Day Trip to Paris with a 3-course Lunch

A Practical Look at the Day Trip to Paris with a 3-Course Lunch

Travelers searching for a seamless way to experience Paris in a day often come across this popular tour offered by Golden Tours. It combines the thrill of the Eurostar train with the indulgence of a three-course meal, either at the iconic Eiffel Tower or aboard a stylish Seine river cruise. This tour is designed for those who want a taste of Paris’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What stands out most about this experience? We truly appreciate how it offers flexibility—letting you choose between dining at the Eiffel Tower or enjoying a scenic cruise—both iconic Parisian experiences. Plus, the included Eurostar travel means comfort and speed, making your day both efficient and enjoyable.

One consideration is the timing: with early departures and a need to be back at Gare du Nord with plenty of time, it’s best suited for travelers with a clear, flexible schedule. This tour appeals most to those who love iconic sights, good food, and a bit of adventure packed into one day.

Key Points

• Convenient Eurostar Travel: Reserved seats on the train take the stress out of transportation.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose between a romantic meal at the Eiffel Tower or a scenic Seine river cruise with a three-course lunch.
• Self-Guided Exploration: You’re free to explore Paris at your own pace after lunch, ideal for independent travelers.
• Authentic Parisian Experiences: Enjoy breathtaking views, delicious cuisine, and the chance to snap memorable photos.
• Time Management: The tour includes strict timings, so punctuality is essential to maximize your day.
• Value for Price: For $414, you receive a curated Paris experience with transportation, meals, and scenic cruising included—though extra costs are for transport to/from the station and personal expenses.

The Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at St Pancras International
Your day kicks off bright and early at the Pauls Express Cafe inside St Pancras. A Golden Tours representative will greet you, making check-in straightforward. The early meet means you’ll need to be ready to leave London around 5:45-6:00 am, depending on the day, but it’s worth it for the full day of Paris adventures ahead.

Eurostar Journey to Paris
Sitting comfortably in reserved seats, you’ll glide beneath the English Channel through the Channel Tunnel. The journey lasts just over two hours, providing a chance to relax with a coffee or plan your day ahead. Travelers appreciate the smooth ride and the ease of booking, which ensures you don’t have to worry about train tickets or seat selection.

Arriving in Paris
Once you arrive at Gare du Nord, the freedom to explore begins. After your arrival, you can opt for one of two main experiences:

Lunch at the Eiffel Tower (Madame Brasserie)

Diners are taken to the Eiffel Tower’s first floor, a spot that’s hard to beat for stunning views of Paris. The Madame Brasserie offers a three-course meal served with a side of the tower’s spectacular vistas. Several reviews highlight the romantic atmosphere and the chance to enjoy classic French dishes in an iconic setting. You’ll collect your lift ticket at the Madame Brasserie reception, then ascend to the first floor, where panoramic views and delicious food await.

What’s great about this? It’s a quintessential Paris experience—dining with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop. The setting is intimate enough for a romantic lunch but spacious enough to feel special. Keep in mind, the exact timing depends on availability, and you’ll need to go to the designated entrance with your booking confirmation.

Seine River Lunch Cruise (Bateaux Parisiens)

Alternatively, you can opt for a 2-hour cruise along the Seine with a three-course meal on an all-glass boat. This is a wonderful way to see Paris’s most famous sights—like Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, and the Conciergerie—while enjoying your meal. The reviews mention how the beautiful views and good wine create a memorable experience, with some stating the musical entertainment adds a lively touch. Beverages and wine are included, making it a relaxed, scenic meal with opportunities to take plenty of photos.

What’s notable here? This cruise offers a more relaxed and immersive way to see Paris, especially if you’re not keen on climbing or walking. The boat’s all-glass design ensures you won’t miss a single view, and the musical background enhances the ambiance.

Post-Lunch Freedom
After your meal, you’re free to explore Paris at your leisure. Whether you want to visit more landmarks, shop, or just soak in the city’s vibe, there’s plenty of time before you need to head back to Gare du Nord. The flexible schedule makes it perfect for independent explorers or those with specific sights in mind.

Return Journey
You’ll need to be back at Gare du Nord at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. The train ride back to London offers a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The trip concludes with a safe, smooth crossing back under the Channel, and a quick transfer to London’s King’s Cross station.

Transport and Timing: Why They Matter

The reserved Eurostar seats are a definite plus, ensuring you don’t waste time searching for tickets or battling crowds. The early departure times—around 6:30 to 7 am—maximize your time in Paris but demand an early start from London. The check-in window closes 30 minutes before departure, so punctuality is crucial.

In Paris, the timing is equally tight; you’re encouraged to plan your activities and meals carefully, especially since the tour emphasizes punctual return. The 45-minute buffer before your train departs from Gare du Nord helps prevent last-minute stress.

The options of dining at the Eiffel Tower or cruising the Seine give your day a personal touch, but both require advance booking and collection of tickets, which reviews say runs smoothly. The reviews also mention that the views from the Eiffel Tower are stunning, making the meal an unforgettable highlight.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many travelers appreciated the seamless check-in process and how well the experience was organized. One review noted, “The train was comfortable, and the meal at the Eiffel Tower was the perfect mix of elegance and fun.” Others enjoyed the beautiful views while cruising, with one saying, “The Seine cruise was a highlight—seeing Paris’s landmarks from the water is just magical, especially with music playing in the background.”

A few mentioned the importance of keeping track of timing and being ready at the designated meeting points—since the schedule is tight, punctuality really pays off. The overall rating of 4.5 suggests most guests found the experience well worth the cost, especially considering the included transportation, meals, and scenic options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This day trip offers a balanced blend of comfort, iconic sights, and good food, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience Paris without the hassle of planning each detail. The inclusion of reserved Eurostar seats and flexible lunch options cater to those seeking efficiency and personalization.

While it might not suit travelers looking for a deep dive into Paris’s hidden corners or extensive sightseeing, it excels at giving a snapshot of the city’s most famous landmarks in a single day. The opportunity to dine at the Eiffel Tower or cruise the Seine adds a touch of elegance and romance—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a memorable day.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic taste of Paris, and don’t mind an early start, this tour provides excellent value—covering transportation, meals, and scenic views—all wrapped up in one neat package.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation to and from Gare du Nord?
No, travelers are responsible for getting to and from the station in London and Paris. The tour includes reserved seats on Eurostar but not local transport.

What is the start time for the tour?
Departure times vary—Monday to Friday around 7 am, and Saturday at 6:30 am. Exact times are confirmed in your instructions email, sent 2-3 weeks before travel.

Can I choose between the Eiffel Tower lunch and Seine cruise?
Yes, during booking, you can select your preferred lunch experience: dining at Madame Brasserie at the Eiffel Tower or enjoying a cruise along the Seine with a meal on the Bateaux Parisiens.

What’s included in the tour?
Reserved seats on Eurostar, a three-course meal either at the Eiffel Tower or aboard a Seine cruise, and a 2-hour scenic cruise along the river.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, up to 24 hours before your travel date, you can cancel for a full refund.

What should I bring?
A valid passport and any necessary visas. It’s also wise to carry some euros or cards for personal expenses.

How long do I have in Paris?
You’ll have several hours after lunch to explore before returning to Gare du Nord, which makes it suitable for brief but rewarding visits.

Will I have guide assistance during the day?
The tour includes a meet-and-greet and organized activities, but you’ll be exploring at your own pace once in Paris.

What if Eurostar trains are delayed?
Golden Tours states they aren’t responsible for delays caused by unforeseen circumstances like security alerts or weather, so travelers should allow buffer time and plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this Day Trip to Paris with a 3-course Lunch offers a well-rounded experience for those keen to capture the essence of Paris in a single day. From the convenience of reserved train seats to the allure of dining at the Eiffel Tower or cruising the Seine, the tour balances comfort with iconic sights. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize efficiency but still crave authentic moments in the City of Light. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a taste of Paris’s magic, this experience delivers memorable sights, flavors, and memories—all wrapped up in one accessible package.