You’ve imagined standing beneath the Eiffel Tower at dusk, a flaky croissant in hand, camera ready. Or perhaps you’ve pictured yourself strolling along the Thames, past red double-decker buses and historic bridges, catching the chime of Big Ben. If that sounds like you, this guide is your golden ticket. Travel to London and Paris can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry—you’re about to discover a detailed, smartly planned, emotionally satisfying 10-day itinerary that lets you experience both cities without missing a beat.
Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a romantic escape, or crafting a family memory, this itinerary is tailored to help you navigate two of the world’s most iconic destinations smoothly and stylishly.
Table of Contents
10-Day London and Paris Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | City | Highlights | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | London | Arrival, Westminster Walk | Get an Oyster Card for easy transit |
| Day 2 | London | Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Eye | Start early to avoid crowds |
| Day 3 | London | British Museum, Covent Garden, West End Show | Reserve theater tickets in advance |
| Day 4 | London | Tower of London, Borough Market, River Cruise | Buy combo attraction passes |
| Day 5 | Travel (Train) | Eurostar to Paris, Eiffel Tower at sunset | Book Eurostar early for deals |
| Day 6 | Paris | Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe | Use Paris Metro pass |
| Day 7 | Paris | Louvre, Seine River Cruise, Tuileries Garden | Skip-the-line Louvre ticket |
| Day 8 | Paris | Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, Wine & Cheese tasting | Stay until nightfall in Montmartre |
| Day 9 | Paris | Day Trip to Versailles | Pre-book timed tickets |
| Day 10 | Paris | Departure or optional half-day shopping | Get to the airport 3 hours early |
How to Prepare for Your Trip to London and Paris
Travel Documents and Currency
Before booking, check visa requirements. U.S., Canadian, and many EU passport holders can enter both the UK and France visa-free for tourism. However, starting 2025, the ETIAS system will require registration to enter France.
- London uses GBP (British Pound)
- Paris uses EUR (Euro)
Tip: Avoid airport exchange booths. Use local ATMs or travel-friendly bank cards like Revolut or Wise.
Best Time to Travel to London and Paris
Traveling in the spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) gives you mild weather, fewer crowds, and colorful cityscapes. July and August see major tourist spikes.
| Season | Weather | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 10–18°C (50–64°F) | Low–Moderate |
| Summer | 18–28°C (64–82°F) | High |
| Fall | 10–20°C (50–68°F) | Moderate |
| Winter | 2–10°C (35–50°F) | Low |
What to Pack for London and Paris
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A small daypack
- Power adapter (UK Type G and EU Type C)
- Umbrella or waterproof jacket
- Light layers (weather changes fast)
Where to Stay: London vs. Paris
Top Neighborhoods in London
- South Bank: Walkable, close to landmarks
- Kensington: Leafy, upscale, great for families
- Covent Garden: Trendy, central, near theatres
- Budget: Look for hostels near King’s Cross or Paddington
Best Areas in Paris
- Marais (4th): Art, food, and history collide
- Latin Quarter (5th): Bookish, bohemian charm
- 7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower views
- Budget: Check accommodations in the 11th or 12th arrondissements
Top Attractions in London
Must-See Sights
- Big Ben & Westminster Abbey: Iconic Gothic architecture
- Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard
- London Eye: Best panoramic views of the skyline
- Tower of London: Dive into royal history and crown jewels
Hidden London Gems
- Sky Garden: Free city views with reservation
- Leadenhall Market: Harry Potter filming location
- Camden Market: Boho shopping and live music
Top Attractions in Paris
Iconic Landmarks
- Eiffel Tower: Book a sunset time slot for magic
- Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe: Grand Parisian stroll
- Louvre Museum: See Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and more
- Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior post-fire)
Off-the-Beaten-Path Paris
- Sainte-Chapelle: Hidden stained-glass masterpiece
- Canal Saint-Martin: Romantic walks & cafes
- Rue Mouffetard: Oldest market street in Paris
Getting Around: Public Transport in London & Paris
In London
- Use the Oyster Card or contactless payment
- The Tube is easy, fast, and covers most sights
- Black cabs are charming but costly
In Paris
- Paris Métro is fast and extensive
- Carnet of tickets or Navigo Easy Card recommended
- Vélib’ bike system for short-distance rides
London to Paris: Eurostar Tips
- Leaves from St. Pancras International, arrives at Gare du Nord
- Journey takes ~2 hours 20 minutes
- Arrive at least 60–90 minutes before departure
- Tickets often cheaper if booked 2–3 months in advance
Delicious Bites: Culinary Experiences
What to Eat in London
- Full English Breakfast
- Fish & Chips at a riverside pub
- Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason or Sketch
- Global cuisines: Brick Lane (Indian), Soho (Asian fusion)
What to Eat in Paris
- Croissants & Baguettes at any neighborhood boulangerie
- Crêpes from Rue Cler stalls
- Escargots, Duck Confit, Steak Frites in bistros
- Macarons at Ladurée or Pierre Hermé
Dining Etiquette
- London: Tipping 10–12% is standard
- Paris: Service included but round up for good service
- Always greet with a polite “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir”
Budget Breakdown: What You’ll Spend
| Category | London (Daily) | Paris (Daily) |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel | $120–250 | $130–300 |
| Food | $40–70 | $50–90 |
| Transport | $15–25 | $10–20 |
| Attractions | $30–60 | $35–65 |
| Total Daily | ~$220–400 | ~$230–450 |
Use city passes like the London Pass and Paris Museum Pass to reduce individual ticket costs.
Cultural Tips and Safety Advice
Staying Safe
- Watch out for pickpockets at tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and Oxford Street
- Avoid empty Metro cars at night
- Keep valuables close and zipped
- Emergency Numbers: 999 (UK), 112 (EU)
Respecting Local Culture
- In Paris, greetings matter. Say hello before asking questions
- Dress respectfully in churches and monuments
- Queueing (especially in London) is sacred—never cut in line
Conclusion:
Traveling to London and Paris for the first time is more than sightseeing—it’s a transformative adventure. These cities aren’t just about ticking off bucket-list items; they’re about discovering parts of yourself in every alley, every cafe, every skyline view. With this itinerary, you’re not just prepared; you’re poised to fully experience two cultures, two histories, two heartbeats of Europe.
FAQ : about Travel to London and Paris
How long should I spend in London and Paris?
Ten days lets you enjoy the major highlights without rushing. Four days in London, five in Paris, and one for travel offers a well-rounded experience.
Is the Eurostar better than flying?
Yes. Eurostar is faster (city center to center), more comfortable, and less stressful than flying.
Do I need two different SIM cards?
A European travel SIM works in both cities, but double-check your provider’s Brexit roaming policies.
Can I do this trip on a budget?
Absolutely. Use public transport, eat at markets, and look for free walking tours. Paris and London both offer tons of free museums and gardens.
Is it safe to travel between the two cities alone?
Yes, both cities are solo-travel friendly. Stick to well-lit areas at night and follow usual precautions.
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