From London: Paris Day Tour w/Eiffel Tower Champagne Lunch

Traveling from London to Paris in a single day sounds ambitious, but this day tour makes it possible with efficient planning and a touch of luxury. For around $541 per person, you get a taste of Paris’s iconic sights, complemented by a champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower and a scenic Seine River cruise. While it’s a long day—about 16 hours—it offers a fantastic snapshot of the City of Light for those short on time or wanting a hassle-free experience.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines convenience with flexibility. You’re not stuck on a rigid schedule but instead have the freedom to hop on and off the sightseeing bus and explore at your own pace. Plus, the Eiffel Tower lunch is a true highlight, giving you a memorable culinary experience with spectacular views.

However, a potential drawback is the early start and long travel hours, which might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to lengthy days. Also, since this is an independent, unescorted tour, you won’t have a guide to answer questions on the spot, relying instead on your own curiosity and the provided information pack.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy some of Paris’s most famous sights, but don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s a good fit for first-timers eager to tick Paris off their list with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Efficient Transportation: Return Eurostar train from London makes travel smooth and fast.
• Memorable Dining: Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie offers both culinary delight and stunning vistas.
• Flexible Exploration: Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus allows for personalized sightseeing.
• Scenic Experience: A one-hour Seine River cruise provides a relaxed way to enjoy Paris’s iconic bridges and waterfront views.
• Independent Format: No guide included, so self-direction is key.
• Early Start & Long Day: Be prepared for an early morning departure and a full day of activity.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at St Pancras International in London, you’ll board the Eurostar, which whisks you across the Channel in just over two hours to Paris Gare du Nord. This quick journey is one of the biggest advantages of this tour, saving hours compared to traditional travel methods. You’ll want to arrive early—check-in is at 5:30 am on weekdays or 5:00 am on Saturdays—to ensure smooth boarding.

Once you arrive in Paris, your first stop is the Eiffel Tower. Instead of rushing straight to the top, you’ll go to Level 1, where panoramic views of Paris await, and explore the interactive museum about the tower’s history. The glass floor offers a thrilling peek down to the streets below—definitely not for the faint-hearted but exciting for most.

Next, you’ll enjoy a 3-course champagne lunch at Madame Brasserie, located on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor. The restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the ambiance while indulging in French cuisine. Reviewers have noted that this meal provides “incredible views of the city” and is a memorable part of the experience, especially when paired with a glass of champagne.

After lunch, you’ll board a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, which loops through key districts of Paris. This flexible option lets you choose where to stay on board or hop off at stops like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, or Montmartre. The narrated commentary and free Wi-Fi make it easy to learn about the city while enjoying the ride.

Your tour continues with a scenic Seine River cruise, where you’ll glide past historic bridges like the Pont Neuf, the oldest in Paris. The one-hour cruise offers a calmer perspective of Paris’s riverside architecture, and many find it a highlight—“a relaxing way to see the city from a different angle,” as one reviewer put it.

Finally, you’ll head back to Gare du Nord for your return journey, arriving in London after approximately two hours on the train. The entire day is about balancing sightseeing with free time, making it suitable for those who enjoy a mix of guided and independent exploration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Return Eurostar Train: Traveling between London and Paris via Eurostar is quick, comfortable, and reliable. You start and end your day in familiar surroundings, avoiding flight hassles or train transfers. This convenience is often cited as a major plus.

Champagne Lunch at the Eiffel Tower: Dining with a view is a classic Parisian experience, and the Madame Brasserie delivers on that front. The three-course meal paired with champagne adds a touch of luxury that elevates a typical sightseeing tour into a memorable occasion.

Flexible Sightseeing Options: The hop-on hop-off bus is a clever way to see the city at your own pace. With commentary and Wi-Fi, it’s more engaging than just riding a bus, and you can tailor your day to your interests.

Seine River Cruise: From a tranquil boat, you’ll see landmarks from a different perspective. The bridges, buildings, and reflections create a picture-perfect moment, especially if you love photography or want a peaceful break during the busy day.

Independence: While some may prefer guided tours with a guide, others appreciate the freedom this format offers. You set your own pace, spending more or less time at each stop.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Early Departure: With check-in at 5:30 am in London, this tour demands early risers. If you’re not a morning person, it might be tough to get going, but the trade-off is a full day of Paris experiences.

Long Hours: The 16-hour schedule includes travel, sightseeing, and meals, so it’s not suited for those who prefer a relaxed, leisurely pace. Reviewers mention that some parts of the tour can feel rushed, especially during busy times or if you linger at certain stops.

No Personal Guide: For those who like guided commentary throughout, this tour might feel a bit disconnected. You’ll receive an information pack, but you won’t have a guide to answer spontaneous questions.

Limited Access or Special Tours: If visiting specific museums or neighborhoods is your priority, this tour’s focus is broader, aiming to give a snapshot rather than an in-depth experience.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past travelers paints a balanced picture. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views provided during the Seine cruise and at the Eiffel Tower. One reviewer noted that the driver navigated traffic expertly, even with city closures for Olympic traffic, ensuring the day stayed on schedule.

However, some travelers experienced issues like tour cancellations—one report mentioned a missed trip due to a last-minute cancellation, and the lack of communication was frustrating. It’s important to double-check your booking and stay informed via email.

Other reviewers enjoyed the freedom to explore at their own pace, especially on the hop-on hop-off bus, which allowed for spontaneous detours and photos. The lunch at Madame Brasserie was described as “delicious,” and many found the overall value to be good, considering the included train, meals, and cruises.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Arrive early at St Pancras International to avoid last-minute stress.
• Bring your passport for border control and any necessary visas.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and standing at various stops.
• Charge your devices—the Wi-Fi on the bus is useful, but you’ll want to take photos without worrying about battery drain.
• Prepare for the weather—Paris can be unpredictable; bring an umbrella or rain jacket if needed.
• Plan your free time wisely—if you want to explore certain neighborhoods more deeply, consider where to hop off.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager to see Paris in a day without the hassle of planning, this experience offers an excellent balance of convenience and memorable moments. The Eurostar journey is smooth and quick, and the Eiffel Tower champagne lunch adds a special touch that elevates the trip beyond mere sightseeing. The hop-on hop-off bus offers flexibility to explore at your own pace, and the Seine cruise provides a relaxing perspective on the city’s beauty.

This tour suits first-time visitors or those with limited time who want to hit the highlights with minimal fuss. If you prefer guided commentary throughout your day or a more leisurely experience, you might find this format a little too self-directed. Also, be prepared for an early start and a full schedule.

In terms of value, considering the included train, meals, and cruises, it’s a compelling option for those wanting a taste of Paris without the expense or effort of multiple days. Keep in mind that it’s an independent tour, so if you’re looking for guided insights or a more immersive experience, you may want to explore other options.

This tour provides a solid, enjoyable introduction to Paris, perfectly tailored for busy travelers who want a memorable day with a bit of everything: scenery, culture, and cuisine.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 0-3 are not provided with seats on the Eurostar, coach, or cruise, which suggests the tour mainly caters to older children and adults. If traveling with young kids, check for additional arrangements.

What time does the tour start?
Check availability for specific start times, but generally, check-in at St Pancras International is at 5:30 am Monday-Friday and 5:00 am on Saturdays. The schedule is designed for an early departure and late return.

Are meals included?
Yes, a 3-course champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie is included. The experience is designed to be a highlight of the day.

Do I need a guide?
No, this is an independent, unescorted tour. You’ll receive an information pack, but no guide accompanies you during the day.

Can I customize my sightseeing?
Yes, with the hop-on hop-off bus, you can choose where to hop off and explore more deeply at your leisure.

What should I bring?
A valid passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Make sure your devices are charged for photos and navigation.

This comprehensive review aims to help you decide if this London-to-Paris day trip fits your travel style. Whether you’re after a luxurious meal, scenic views, or flexible exploring, it might just be the perfect way to squeeze Paris into your busy schedule.