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Day trip
From: Dover
To: Calais
 
 
Day trip
 
Day trip
Why Choose a Short Break to Paris

Paris is close, compact, and brimming with attractions. Here’s why it works so well for short breaks in Paris:

  1. Accessibility from the UK: Just a few hours via the Dover–Calais route, Paris is perfect for a spontaneous city escape.

  2. Compact and walkable: Iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre are all within easy reach, allowing you to see more in less time.

  3. Cultural variety: From art museums and historic streets to vibrant markets and riverside cafés, you can experience culture, cuisine, and local life in just a couple of days.

  4. Flexibility and freedom: Travelling with your own car on P&O Ferries lets you explore at your own pace, stop where you like, and carry as much luggage as you want without stress.

With these advantages, planning a short break in Paris becomes straightforward. You can balance sightseeing with leisurely meals, hidden neighbourhoods, or spontaneous detours; the city adapts to the traveller, not the other way around.


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How Long Should a Short Break to Paris Be?

Paris is beautiful year-round. Each season offers unique experiences:

  • Spring: Blooming gardens and mild weather, perfect for walking tours.

  • Summer: Longer daylight hours, outdoor dining, and lively street life.

  • Autumn: Golden foliage, quieter streets, and seasonal food markets.

  • Winter: Cosy cafés, sparkling lights, and festive events like Christmas markets. Check our Christmas Markets in France guide for details.

Knowing the best season for your interests ensures your mini break to Paris feels perfectly timed and memorable. For travel tips and inspiration, explore Plan Your Trip to France and find the best ferry options with our Ferries to France.


Travelling to Paris with P&O Ferries

Starting your trip with P&O Ferries makes the journey part of the adventure. The Dover–Calais route is quick and hassle-free. Modern lounges and onboard dining let you unwind before you arrive.

Taking your own car adds freedom. Pack what you like, explore at your own pace, and enjoy flexible luggage without stress. Your ferry crossing becomes the relaxing beginning to your city breaks in Paris, making it easy to jump straight into sightseeing.


Best Weekend Breaks in Paris

For a weekend break in Paris, a well-balanced itinerary lets you enjoy the city’s highlights while leaving room for discovery:

Day 1:

  • Stroll along the Seine, taking in Notre-Dame and the bridges adorned with love locks.

  • Grab a coffee at a riverside café and watch the city wake up.

  • Stop by Shakespeare & Company, a literary landmark with a unique charm.

Day 2:

  • Explore the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay for art and history.

  • Wander through Montmartre, soaking up its artistic streets and local ateliers.

  • Finish the evening with a magical Seine River cruise, admiring Paris lit up at night.

Optional extras:

  • Visit local markets like Marché d’Aligre or Marché des Enfants Rouges for fresh produce, pastries, and authentic Parisian snacks.

  • Discover hidden gems like covered passages and small independent boutiques.

Combining famous sights with these lesser-known treasures ensures your city breaks in Paris feel both iconic and authentic. For more ideas, see our guide to things to do in Paris.


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Why Travel with P&O Ferries

Sailing with P&O Ferries makes the trip as enjoyable as the destination:

  • Comfortable cabins and lounges: Perfect for relaxing or preparing for the day ahead.
  • Onboard dining: Snacks and sit-down meals cater to all tastes.
  • Stress-free travel: No airport queues or luggage limits.
  • Flexible luggage: Pack freely with space for Halloween outfits, accessories, and all your festive finds.
  • Groups: Travelling with family or friends is easy, with plenty of space on board to relax together before heading to your event.

Whether you’re travelling to France, Ireland, or the Netherlands, P&O Ferries offers plenty of activities to do onboard that make the whole trip even more fun before the Halloween festivities start ashore.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1 What are the best city breaks in Europe?

Some of the best European city breaks include Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris, and Rotterdam. Each offers a unique mix of romance, culture, and food. Canal-side walks in Amsterdam, Christmas markets in Bruges, art and history in Paris, or festivals in Rotterdam there really is something for everyone. These destinations are ideal for weekend getaways or longer city breaks across Europe.


2 How much should a city break to Europe cost?
The cost of a city break in Europe depends on your travel style, accommodation, and activities. Choosing to travel by ferry can make your trip more affordable, since you’ll save on luggage fees and have the flexibility to bring more without extra costs. With careful planning, you can enjoy both European city breaks and more indulgent escapes whilst still being on  a budget. Plus, if you book your ferry tickets in advance directly with P&O, you’ll get the best ferry price for your European city break.
3 Which are the top ten city breaks in Europe?

The top ten city breaks in Europe often include Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris, and Rotterdam, along with Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Lille, Cologne, and Hamburg. These cities are popular for their mix of history, culture, and vibrant food scenes, making them some of the most rewarding European city break destinations to explore. Why not also explore some of the most underrated city breaks in Europe and get away from the crowds and enjoy more authentic culture like the Lyon or Galway.  Whatever you decide, make sure to book your ferry to Europe now and start planning your next trip today!