From London: Paris Day Trip with Lunch on Eiffel Tower

A Practical Look at the From London: Paris Day Trip with Lunch on Eiffel Tower

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape to Paris but don’t have the luxury of time for an extended stay, this day trip offers a pretty compelling option. Organized by Premium Tours, it promises a seamless way to see key sights, enjoy a gourmet lunch on the Eiffel Tower, and cruise along the Seine—all in just one day.

What we love about this experience is how it packs in so much without making you feel overwhelmed. The round-trip transfer via Eurostar is a real standout—no need to worry about train logistics or navigating the Gare du Nord. Plus, the lunch at the newly reopened Madame Brasserie on the Eiffel Tower, crafted by a two-Michelin-star chef, is a highlight that elevates this tour beyond a simple sightseeing jaunt.

However, there’s a catch: this is a long day, clocking in at around 14 hours, so it’s not for those who prefer a relaxed pace or extra free time to explore on their own. If you’re someone who thrives on structured itineraries and wants to tick off the top Parisian sights in one go, then this tour could be ideal. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value convenience, expert guides, and the chance to experience Paris’s icons without the hassle of planning every detail.

This experience works best for those who:
– Want a rundown of Paris in a single day
– Appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable guides
– Are comfortable with a long, busy day
– Want to indulge in a special lunch experience on the Eiffel Tower
– Don’t mind organized group travel

Key Points When Considering This Tour

• Convenience of Transfers: Round-trip Eurostar train service makes traveling between London and Paris smooth and comfortable.
• Package of Highlights: Combines coach sightseeing, a Seine river cruise, and a memorable lunch—great for a well-rounded day.
• Expert Guide: Guides like Anna are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the long day more engaging.
• Cost-Value Balance: At $509 a person, it might seem steep, but considering the inclusions like the Eiffel Tower lunch and cruise, it’s a competitive package.
• Limited Free Time: Expect a busy schedule—some reviews mention limited personal exploration time.
• For Non-Mobility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting the Journey from London

Your day begins early at St. Pancras International, where a Premium Tours representative meets you in front of Le Pain Quotidien. From there, you’re escorted to your reserved Eurostar train seat, ready for the approximately 2-hour journey to Paris. The train ride itself is relaxed; you can sit back, enjoy the scenery, and even start soaking in that Parisian vibe before arriving.

Travelers consistently mention how stress-free this part of the experience is. Unlike trying to figure out metro routes or buy tickets independently, everything’s handled for you. Plus, the train departure times are usually around 7 am, which means you get a full day to explore.

Arrival and First Sightseeing

Once in Paris, a professional guide takes charge, leading you on a panoramic coach tour of the city. This is a smart way to get an overview of Paris’s most famous sights without the fatigue of walking all day. You’ll see landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, and the luxury boutiques lining the Champs-Élysées.

Many reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor as a real bonus. Our sources say guides like Anna are both informative and humorous, making the long day more enjoyable. The group size is typically manageable, and the overall organization seems to run smoothly, with reviews praising the professionalism and care from drivers and guides alike.

Lunch on the Eiffel Tower

One of the big draws here is the reserved lunch at Madame Brasserie, located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Reopened in 2022 after renovation, this restaurant is now run by a chef with two Michelin stars, Thierry Marx. The setting is impeccable—full glass walls allow you to enjoy 360-degree views of the Eiffel Tower’s structure and the Paris skyline, including the Trocadero and Palais de Chaillot.

A three-course meal of contemporary French cuisine awaits, and it’s served in a relaxed, refined atmosphere. Many reviewers rave about the quality of food, describing it as delicious, and note that the experience is quite special given the iconic surroundings. The view really enhances the meal—something you won’t forget easily.

That said, some reviews mention the lunch menu is a set menu, and while the quality is high, it might not satisfy those seeking a more flexible meal. Also, lunch times can run longer than planned, sometimes leading to a bit of a rush afterward, which could cut into free exploration time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Seine River Cruise

After lunch, you’ll glide down the River Seine on a boat cruise. This is a perfect way to see Paris’s most photogenic areas—from the Louvre and Musée D’Orsay to the Place de la Concorde—from a different angle. Many travelers find this part of the tour relaxing and scenic, a real highlight that adds a touch of romance to the day.

Free Time and Additional Sightseeing

Following the cruise, you’ll have some leisure time to explore on your own. This is a nice opportunity to snap photos, do some shopping, or just soak in the city’s atmosphere. The guide typically offers suggestions for where to go next or how to get back to the meeting point for the return journey.

However, some reviews note that free time can be limited, especially if schedules run over. One traveler mentioned, “Next to no free time… lost a lot of time waiting for lunch,” which indicates the importance of managing expectations about how much solo exploration you’ll have.

Return to London

The day wraps up with the Eurostar train back to London, usually arriving around 7 pm or 8 pm. Some travelers mention delays, such as a two-hour late arrival, but overall, the return journey is comfortable. From there, it’s a short cab or underground ride back to your hotel.

Real Experiences and Honest Insights

Reading through dozens of reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a huge difference. Many praise guides like Anna and David for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. Their ability to keep everyone engaged and on schedule is often highlighted as a big plus.

Lunch at the Eiffel Tower consistently gets high marks for its quality and setting. It’s a definite perk that elevates the overall experience beyond just sightseeing. One reviewer summed it up: “Lunch at the Eiffel Tower was a highlight—fantastic food and views.”

Yet, some travelers cite long wait times and tight schedules, especially around lunch and free exploration periods. The day is packed, so if you prefer to wander at your own pace, this might feel restrictive.

Cost-wise, at $509 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, sightseeing, meals, and cruise—making it a decent value for the convenience and comprehensive experience. But if you’re on a tight budget, you might find similar activities cheaper if you plan independently, though with more hassle.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for first-time visitors who want a quick but rich overview of Paris. It’s also great for travelers who prefer guided tours to help navigate the city’s sights efficiently. If you enjoy gourmet meals in iconic settings and the idea of seeing Paris from a boat and coach appeals, this tour hits all those notes.

On the downside, if you’re someone who prefers a slow pace or wants the freedom to explore specific neighborhoods or museums, this might be a bit too structured. Also, mobility issues are a concern, as the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from London to Paris offers a well-organized, beautifully curated experience that covers many of the city’s highlights within a single day. From the convenience of Eurostar transfers to the delicious lunch at the Eiffel Tower, it combines comfort with memorable sights.

The reviews point to high-quality guides and delicious food as standout elements, making the long hours worthwhile. That said, expect a busy schedule and limited free time, which might not suit every traveler.

If you value efficiency, guided commentary, and iconic views, and don’t mind a packed day, this trip is a solid choice. It’s ideal for curious visitors eager to tick off Paris’s must-see sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation from London?
Yes, transportation is via round-trip Eurostar trains, making the trip comfortable and direct.

Is the lunch at the Eiffel Tower included?
Yes, you’re booked into the Madame Brasserie on the first floor, with a pre-reserved 3-course meal.

Can I visit the Eiffel Tower’s second floor or summit?
No, this tour only includes access to the first floor at the Eiffel Tower. Additional access to higher levels isn’t included.

Are there any optional activities or free time?
You’ll have some free time after the cruise, but it’s limited. The schedule is quite full, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The data doesn’t specify, but given the length and structure, it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with long days and structured plans.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and check if you need a visa for France.

Are there any hidden costs?
All major inclusions are covered—meals, cruise, transfers. However, optional extras or personal shopping aren’t included.

What if I want to skip the Seine cruise or sightseeing?
Those are part of the package—skipping them isn’t an option, but your guide may suggest shortcuts or alternative spots.

What happens if the train is delayed?
Delays are possible; you’ll be informed if train times change. The return train can sometimes run late, so plan your evening accordingly.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, but check availability for specific dates, especially during the winter months when schedules may shift.

This full-day Paris adventure from London offers a good mix of guided sightseeing, fine dining, and scenic cruising. It’s a practical way to experience some of Paris’s magic if time is limited, and it’s clearly enjoyed by many travelers who value organization and quality experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: