Are you planning a trip from London to Paris? Hop on a train, an epic adventure awaits you! Traveling from London to Paris for work or fun on high-speed trains is a simple, affordable, and smart way of transitioning between the two cities. Here is a quick guide to prepare for a memorable train journey and what to do when you get to Paris.
Preparing for the London – Paris Train Route
High-speed passenger trains depart London St. Pancras International every hour, all year round except on Christmas Day. They speed through the Channel Tunnel at approximately 186 mph non-stop to cover the 305-mile trip that ends at Paris Gare du Nord, a major train station in Paris, in 2 hours and 16 minutes.
This London-Paris train route extends to other European cities, making it convenient for anyone proceeding to Lille, Brussels Midi, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Lyon, Avignon, Marseille, the French Alps, and Disneyland Paris.
Train Booking, Ticket Classes & Amenities
Passengers can book a Standard, Standard Premier, or Business Premier seat for a one-way trip and or for a return ticket.
If you opt for the Standard train ticket, you are allowed up to two bags 85 cm in length and one hand luggage for free with no weight or liquid restrictions. Second, the Standard Premier ticket gives you access to standard luggage privileges, spacious coaches, a light meal, and drinks. Buy the flexible Business Premier ticket for a direct pass to fast-track ticket gates, Business Premier lounges, spacious reclining seats, standard luggage privileges, and a three-course meal prepared by Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE.
Book the London to Paris train in advance and be at the train station at least half an hour before departure to go through the boarding procedures.
Things to Do in Paris
A Walking Tour Experience in Le Marais
If you are in Paris for a day trip, go on a 3-hour guided walking tour of the Le Marais District, packed with stunning mansions. Get to marvel at the 18th-century architecture and Jewish historical buildings and sample French cuisines from the local bakeries, cafés, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Alternatively, shop for souvenirs in the upscale shops lined up with cobblestone streets. Then, have a picnic lunch at the Place des Vosges.
Half-Day Guided French Wine & Champagne Tasting Tour
A wine and champagne tasting tour in Paris is a unique opportunity to learn about the French culture. Taste at least six wines and champagnes inside atmospheric wine cellars in old French wineries. The wineries are in family-owned vineyards passed from one generation to the next. Hence, you will have the full attention of the wine producers and taste most of the drinks for free. We recommend visiting Lyon in the Northern Rhone Valley. The region has many wineries scattered across the magnificent landscape. They are accessible on foot or through bus tours.
Evening Dinner River Cruise
Go on a 1-hour dinner river cruise along the Seine in Paris. The cruise starts from Île aux Cygnes just before sunset, giving you romantic nocturnal views of the Eiffel Tower and Paris skyline. The boats feature club-style armchairs to keep you comfortable and relaxed as you have your freshly prepared meal, capture your moments in photos, and celebrate a special anniversary or event with your loved one. Some sightseeing river cruises have optional drinks and snacks, live music, waffle and crepe tasting, an audio guide, and commentary.
Shows & Musicals
Buy tickets to memorable shows and musicals in Paris. The must-see performances are at popular tourist attractions like Théâtre Mogador, Château de Versailles, Notre-Dame de Paris, Lido2Paris, and Cirque Bormann. We recommend attending the mythical Paris Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show and Dinner. It is an immersive Cabaret Show with a romantic gourmet dinner. Guests have an early dinner at 7 pm and then proceed to the cabaret show at 9 pm by the Moulin Rouge orchestra. Up to 60 Moulin Rouge dancers perform the fast-paced French cancan and take the appearance of a pirate ship.
Conclusion
Traveling from London to Paris by train is a comfortable and relaxing experience. Book your journey and travel in luxury, arriving refreshed and ready to explore the City of Lights. Paris has dozens of places to visit, foods to eat, and places to see. Indeed, a budget-friendly walking tour, guided river cruise, visiting historical sites, and attending French musical shows and performances are great ways to make your train trip to Paris memorable.