A 7-Day Itinerary for London and Paris: The Perfect European Combo
For many travelers, the idea of visiting two of Europe’s most iconic cities—London and Paris—within the same trip is both exhilarating and daunting. These two cities, rich in history, culture, and attractions, offer an abundance of experiences that can cater to every type of traveler. This 7-day itinerary aims to balance the classic sights, unique cultural experiences, and some of the best local gems in both cities, while also keeping things relatively relaxed. The journey is designed to make the most of your time, with a focus on efficient travel and a mix of sightseeing, culinary delights, and hidden gems.
Day 1: Arriving in London
Upon arriving in London, take the first day to soak in the city’s iconic sights at a leisurely pace. London’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world, and getting around is easy using the London Underground or buses.
Morning: Begin your adventure with a visit to the Tower of London. This historical fortress is home to the Crown Jewels and offers fascinating insights into the city’s medieval past. After exploring the Tower, take a stroll across Tower Bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the Thames.
Afternoon: Make your way to the British Museum, one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums, where you can marvel at the Rosetta Stone and other ancient artifacts. You can grab lunch at one of the museum’s cafés or enjoy a picnic at Russell Square nearby.
Evening: For your first evening in London, head to Covent Garden for some shopping, street performances, and dinner. Covent Garden is also home to some excellent restaurants and is a great spot for a vibrant London experience.
Day 2: Explore the Heart of London
Morning: No trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. If you time it right, you can watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. Afterward, take a walk through St. James’s Park, which offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Afternoon: Head to Westminster Abbey, an architectural masterpiece and the site of royal weddings and coronations. Right next door is the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben. Take a moment to admire the view, then wander along the South Bank to enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps stop for a coffee by the Thames.
Evening: In the evening, visit The Shard, one of the tallest buildings in London. Take the lift to the observation deck for a breathtaking view of the city at night. For dinner, consider a restaurant along the river to enjoy the lights reflecting off the water.
Day 3: A Day of Museums and Parks
Morning: London’s cultural scene is vast, so today, immerse yourself in some of its world-class museums. Start with the Natural History Museum, home to dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits that are perfect for those interested in science and nature. Afterward, you could head to the Victoria and Albert Museum, which showcases fashion, design, and art from different cultures and eras.
Afternoon: For lunch, take a walk to Hyde Park, one of London’s largest green spaces. Relax by the Serpentine Lake or enjoy a boat ride. You can also visit Kensington Gardens, where you’ll find Kensington Palace, a must-see for royal enthusiasts.
Evening: In the evening, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Soho, known for its excellent restaurants and lively nightlife. You can catch a West End show or simply wander through the colorful streets.
Day 4: Travel from London to Paris
After three days in London, it’s time to hop on a train and head to Paris. The journey is comfortable and scenic, with trains connecting the two cities in just over two hours. To make the most of your budget, consider split ticketing for this train ride. Split ticketing allows you to book separate tickets for different parts of the journey, often at a lower cost. By using platforms like splitmyfare, you can enjoy significant savings and make your travel more affordable.
Morning: Take a train from London to Paris, preferably from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. Enjoy the scenic route through the French countryside, and don’t forget to keep your camera ready for some stunning views.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Paris, take a leisurely walk around Montmartre, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Paris. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Wander around the cobblestone streets, discovering quaint cafés and galleries that make this area so famous.
Evening: In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner cruise along the Seine River. This is one of the best ways to experience the sparkling beauty of Paris at night, with landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral lit up along the riverbanks.
Day 5: The Must-See Landmarks of Paris
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and take the elevator or, for a more adventurous option, climb the stairs to the second floor. The views of Paris are nothing short of breathtaking.
Afternoon: Afterward, make your way to the Louvre Museum, home to the world-famous Mona Lisa and an unparalleled collection of art. Even if you’re not a huge art lover, the Louvre’s architecture and history will captivate you. After the museum, take a walk through the Tuileries Garden, which offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Paris.
Evening: For dinner, explore the Latin Quarter, a charming area filled with cafés and bistros. Here, you can indulge in classic French dishes such as escargot, croissants, and crème brûlée, while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Day 6: Hidden Gems and the Charm of Paris
Morning: Spend the morning in the Le Marais district, one of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in Paris. Visit the Picasso Museum or simply wander through its narrow streets, filled with quirky boutiques and art galleries.
Afternoon: Head to Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in Paris. Afterward, visit the Musée des Arts et Métiers, a museum dedicated to the history of invention and technology. For lunch, enjoy a picnic at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a scenic park with waterfalls, temples, and bridges.
Evening: Conclude your day with a visit to the Luxembourg Gardens. This beautiful park, once part of the palace grounds, is perfect for a peaceful stroll. You can also visit the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate.
Day 7: Shopping and Departure
Morning: On your last day, indulge in some shopping at Galeries Lafayette or Le Bon Marché, two of Paris’s most famous department stores. Even if you don’t buy anything, the architecture of these shops is worth admiring.
Afternoon: Before leaving, take a final stroll down the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. You’ll pass high-end shops, theaters, and cafés, with the Arc de Triomphe at the end.
Evening: In the evening, depending on your departure time, enjoy a final dinner in Paris. Opt for a quiet bistro or café to savor a leisurely meal before heading to the airport or train station for your journey home.
Travel Tips for London and Paris:
Transportation: Both cities have fantastic public transportation systems, but for intercity travel between London and Paris, consider taking the train. London to Paris split train tickets can save you money without compromising comfort or convenience.
Language: While English is widely spoken in both cities, learning a few basic phrases in French will enhance your experience in Paris.
Local Experiences: Don’t miss out on local experiences such as afternoon tea in London or a wine-tasting session in Paris. These small details can make your trip more memorable.
Pack Smart: Be prepared for variable weather in both cities. Pack layers and comfortable walking shoes, as both London and Paris are best explored on foot.
By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of both London and Paris, balancing famous landmarks with hidden gems and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this combination of two great cities offers something for everyone.
