Epic 7-Day Paris and London Itinerary
Are you ready for the ultimate European vacation? Why not combine a trip to two of the world’s most iconic cities: Paris and London!
This Paris and London itinerary will show you how to combine a trip to these beautiful European cities (which are some of my favorite cities in the world). From sipping coffee in a Parisian café to taking in the sights of Big Ben and Buckingham Palace—there’s something for everyone.
I totally get why Europe is so intriguing for many Americans – actually for people from all over the world. Europeans love to travel within Europe, and if you have never been to Europe before, you will quickly understand why it is so popular.
I mean, we all know about the world-famous cities like Vienna, or Barcelona; about the stunning islands like Santorini and Mallorca; and let’s not forget about the breathtaking scenery of Central Europe. Paris and London, however, are some of the most special destinations on the continent.
So, if you plan to visit the two main cities in Europe, London, and Paris, this one-week itinerary will help you figure out how to organize your trip. Whether you want to stay seven days or even longer, there are lots of things to do and see.
DISCLAIMER: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. THIS MEANS I MIGHT EARN A SMALL COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY A PRODUCT/SERVICE (AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU). MORE ABOUT IT HERE.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR LONDON AND PARIS ITINERARY
Here are some tips that will help you plan your trip before discussing your actual Paris and London itinerary.
Booking Accommodation
For hotels, I mostly use booking.com because I am a very spontaneous person and want to be flexible. Most of the time, you can – often- cancel accommodations without any cost up to 24 hours before your stay. The rates are also most often the best.
Keep in mind, that London and Paris are both extremely expensive when it comes to accommodation. If you stay outside the city center. you can find better deals. Also, public transportation in both cities is pretty good. If you rely on public transportation, make sure a metro/underground station is close by.
Booking Tours
When I book my tours, I mostly use GetYourGuide because of their generous cancellation policy. And in case something comes up, I know they have my back (like the day I was not picked up for a tour even though the tour operator confirmed the trip. I got my money back from GetYourGuide after the tour operator did not return my messages). I will mention tours whenever I feel it is suitable for you guys!
Airports in London and Paris
For this London and Paris itinerary, you can start either in London or Paris. Both cities are well connected to airports from all over the world. If you come from abroad, you will most likely fly into London or Paris
- Airports in London: These airports include London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, and London Stansted. Some are quite far from the city center, but all airports are well-connected to the city center of London and have regular shuttle buses.
- Airports in Paris: There are three main airports in Paris for visitors: Charles de Gaulle Airport, Orly Airport, and Beauvais-Tillé Airport. The first two airports are well-served by public transport. The latter one is a lot farther from the city and getting to the city requires a longer and more expensive transfer.
However, if you are from European countries like Germany, Belgium, or the Netherlands (or any other country close by), then getting to London or Paris by train would probably be a good or even better choice.
Best Time to Visit London and Paris
I have visited both cities many times, and while I almost always had great weather in Paris, the weather in London was… grayish.
Both cities are great to visit in December – for all the Christmas lights and shopping. But Christmas lights, markets, and shopping is not your main priority and if you can freely book your trip, I suggest visiting in May, June, or September.
I normally never recommend visiting a place during the high season, which for Europe is most often in July and August. Both cities also host many events, like the Tour de France and Fashion Weeks, which make prices for accommodation go up significantly at that time.
So, if you aren’t visiting for one of those events, try avoiding those times.
How to Get From London to Paris or From Paris to London
You can, of course, fly from one city to the other. There are quite a number of flights between these two capitals each day.
However, the easiest way to get from Paris to London is by train. The journey from Paris to London takes around 2,5 hours on board Eurostar’s high-speed trains. You can book tickets online.
Normally, the earlier you book, the cheaper it gets.
Make sure to have your ID with you – since the UK is not part of the EU anymore, your passports will be checked.
HOW TO SPEND 7 DAYS IN PARIS – LONDON ITINERARY
For your itinerary, you can start your trip with London or Paris – it’s up to you. I do not see any particular benefit to starting in one city.
3,5 DAYS IN PARIS
Paris… there are not many cities in the world that are as popular, famous, and appealing as this quite small European city. While I did not fall in love with Paris immediately, after about 8 trips or so, I can say that the city has grown on me. Now, I do feel that Paris is rightfully on people´s bucket lists!
Paris is not only a great destination for love birds: it is a heaven for shopping addicts, for architect lovers, for people who enjoy outdoor time and nice strolls, for history nerds… to make it short: Paris is great!
It is pretty. Pretty, pretty, pretty!
Best Places to Stay in Paris
You can find all kinds of accommodations in Paris. However, the standard of accommodation is not very high (a 3-star hotel can be quite shabby), so I would probably pay a few $ more to avoid ending up in a very shady place.
To check out accommodation rates for different hotels just click on each link:
- Luxury Hotels in Paris – the luxurious hotels in Paris come with a big price tag but are probably worth the money: Four Seasons Hotel George V is one of the most iconic hotels in Paris – find out more about the hotel and the rates here.
- Hotel Wo – this 3-star hotel has great reviews and is centrally located– Click here to find the best rates for this hotel in Paris
- I sometimes book budget hotels – but actually, I cannot recommend budget hotels in Paris (if you know a great budget hotel let me know though).
You should know what to expect – while it is often called the most romantic city in the world, the truth is that it can be a bit disappointing at first. It is dirty, and there are a lot of tourist scams but it is also extremely beautiful and special. While I am often in my hotel after sunset, I try to experience Paris at night.
Because Paris is the City of Lights – and the illuminated Eiffel Tower is just one fantastic sight to see after sunset – and it wears its best dress at night.
However, there is also a lot to do and see during the day.
Before jumping to your days in Paris, here are a few more travel tips. Depending on the time of your arrival, I suggest planning in about 3-5 days for Paris. While the city is small, there is a lot to do.
- Paris is best explored on foot. The city is geographically small, and many tourist attractions are quite close to one another. However, once in a while, you will need public transportation.
- Public transportation is also pretty great. So, hop on the metro or bus to get around, if needed. It is easy, fast, and affordable. There is no Oyster Card in Paris (unlike in London) so you could either buy single tickets or plan in advance and buy multi-tickets to save a bit of money.
- Hop-on and hop-off buses are also great options, and you get a discount on several popular tourist attractions in Paris.
- I hate to say it, but Parisians are not the nicest people – and they do not even bother to speak English. So, you really should pick up some French words. However, I also realized that people were becoming nicer day by day, but still… Download a translation app, if needed.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning for a second visit, you won’t be disappointed by what Paris has in store. Paris, the City of Lights, is a romantic destination that offers something for everyone. With three days in Paris, you’ll have plenty of time to explore this charming city.
Spend your day getting to know the city with a relaxing stroll through the cobbled streets of Montmartre. Stop by the Sacré Coeur for epic views of Paris, and don’t miss out on famous attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. Indulge in some retail therapy at Galeries Lafayette and Le Marais, then explore the Latin Quarter or take a romantic boat ride along the Seine River. Explore stunning Versaille and learn about France´s history.
End your trip with a visit to the Louvre and some well-deserved rest and relaxation in one of the city’s many parks. With so much to do, your 3,5 days in Paris will be unforgettable!
THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT IN PARIS IN 3,5 DAYS
- Visit the Eiffel Tower (during day and night – it is really magical in the dark)
- Stroll the Seine
- Admire the Bridges
- Picnic by the Seine
- See Notre Dame
- Explore the Louvre
- Rest at Jardin des Tuileries
- Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
- Rest at Jardin du Luxembourg
- Visit Versailles
I have a very detailed Paris post where you can find out more about the best activities and an ideal 4-day Paris itinerary and also a post about the best day trips from Paris.
3,5 DAYS IN LONDON
London is another fun capital in Europe. It is a bit hipper and I think younger people (especially if you travel with teenagers) will enjoy London more than Paris. However, this does not mean I suggest skipping Paris. Like Paris, I have visited London numerous times, and I always find new cute places and great spots.
Since the UK has left the European Union, things have changed a bit and this might also be true for crossing borders. I haven’t been to England since then. So, I cannot say how much you will be controlled when crossing borders.
Where to Stay in London
Here are some of the best-rated hotels for each budget:
- Luxury Hotels in London – London is home to numerous luxury hotels – if you find something easily it is luxury accommodation in London.
- Ritz-Carlton is one of the top hotels – it is also conveniently located in the city center and quite close to Buckingham Palace. Click here for the best rates and more info.
- Draycott Hotel is a small luxury boutique hotel I actually stayed at one night. It is definitely, a good choice if you prefer smaller and more unique places. Click here for more info and the best rates.
- Mid-Range Hotels in London – If you are looking for nice but more budget-friendly hotels that are located in the center of London, then check out the following hotels:
- 3-star hotel Hampton by Hilton Waterloo – find out more about this hotel and get the best rates here.
- Budget Hotels in London – London is expensive but you might find a good deal
- This hostel is well-rated, and conveniently located and if you book a bed in a dorm you can actually get a bargain. Click here to get the best rates for YHA London Central.
London is a must on any England itinerary but since it is quite easy to get from London to Paris, this Paris/London itinerary is also fun.
London is as rainy as rumors say and so, don’t forget your umbrella – with this in the back of your head, be ready to explore one of the most exciting and diverse cities in Europe.
There is so much history – so many historic and important buildings, so many new and modern buildings, so many great Instagrammable spots, so many artists…Do not forget all the pubs and friendly people…
Before discussing the main things to do in London, here is some information for your days in London.
LONDON TRAVEL TIPS
- Though many sights are within walking distance, you might need to take the bus or underground once in a while.
- The underground in London works fine (I still prefer taking buses though). It gets extremely busy, especially at rush hour. So, I really recommend not taking the underground or bus at those times. It works fine and is quite cheap and fast.
- Some of the red double-decker buses are actually regular buses and not sightseeing buses, which is pretty cool and I recommend using them at least once.
- Oyster Card: Buying an Oyster Card makes sense if you use public transportation often. You can load it up with credit and just swipe it in/out at every bus and underground station. In the end, it finds the best rates and calculates the cheapest tickets (handy, right?). You can now also use your credit card and pay contactless.
- Hop-on and hop-off buses are also popular and great for seeing London from a different perspective.
- You can rent bikes for free at many bike stations. The first 30 minutes are free, then you would have to pay. I normally just ride around for 30 minutes and then bring it back to a rental station. There are quite a few rental stations in the city center.
- While the black cabs are very popular and iconic, I have never used them and don’t think you really need a cap if you book your hotel in a central location.
London is an iconic European destination full of culture, history, and entertainment. With three days in the city, you’ll be able to experience all that it has to offer. Begin your journey with a tour of some of London’s most famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace.
Once you’ve seen the sights, explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Covent Garden, Camden Market, and Shoreditch. Make sure to sample some of the local cuisines in one of London’s many restaurants and pubs. Of course, you can’t miss a traditional afternoon tea at one of London’s historic hotels.
Finish your trip with a show at the West End theatre district or by exploring more of this vibrant city at night!
THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT IN LONDON
- Hyde Park and Speaker´s Corner
- Buckingham Palace
- London Eye
- St. James´ Park
- Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)
- Tower of London
- St. Paul‘s Cathedral
- Nottinghill
- Oxford Street or Regent´s Street
- If you visit in winter check out my London winter travel guide.
- For more tips and more detailed info on all of the places to see, head to my detailed London 4-day itinerary.
- Check out my England itinerary if you want to stay a bit longer in England – click here to find out more.
- If you are on a budget, then take out my London budget guide.
As you can see, my more detailed posts have much more info for your trip.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING PARIS AND LONDON FOR A WEEK
Visiting Paris and London in 7 days is the perfect combination of culture, sightseeing, and entertainment. With iconic monuments, historic landmarks, delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and much more – there’s something for everyone in these two stunning cities. From Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower and everything in between, you’ll have a vacation of a lifetime.
By combining a London and Paris trip, you can experience the best of both worlds.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Paris-London itinerary. So I hope that this 7 days London and Paris itinerary will help you plan your trip!
