Paris by Rail – Sightseeing Bus and Eiffel Tower Champagne Lunch

Discover Paris in a Day with Rail, Bus, and Champagne Lunch

This Paris by Rail tour offers an exciting way to experience the French capital in just one day. Priced at $562.25 per person, the journey includes a round-trip Eurostar train ticket, a seine river cruise, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, and a 3-course Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower. It departs from London’s St. Pancras International and is ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning each step.

The entire experience lasts approximately 15 hours, making it a long but well-curated day out in Paris. The tour features several iconic stops, with notable highlights at the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, along with scenic views along the Seine River. While it’s generally praised for its convenience and comprehensive itinerary, some reviews mention the pace can be rushed and group sizes may vary unexpectedly. Still, for those looking to maximize Paris sightseeing from London, this trip offers a memorable and efficient option.

Key Points

• All-in-one Paris day trip combining train, sightseeing, and dining
• Round-trip Eurostar tickets with reserved seats included
• Seine River cruise providing unique water-level views of key landmarks
• Hop-on, hop-off bus tour covers top Paris sights at your own pace
• Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower’s 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant
• Maximum group size of 25, with some reviews highlighting mixed experiences with group management

From London to Paris: The Eurostar Departure Process

The tour begins early at St Pancras International Station in London, where travelers check in at 5:30 am (Monday-Friday) or 5:00 am on Saturdays. The Eurostar train departs at 8:13 pm from Gare du Nord in Paris, with reserved seats included. Once in Paris, the group is met by a guide at Gare du Nord for the day’s excursions.

The train journey is a highlight for many, offering a comfortable, quick crossing of the English Channel. The Eurostar Plus class still provides onboard service, including a light meal and drinks, with extra spacious seating. The logistics are straightforward, making the trip suitable for those who prefer avoiding complicated travel arrangements.

Exploring Paris’ Top Sights with the Bus and Cruise

After arriving in Paris, the tour starts with a 30-minute visit to Gare du Nord to get oriented. Then, the group proceeds to the Seine River for a 45-minute cruise. This cruise offers a fresh perspective on Paris, passing top attractions like the Musée d’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame Cathedral from the water, providing memorable views and photo opportunities.

Next, the tour includes visits to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées. The Arc de Triomphe stands at the western end of the famous avenue, which is known for its luxury shops, theaters, and annual events such as Bastille Day parades. The Place de la Concorde at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées is also included, offering a large public square with historical significance.

The hop-on, hop-off bus allows flexible exploration, enabling visitors to spend as much time as they like at each site while enjoying commentary along the route. This setup is appreciated for its convenience, though some reviews note the group can sometimes be larger than ideal.

The Highlight: Champagne Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

The most anticipated part of this tour is the Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower, which begins with a passage past the main queue up to Level 1. From here, guests enjoy panoramic views of Paris spread beneath the tower, making for incredible photo moments.

After ascending to 58 Tour Eiffel, a 3-course gourmet meal paired with Champagne is served, combining fine cuisine with unforgettable vistas. The lunch lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to relax and marvel at the city from one of its most iconic landmarks. Following lunch, there’s time for photographs and soaking in the surroundings before heading back down.

While reviews suggest the lunch experience is generally well-organized with excellent views, some mention the pacing can feel rushed during the meal, especially if the group size is large or if timing tightens.

Visiting Paris Landmarks: Arc de Triomphe and Sacré-Cœur

Beyond the Eiffel Tower, the tour includes visits to notable Parisian landmarks. The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is a prominent monument at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, where twelve avenues radiate outward. It’s a symbol of national pride and a popular photo spot.

The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre is also part of the itinerary. This Roman Catholic church is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and offers further stunning views of Paris from its location on the Montmartre hill. The church visit is brief—about 25 minutes—and is free to enter, providing a glimpse into Paris’ religious architecture and panoramic scenery.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

The tour operates with a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a manageable group size for ease of movement and interaction. The meeting point in London is St Pancras International, with travelers advised to arrive early for check-in. In Paris, guests are met at Gare du Nord for the day’s excursions.

Physical fitness is recommended at a moderate level, as some walking and standing are involved, especially at stops like Sacré-Cœur and during the bus tours. The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so travelers must arrange their own transportation to and from the meeting points.

Most of the logistics are clear, but some reviews highlight that group sizes or timing can sometimes lead to a rushed experience. The non-refundable booking policy requires careful planning, and dietary requirements should be communicated at least 14 days in advance.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This full-day Paris adventure suits those who want a comprehensive, expedited visit without the hassle of planning multiple tickets and transport. It’s ideal for special occasions, first-time visitors, or anyone with limited time in London who still wants to see key Paris sights.

However, the long duration and the pace of the itinerary may feel tiring for some. The group size variability and occasional rushing during meals or sightseeing might not appeal to travelers seeking a more leisurely or private experience. Still, the well-organized itinerary and inclusion of iconic landmarks make this trip a practical choice for those eager to maximize their day.

Final Thoughts on Paris by Rail with Champagne Lunch

This Paris day trip from London combines the convenience of Eurostar travel, scenic Seine River views, and a luxurious Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower. Its significant selling points are the seamless logistics and the opportunity to visit multiple top attractions in one day.

While some reviews note issues with group management or pacing, the experience remains a strong choice for travelers looking to pack Paris into a single, memorable day. The inclusion of reserved train seats, a scenic cruise, and a gourmet meal offers good value, especially for those celebrating a special occasion.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to see as much as possible in a day. For those seeking a more relaxed pace or a private experience, alternative options might be more suitable. Nonetheless, for a hassle-free and rundown of Paris from London, this tour checks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes return Eurostar train tickets with reserved seats, a seine river cruise, a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tour, and a 3-course Champagne lunch at the Eiffel Tower.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years are not provided with seats on the Eurostar or the coach, and lunch is not included for kids of that age. The tour requires moderate physical activity, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

How early do I need to arrive in London?
Check-in at St Pancras International is at 5:30 am (Monday-Friday) or 5:00 am (Saturday). It’s important to arrive early to ensure timely boarding.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
No, the tour follows a fixed schedule with specific stops and activities. Group size and timing are largely pre-organized.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. It’s best to confirm all details before finalizing your reservation.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, travelers are advised to inform the tour provider at least 14 days in advance if they have specific dietary needs.

This comprehensive day trip to Paris offers a practical and enjoyable way to see many landmarks, enjoy a gourmet meal, and experience the city from different perspectives—all from London.