Paris & London in 10 Days: Your Ultimate Dream Itinerary

Paris and London are two of Europe’s most iconic cities, brimming with history, culture, and unique charm. This 10-day itinerary will guide you through must-see sights and give essential tips on easily navigating both cities.

Days 1–4: Starting in Paris – The City of Light

Start your journey in Paris, known for its timeless beauty and romantic ambiance. Once you’ve settled in, ease into the Parisian vibe with an evening stroll along the Seine River. As you walk, you’ll pass by major landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the buzzing Latin Quarter.

Day 2: Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum

Begin Day 2 with an early visit to the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking city views. Be sure to book tickets here to skip the lines. Afterward, head to the Louvre Museum to see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa (booking tickets through the official site will save time). To end the day, take a scenic walk along the Champs-Élysées and up to the Arc de Triomphe for a magnificent view of the avenue.

Day 3: Montmartre’s Charm and Seine River Cruise

Day 3 is perfect for Montmartre’s bohemian charm. Start your morning at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and stroll through Place du Tertre, known for its street artists. In the afternoon, explore the Musée d’Orsay, home to an impressive Impressionist collection. Finish your day with a romantic Seine River cruise to admire Paris illuminated at night.

Day 4: Palace of Versailles and the Eurostar to London

For Day 4, take a morning trip to Versailles. The RER C train from central Paris will take you directly to the Palace of Versailles, where you can explore opulent halls and gardens. When you’re ready to leave, board the Eurostar train at Gare du Nord for a quick, two-hour journey to London (book tickets here for best rates).

Days 5–7: Welcome to London – The Heart of History

Arriving in London, settle in, then take a leisurely walk through Covent Garden to experience the area’s shopping, dining, and vibrant street performances.

Day 6: Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the South Bank

Start Day 6 with a visit to the Tower of London to view the Crown Jewels. Afterward, walk across Tower Bridge and explore the South Bank, including the Tate Modern art gallery. End the day with a ride on the London Eye (book tickets here) for spectacular city views.

Day 7: Westminster and the British Museum

On Day 7, head to Westminster Abbey, where British monarchs have been crowned for centuries. Nearby, see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. In the afternoon, visit the British Museum or the National Gallery. For a memorable evening, catch a West End show; browse tickets here.

Day 8: Day Trips from London

London offers easy access to several historical spots. For Day 8, consider these options:

• • Windsor: Take a train from London Paddington to explore Windsor Castle, home to the British royals. Book tickets here.

• • Bath: Alternatively, take a train to Bath to see its Roman Baths and beautiful Georgian architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (official site).

Day 9: Markets, Parks, and Evening in Soho

On Day 9, start at Borough Market, one of London’s oldest food markets, perfect for sampling local flavors. Afterward, stroll through Hyde Park or visit the Victoria and Albert Museum for an art and design fix. For the evening, explore Soho, known for its lively dining and entertainment options.

Day 10: Final Day in London

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before you bid farewell to London.

Transport Tips: Getting Around Paris and London

Paris Transport Tips

• • Metro and RER: Paris has a fast, reliable Metro and RER system. The Paris Visite Pass offers unlimited travel on Metro, RER, buses, and trams, making it a great option for tourists. More details here.

• • Eurostar Train: The Eurostar takes you directly from Gare du Nord to London’s St Pancras International. This journey takes about two hours, with advance booking offering significant savings. Book your trip on Eurostar’s official site.

London Transport Tips

• • Underground and Buses: London’s Tube and red buses are convenient for city travel. Using an Oyster Card or contactless payment card gives flexibility and cost-effective travel with daily caps. Learn more about the Oyster Card here.

• • National Rail for Day Trips: London’s train network easily connects you to nearby destinations, such as Windsor and Bath. Check National Rail for schedules and tickets.

Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

1. 1. Book Tickets in Advance: For popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and West End shows, online booking saves time and guarantees entry.

1. 1. Travel Cards: Use the Paris Visite Pass for Metro travel in Paris and the Oyster Card for all public transport in London.

1. 1. Stay Centrally: Booking accommodations near main attractions minimizes travel time and maximizes sightseeing.

This itinerary balances iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural gems, making for a memorable journey through Paris and London. Enjoy these two unforgettable cities!

FAQ

1. 1. What’s the best way to travel from Paris to London?
      The Eurostar train is the quickest and most convenient option, connecting Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras in just over two hours.

1. 1. How can I get around Paris easily?
      Paris offers an efficient Métro and RER system; a Paris Visite Pass allows unlimited travel on public transport across the city.

1. 1. What should I prioritize visiting in London?
      Key spots include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum. Adding a West End show makes for a memorable evening!

1. 1. Can I do day trips from London?
      Yes! Windsor Castle and the historic city of Bath are both easy day trips accessible by train from central London.

1. 1. Is it necessary to book tickets for major attractions in advance?
      Yes, it’s recommended to book tickets for attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and London’s West End shows to avoid long lines.