Day Trip to Paris with a 3-course Lunch

Traveling to Paris for just a day can feel like trying to see a whole city in a glance—it’s ambitious but totally doable with the right plan. This particular tour offers a mix of iconic sights, leisurely dining, and a chance to soak in the city’s magic without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. We haven’t experienced it firsthand, but based on what’s offered, it’s a good option for those who want a taste of Paris without the hassle of full-blown sightseeing.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines convenience with flexibility—your transportation is taken care of, and you get to pick between a stunning meal at the Eiffel Tower or a scenic cruise along the Seine. Another standout is the reserved Eurostar seats, which mean no scrambling at the station or last-minute seat fights. However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include transport to and from Gare du Nord, so you’ll need to plan that in.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value a well-organized day in Paris but still want the freedom to explore at their own pace. If you’re after a structured yet flexible mini-adventure that balances iconic sights with good food, this could be just what you’re looking for. Just remember, with only one day, it’s more about highlights than deep exploration.

Key Points

• Includes reserved Eurostar seats, making your journey smooth and stress-free.
• Offers two lunch options: a classic 3-course meal at the Eiffel Tower or a Seine river cruise.
• Flexible schedule with free time to explore Paris however you like.
• Total duration of around one day, ideal for a quick but memorable visit.
• Price point at $414, which reflects a blend of transportation, dining, and sightseeing.
• Not including transport to and from Gare du Nord, so consider your arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Eurostar from London to Paris

Your day kicks off at St Pancras International Station in London, where the Golden Tours rep will meet you at Pauls Express Cafe. This is a nice touch—knowing someone is there to guide the process helps ease any travel jitters. The check-in for Eurostar closes about 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early is wise.

The Eurostar trip itself is quick—just about 2 hours and 15 minutes, darting underneath the Channel through the Channel Tunnel. During this time, you can relax, maybe chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy the views from your reserved seat. The options for seating are pre-booked, which means no worrying about finding a good spot in the train. If you’ve traveled on Eurostar before, you’ll appreciate how seamless and comfortable the ride can be.

Arriving in Paris at Gare du Nord, you’re free to set out on your own. The key here is to make the most of your limited time, whether that’s wandering through neighborhoods, snapping photos, or heading straight for your planned meal.

Choosing Your Lunch: Eiffel Tower or Seine Cruise

Your options for lunch are what set this tour apart. Both are designed to offer memorable experiences—just in very different ways. The choice depends on whether you’re craving a spectacular view from above or a scenic cruise on the water.

Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

Getting to the Eiffel Tower is straightforward—once you’re in Paris, it’s about taking a short trip to Champ de Mars. You’ll go through Entrance 1 and collect your lift ticket at the Madame Brasserie reception. The restaurant, perched on the first floor, offers a 3-course meal with some of the best views in the city.

The Eiffel Tower is, undeniably, a symbol of France. Dining there is often described as romantic, especially with the panoramic views of Paris sprawling below. The food is usually praised for being tasty, and the setting elevates the experience beyond just a meal. It’s a perfect choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a special dining experience.

Seine River Cruise with Lunch

Alternatively, you can opt for a 2-hour cruise along the River Seine, with your meal served on an all-glass boat at Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. This option allows you to enjoy a 3-course lunch while drifting past major sights like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. Beverages and wines are included, and some reviews mention musical entertainment on board, adding to the relaxed vibe.

A cruise offers a different perspective—your view of Paris from the water highlights the city’s elegant bridges and historic buildings in a way that walking or standing at a viewpoint can’t quite match. It’s a pleasant, laid-back way to enjoy your midday meal without losing sight of the city’s iconic scenery.

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Free Time to Explore

After your meal or cruise, you’ll have some free time to explore Paris on your own. This is probably the biggest perk of the tour—you’re not being herded from one attraction to another. Whether you want to stroll along the Seine, visit a nearby café, or snap photos of the Eiffel Tower from different angles, you’re in control.

Keep in mind, the tour ends with you heading back to Gare du Nord at least 45 minutes before your train departs. You’ll want to factor in travel time to your accommodation or other parts of the city if you plan to extend your day.

The Return Journey

The return trip is on your own, with your tickets printed under the lead passenger’s name. Leaving Paris, you’ll hop back on the Eurostar, completing your quick but rich day in the French capital. It’s a typical setup—efficient, as long as your timing aligns well with the train schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers your reserved Eurostar seats, the 3-course meal at the Eiffel Tower or on the Seine, and your 2-hour cruise on the river. It’s quite comprehensive for a day trip, especially considering the convenience of pre-booked seating and the meal.

However, transport to and from Gare du Nord is not included. You’ll need to organize your own commute to the station in London at the start and from Gare du Nord to your accommodation or next destination in Paris. This could be a small consideration for some travelers, particularly if your hotel is outside central Paris.

The Price Point: Is it Worth It?

At $414 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but it includes quite a few elements—fast train travel, a scenic meal, and a cruise—all in one package. For travelers looking to maximize their time and skip the logistical headaches, it can be a good value. The convenience of everything being organized in advance cuts down on stress, and the meal options are quite special.

That said, if you’re someone who prefers exploring without a set schedule, or if you’re comfortable booking your own train and meals, it might be more economical to piece things together independently. But for those who want a hassle-free, curated experience, this package offers a fair balance of comfort and sightseeing.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviews highlight a few things that stand out. Many mention the stunning views from the Eiffel Tower and the Seine cruise as the highlights. The excellent wine selection on the cruise is often praised, making the meal feel more relaxed and indulgent. One traveler noted, “The views from the boat were fantastic, and the wine flow made it feel like a true Parisian experience.”

Some reviewers mention that the timing can be tight, especially if the train or the Parisian transport experiences delays, but overall, the organization seems solid. The convenience of the reserved seats and pre-arranged meals seems to outweigh minor hiccups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a taste of Paris in a single day without the stress of planning logistics. It’s suitable for first-timers who want the big sights, good food, and a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates comfort and convenience, this package delivers.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or have specific interests that warrant more time in certain neighborhoods, you might find this day a little rushed. Also, those who dislike scheduled meals or structured tours may want to consider customizing their visit.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this day trip to Paris offers a well-rounded snapshot of the city, blending classic landmarks, good food, and scenic views. It’s designed for travelers who want to combine ease with memorable experiences, making the most of a limited time in the City of Light.

While the price isn’t cheap, the included elements—reserved train seats, a meal at one of Paris’s most iconic locations, and a relaxing cruise—add value for those who prefer a curated, hassle-free approach to their day in Paris. It’s a solid pick for first-time visitors or anyone eager to check a handful of Paris’s highlights off their list without the stress of navigation.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from Gare du Nord included?
No, you’ll need to organize your own transport to reach Gare du Nord in London and from Gare du Nord in Paris to your accommodation or next destination.

What are the departure times?
On weekdays, the Eurostar departs around 7 am, with check-in closing 30 minutes prior. On Saturdays, the departure is around 6:30 am, so early mornings are part of the plan.

Where do I meet the guide in London?
Your meeting point is Pauls Express Cafe, Unit 2 at St Pancras Station. The guide will meet you there before check-in.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and up to 21 days for a full cancellation.

What should I bring?
A valid passport and any necessary visas. Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan to explore around your meal or cruise.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, it doesn’t specifically cater to children or families. Consider their needs if traveling with little ones.

Does the tour operate year-round?
The info suggests day trips are available based on availability and schedule, but always check the current calendar when booking.

How much free time do I get?
After your meal or cruise, you’ll have some time to explore Paris at your own pace before heading back to Gare du Nord.

Is the meal at the Eiffel Tower included in the price?
Yes, the 3-course meal at Madame Brasserie is included if you choose that option.

What’s the best way to ensure I get a good seat?
Seats are reserved through the booking, so once you have your tickets, your seat is secured, and you don’t need to worry about that.

This rundown should help you decide whether this Paris day trip aligns with your travel style. It offers a manageable, enjoyable way to experience some of the most iconic sights and flavors of the city in just one day—perfect for a quick getaway that leaves you with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: