London to Paris by Train: Eurostar Travel Day

Well goodbye London, Hello Paris, Bonjour!

Once again, I find myself awake at four AM, ready to explore. I burrowed into my covers, adjusting them to keep warm while reflecting on yesterday’s great adventure. From the moment we woke, we were on the move, visiting countless amazing landmarks. Here are a few highlights: a few highlights: (references from Wikipedia).

The Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster is a masterpiece of dramatic spires and pointed arches. Known worldwide for its Gothic Revival architecture, it boasts some 1,100 rooms and hundreds of staircases, making it one of the most recognizable structures on the planet. For my family, it was a showstopper!

Big Ben and the Iconic Clock Tower

Big Ben and the iconic Clock Tower are integral parts of the Palace of Westminster. Its chimes echo throughout Westminster, making its size and presence one of London’s most acclaimed beacons.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London has stood for nearly 1,000 years. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, it is one of the most haunted places in England.

Westminster Abbey

The beauty and historical significance of Westminster Abbey cannot be overstated. It reflects the sacred beauty my family felt at its presence.

The London Eye

The London Eye, the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, serves as a magnet for visitors. Personally, I could not stop admiring its cool architectural appearance.

High Tea at the Georgian-Harrods

I cannot express enough how memorable our high tea outing was. It was a truly moving experience for all of us. We were in awe of the stupendous opulent chandelier-studded dining room that took our breath away. The historical tea service, crisp linens, and perfect tiered trays of scrumptious cakes and scones, along with savory pastries, created an atmosphere of joy and laughter. This delightful afternoon will remain etched in our memories forever.

Buckingham Palace

At the end of The Mall, Buckingham Palace was the cherry on top of a luxurious stroll. This grand house for the British monarchy dazzled and wowed us.

Today, we were leaving London and taking the train to Paris. As we prepared and enjoyed breakfast excitedly, we knew our stay at the Airbnb on Vestry was coming to an end!

Itinerary: Friday, January 3

Check out, Eurostar/train to Paris (St Pancras → Gare du Nord), check in at Airbnb Paris, exploring & shopping

On travel day, our family zipped, snapped, and shut suitcases, searching for chargers from outlets. We did a walk-around the London Airbnb that had become our temporary home. Looking down from impressive windows, I bid farewell to the stately buildings that stood like pieces of artwork and history.

Our whole crew stacked bags, double-checked cash and passports, and charged down those vicious stairs, which I would not miss one bit.

It was cold outside as we transitioned from the comfortable charm of London toward the elegance waiting across The English Channel. This channel is thirty-one miles long and separates southern England from northern France, being the longest undersea tunnel in the world.

The Journey to Paris

The day was defined by travel, discovery, and arrival in one of the world’s most beloved cities: Paris. We were ready for the next chapter!

St. Pancras International Station

St. Pancras International Station is a grand cathedral! The station’s soaring Victorian architecture of iron and glass is considered one of the most beautiful stations in Europe, and all of us were captivated by it.

The station was absolutely packed. Its bustling concourse had us bound for continental Europe as the iconic Eurostar terminal positively hummed with activity. The ornate brickwork served as a lovely prologue for our Paris-bound journey.

The process of checking in, scanning tickets, and moving through security was smooth and efficient. We bought sandwiches, snacks, and drinks at the station’s shops and cafés, gathering at the platform beneath the station’s arching glass roof, ready to cross borders in just over two hours. The Eurostar was able to travel over 200 mph.

Eurostar Journey: London to Paris

Our Eurostar journey began at 12:31 PM, gliding out of St. Pancras as my family settled into comfortable seats. The London scenery floated by like a dream. The train ride was surprisingly steady and smooth. With each passing mile beneath the Channel, our sense of adventure grew.

The landscapes from Britain to France made me think of the charming villages we passed, of the people who lived there, and how their lives were similar yet different from our own.

Crossing into France

As we crossed into France, the countryside changed somewhat. Broader fields, rural homes, and winding roads stretched onward. By 15:48, the train began slowing as the iconic Paris Gare du Nord Station came into view. A wave of murmurs filled our train car—Paris at last!

Arrival in Paris

Stepping off the train at Paris Gare du Nord, the busiest station in Europe, I was overwhelmed by the energy and movement. I heard several languages, but mostly French chatter. The distinct aroma of fresh-baked breads and pastries hit our noses like an arrow to a target, quickening my step. The architecture was overwhelmingly Parisian—grand and historic, with charming terraces everywhere. As we grabbed our luggage, we searched for an Uber or the Paris Metro. Finding that our Airbnb was just over a mile away, our family took off walking like we were shot from a cannon, with me eventually at the very back of the pack.

I had been warned to be careful about pickpockets. When I noticed a young man walking on my right and staying there, I suddenly stopped and glanced at him with a hard “I’m not your Mama stare.” He left quickly, scurrying away as fast as possible, probably thinking I was a nutcase.

Outside, stunning Paris had the scent of the city as we walked to our Airbnb at 110 Boulevard de Sebastopol. We glanced at cafés, boutiques, narrow streets, and distinctive Haussmannian buildings everywhere—those six- to seven-story dwellings with elaborate cut stone and black wrought iron balconies. I was absolutely smitten by their craftsmanship.

With great fanfare, we reached the Airbnb. I was delighted it had an elevator to help me transport my overstuffed bags. I needed an elephant and four men, but this would do nicely! I was taken by the Airbnb’s French character, views, and refined details, going from room to room in wonder. Most importantly, the kitchen was fully equipped with fancy dishes, pots and pans, wine glasses, and serving pieces.

The Airbnb was in the 3rd arrondissement in the Marais/central area, ideal for walking to boutiques, bookstores, boulangeries, cafés, and bistros.

Our family set off for an evening of dining, finding cozy cafés where tables sat close together for sharing plates, providing a warm experience for all of us. Afterward, we explored grocery shopping for cheeses, croissants, French salted butter, dozens of fresh berries, fruit, vegetables, milk, and juice. We could not help but savor the city at dusk. Streetlights flickered with a golden glow as neighborhoods came to life. It was the perfect introduction to the absolute magic of Paris!

Today’s Travel

London St Pancras Intl (departure) → Paris Gare du Nord (arrival); Paris hotel, 110 Boulevard de Sebastopol, 75003 (3rd arrondissement), Île-de-France.

Watch for Our Next Itinerary in This Series: Bon Voyage: A Winter Abroad

Itinerary: Saturday, January 4 — L’Arc de Triomphe and Napoleon’s Tomb (10:00–18:00)

London to Paris by Train

This journey has been an unforgettable experience, filled with excitement and anticipation. The transition from London to Paris marks not just a change in scenery, but also a new chapter in our adventure. As I reflect on the sights, sounds, and experiences of the past few days, I am filled with gratitude for the memories created and the stories yet to unfold.