Paris is a city where food is part of the scenery, and lunchtime offers some of the most memorable ways to enjoy the sights and flavors. Whether you’re savoring a gourmet meal with a view of the Eiffel Tower or cruising past Notre Dame on the Seine, Paris excels at making lunch an event. We especially love the Seine river lunch cruise (Paris: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise) for its panoramic views and all-inclusive three-course menu, perfect for a relaxed afternoon on the water. For a special splurge, the Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie (3-Course Lunch at Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie) offers top-tier French cuisine right inside the iconic monument. If you’re craving a full-day exploration, a day trip to Giverny and Versailles (Giverny’s House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip) combines art, history, and a scenic riverside lunch—an enriching way to spend a day.
In this guide, we’ll explore each of these top lunch experiences in Paris, helping you decide whether a river cruise, Eiffel Tower restaurant, or full-day excursion makes the most sense for your trip.
At number 1, this all-inclusive Seine river cruise offers a two-hour journey through Paris with a three-course à-la-carte lunch. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely meal, all aboard a glass-enclosed luxury boat that floats past the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other landmarks. The cruise includes beverages and provides stunning, unobstructed views of Paris from the water. Guests rave about the “breathtaking shots” they get of the city’s icons, making this a favorite for romantic and photography-minded travelers. With 4.7 out of 5 stars based on thousands of reviews, it’s a well-loved way to dine while enjoying the city’s best views. The experience is suited for those who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive meal with scenic photos and a relaxed atmosphere. Bottom line: a smart choice for a memorable, scenic lunch that combines comfort with spectacular sights.
2. Paris: 3-Course Lunch at Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie
Number 2 on our list takes you above Paris at the Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie, where a three-course seasonal French meal awaits. Chef Thierry Marx’s culinary skills shine through a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s interior architecture is worth noting, with a modern, bright ambiance that complements the stunning views over Trocadero and La Défense. For around $118, you get a delicious meal with spectacular vistas, making it one of the best-value experiences for a special treat. Reviews highlight the “world-class food and service,” with many noting that the experience offers a unique way to see Paris from a different perspective. This experience is ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a memorable meal inside a world-famous monument. Keep in mind, reservations are recommended, but the breathtaking setting and excellent cuisine make the effort worthwhile. Bottom line: a perfect splurge for a once-in-a-lifetime lunch with a view.
3. Giverny’s House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip with Lunch
This full-day tour hits two of France’s most iconic sights: Claude Monet’s charming Giverny and the magnificent Palace of Versailles. The trip includes a lunch at a riverside restaurant in Moulin de Fourges, with scenic views that make the meal memorable. The tour begins in Giverny, where Monet’s house and gardens—famous for the Japanese bridge and water lilies—are a painter’s paradise. Later, you explore Versailles with a guided tour of Louis XIV’s Hall of Mirrors, and optional time in the gardens for the Musical Fountain show (weekends only). The reviews praise the expert guides and the blend of art and history, making this a top choice for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Expect a day filled with beauty, culture, and delicious regional food. Bottom line: ideal for those who want a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines art, royal history, and a scenic lunch.
4. Champagne Small-Group Day Trip with Lunch and Tastings from Paris
For wine lovers, number 4 offers a delightful day in Champagne with visits to renowned houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot. This small-group tour ensures a more intimate experience, with guided visits, tastings, and a 3-course regional lunch. The company emphasizes quality over quantity, with guests enjoying several tastings of different Champagne varieties, including some exclusive or rare cuvées. Reviews mention “outstanding” guides and the delicious lunch at a Michelin-recommended restaurant. The trip is perfect if you’re interested in Champagne production, want to visit specific houses, and enjoy learning about the region’s sparkling wine. The value is excellent for the price, considering the multiple tastings, guided tours, and transportation included. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for Champagne connoisseurs or those seeking a luxurious day outside Paris.
5. From Paris: Day Trip to Giverny & Versailles with Lunch
This tour combines art and royal splendor in one day, with visits to Monet’s house and gardens, plus Versailles. Starting in Giverny, you get to wander Monet’s charming home and water lily gardens, which inspired countless masterpieces. The lunch is at a picturesque riverside restaurant. In the afternoon, you explore Versailles, walking through Louis XIV’s royal apartments and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the high quality of the visits, with many noting that the combination makes for a very rewarding day. The tour runs around 9 hours, making it a full but manageable experience. It’s perfect for art lovers and history buffs alike who want to maximize their time. Bottom line: great value if you want to see both Monet and Versailles with a relaxed pace.
6. From Paris: Champagne Day Trip with 7 Tastings and Lunch
Number 6 offers a more extensive Champagne experience—seven tastings, visits to family-owned vineyards, and lunch included. The tour is intimate, limited to 15 participants, and takes you through prestigious houses and small producers. Guests love the ample tastings, including a secret local drink, and the delicious regional lunch. The guide shares detailed insights into Champagne production, making it an educational experience as well. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the diversity of Champagne, from large houses to boutique producers. The value comes from the comprehensive tasting sessions and personalized visits. Bottom line: a superb choice for wine enthusiasts eager to taste a wide variety of Champagne in a relaxed setting.
7. Paris Late Lunch at Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie Restaurant
Number 7 offers a more relaxed, late lunch inside the Eiffel Tower, perfect if your schedule is flexible. The gourmet French cuisine at Madame Brasserie is served on the first floor, with options for 3- or 4-courses. Guests enjoy the convenience of skipping long lines and heading straight to the elevator, plus a chance to explore the tower afterward. Many reviews mention the delicious food and excellent views, with some noting that the experience is a bit rushed if you want to linger. It’s a good fit for those who want a luxurious meal with a view but don’t want to spend all day doing it. Bottom line: a lovely way to combine dining with sightseeing at your own pace.
8. Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise
Number 8 is a gourmet cruise aboard Paris’s first electric boat, which means eco-friendly travel without sacrificing style. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll enjoy four courses of French cuisine crafted by Chef Pierre Marty, while passing landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower. The boat offers guaranteed window seats and an extensive wine list (at your expense). This experience is perfect for travelers who want fine dining with a sustainable twist. The reviews highlight the “magnificent views” and “gourmet food,” making it an elegant, eco-conscious way to dine in Paris. Bottom line: ideal for eco-minded food lovers seeking a luxurious river experience.
9. Private Champagne Day Trip to Vineyards of Reims with French Lunch from Paris
Number 9 is a luxury private experience exploring Reims’ vineyards with high-speed train travel and guided visits to two wineries. The tour includes six tastings, a French lunch, and a Reims city tour. Guests value the personalized nature of this trip and the chance to experience Champagne production up close. The guide makes the day special, sharing detailed stories about the region’s history and wines. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a customized, intimate outing with a focus on quality over quantity. At $719, it’s a splurge, but for those looking for exclusivity and in-depth knowledge, it’s a top pick. Bottom line: perfect for couples or connoisseurs who want a private, comprehensive Champagne day.
10. Private Tour, Luxury Eiffel Tower Lunch, Seine Cruise & Louvre
For a full day of Paris highlights, this private tour combines the Eiffel Tower, Seine cruise, and the Louvre Museum, topped off with a luxury lunch at Madame Brasserie. The package includes priority access and all tickets, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the essentials with minimal hassle. Guests mention the “stress-free” experience and the luxurious atmosphere. This experience suits those with limited time who want an all-in-one Paris experience, especially if celebrating a special occasion. The main drawback: it’s pricier, but the convenience and exclusivity are hard to beat. Bottom line: a perfect choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, luxury Paris day.
How to Choose Your Best Lunch Experience in Paris
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For instance, if you love scenic water views, the Seine river cruises (#1 and #8, #8) offer different styles—one traditional and scenic, the other eco-friendly and gourmet. If you prefer historic landmarks, a full-day trip combining Monet and Versailles (#3) might suit you best. Budget travelers might appreciate the late Eiffel Tower lunch (#7), while wine enthusiasts should look at the Champagne day trips (#4, #6). Booking tips: make reservations early, especially for popular spots like the Eiffel Tower, and consider your walking ability if choosing full-day excursions.
Final Thoughts
From luxurious river cruises to delicious Eiffel Tower dining and immersive full-day trips to Monet’s Giverny or Champagne vineyards, Paris offers a diverse array of memorable lunchtime options. If you’re after a romantic cruise with iconic views, the Seine lunch cruise (#1) stands out. For a splurge, dining inside the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brasserie (#2) delivers an unforgettable experience. If you want to combine arts, history, and regional wines, the Giverny & Versailles day trip (#3) is hard to beat.
Whatever fits your style—be it a quick scenic cruise, a luxurious meal, or an educational tour—these experiences promise a delightful way to enjoy Paris’s culinary and cultural riches. Early booking is recommended, especially during high season. Whatever your choice, a memorable Parisian lunch is waiting.