Can You Do London and Paris in a Week?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, chances are that London and Paris are two of the destinations on your list. These two cities are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, each offering their own unique experiences.

But can you really do both cities justice in just one week? Let’s find out.

Day 1-2: London

London is a bustling metropolis with so much to see and do. If you only have two days, here are some must-see attractions:

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

Take a stroll along the River Thames and marvel at the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament. If you have time, take a tour inside the Houses of Parliament for a fascinating look at British politics.

The Tower of London

Explore the historic Tower of London, which served as a royal palace, prison, and execution site. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels exhibit!

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s most famous museums with an incredible collection spanning over 2 million years of human history.

  • Other notable attractions: Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Day 3-5: Paris

Paris is known as the city of love with its romantic cafes and stunning architecture. Here are some highlights to check out during your three-day stay:

Eiffel Tower

No visit to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower! Take a lift up to the top for panoramic views of Paris.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is home to some of history’s most famous masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece that has stood for over 800 years.

  • Other notable attractions: Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, Montmartre.

Day 6-7: London/Paris

On your final two days, choose to spend more time in either London or Paris depending on your interests. Here are some options:

London

Take a day trip to Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire. Alternatively, visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour for an immersive look at the making of the films.

Paris

Visit Versailles Palace, an opulent royal residence with stunning gardens just outside of Paris. Alternatively, explore the charming village of Montmartre and its famous Moulin Rouge cabaret.

  • Other options: shopping on Oxford Street in London or exploring the trendy Le Marais neighborhood in Paris.

In conclusion, while it may be challenging to experience everything that London and Paris have to offer in just one week, it is certainly possible to hit some of the major highlights. With careful planning and prioritization of attractions based on your interests, you can make the most out of your European adventure. Bon voyage!