Day Trip to Paris with a 3-course Lunch

A Practical, Enjoyable Day in Paris

A day trip to Paris with a 3-course lunch usually sounds like a whirlwind, but this experience manages to balance sightseeing with genuine leisure. Starting from St Pancras International, your journey is booked directly on the Eurostar—a swift, comfortable ride through the Channel Tunnel that takes just over two hours, whisking you across the English Channel into the heart of France. Once in Paris, you’re given the freedom to explore at your own pace, with two fantastic lunchtime options: dining inside the Eiffel Tower or cruising along the Seine River.

What we love about this experience is that it’s quite flexible—if you’re short on time but craving iconic views, the Eiffel Tower lunch offers spectacular city vistas from the first-floor restaurant. On the other hand, if soaking in the sights while enjoying a relaxed cruise with drinks and music appeals more, the Bateaux Parisiens cruise provides an elegant two-hour journey past Paris’s most recognizable landmarks.

A practical consideration is that transport to and from Gare du Nord isn’t included**, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel from your accommodation to the station in London and from the station in Paris to your hotel or next destination. While the tour includes reserved seats on the Eurostar and the meal options, it doesn’t cover all transportation details, which is typical for day trips that emphasize flexibility.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced taste of Paris—a quick, well-organized visit that combines iconic sights with authentic dining experiences. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a stress-free day with options to tailor your experience, especially if you love good food, stunning views, and just enough leisure time to truly soak it all in.

Key Points

Flexible itinerary with options for lunch at the Eiffel Tower or a Seine River cruise.
Reserved Eurostar seats ensure smooth, stress-free travel between London and Paris.
Iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Seine River provide classic Parisian views.
Authentic dining with a three-course meal in a top Paris restaurant or on a scenic boat.
Leisurely pace allows you to explore Paris at your own speed.
Practical logistics require arranging your own transport to and from stations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins at St Pancras

Your adventure kicks off at St Pancras International where a Golden Tours representative greets you at the Pauls Express Cafe. From there, it’s a short check-in process before boarding the Eurostar. The train itself is modern and comfortable, with reserved seating—so there’s no scrambling for seats on the day of travel. The ride through the Channel Tunnel is surprisingly quick, taking just over two hours, offering a chance to relax, maybe read a book, or watch the landscape change from London’s rooftops to Paris’s charming rooftops.

Traveling on Eurostar is a highlight in itself; the sleek, tunnel-encased journey provides a seamless transition between two vibrant cities. Reviewers mention the time passes quickly, and the comfort of the train makes it a far more enjoyable experience than flying or driving.

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Arriving in Paris: Time to Explore

Once in Paris Gare du Nord, you’re on your own to make your way to the lunch spot. The tour doesn’t include transportation from the station, but that’s part of what makes this trip flexible. Whether you prefer to walk, take a quick taxi, or hop on the metro, you’ll find plenty of options.

Two main lunch choices await:

Lunch at the Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie

Getting to the Eiffel Tower is an experience itself. You’ll go to Entrance 1 with your booking confirmation, and then collect your lift ticket at the Madame Brasserie reception. The restaurant is located on the first floor, giving you a stunning view of Paris while you dine on a three-course meal. Many reviews highlight how this setting feels both special and romantic—dining beneath one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. The menu is not detailed here, but the location alone makes it a memorable meal.

Seine River Cruise with a Three-Course Meal

Alternatively, you might prefer to float along the Seine aboard the Bateaux Parisiens. The all-glass boat offers panoramic views of Paris’s most famous sights—like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower—while you enjoy your meal. The cruise lasts two hours and includes beverages, wines, and some musical entertainment, providing a relaxed, scenic lunch. Reviewers mention the excellent views and the good wine selection as major highlights, making it a refined way to spend your midday.

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What to Expect During Your Time in Paris

No matter which lunch option you choose, the day is yours to explore. The tour emphasizes leisure, so you can hit the sights that interest you most. Whether you take a leisurely walk along the Seine, visit a museum, or simply sit in a café watching Paris life go by, you’ll have ample freedom.

The return journey involves heading back to Gare du Nord at least 45 minutes before your train departs. The Eurostar back to London is included in your ticket, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride home. The entire experience is designed to maximize your time in Paris without the stress of planning every detail—though you’ll need to organize your transport to and from the stations.

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Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, a common theme is that the views from the Eiffel Tower are spectacular—one reviewer noted, “Getting the lift to the first floor gives you breathtaking vistas of Paris, and the meal at Madame Brasserie is a perfect romantic lunch spot.” Others appreciated the cruise, saying, “The Seine cruise was so relaxing, and the live music made it feel like a special occasion.”

Some noted that timing can be tight, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Paris’s transport options, so planning ahead is wise. A few mentioned that the included meals were quite good, though some wished for a bit more variety or local flair.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning: Departure from London

Your trip begins early with a meet at St Pancras, where you’ll check in and settle into your reserved Eurostar seats. The departure times vary slightly depending on the day—7:00 am on weekdays and 6:30 am on Saturdays—so early risers will appreciate the quiet, scenic journey across the tunnel.

Mid-morning: Arrive in Paris

Disembark at Gare du Nord and head towards your lunch location. Whether you choose the Eiffel Tower or the Seine cruise, you’ll need to manage your own transit, but both options are centrally located and easy to reach either by metro, taxi, or on foot.

Noon: Lunch Time

Eiffel Tower Option: ascend to the first floor, then enjoy your meal at Madame Brasserie, with its views of the city and the iconic tower.
Seine Cruise Option: board the glass boat at Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll be served a three-course meal with drinks and live music.

Afternoon: Leisure & Sightseeing

After lunch, the rest of your day is free. You could visit nearby landmarks, stroll along the Seine, or relax in a café. The flexibility is a strong point—you’re not tied to a rigid schedule.

Late Afternoon: Return to Gare du Nord

Make sure to leave ample time to return to the station for your Eurostar back to London, which is included in your ticket price.

Analyzing the Value and Cost

At $414 per person, this day trip offers a tidy package of transport, meals, and sightseeing—especially considering the reserved Eurostar seats and the quality of the meal options. Comparing this to booking all components separately, it’s a convenient way to experience Paris without the hassle of planning each detail.

While the price might seem steep, keep in mind that the convenience, the prime locations, and the quality dining all contribute to the overall value. Travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and a curated experience tend to find this trip well worth the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Paris’s most famous sights without the stress of planning logistics. It’s also suited for couples seeking a romantic day with lunch beneath the Eiffel Tower or a scenic Seine cruise with good wine. If you’re short on time but want to see the essentials, this tour packs a lot into one day.

However, if you prefer to explore less touristy neighborhoods or want a more in-depth visit, you might find this trip a bit limiting. It’s designed more for leisurely sightseeing than in-depth touring.

The Sum Up

This experience offers a balanced, enjoyable way to visit Paris in a single day, combining fast transport, iconic views, and authentic dining experiences. The choices between dining at the Eiffel Tower or cruising the Seine provide different moods—romantic or relaxed—so you can tailor it to your preferences.

The value lies in the reserved seats, convenient itinerary, and memorable settings. It’s perfect for busy travelers wanting to maximize their time and enjoy Paris’s highlights without the hassle of detailed planning. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate beautiful views, good food, and a touch of flexibility in their travel schedule.

If you’re craving a classic Paris experience that balances sightseeing with comfort, this trip will serve you well—just remember to organize your transport to and from the stations ahead of time.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from Gare du Nord included?
No, it’s not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to and from the station in London and Paris, giving you flexibility in your travel timing.

What is the departure time from London?
On weekdays, departures are around 7 am, and on Saturdays, around 6:30 am. Exact times are sent via email a few weeks before your trip.

Can I choose between the Eiffel Tower lunch and the Seine cruise?
Yes, the tour offers two options, and you select your preferred lunch method when booking.

How long is the travel time on Eurostar?
The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes through the Channel Tunnel.

What is included in the meal?
A three-course meal is served either at Madame Brasserie on the Eiffel Tower or on the Seine cruise boat, with beverages and wine included on the cruise.

Do I need a passport or visa?
Yes, you need a valid passport. Check your visa requirements before traveling, especially if you are not from a Schengen country.

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

How much leisure time do I get in Paris?
You will have several hours after lunch to explore at your own pace, whether that’s visiting sights, strolling, or relaxing in a café.

What if my Eurostar train is delayed?
Golden Tours is not liable for delays caused by factors outside their control, such as weather or security alerts. Make sure to check the timing and leave ample time for your return journey.

This trip offers a solid introduction to Paris’s highlights without the fuss, making it an appealing choice for anyone wanting a well-organized, scenic day in the City of Light.