Things to do In Paris when travelling from London St. Pancras by train
Explore the City of Light’s iconic landmarks, charming neighbourhoods, and vibrant culture. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Paris promises unforgettable experiences.
Travel to Paris via London’s St. Pancras International Station
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Paris, the enchanting capital of France and one of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations. Whether you’re travelling to Paris for the first time or looking to uncover hidden gems, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Eurostar trains from London to Paris
Travelling from London to Paris by Eurostar is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach the French capital. Departing from St Pancras International station, Eurostar trains arrive at Paris Gare du Nord in as little as 2 hours and 17 minutes, placing you in the heart of the city ready to explore Paris’s top attractions.
Find out more about going high-speed from London to Paris and book your ticket.
5 best Things to Do in Paris
Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Book tickets in advance and head to the summit for panoramic views across the city. For the best photographs, visit nearby Trocadéro Gardens or enjoy a picnic on the Champ de Mars.
Explore the Louvre Museum
Home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of world-famous artworks, the Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world. Allow at least half a day to explore highlights including the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace and the museum’s stunning glass pyramid.
Walk Around Montmartre
Montmartre offers a different side of Paris. Wander through cobbled streets, watch artists at Place du Tertre and climb to Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
See Notre-Dame Cathedral
Following extensive restoration work, Notre-Dame remains one of Paris’s most impressive landmarks. Visit Île de la Cité and explore the surrounding historic streets and riverside walkways.
Stroll Along the Champs-Élysées
Browse flagship stores, enjoy a coffee at a Parisian café and continue to the Arc de Triomphe for spectacular views over the city’s grand boulevards.
Unique Paris Experiences Worth Booking
Take a Seine River Cruise
A sightseeing cruise along the Seine offers a unique perspective of Paris’s most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Evening cruises are particularly popular when the city lights begin to sparkle.
Join a French Cooking Class
Learn how to make classic French dishes, macarons or croissants with local chefs. Cooking classes are a great way to experience authentic Parisian culture beyond the tourist hotspots.
Visit a Traditional Parisian Market
Browse fresh produce, local cheeses and artisan products at markets such as Marché Bastille or Marché d’Aligre. These markets provide an authentic glimpse into everyday life in Paris.
Watch a Cabaret Show
Experience one of Paris’s most famous traditions with an evening performance at a historic cabaret venue. Many shows combine live music, dance and spectacular costumes.
Hidden Gems in Paris
Explore Canal Saint-Martin
Popular with locals, Canal Saint-Martin offers waterside cafés, independent boutiques and a more relaxed atmosphere than central Paris.
Discover the Covered Passages
The historic covered arcades of Paris are filled with bookshops, cafés and unique independent retailers. Passage des Panoramas is one of the oldest and most charming.
Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
One of the world’s most famous cemeteries, Père Lachaise is the resting place of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf.
Tour the Paris Catacombs
Descend beneath the streets of Paris and explore the fascinating underground tunnels and ossuaries that attract visitors from around the world.
Explore Le Marais
Known for its historic architecture, boutique shopping and excellent food scene, Le Marais is one of Paris’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Festivals and Events in Paris
Bastille Day
Bastille Day is France’s national celebration in July and one of the most exciting times to visit Paris. Expect fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, a military parade along the Champs-Élysées, and celebrations across the city. Many visitors plan their Paris trip specifically around this date for the atmosphere alone.
Nuit Blanche
Held annually in October, Nuit Blanche transforms Paris into an all-night contemporary art festival. Museums, galleries and public spaces stay open late with installations, performances and light displays across the city.
Paris Fashion Week
One of the most influential fashion events in the world, Paris Fashion Week takes place twice a year and brings global designers, celebrities and exclusive runway shows to the city.
Christmas in Paris
From late November, Paris becomes festive with Christmas markets, seasonal lights along the Champs-Élysées, and ice skating rinks across the city.
Summer Festivals
Paris hosts numerous open-air concerts, food festivals and cinema events during summer, particularly along the Seine and in public parks.
Best Day Trips from Paris
Palace of Versailles
Just under an hour from central Paris, Versailles is famous for its Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments and extensive gardens.
Giverny
Visit Claude Monet’s former home and gardens, which inspired many of his most famous paintings.
Champagne Region
Take a day trip to the Champagne region and visit renowned vineyards, historic cellars and picturesque French villages.
Disneyland Paris
A popular option for families, Disneyland Paris offers themed attractions, entertainment and character experiences just outside the city.
Practical Information and Tips
To make your trip to Paris as smooth as possible, here are some practical tips:
Weather and best time to visit: Paris experiences mild summers and chilly winters. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Getting around: The cheapest and easiest way to get around Paris is by public transport with a combined travel pass that allows unlimited travel on the metro, the RER train network and buses
What to wear: Always check the forecast before packing but we recommend wearing comfortable footwear as Paris is best explored by foot! Dune St. Pancras has some great options if you’re looking for a last-minute essential before hopping on board the Eurostar.
FAQs
How many days should I spend in Paris?
From a day trip to a full week, there is plenty to explore in the capital! Consider things like travel times and accommodation check-in when deciding how many days you want to spend in the city.
How long is Eurostar from Paris to London?
It’s around 2hrs 37mins from Paris Gare Du Nord to St. Pancras International on a Eurostar train to London.
Do you need a passport for Eurostar?
Yes. Find more information on the travel documents you require here: Travel documents | Eurostar
What time does the Eiffel Tower light up?
The lights of the Eiffel Tower turn on from sunset, which differs each day and across the different seasons. The Eiffel Tower sparkles turn on every hour on the hour for five minutes from sunset until 11:05pm.
What is the best way to explore Paris?
The best way to get around Paris is on foot or by Metro, Paris’s local subway transport system run by RATP. The Metro connects with Gare Du Nord, where Eurostar services from St. Pancras International arrive.
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