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Thanks to the Eurostar, a day trip to Paris from London is genuinely doable: the high-speed train links St Pancras International to central Paris in around two and a half hours, fast enough to see the highlights and be home by night. Here is how to plan the perfect one-day dash to Paris.
The Eurostar journey
Eurostar runs from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord in about 2h20. Book the earliest train out and a late one back to maximise your time, arrive at St Pancras at least 60 to 90 minutes before departure for check-in and border control, and remember Paris is one hour ahead.
What to see in one day
With a single day, focus: the Eiffel Tower and Trocadero, a stroll along the Seine, Notre-Dame and the Ile de la Cite, and the Louvre or Musee d'Orsay if you pre-book. The Metro and walking link them easily.
Tips for a smooth trip
Book Eurostar well ahead for the best fares, take your passport (this is an international trip), and pre-book any major attraction to skip queues. Pack light, one small bag makes the day far easier.
Good to know
For more rail escapes see our Eurostar city breaks guide, and for UK options our day trips from London guide.
