles or Disneyland Paris.
• Private car/minibus/coach according to your party's size
• Complete packages available, inclusive of Eurostar tickets & transfers from your London accommodation
• Exclusive to Paris Magical Tours: Driver/Guide or Tour Team (Tour Guide plus additional Chauffeur) See Paris Magical Tours Difference

Tour Itinerary

As the original pioneers of the Layover Tour, we are aware of how important time is when you only have a half or full day to visit a location.

With our meet and greet service, the tour begins from the moment you arrive in Paris. You will be welcomed at Gare Du Nord Station as you step off the Eurostar train by a representative carrying a Paris Magical Tours sign before beginning your tour with your own private sightseeing driver-guide or a team of a professional tour guide and in addition, your own chauffeur. The perfect combination to avoid all inconviniences and help get the most out of your day.

Our curbside service stops right by each attraction: there is no better way to avoid delays and help make the most of your valuable sightseeing time.

Following the tour you can be returned to a central Paris hotel or if on a day trip, back to Eurostar train to continue with your journey. Simply choose from any one of our Paris Tours , including our visits to the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland Paris, all of which are available as a day trip option from the Eurostar.

Tours from Eurostar Gare Du Nord Eurostar trains to/from London and the rest of Europe arrive at Gare du Nord Station. As a guideline, allow 10 minutes to clear Immigration and Customs on arrival. Check in time for trains to Europe is approx. 1 hour before the scheduled departure time.

THE MAGICAL LONDON TO PARIS PACKAGE: Eurostar Tickets & Transfers

L ooking for an all inclusive package, with train tickets and transfers from your London accommodation included? Simply let us know your travel dates and we can the Magical London to Paris package, a complete day intinerary, including delivery of your Eurostar tickets and transportation for complete peace of mind. Transfers to and from your central London hotel to the Eurostar at St Pancras Station are also included through our London organisation, London Magical Tours

EUROSTAR TRAIN TICKETS

Standard is a comfortable economy class, offering the lowest available fare.

Standard Premier offers a dedicated travel coach and complimentary light meal served at your seat.

Business Premier offers a dedicated travel coach with spacious seating for additional comfort, use of the executive lounge prior to departure and a three course gourmet meal with drinks served at your seat.

IMMIGRATION AND LUGGAGE

A s a guideline, allow approx. 10 minutes to begin your tour after your train's scheduled arrival time. It is recommended to check in for trains to Europe at least one hour before your scheduled departure time. Our customer service team is happy to advise on the best option according to your schedule.

Passengers are able to bring one item of carry on luggage each with them onboard the tour vehicle. If you will have greater luggage requirements please let us know and we will be happy to advise accordingly.

Tour Extras

VIP Service

Upgrade to the VIP levels: Gold, Platinum or Platinum Plus for extra benefits, including a professional tour guide and extra chauffeur team*, upgraded vehicles for extra space & comfort and exclusive experiences.

Traditional Lunch

Prebook a meal at one of our selected historic Paris restaurants to save time. Free cordial drinks and priority service, exclusively to Paris Magical Tours clients.

Children's Programme

Visiting with children aged under 16? Include the Magical Children's Programme option to add a fun and engaging range of activities to your tour.

TOUR DATES / TIMES / LANGUAGES

Daily throughout the year. Tour times are offered to best suit your train schedules and our dedictated team are happy to advise accordingly. Outside working hour services are also available for late arrivals.

Tour prices are quoted in both English and French languages. Tours are also available in most languages through our specialist multi-lingual guide team, including Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Cantonese. Language surcharges may apply.

Tour Comments

Other Tour Ideas

PARIS DAY TOUR (5HRS)

MAGICAL PARIS TOUR (7HRS)

MAGICAL VERSAILLES TOUR (5HRS)

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Magical Tours Blog

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Travelling from London to Paris with us is simple, smart, and speedy. Go direct from city centre to city centre in just 2hrs 16mins. And whether you’re going for work or play, we’ll get you there feeling relaxed and rested. Read on to discover why taking Eurostar from London to Paris is the only way to travel.

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November 2024, calendar - paris london return, price per adult, timetable for london to paris trains, high-speed train from london to paris.

To start your journey, get to London St Pancras International at our recommended arrival time to allow plenty of time to go through border controls and security. This elegant historic 19th-century station is conveniently located in the heart of London and is well connected by underground lines and buses. Before you jump on one of our Eurostar trains you can indulge in some boutique shopping, experience fine dining at a world-class brasserie or enjoy a glass of bubbly at the longest champagne bar in Europe.

On board our direct London to Paris train

Travelling with Eurostar is simple, affordable and relaxing. You can bring two bags and one piece of hand luggage for no extra charge and with no weight limits. We won’t charge you for choosing your seats and there are no restrictions on liquids, so feel free to bring something bubbly for the journey. Find out more about our luggage allowances . If you find yourself feeling peckish, you can enjoy a range of hot and cold drinks and sweet and savoury snacks at Eurostar Café . And if you’re travelling in Standard Premier or Business Premier, you’ll be served a three-course meal at your seat. Find out more about our food on board . Whether you’re travelling for work, a special occasion, or heading away on a budget break, we’ve got the travel class for you. Check out our seats in Standard , Standard Premier and Business Premier .

Arriving at Paris Gare du Nord from London St Pancras

Your train will arrive at Paris Gare du Nord , conveniently located in the heart of the city and just a short stroll from some of the city's top attractions, including Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur. With a neoclassical 19th-century façade, Gare du Nord is one of Paris’s main stations, with connections for the metro, RER trains and local buses.

Frequently asked questions

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A Eurostar London to Paris train ticket starts from £39.

How long is the Eurostar train journey from London to Paris?

The Eurostar can take up to 2hrs 37mins from London to Paris, however, most of our trains will take you to Paris in only 2hrs 16mins.

Are there additional fees when travelling with the Eurostar London to Paris?

Unlike airlines, there are no hidden costs when travelling by Eurostar. Once you have picked your train tickets ( Standard , Standard Premier or Business Premier ), there will be no additional fees for seat selection, advanced booking, or luggage allowance .

Can you take liquids on the Eurostar London to Paris train?

You can take liquids on the London to Paris Eurostar and there is no volume limit, so you can bring all your toiletries and even a bottle of bubbly!

Can you take your own food on the London to Paris train?

There are no food restrictions, so you’re allowed to bring your own food from home on the Eurostar.

How early should you arrive for the Eurostar train from London to Paris?

Get to St Pancras International at our recommended arrival time to allow plenty of time to get through border controls and security.

How much luggage can I bring with me on the Eurostar London to Paris train?

Standard adult tickets allow you to bring two pieces of luggage that are up to 85cm long, and one small piece of hand luggage such as a handbag or briefcase. You can find out more information about luggage allowances  here .

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Discover Europe’s best destinations with Eurostar across France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and the UK.

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The 13 best day trips from Paris

Your trip to Paris shouldn't end there - hop on the train and check out the best day trips out of the capital

Paris is the best, obviously. There’s no doubt about that. But the summer can get painfully hot, and painfully touristy, and you might find yourself spending more time queuing outside Instagram-famous cafés than actually eating in them. 

Luckily, there’s a whole host of incredible places to discover near Paris, that you can get to via train, car or boat. Think sprawling champagne regions filled with vineyards, serene gardens and old architecture, and a ton of galleries for when you’ve had it up to here with all the fantastic galleries in the French capital. Here are the best day trips from Paris, picked by our editors. Profitez-en-bien!

RECOMMENDED: 🇫🇷 Where to visit in France 🏘️ Where to  stay in Paris 📍 The best  things to do in Paris 🏨 The best  hotels in Paris

Alix Leridon  is a journalist at  Time Out Paris .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Paris

1.  versailles.

How to get there: A 15-minute train ride from Montparnasse station

Even if you’ve been to Versailles and its château before, there’s always more to discover. The estate proudly displays its gold, fountains and mirrors over some 800 hectares – that’s twice the size of Central Park. Suffice to say, you need to get up early to cover it all (and avoid the crowds and busloads of tourists). At 8am, the most daring will have the park all to themselves. And if that doesn’t make you feel at home enough, treat yourself with lunch on-site at Ducasse’s Ore . Or opt for the more discreet (but highly recommended) Bistrot du 11 , a stone’s throw from the bucolic King’s Kitchen Garden. For something really special, book tickets for the equestrian show La Voie de l’écuyère , choreographed by Bartabas and performed every Saturday and Sunday in the intimate Great Stables’ Manège. Sublime.

Check out Versailles Palace tickets and tours here.

2.  Meudon

How to get there: A 10-minute train from Gare Montparanasse

Between Paris and Versailles, Meudon has risen in prominence since its historic airship hangar was transformed into the XXL cultural centre, Hangar Y. The place is really worth a visit (especially in summer): after the current exhibition, you can chill out in its vast park adorned with contemporary sculptures, have a drink at the open-air café, or sample the creative cuisine of chef Guillaume Sanchez in his restaurant overlooking the pond. If you set out early in the day, make a first stop at the Rodin Museum in Meudon, which is beautiful and less crowded than its counterpart in the 7th district. And if you still have some time, explore the vast forest of the town, just behind Hangar Y:  art and nature combined.

3.  Saint-Ouen

How to get there:  A 13-minute ride on the Metro from Châtelet station 

For Parisians, Saint-Ouen is an integral part of Paris. While it used to be known mainly for its flea market, there are now plenty of reasons to spend the whole day there. And they’re quite varied: pool parties at the Mob Hotel  with a weekday pool day pass, a food marathon at La Commune (the largest food court in Europe), a festive and sunny aperitif on the tracks of a disused station at Hasard Ludique (okay, this one is a bit of a cheat, but it’s just a stone’s throw from Saint-Ouen)… The town is full of authentic and picturesque spots, like the cultural centre Commune Image and the charming bistro Bonne Aventure. Go try it. 

4.  Champagne

How to get there:  A 45-minute train from Paris-Est to Reims 

If you have something to celebrate, head to the Champagne region. In less than an hour by train, you’ll arrive in Reims, the bubble capital known for its cathedral where many French kings were crowned. After confessing your weekend sins, move straight to the festivities by exploring the surrounding vineyards, before heading south to Épernay to visit some of the most beautiful estates in the region before bringing home a trophy (and a few bottles). Among the top-notch stops are the champagne brunch at Ruinart  (every weekend at their house in Reims), the tour of the Moët and Chandon estate in Épernay, and watching the sunset from Vix Park in Avize, with its stunning view of the Côte des Blancs. Another option is to venture to the southernmost part of Champagne to discover more intimate, free-spirited and daring estates like Charles Dufour, Domaine de Bichery, and Vouette & Sorbée. These cuvées are all available at Garde Champêtre , the must-visit local restaurant led by Japanese chef Kazuya Miyashita.

5.  La Marne à vélo

How to get there: a four-hour train or a scenic bike ride (details below)

If you love a getaway but are allergic to public transport, the region is full of bike-friendly paths, from the Véloscenie (which goes all the way to Mont-Saint-Michel!) to the Scandibérique. But our favourite might be the one that takes you to the guinguettes along the Marne, starting from the Bois de Vincennes (which is already a destination in itself). As you exit the park, take the Allée des Guinguettes to discover these charming spots and step back in time: musette dances, oilcloth tablecloths, boater hats, and a little glass of white wine at lunch. Stop by Gégène  or Fifi  for a dance, and then make your way to the Château de Champs-sur-Marne. If you get hungry, swing back through Joinville and detour to Le Petit Pont to enjoy its hidden terrace perched over the river.

6.  Giverny

How to get there:  a two-hour bus from Porte Maillot to Grand Val. 

If the Impressionist movement celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024, Giverny is at the heart of its origins. The village in Normandy was home to one of its most proud representatives, Claude Monet, who lived there for over forty years. Today, visitors come to see the painter’s house and studio, perfectly preserved, from its marvellous tiled kitchen to the private apartments. But the highlight is perhaps outside, in the gardens overflowing with flowers, especially the water lilies that inspired Monet’s endless Water Lilies series, the ultimate masterpiece of which can be admired at the Orangerie Museum in Paris.

7.  Le Doyenné

How to get there:  a one-hour train from Bibliothèque François Mitterrand to Eglise

Not a region or a city, Le Doyenné is simply a restaurant – but not just any restaurant. Named Time Out Paris’s Restaurant of the Year in 2023, it’s the go-to spot for savvy Parisians looking to escape to the countryside. Here, you dine in stables that once served as the studio of Niki de Saint Phalle, just a stone’s throw from the Château de Saint-Vrain where Countess du Barry and the Borghese family once lived. That’s the setting. On the menu, a carte blanche that will take up a good part of your day, featuring seasonal cuisine that relies heavily on its own vegetable garden, offering one of our most memorable culinary experiences in recent years. You’ll want to stay, and luckily, they also offer guest accommodation: about ten rooms, all designed by the architecture studio Ciguë.

📍 Discover our 2024 rankings of the best restaurants in Paris

8.  Fontainebleau

How to get there:  a 40-minute train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau - Avon

Royal France isn’t all about Versailles, you know. Before that was built, the medieval Palace of Fontainebleau was home to Napoleon III (nephew of the famous one) and Louis VII, and was known as the ‘Second Rome’ thanks to its suite of rooms decorated specially by Napoleon I for Pope Pius VII. Visitors should also take a look around Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which was extravagantly landscaped by the same architect who worked on the Palace of Versailles. While in (second) Rome, head to the forest of Fontainebleau, with its large boulders and stunning views. There’s also 3000 or so species of mushroom here, if you were wondering. 

9.  Barbizon

How to get there:  a 40-minute train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon and a 20-minute bus

Next to Fontainebleau, Barbizon is as charming to visit as it is to pronounce. This quaint village gave its name to a painting movement closely linked to French Romanticism, the Barbizon School, whose artists focused on faithfully depicting nature two centuries ago. Even today, many artists find refuge here to create, particularly thanks to the trendy guesthouse  La Folie Barbizon , which hosts artists in residence each season. Start there and have lunch at its charming B&B restaurant, or opt for one of their picnic baskets to feast on in the nearby forest. Art lovers should make sure to visit the house and studio of Jean-François Millet, one of the founders of the Barbizon School, celebrated worldwide for his masterpiece The Gleaners .

10.  Pantin

How to get there: a five-minute bus from Belleville 

It may not be the most picturesque town around, but it’s undoubtedly one of the top spots in Greater Paris for contemporary art and a haven for cool kids looking to party. Let’s start with art. First, visit the massive Thaddaeus Ropac gallery, where works by international heavyweights are displayed in a former boiler factory. Then, enjoy the free exhibitions at Magasins Généraux by the canal, where some great parties are regularly held. For an underground vibe and some fresh air, head to two of our favourite cultural and festive spaces: Cité Fertile and Jardin21 (on the border between the 19th district and Pantin). With a few drinks and some tunes, this is the spot for a real Parisian summer.

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EUROPE , FRANCE

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.

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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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Eurostar travel tips – London Paris by train [Everything you need to know]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

A question asked by many travellers is how to travel from London to Paris by train. This article explores the various options available for travellers wishing to visit Paris from London with detailed information and Eurostar travel tips for those who wish to make the journey by train.

There are various options to complete the journey from London to Paris, including air travel, coach tours, driving or sea ferry across the English Channel (which for many years was the traditional way to cross the channel) Since the Chunnel  opened for passenger trains in November 1994 the Eurostar train service has been a preferred travel option for millions of people every year. 

If you are visiting the UK and would like to know about train travel in general you may like to read my guide to traveling the UK by train.

UK Travel Planning Podcast Episodes – London to Paris

London – departure → paris – arrival, duration of the journey, direct services from london st. pancras to the following stations, how much does a ticket on the eurostar cost, standard class eurostar ticket holders, standard premier eurostar ticket holders, business premier eurostar ticket holders, what luggage can i take on the eurostar, where is the best place to stay if i am catching an early eurostar train service, what is the procedure when i arrive at st pancras to catch my eurostar train, st pancras international station – features, paris gare du nord – features, related posts for travellers to paris, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), eurostar from london to paris – essential  information and eurostar travel tips.

The service runs from London St Pancras International Train station (situated in North London) to Paris Gare Du Nord.

• The Eurostar train travels underneath the English Channel through the Channel Tunnel, sometimes referred to as the ‘Chunnel’.
• There are three actual tunnels, two used for passenger trains and freight trains while the third tunnel is a service tunnel.
• The Chunnel is 31 miles long (50.45km), 23.5 miles actually under the English Channel.
• Time in the tunnel is around 20 mins.
• There are up to 19 trains daily from London to Paris.
• The first train leaves Monday to Friday at 05.40 hrs.
• The first train on Saturday leaves at 06.18 hrs and on Sunday at 08:19hrs

TIP: Please note there are timetable changes throughout the year around seasonal service demands.

• The fastest journey takes 2 hours 16 minutes.
• Average journey time is 2 hours 20 minutes.
• Paris Gare Du Nord
• Paris Disneyland
• Lille (France)
• South of France
• Calais – France
• Brussels – Belgium
• Amsterdam – Netherlands 
• Rotterdam – Netherlands

Connected Service* – Change trains in Paris, Lille or Brussels for service destinations for trains to

• Netherlands

* Eurostar is now merged with THALYS with rail links to 17 cities across Europe

The cost of Eurostar train tickets are variable throughout the year and the day/time of travel. At the time of research (Feb 2023) there are considerable fluctuations in the cost for Standard and Standard Premier seats. Business Premier seats had minimum cost variations.

The cheapest prices found were travelling 7 weeks in advance. (On the official site it states advance booking can be available up to 330 days in advance of travel)

An approximate ticket cost is:

• Eurostar Standard Class – From £39 one-way (first train midweek)
• Eurostar Standard Premier – From £84 one-way (first train midweek)
• Business Premier – All journeys were £275 one-way

Tip: I noticed when checking for the cheapest prices as above that 24 hours later the prices had increased substantially. If you see a price you are happy with – don’t delay!

Information for your journey depending on your class of ticket

• Arrive as early as possible – the times given are a guide only.
• Download your train tickets for the most up-to-date recommended arrival time for your booking.

For departures from London St Pancras International to the Gare du Nord recommendation at present (Feb 2023) is to arrive at the station around 90 mins before the train’s scheduled departure. (60/75 mins for passengers who require special assist)

Standard and Standard Premier gates close 30 mins before departure at St Pancras International.

• Drinks and snacks are available from the Café Metropole on the train (or alternatively purchase snacks in the departure lounge cafes and shops before you board)
• Services consist of old and new trains.
• Free WiFi and power sockets are available.
• Baby changing facilities are available on all services though not in all coaches.
• Unlimited ticket exchanges up to 7 days prior to departure (you pay the fare difference – see t&c’s)
• Eurostar Carte Blanche, Classique and Avantage members check for membership variations.

Arrive at the station around 90 mins before the train’s scheduled departure. Ticket gates close 30 mins before departure.

• Extra space at the seats.
• Power sockets at all seats.
• Seat service of a light meal and drinks. Menu is appropriate to the day/time of travel.

Premier ticket holders should arrive at the station 45 to 60 minutes before the scheduled train departure time. The gate closes 15 minutes prior to departure.

• No exchange fees and free cancellations (see ticket t’s & c’s)
• Treats/drinks
• Magazines/newspapers.
• Dedicated fast track ticket gates
• Seat service, on board, 3-course meal. The menu is appropriate to the day/time of travel.
• Extra space at seats.

Luggage Size

All adults travelling can take two pieces of luggage (3 in Business Premier) that are:

• Up to 85cm long.
• And one small piece of hand luggage.
• No weight limit but you must be able to carry and lift your own bag safely.
• No fluid restrictions.

Children travelling on a child ticket can take 1 piece of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage.

If you are catching an early train (or arriving back in London on a late train from Paris) the best option (if you are not already in London) is to stay as close as possible to St Pancras Station. (Read my guide to using public transport in London if you are unsure about how to get to St Pancras)

We found ourselves in this situation a few years ago when we decided to pop over to Paris for my birthday and had booked the early train.

After looking at many hotels we settled on the Hotel Megaro , which is across the road from the station. We had a lovely stay (and have subsequently stayed there again) and I was particularly impressed with the staff (and the bubbly and cake they surprised me with once they knew it was my birthday!)

On subsequent visits we have stayed at the Pullman , located next to the British Library and a 4 minute walk from St Pancras International.

For other options in the area, look at our London neighbourhood guide and recommended accommodation options for all budgets.

• On arriving at the ticket gate all passengers need to:
• Scan the ticket bar code at the ticket gate bar code reader. Some paper tickets do not have a bar code, so you have to check in at one of the service desks.
• Through to security, bag checks. As you would find at an airport. Speed of this can depend on the time of the day or how early/late you are arriving at security before your train departs.
• Passport control – Speed as above.
• Though to the departure lounge, and relax before your train leaves.
• Tax-free shops available.
• Cash machines are available for Pound and Euro currency.
• Check departure boards for your train. This will show the following information
• Train ID (usually 4 digits) and departure time, should match your train ticket.
• Train boarding time and train departure platform.
• Don’t rush to board as soon as the train boarding opens, there is plenty of time.
• Board the train and find your seat. There are usually coach attendants around near the train doors who will direct you to the correct seat in your coach.
• Disabled access can be arranged – contact Eurostar staff or arrange in advance.

TIP: There is always a Eurostar staff member or two at the gates ready to help passengers with any problems. Do not be afraid to ask.

• Coaches are clearly marked to check you have the correct one, seat ranges are also clear at the door into the coach. Check your seat number and board the coach from the right end. This reduces the need to carry your luggage down the entire coach.
• Free magazines and daily newspapers are available for your use as you get on the train.
• Only sit in your designated seat prior to departure. The train may have further stopping points where more passengers will board.

• Train station is located on Pancras Road, London NW1.
• Easy links to the UK rail network at different part of the same station and adjacent Kings Cross train station with ticket offices and ticket machines, also tourist information services.
• London Underground ‘tube’ has underground station at St Pancras, easy access to Eurostar services.
• Excellent selection of coffee shops/bars and restaurants to be found at St Pancras train station, also small express supermarket shops like Marks and Spencer.
• British souvenir and beauty shops to be found in the station concourse.
• Left luggage and lost property services available.

TIP: Do not rush into through the ticket barriers into the station, if time allows, take your time to look around and enjoy the station architecture, statues and the shops.

• Quick exit off the train after arriving at the station.
• No further passport checks, exit straight off the train into the main station concourse.
• Paris Gare Du Nord station is the centre of Paris, instead of air travel where airports are around 1 hour or more outside the city.
• Easy access to bus and RER services and Paris Metro underground system.
• Ticket offices and machines for travel information and ticket purchases for Metro, RER and bus services.

GOOD TO KNOW: You can purchase a book of Paris Metro (RER and bus) tickets on board the Eurostar from the Café Metropole in books of 10 (called a carnet) prior to the Paris.  This makes life a lot easier in Paris if you are pushed for time or if you are unsure of how to buy tickets) Note that this will end in 2025!

Enjoy your trip from London to Paris!

I hope that this guide to taking the Eurostar from London to Paris answers any questions you may have about the journey.

It is a great way to travel between the 2 capitals and an easy trip to make (even if you only want to go for the day!)

If you love the idea of a day trip from London by train but don’t want to travel to France read about 12 places only a few hours by rail from London .

If you are interested in a longer train journey around the UK our 14 day itinerary for the best of Britain by rail included 3 countries and 7 of the top destinations.

If you prefer to make the trip as part of an organised tour I would recommend checking out some of the great options on Get Your Guide . You can find more information about their day trips to Paris from London via Eurostar by clicking this link.

For Eurostar bookings and ticket prices click the button below ↓

CLICK HERE FOR PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR LONDON TO PARIS EUROSTAR TICKETS

• TOP TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS TO PARIS

All of my top tips to making the most of your visit to Paris

• 10 THINGS NOT TO DO IN PARIS  

Learn from my mistakes and avoid doing any of these things when in Paris!

• FRENCH FOOD AND DRINK TO TRY WHEN YOU ARE IN PARIS 

This post includes a map of where you can find some of the best food in the French capital.

7 Best Day Trips from Paris to Other Countries by Train

Do you know how easy it is to plan day trips from Paris to other countries?

That’s right – if you’re traveling to the French capital, you can also visit several of its neighbors for a day.

I’m here to show you exactly how you can organize 7 of the best international day trips from Paris by train . You can easily travel to Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands, and the UK from Paris and uncover their top attractions in a day.

Ready to explore?

Let’s dive right in!

Short on time? Book my favorite international day trip from Paris here:

✨ Day Trip from Paris to London ✨

Disclaimer : This post contains  affiliate links .  If you purchase something through one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping me create free content on this website!

7 Best International Day Trips from Paris by Train

You can visit several countries and countless European cities by train from Paris. To make the most of your French adventure, I’ve compiled this list of the 7 best destinations for you.

Here are the trip durations for the best day trips from Paris to other countries by train:

1. Day Trip from Paris to London, England by Train

The most popular international day trip from Paris is to the British capital, London. Eurostar operates the line under the English Channel.

The trains from Paris to London depart from Paris Gare du Nord and arrive at London St Pancras International train station. The trip duration is 2:18 hours to London and 2:17 hours on the way back. You can check the current timetable and prices on Omio’s website .

The trains depart every half to one hour throughout the day, so you have a ton of options to choose from for your day trip from Paris to London.

Book your tickets in advance to snatch the cheapest prices for one of the best day trips from Paris to other countries. I recommend doing it about 2 to 3 months before your trip.

You must arrive at least 45 minutes before your train’s departure time to go through the ticket gates, security, and passport control. The ticket gates close 30 minutes before departure, so if you’re late, you won’t be able to board your train.

Keep in mind that France is in the EU, while England is no longer in the EU or Schengen. Check out the entry requirements before leaving and take your passport with you.

When in London, here are the things I recommend you do on your day trip from Paris by train:

• Buckingham Palace and changing of the guards
• The London Eye
• Westminster Abbey
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• London Dungeon

The easiest way to optimize your time in the English capital is by joining an organized tour. You can book my recommended tour from GetYourGuide here .

2. Day Trip from Paris to Rotterdam, Netherlands by Train

The Eurostar-operated direct trains leave from Paris Gare du Nord and arrive at Rotterdam Centraal .

The journey from Paris to Rotterdam takes between 2:37 and 2:42 hours. You can check the current schedule and ticket prices on Omio’s website .

You can choose from several options in the morning and afternoon. Make sure to purchase your tickets at least 30 days in advance for the best availability and lowest prices.

Remember to arrive at the train station at least 20 minutes earlier to find your platform and board the train hustle-free.

In Rotterdam, there are several peculiar attractions you shouldn’t miss exploring:

• Harbour Cruise
• Rotterdam Zoo
• The Cube Houses
• Van Nelle Factory
• Kinderdijk Windmill Village

I recommend joining this fun sightseeing “splash” tour to learn as much as possible about this fascinating Dutch city in a unique way.

3. Day Trip from Paris to Amsterdam, Netherlands by Train

Eurostar operates the direct line between Paris Gare du Nord  and  Amsterdam Centraal .

The ride’s duration is between 3:28 and 3:32 hours from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, some trains take up to 3:56 hours for the journey.

To plan one of the best day trips from Paris to other countries by train like a pro, check the current timetable and ticket prices on Omio’s website .

Keep in mind, that Gare du Nord in Pars is huge, so arrive at least 20 minutes earlier to find your train.

In Amsterdam, these are the things I recommend you do:

• Canal cruise with tastings
• Rijksmuseum  
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour
• Heineken Experience

To explore the Dutch capital like a local, join a guided bike tour of Central Amsterdam .

4. Day Trip from Paris to Brussels, Belgium by Train

The Eurostar direct trains depart from  Paris Gare du Nord  and arrive at  Brussels Midi/Zuid Station .

The average trip duration from Paris to Brussels is between 1:22 and 2:19 hours, depending on the time of the day and week. Check the current timetable and rates on Omio’s website .

Over 20 trains run daily in both directions, even on Sundays. Buy your tickets in advance to make sure you pay the lowest fare possible.

You must arrive at the train station at least 20 minutes before your departure to have time to find your platform and board without stress. Both countries are EU and Schengen members, so you won’t have any problems crossing borders.

When in Brussels, here’s what you should check out:

• The Grand Place
• Manneken Pis
• The Royal Palace of Brussels
• Park du Cinquantenaire

To optimize your time and learn all the quirky details about Brussels’ top attractions, I recommend joining this guided walking tour .

And to sample all the great foods and drinks Belgium is famous for, go on this food tour .

5. Day Trip from Paris to Antwerp, Belgium by Train

You can take the Eurostar direct trains from  Paris Gare du Nord  to  Antwerp Central .

The average ride from Paris to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, lasts between 2:03 and 2:46 hours, depending on the day and time of your trip. For the current timetable and prices, go to Omio’s website .

Several trains per day serve this line so you’ll have a few options for your day trip from Paris to Antwerp. I recommend getting your tickets in advance once you know your travel dates to secure the cheapest prices.

Once in Antwerp, the Dimond Capital of the World and the birthplace of Paul Rubens, here are the must-see attractions:

• St Paul’s Church
• Antwerp City Hall
• The Diamond District

To make sure you don’t miss any of the fun places in Antwerp, join this informative walking tour . And if you’re looking for something unusual to do on your international day trip from Paris, check out this boat tour of the historic harbor .

6. Day Trip from Paris to Geneva, Switzerland by Train

TGV Lyria operates the international route from Paris Gare de Lyon to Geneva, Switzerland .

The direct trains take between 3:11 and 3:18 hours. You can check the current timetable and prices, and book your tickets on Omio’s website .

The trains run several times per day. I recommend you take the earliest one to spend as much time in the gorgeous Swiss city as possible. And to secure the cheapest tickets, book them in advance.

When you arrive in Geneva, here’s what you should visit:

• Lake Geneva
• The Geneva Water Fountain
• The Castle of Prangins and Nyon
• St. Pierre Cathedral

Don’t forget to stuff your face with Swiss cheese and Swiss chocolate. They’re to die for!

7. Day Trip from Paris to Cologne, Germany by Train

Last but not least on this list of international day trips from Paris is Cologne, Germany. You can take the Eurostar direct train from  Paris Gare du Nord  to  Köln Hbf .

The train ride duration is between 3:21 and 3:33 hours. Several trains per day run between Paris and Cologne. However, in order to have enough time to explore the German city, leave as early as possible. You can check the current timetable and prices on Omio’s website .

Here’s what you should explore in Cologne:

• Cologne Cathedral
• River Rhine Cruise
• Cologne Zoo
• The Old Town and the Old Market
• Chocolate Museum Cologne

Make sure you don’t miss anything fun in the Old Town by joining this walking tour . The knowledgeable guides share incredible facts about one of my favorite German cities.

✔️ Tip : If you’re a beer lover, I advise you to skip tasting Kölsch, the local brew. It’s truly the most disgusting type of beer you can imagine. Just don’t tell the locals or you’ll get into a lot of trouble.

FAQs about the Best Day Trips from Paris to Other Countries

What is the most popular day trip from Paris?

The most popular day trip from Paris by train is to London. However, the British capital deserves a lot more than a day in my opinion. The other amazing cities on this list are better suited for train day trips from Paris .

Can I take day trips from Paris to other countries by bus, too?

While it’s possible and sometimes cheaper to travel by bus from Paris to several cities in nearby countries, it usually takes a lot longer than by train. The reason for this is the higher speed of the trains and traffic jams on the highways. On top of that, I find train travel a lot more comfortable, that’s why I recommend it.

How early should I arrive at the train station?

Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure time to go through security, find the platform, and board your train on time. Calculate a bit more time if you prefer to use the bathroom and stock up on drinks and snacks at the train station. Although not necessary, this will make your day trips from Paris to other countries more enjoyable.

Now You Know How to Plan the Best International Day Trips from Paris

And here you have it – the 7 best day trips from Paris to other countries .

Now you know how to explore France’s neighbors hassle-free. It takes a bit of preparation to plan your train rides and book your tickets in advance but I’ve got you covered.

You learned which trains to take and what to do on your international day trips from Paris. So, even if you only have 3 days in Paris , you can still fit one of these trips on your itinerary.

Now, tell me:

Which of these day trips from Paris to other countries strike your fancy the most?

Let me know in the comments below!

Born and raised in Bulgaria, I've spent years living in Germany, the USA, and Spain, and have traveled to 45+ countries. Now, I'm on a mission to uncover the most epic road trips, best beaches, and authentic local experiences to help you plan your next adventure.

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Eurostar Speed: How Fast Does Eurostar Travel from London to Paris? Explained

Eurostar trains reach a top speed of 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour) on high-speed tracks in the UK, France, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. In the Channel Tunnel, they slow down to a speed of 160 kilometers per hour (100 miles per hour) for safety and stability.

Eurostar uses specialized high-speed trains designed to operate efficiently on both UK and European rail networks. These trains feature aerodynamic designs that minimize air resistance and enhance speed. Additionally, their advanced braking systems ensure safety even at high velocities.

Traveling on Eurostar offers passengers a comfortable and efficient alternative to air travel. It eliminates the need for lengthy airport check-ins and security procedures. Instead, travelers can enjoy the scenic countryside as they travel between two vibrant capitals.

As we explore Eurostar’s speed further, it’s essential to consider the various factors that contribute to its efficient travel times. These include scheduled services, on-time performance, and the advantages of rail travel in comparison to flying.

Table of Contents

How Fast Does Eurostar Travel from London to Paris?

Eurostar travels from London to Paris at speeds of up to 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour) on the high-speed rail tracks. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. This speed allows for a quick and efficient connection between the two cities. Eurostar operates trains that run directly through the Channel Tunnel, which contributes to the swift travel times.

What Is the Average Speed of Eurostar Trains?

The average speed of Eurostar trains is approximately 300 kilometers per hour (km/h) or 186 miles per hour (mph). This high-speed rail service connects London with Paris and Brussels through the Channel Tunnel, offering a fast and efficient travel option.

According to Eurostar’s official website, the service operates primarily on high-speed tracks. These tracks enable trains to achieve and maintain such high speeds throughout their journeys, enhancing travel efficiency.

The high-speed capability of Eurostar trains is attributable to advanced train technology, streamlined designs, and specialized tracks. Eurostar’s fleet includes the E320 and the E300 trains, which are designed for comfort and speed. The Channel Tunnel, which links the UK to mainland Europe, also contributes to reduced travel times.

The International Union of Railways defines high-speed trains as those that operate at speeds exceeding 250 km/h (156 mph) on dedicated tracks. This definition underscores the advancements in rail transport technology over recent decades.

Several factors contribute to Eurostar’s average speed. These include track quality, signaling systems, and operational efficiency. The strategic selection of routes further optimizes travel time.

Eurostar trains typically maintain an average travel time of around two hours and 15 minutes from London to Paris, according to Eurostar’s time schedule.

The speed of Eurostar trains impacts travel convenience, fosters stronger connections between major cities, and promotes tourism. Increased rail speeds can contribute to economic growth and reduced congestion at airports.

In environmental terms, the use of high-speed trains like Eurostar reduces carbon emissions compared to air travel. This shift helps in achieving sustainability goals.

Broadly, Eurostar’s operations demonstrate the advantages of investing in rail infrastructure, leading to social and economic benefits. Enhanced connectivity results in cultural exchange and greater mobility for citizens.

To further optimize performance and speed, experts recommend ongoing investment in rail infrastructure and technology upgrades. Observing global best practices in high-speed rail can yield substantial benefits.

Adopting strategies such as the integration of green technologies and passenger-focused innovations can enhance service efficiency and sustainability. Engaging in public-private partnerships can also catalyze improvements in rail services.

What Factors Influence the Speed of Eurostar Trains?

The speed of Eurostar trains is influenced by a combination of track conditions, train technology, operational practices, and geographical factors.

• Track conditions
• Train technology
• Operational practices
• Geographical factors
• Weather conditions

Having outlined these key factors, we can now delve into each element and understand how it contributes to the overall speed of Eurostar trains.

Track Conditions : The track conditions play a vital role in determining the speed of Eurostar trains. Well-maintained tracks allow trains to travel at higher speeds safely. Eurostar operates on the High-Speed 1 (HS1) line in the UK, which is specifically designed for high-speed travel. According to Network Rail, HS1 has minimal curves and switches to facilitate faster movement, allowing Eurostar to maintain speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

Train Technology : Eurostar trains are equipped with advanced technology that enhances their speed capabilities. These trains use the Class 374 design, which includes aerodynamic features and powerful engines. The braking systems are also optimized for high-speed travel, reducing stopping distances. The International Union of Railways states that the combination of these innovations makes Eurostar one of the fastest rail services in Europe.

Operational Practices : The operational practices of Eurostar influence travel speed significantly. This includes scheduling and management of train flows across the network. For instance, effective coordination with rail services in France and Belgium helps avoid bottlenecks. Eurostar maintains strict timetables that maximize speed without compromising safety. According to Eurostar’s reports, well-planned operational logistics contribute to their on-time performance and overall service reliability.

Geographical Factors : The geographical landscape through which Eurostar travels also affects speed. The route includes tunnels, bridges, and varying terrains. The Channel Tunnel, which connects the UK to mainland Europe, requires specific speed regulations for safety. Moreover, the train must navigate urban areas at lower speeds to ensure safe entry and exit from stations.

Weather Conditions : Weather conditions can impact the speed of Eurostar trains. Heavy rain, snow, or strong winds may necessitate speed restrictions to ensure passenger safety. Eurostar monitors weather closely, adjusting schedules as needed. According to transport analysts, such precautions are essential to maintain safety during adverse conditions, even though they might reduce travel speed temporarily.

Overall, the interplay of these factors determines the speed and efficiency of Eurostar trains as they connect major cities across Europe.

How Do Specific Routes Impact Eurostar’s Speed?

Eurostar’s speed is significantly influenced by specific routes due to varying track conditions, signaling systems, and geographical factors. Each element plays a crucial role in determining how fast the trains can travel.

Track conditions: Eurostar operates on high-speed rail lines where track quality is designed for high-speed travel. Smooth tracks allow for greater speeds. According to a report by the International Union of Railways (UIC, 2021), well-maintained tracks can support speeds of over 300 km/h (186 mph).

Signaling systems: The European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is used on Eurostar routes. This advanced signaling technology enables higher speeds by ensuring safe distances between trains. A study by the European Commission (2020) emphasized that modern signaling allows trains to travel faster while maintaining safety.

Geographical factors: Certain routes feature geographical challenges, such as tunnels and gradients. For example, the Channel Tunnel limits speed due to its design and safety regulations. The maximum speed in the tunnel is approximately 160 km/h (99 mph) to ensure passenger safety.

Interchanging tracks: Eurostar trains transition between high-speed and conventional tracks when entering city centers. These transitions can reduce speed as trains adjust to the infrastructure in urban areas. Research from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB, 2019) indicates that such transitions typically require slower speeds, affecting overall journey times.

These factors collectively determine the operational speed of Eurostar trains, allowing them to effectively balance efficiency and safety across their various routes.

How Do Weather Conditions Affect Eurostar Travel Speed?

Weather conditions significantly affect Eurostar travel speed by influencing train performance, safety protocols, and operational efficiency. Key points detailing these impacts include:

Rain: Heavy rain can lead to reduced visibility and affect track adhesion. Wet tracks decrease the train’s grip, necessitating slower speeds to maintain safety. According to Network Rail (2017), this can result in speed reductions of up to 20%.

Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can cause significant disruptions. Accumulation on the tracks may hinder train movement. Trains often operate at lower speeds during these conditions, typically reduced by about 50%, as stated by Eurostar’s operational guidelines (Eurostar, 2021).

Wind: High winds can be dangerous for trains traveling at high speeds. Eurostar trains may experience speed restrictions of up to 30% during strong winds, as identified by rail safety authorities (Rail Safety, 2018). Operators prioritize safety, slowing trains down to prevent derailment or other incidents.

Fog: Dense fog can significantly impair visibility. Eurostar trains might reduce speeds by approximately 30% to ensure safe travel. The British Meteorological Office has reported that such visibility conditions often lead to delays (Met Office, 2019).

Temperature Extremes: Both high heat and freezing temperatures can affect train components, such as rail expansion or track ice. In extreme heat, Eurostar trains may travel more slowly to prevent track deformation. Rail operators adjust speeds accordingly to ensure safety, especially during heatwaves when track buckling is a risk (Network Rail, 2022).

Weather conditions serve as a critical factor in maintaining the safety and efficiency of Eurostar travel, affecting operational decisions and ultimately impacting travel speeds.

How Long Does a Typical Eurostar Journey from London to Paris Last?

A typical Eurostar journey from London to Paris lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes. This travel time applies to direct trains operating between London St Pancras International and Paris Gare du Nord. Trains usually depart every 30 minutes during peak times, making travel convenient.

The travel time may vary due to factors such as train delays or scheduling changes. For example, during holiday seasons or peak travel periods, trains may take longer due to increased passenger volume and additional stops. The average duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes reflects high-speed train technology, which allows trains to travel at speeds of up to 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour) on the high-speed rail line.

Real-world examples include the Eurostar service during weekends or rush hours. Passengers should allow extra time for check-in and security procedures, which typically require arriving at the station 30 to 45 minutes before departure.

Several external factors can influence the journey duration as well. Weather conditions may affect train schedules, while maintenance work on tracks can lead to slower travel times. Additionally, the time taken to clear customs and passport checks can add to total travel time, though these processes usually run smoothly.

In summary, the average Eurostar journey from London to Paris takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Variations may occur due to scheduling, passenger volume, and external factors. Passengers are encouraged to plan accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience. For further exploration, consider researching train schedules, ticket prices, and the overall convenience of train travel compared to flying.

How Does Eurostar’s Speed Compare to Other Modes of Transportation?

Eurostar’s speed compares favorably to other modes of transportation. Eurostar trains travel at speeds of up to 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour). This speed allows Eurostar to cover the journey from London to Paris in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. In comparison, commercial air travel takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes in the air, but when accounting for additional time for check-in, security, and travel to and from airports, the total travel time is often longer. Driving from London to Paris, depending on traffic and tunnel wait times, typically ranges from 5 to 7 hours. Therefore, Eurostar provides a fast and efficient option for travelers between these two cities, often offering a quicker total travel time than flying or driving.

What Are the Safety Measures for High-Speed Eurostar Travel?

The safety measures for high-speed Eurostar travel include a range of protocols designed to ensure passenger safety, security, and health during the journey.

• Comprehensive security checks
• Emergency procedures and training
• Regular maintenance of trains and tracks
• Onboard staff for passenger assistance
• Health and safety protocols
• Surveillance systems in stations and trains

Maintaining safety requires addressing multiple perspectives, including proactive measures in security, health, and overall passenger experience.

Comprehensive Security Checks: Comprehensive security checks are vital for ensuring the safety of passengers on Eurostar trains. These checks typically include screening of luggage and personal belongings, conducted prior to boarding. Eurostar stations implement strict security protocols similar to those at airports, which help to prevent potentially hazardous items from being brought on board. These measures are informed by terrorism threat assessments and incidents experienced in the rail sector. According to a 2019 report by the UK Department for Transport, the presence of rigorous security checks can deter criminal activity and tampering with train services.

Emergency Procedures and Training: Emergency procedures and training are crucial for protecting passengers in unexpected situations. Eurostar staff receive training on how to handle emergencies, including medical incidents and passenger evacuations. Drills are conducted regularly to ensure all staff are familiar with procedures. In 2020, a case study in emergency preparedness, published by the European Union Agency for Railways, emphasized the importance of comprehensive training specific to high-speed rail travel.

Regular Maintenance of Trains and Tracks: Regular maintenance of trains and tracks is essential for operational safety. Eurostar employs stringent maintenance schedules for trains and track infrastructures, ensuring they meet safety standards. The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) supports this process by providing guidelines on maintenance practices. An annual safety audit conducted by the RSSB indicated that effective maintenance significantly reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures, thus enhancing safety for passengers.

Onboard Staff for Passenger Assistance: Onboard staff play a pivotal role in ensuring passenger safety during travel. They are trained to provide assistance, answer questions, and manage various situations, including medical emergencies. For example, findings from a passenger satisfaction survey conducted by Eurostar in 2022 indicated that the presence of helpful staff increased passengers’ feelings of safety while traveling.

Health and Safety Protocols: Health and safety protocols address passenger well-being, especially during pandemic situations. Eurostar implemented measures such as mandatory face masks, enhanced cleaning procedures, and social distancing postures during COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) published guidance in 2021 highlighting that such measures are critical in high-density travel environments to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

Surveillance Systems in Stations and Trains: Surveillance systems in stations and trains help ensure passenger security. Cameras and monitoring systems provide oversight and help identify any unusual activities. A report by the British Transport Police (2021) emphasized that CCTV systems in transportation hubs significantly improve response times to incidents and increase overall safety perceptions amongst passengers.

By understanding these safety measures, passengers can feel secure when traveling on Eurostar. The integration of these elements contributes to a safer high-speed rail experience.

Why Is Speed an Important Factor When Choosing Eurostar?

Speed is an important factor when choosing Eurostar because it significantly reduces travel time between major cities like London, Paris, and Brussels. With speeds reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour), Eurostar offers a quick and efficient mode of transportation.

According to Eurostar’s official website, high-speed train travel is defined as running at speeds of over 300 kilometers per hour on dedicated tracks, allowing for faster connections between urban centers.

The importance of speed can be attributed to several reasons. First, it enhances convenience for travelers. A shorter journey allows passengers to maximize their time at their destination. Second, speed minimizes the overall travel time compared to other forms of transportation, such as planes or cars. Lastly, in a fast-paced world, the ability to arrive quickly and efficiently can improve business and leisure travel experiences.

Technical terms, such as “high-speed rail,” refer to rail transport that operates significantly faster than traditional trains. High-speed trains are designed to run on specially built tracks to facilitate these speeds.

Mechanisms that contribute to the speed of Eurostar trains include streamlined train designs and powerful electric engines. These features reduce air resistance and enhance acceleration. The dedicated high-speed tracks, designed specifically for these trains, further allow for safe and rapid travel.

Specific conditions that contribute to the speed of Eurostar include the infrastructure of the rail network and operational efficiencies. For instance, Eurostar runs on the Channel Tunnel, which is optimized for high-speed travel, ensuring trains can maintain high velocities without frequent stops. An example scenario is traveling from London to Paris, where a high-speed train can often complete the journey in about 2 hours and 15 minutes, significantly less time than a plane when considering airport procedures and transfers.

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• Financial Results

25 March 2022

Eurostar resumes direct service between London and Disneyland Paris

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