Exploring Paris Holidays From UK in 2025

1. Planning Your Journey: Flights and Booking Websites

Planning a holiday to Paris from the UK in 2025 is remarkably simple due to the excellent transport links between the two countries. The Eurostar high-speed train is a hugely popular and convenient option, taking you directly from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord in just over two hours. This option is often preferred for city breaks as it avoids airport transfers and a separate luggage allowance. Alternatively, numerous airlines, including British Airways, Air France, easyJet, and Ryanair, offer frequent flights from various UK airports to Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY).

When it comes to booking your trip, there are a number of reliable websites that offer excellent deals and packages. You can often find a full package, including travel and accommodation, or book flights and hotels separately to build your own perfect holiday. Some of the most popular booking websites for UK travellers include British Airways Holidays, which offers ATOL-protected flight and hotel deals; Lastminute.com, known for its last-minute deals; Expedia, which provides a wide range of flights, hotels, and activities; Booking.com, which is a great option for finding hotels and apartments; and TUI, which offers a variety of city break packages.

2. Accommodation and Packages for All-Inclusive Deals

While the concept of all-inclusive resorts is not common for a city break in Paris, many travel companies offer holiday packages that provide a similar all-in-one convenience. These packages typically bundle return travel on the Eurostar or flights, plus accommodation, and can sometimes include tickets for popular attractions or tours. Booking this way can often result in significant savings and provides a stress-free planning experience. Many hotel chains also offer breakfast-included rates, which is a good way to start your day.

Paris offers accommodation to suit every budget, from hostels to luxury hotels. For a truly Parisian experience, you might choose to stay in a classic hotel in the Latin Quarter, or for a more trendy vibe, the Le Marais district is a great option. For a luxurious stay, consider the famous Le Bristol Paris or Hôtel Plaza Athénée. For a reliable mid-range option, the Hôtel Panache is popular for its stylish design and central location, and the Hôtel du Continent offers themed rooms near the Louvre. For a more budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort, the Hotel Saint-André des Arts is a great choice.

3. Itinerary and Packages for Seniors

A three-day itinerary is a perfect amount of time for a UK traveller to get a taste of Paris, combining iconic sights with more relaxed exploration.

Day 1: Heart of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. Start your day by visiting the Louvre Museum, making sure to book your tickets in advance. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden and across the Pont des Arts to the Île de la Cité to see the exterior of Notre-Dame Cathedral. In the evening, head to the Eiffel Tower. Book your tickets for the top in advance and time your visit to see the city lights and the tower's famous light show on the hour.

Day 2: Art, Bohemian Charm, and Grandeur. Begin your day in the Montmartre district, exploring its winding cobblestone streets and visiting the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Afterward, head to the elegant Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Spend your afternoon wandering through the shops and galleries on the famous avenue before enjoying a relaxed dinner in a traditional French bistro.

Day 3: History, Gardens, and Local Life. Start your day at the magnificent Palace of Versailles. While a half-day trip, it is well worth the journey by train to see the opulent palace and its vast gardens. Upon your return, explore the charming Latin Quarter, home to the Pantheon and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. You can spend the rest of your day relaxing, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying a coffee at a classic Parisian café.

Many travel companies offer packages specifically designed for senior travellers. These packages often include guided tours, slower-paced itineraries, and comfortable transport, making it easier to explore the city without the stress of planning. They may also include access to attractions with lifts or other accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

4. Top Attractions and Experiences

Beyond the well-known landmarks, Paris offers an incredible variety of experiences that cater to every interest. For art lovers, a visit to the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a magnificent former railway station, is a must-see for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. The Musée Rodin is also a great option, located in a beautiful mansion and its garden, filled with the sculptor's works.

A walk along the River Seine is a classic Parisian experience. You can take a boat cruise, which offers a unique perspective of the city's monuments. The city's famous cemeteries, like Père Lachaise, are also popular for their historical significance and the famous figures buried there, including Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. For those who enjoy shopping, the famous Galeries Lafayette offers not only a wide array of designer goods but also a spectacular glass dome and a rooftop terrace with incredible city views.

5. Budget and Practical Tips

A Paris holiday from the UK in 2025 can be tailored to fit various budgets. While the city has a reputation for being expensive, there are many ways to manage your costs. A three-day city break for two people, including travel, accommodation, food, and attractions, can range from £400 to over £1,000, depending on your choices.

Travel on the Metro is efficient and affordable. It is recommended to purchase a Navigo Découverte card for a week or a Paris Visite pass if you plan to use public transport frequently, as this can be more cost-effective than buying single tickets. Eating out can be expensive, but you can save money by having a picnic in one of Paris's beautiful parks, grabbing a crêpe from a street vendor, or finding a local boulangerie for a delicious baguette sandwich. Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month, which is a great way to save money if your trip aligns with this. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.

6. Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions

A holiday in Paris offers a perfect blend of romance, culture, and style, all within easy reach of the UK. With a little planning and by taking advantage of the city's excellent transport and diverse offerings, you can ensure your 2025 Parisian getaway is a memory to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a visa to travel to Paris from the UK? No, UK citizens can travel to Paris for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

• Is the Paris Metro safe? Yes, the Paris Metro is generally safe. However, as with any major city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.

• Can I pay with a British bank card? Yes, most places in Paris accept contactless or chip-and-pin card payments. However, it is a good idea to carry some euros for small purchases or at places that may not accept cards.

• What is the best way to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to central Paris? The RER B train is the fastest and most cost-effective option, taking you directly to Paris's central train stations.

• Is it worth buying a Paris Pass? The Paris Pass can be a good value if you plan to visit many of the included attractions in a short period. It is best to calculate the cost of individual tickets to see if the pass is worthwhile for your specific itinerary.

• How much should I budget for daily food and drink? A realistic daily budget for food can range from €40 to €70 per person, depending on whether you choose local bistros or a fine dining experience.

• What is the best way to get to Paris from London? The Eurostar is often the most convenient option, as it is a direct city-centre to city-centre service that saves time on airport transfers.