When people think of quick getaways from the UK, Paris often comes immediately to mind — and for good reason. With its rich history, world-famous cuisine, stunning architecture, and effortless elegance, Paris feels both excitingly foreign and warmly familiar to UK travellers. But is it truly the bestand short place to visit from the UK? Let’s dive into why Paris is a top choice, the best time to visit, how far it is, and why millions keep returning year after year.
How Far Is Paris from the UK?
One of the biggest reasons Paris is so popular with UK travellers is its incredible convenience. The flight duration from London to Paris is 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are also several daily flights from other UK cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, most taking no longer than 1.5 hours.
Not a fan of flying? Catch the Eurostar from London St Pancras and find yourself in the heart of Paris in just 2 hours and 20 minutes. Whether you prefer the skies or the rails, Paris is incredibly easy to reach for a weekend break or even a spontaneous day trip.
Why People Love Paris
1. Romance and Beauty
Paris has earned its nickname, "The City of Love," thanks to its picture-perfect streets, charming cafés, and dreamy riverbanks. Whether you're strolling along the Seine, sharing a bottle of wine under the Eiffel Tower, or getting lost in Montmartre’s cobbled alleys, Paris seems designed for romance.
2. World-Class Art and Culture
The Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, the Centre Pompidou — and that’s just the beginning. Paris is a paradise for art lovers and culture seekers. Even just wandering through the city's arrondissements feels like walking through an open-air museum, with centuries of history on full display.
3. Food and Wine
From buttery croissants and fresh baguettes to Michelin-starred dinners and endless wine bars, Paris is a foodie’s heaven. Each neighbourhood (or quartier) offers unique tastes and hidden gems, from traditional French cuisine to innovative new dining concepts.
4. Shopping and Fashion
As one of the fashion capitals of the world, Paris draws shoppers from everywhere. Whether you're browsing luxury boutiques on the Champs-Élysées or exploring quirky vintage shops in Le Marais, there’s something stylish for every budget.
5. Effortless Day Trips
Paris is not just about the city itself. It's a fantastic base for short trips to places like the Palace of Versailles, the Champagne region, or the stunning Loire Valley. All are easily accessible by train and make wonderful additions to a Paris trip.
Best Weather for Visiting Paris
Paris is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you're after.
Spring (March to May): Many consider spring the most magical time in Paris. Parks like Jardin des Tuileries and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont burst into colour, the weather is mild (around 12–20°C), and there are fewer crowds compared to summer.
Summer (June to August): Warm and lively, with temperatures between 20–27°C. Outdoor terraces buzz late into the night, but be prepared for crowds and higher hotel prices.
Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, golden leaves, and quieter streets. Early autumn (especially September) still enjoys pleasant temperatures (15–22°C) and a romantic, cosy atmosphere.
Winter (December to February): Chilly, with temperatures between 3–7°C, but festive lights and Christmas markets make it charming. Plus, you’ll find fewer tourists and better hotel deals.
**Tip: **If you prefer fewer tourists and comfortable weather, late spring (May) or early autumn (September) are ideal times to visit Paris.
Short Flights from the UK to Paris
With several budget airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and British Airways offering daily flights, it's easy to find affordable fares to Paris. Flights leave from major UK airports such as:
London Heathrow
London Gatwick
Manchester
Birmingham
Edinburgh
Bristol
You can often find return flights for under £100 if you book in advance, making Paris an accessible luxury for many UK travellers.
Additionally, because flights are so short, it's even feasible to take a morning flight to Paris and return the same evening, although most people prefer at least a weekend to truly soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Is Paris the Best Place to Visit from the UK?
For many travellers, the answer is a resounding yes. Its unbeatable combination of beauty, culture, gastronomy, convenience, and sheer atmosphere make it stand out. While there are countless amazing cities a short flight from the UK — like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Dublin — Paris continues to capture hearts more than any other.
It’s not just about ticking off tourist sites; it’s the feeling Paris gives you — the sense that you’re part of something timeless, elegant, and extraordinary, even if just for a few days.
Final Thoughts
Paris is not just one of the best short-flight destinations from the UK — it may well be the ultimate one. With its easy access, enchanting charm, and year-round appeal, it’s no surprise that so many Brits consider Paris their second home. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fiftieth, Paris always finds a way to make you fall in love with it all over again.
Top comments (0)