From London: Paris Tour with Sightseeing Bus & Lunch Cruise

Exploring Paris from London becomes effortless with this comprehensive day trip offered by Evan Evans Tours. For $475 per person, travelers enjoy return Eurostar train travel, a flexible hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, and a luxurious 2-hour lunch cruise on the River Seine. The tour is designed for those who want to experience the highlights of Paris at their own pace, with the convenience of pre-arranged transportation and activities.

The entire journey lasts 15.5 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to maximize a single day in the French capital. While some reviews mention the limited time at certain sights and the absence of a dedicated guide, the overall experience offers a balanced mix of comfort, flexibility, and scenic moments that suit independent explorers who appreciate self-paced discovery.

Key Points

• Includes return Eurostar train tickets with reserved seats from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord
• Hop-on hop-off bus ticket offers 360° city views with free Wi-Fi and narrated commentary
• 2-hour Seine River lunch cruise features live music and a 3-course French meal
• Flexible schedule allows free exploration after train arrival, with the option to hop off at major landmarks
• Optional upgrade to Eurostar Plus class provides extra spacious seats and meals served at your seat
• The tour is independent and unescorted, with no hotel pickup or guide included

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Starting Point at London St Pancras International

The tour begins at London St Pancras International, where travelers check in early, typically by 5:30 am on weekdays or 5:00 am on Saturdays. From here, the Eurostar departs promptly for Paris Gare du Nord, with a journey lasting just about 2 hours and 42 minutes. The train offers free Wi-Fi onboard, making the transit comfortable and connected.

Seating on the Eurostar is assigned, but requests for specific seats cannot be guaranteed. Travelers opting for Eurostar Plus class enjoy more spacious seats and service-style meals and drinks served at their seat, although some reviews note that the actual seat quality and inclusions may not differ significantly from standard class.

Arriving in Paris and Immediate Free Time

Upon arrival at Gare du Nord, travelers are free to explore Paris at their leisure for approximately one hour before joining the lunch cruise on the River Seine. This free time is perfect for quick visits to nearby landmarks or grabbing a coffee, but travelers should plan efficiently to make the most of the day.

The lunch cruise lasts about 2 hours and includes a three-course meal served on a luxurious boat. As you glide along the Seine, you’ll enjoy live music that complements the elegant atmosphere. Key sights visible from the boat include Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame de Paris, and other iconic waterfront landmarks.

The Seine River Lunch Cruise Experience

The 2-hour Seine cruise stands out as a highlight of the tour. The refined French cuisine served during the cruise adds a special touch of elegance to the day, paired with the opportunity to see Paris’s most famous sights from a water-level perspective. The live music enhances the dining ambiance, making this a relaxing and scenic break amidst a busy day.

The cruise provides remarkable views of Parisian architecture and bridges, with many passengers appreciating the refined atmosphere and picturesque scenery. It’s an ideal moment to unwind while soaking in the beauty of the city.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

After the cruise, the included hop-on hop-off bus invites travelers to explore Paris at their own pace. The bus route covers key locations and allows unlimited stops, giving flexibility to stay onboard or disembark at landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or Montmartre.

The bus features 360° views, free Wi-Fi, and narrated commentary that enriches the sightseeing experience. Travelers appreciate how this option allows for personalized exploration without the pressure of a guided tour, although some reviews mention that seats are similar whether or not upgraded, and service quality can vary.

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The Return Journey and End of the Day

Following a full day of sightseeing, the return train departs from Gare du Nord, with a journey of approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes back to London St Pancras International. The entire trip concludes at the same starting point, with the option for drop-off at two locations within London depending on the booking.

The day ends around 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, depending on the return train, giving travelers ample time to reflect on their day in Paris or continue exploring the city.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

The tour is unescorted, meaning there’s no guide accompanying travelers during the free exploration segments. It’s important to bring a valid passport and be aware of passport and visa requirements for crossing between the UK and France.

Booking is non-refundable, and seating requests on the Eurostar cannot be guaranteed. Travelers should arrive early for check-in and be prepared for potential schedule changes. The tour includes reserved train seats, free Wi-Fi, the Seine cruise, and the bus ticket, but hotel transfers and guided commentary are not included.

Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

This tour offers exceptional convenience for those wanting a full day in Paris without worrying about logistics. The return train tickets, scenic cruise, and flexible bus make it an appealing choice for independent travelers who value self-paced exploration.

However, some reviews highlight disappointment with missed sights like Notre-Dame (due to damage) and confusion over seating upgrades. The lack of a dedicated guide may be a downside for travelers seeking detailed commentary or organized sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits adventurers who prefer independent exploration but appreciate pre-arranged transportation and activities. The scenic cruise and bus flexibility appeal to visual learners and water lovers. Travelers comfortable with early mornings and minimal guided input will find this tour aligns well with their style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include a guide?
No, it is an independent, unescorted tour, but the bus provides narrated commentary during the sightseeing route.

Can I upgrade my Eurostar ticket?
Yes, Eurostar Plus class is available as an option, offering more spacious seats and service at your seat, but some reviews suggest the actual benefits may be minimal.

What landmarks can I see from the Seine cruise?
You will see Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame de Paris, and many other famous waterfront sights.

How long is the free time in Paris?
You get about one hour of free time after arrival at Gare du Nord before the lunch cruise.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel transfers are not part of this tour; travelers meet at the designated meeting point.

What should I bring?
A passport and any necessary travel documents are required for crossing between the UK and France.

Can children participate?
Yes, but children aged 0-3 are not provided with a seat on the Eurostar, cruise, or bus.

What happens if I miss my train or the schedule changes?
Since the tour is non-refundable and schedule changes may occur, travelers should arrive early and stay flexible with timings.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so travelers with mobility concerns should prepare accordingly.

How do I receive my tickets and information?
Tickets and tour details are sent via email one week before the departure date.

This day trip to Paris offers an efficient way to enjoy the city’s highlights from London, with comfortable train travel, scenic dining, and flexible sightseeing. While it’s not a guided tour, its combination of transport, scenery, and independence makes it a valuable choice for self-directed explorers who want a taste of Paris in a single day.

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