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A Perfect day trip to Paris from London

Writer's picture: Sam BurdenSam Burden

Updated: Feb 9



Paris is always a good idea, and with an overnight FlixBus, you can get from London to the heart of the French capital in no time. In just a few hours, you'll find yourself wandering along cobbled streets, tasting Parisian pastries, and exploring iconic landmarks. This one-day itinerary offers a blend of the must-see sights and a few alternative, off-the-beaten-path gems, all while keeping your trip as budget-friendly as possible.


From a visit to the historic Cimetière du Père-Lachaise to a delightful pastry class, this Paris adventure is ideal for those looking to make the most of their short stay. With FlixBus as your travel partner, you’ll arrive in the City of Lights ready to dive straight into the sights, sounds, and flavours of Paris.


Morning: A Visit to Cimetière du Père-Lachaise & Rooftop Views


Start your day with a quiet yet captivating experience at the Cimetière du Père-Lachaise, one of Paris's most famous cemeteries. Not only is it a peaceful resting place, but it also holds some fascinating history. The cemetery is home to the graves of many notable figures, such as Jim Morrison (the legendary lead singer of The Doors), Édith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde, making it a unique spot for history and music fans alike. Entry to the cemetery is free, and as you wander the winding pathways, you can take in the beautiful architecture of the gravestones and the tranquillity that makes this place so special.



Next, head to Galeries Lafayette for a spot of shopping and a well-deserved break at their stunning rooftop terrace. Here, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Paris, where you can admire the majestic city skyline with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. It’s a fantastic spot for some photos before you continue your exploration.




For a morning snack, pop by the Chai Latte & Pastry Corner at the Galeries Lafayette for a delicious pastry paired with a perfect hot drink, all for around €8.




Midday: A Delicious Pastry Class


A must-do on any Paris trip is learning to create your own French pastries, and the Mille Feuille Pastry Class offers a hands-on experience that’s both fun and rewarding. For £59, you'll spend the afternoon with expert chefs learning to make delicate pastries like mille-feuille and éclairs, all while enjoying a drink to accompany your creations. This is an excellent way to dive into the French culinary culture and leave with both new skills and tasty pastries to enjoy for lunch.




Afternoon: Relaxing in Luxembourg Gardens & Strolling the Champs-Élysées


After indulging in your homemade pastries, spend the afternoon in one of Paris’s most beautiful gardens, the Luxembourg Gardens. This lush green space is perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying a quiet moment by the pond. It’s also home to the beautiful Luxembourg Palace and its well-maintained grounds, making it an ideal spot to unwind after your pastry class.




Evening: Speakeasy Tour and Hidden Bars


For an unforgettable evening in Paris, I headed to a quaint café near Place de la République, Le Café Pierre where I had a budget-friendly and tasty meal. Just steps from the iconic monument, I enjoyed a delicious trois fromage monsieur, an Aperol spritz, and a sweet Nutella crepe, all for just 28 pounds—a perfect mix of traditional French comfort food with a modern twist.





Later, I took part in a speakeasy tour—a fun and unique experience where you’re guided to three hidden bars around the local area, each offering its own specialty cocktails. A speakeasy is a bar that’s typically hidden behind an unmarked door, often requiring a password for entry, giving it a secretive and exclusive feel. The tour was £20, but drinks were around £10 each. It was an amazing way to try some unique cocktails and discover Paris's hidden nightlife scene!




Cost Breakdown:


  • FlixBus (London to Paris): £50

  • Cimetière du Père-Lachaise Entry: Free

  • Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace Drink & Pastry: €8 (£6.90)

  • Pastry Class (Mille Feuille Class): £59 (including drink and pastries)

  • Metro Ticket: €1.90 (£1.65) per ride (purchased four single tickets) – Total: £6.60

  • Lunch at Café Philippe (Trois Fromage Monsieur, Aperol Spritz & Nutella Crepe): £28

  • Speakeasy Tour (3 Hidden Bars): £20 (drinks at around £10 each not included)


Total Cost for the Trip:£169.50 (excluding drinks at the speakeasy tour)


Tips for a Successful Day Trip to Paris:


  1. Booking FlixBus: To secure the best prices, book your tickets in advance. FlixBus offers a comfortable and affordable option to travel from London to Paris, with overnight coaches making it an ideal way to save on accommodation costs.

  2. Metro Travel: The Paris metro is your best friend when exploring the city. A one-way metro ticket costs €2.50 (£1.65).

  3. Plan for Food: Paris is famous for its food, so don't miss out on delicious pastries and bistro meals. For something quick and affordable, try a baguette sandwich or grab a croissant from a local bakery for a light snack.

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