“A Tale of Two Cities” – London and Paris by First Class rail

London is the political, economic and cultural capital of Britain. You can visit the Queen’s official residence at Buckingham Palace and tour the Houses of Parliament, historic home of the UK government. London’s world-class tourist attractions are renowned across the globe. Many of the most famous attractions are free to visit, for example the Tate Modern, the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Stunning and stylish Paris is the ideal companion to London in so many ways. This most romantic of cities boasts an abundance of iconic monuments, world-class museums, gastronomic restaurants and chic boutiques to rival its British counterpart, all framed by elegant tree-lined boulevards and the mesmeric river Seine. It is also connected to London by a direct rail service that travels right into the heart of both cities.

6 night / 7 day vacation by First Class rail, with 2 private transfers in Paris, and staying in 4 star hotels including 3 nights in London and 3 nights in Paris, from $1,195 per person.

Upgrade your vacation to a luxury break with 5 star hotels in London and Paris from $1,995 per person.

(Prices are based on 2 passengers travelling together and twin/double rooms).

Day 1 – Arrival in London

Your vacation begins as you arrive in London and make your way to your base in the capital for the next three nights, the welcoming Amba Hotel Charing Cross (4 star), a stylish and contemporary hotel ideally located for discovering London’s most famous attractions. You have this afternoon to familiarise yourself with the area and plan your sightseeing.

Days 2 and 3 – London

You have two full days to explore the many sights and attractions this capital city has to offer. London is among the world’s most vibrant yet enchanting cities – offering attractions to satisfy anyone’s appetite. Your hotel’s central location means that many of the city’s highlights are within easy reach either on foot or by public transport.

Perhaps stroll past Buckingham Palace and through St James’ Park to Trafalgar Square, home to the superb National Gallery. Perhaps take a trip on the London Eye, a major feature of London’s skyline. At more than 440 ft, it is the world’s highest observation wheel, with 32 capsules. Climb aboard for a breath-taking experience, with unforgettable views of more than 55 of London’s most famous landmarks – all in just 30 minutes!

If you would like to discover more of the Charles Dickens connection, then head to the Charles Dickens Museum in Holborn. The charming Georgian building was the author’s home in the 1830s and is his only London address that is still standing. Today the museum houses some of Dickens’ personal effects along with items that featured in and inspired his celebrated novels.

You could take in the magnificent Westminster Abbey (where Dickens is buried in Poets’ Corner) – a stone’s throw from the Houses of Parliament – or head to the West End for some of the world’s most acclaimed theatre productions.

Day 4 – London to Paris

This morning make your way to St. Pancras International station. As you stroll through this beautifully restored station take the time to admire the stunning glass roof, then sit back, relax and watch the countryside glide past as you travel by Eurostar to Paris at speeds of up to 186mph. Enjoy the light meal and drinks served on board in your Standard Premier Class seat (Eurostar’s 1st class for leisure travellers). On arrival in Paris your taxi transfer will transport you to your hotel for three nights, the stylish Hôtel Le 123 Elysées (4 star), ideally located close to all of the main attractions of Paris. You have the rest of today to explore the chic French capital. Take a stroll from your hotel and find yourself on the pulsating Champs Elysées, among the chic boutiques of the Rue de Rivoli or amidst the tranquillity of the Jardin des Tuileries. Alternatively perhaps discover the grandeur of the Louvre (pictured). This evening you can choose from a myriad of wonderful restaurants or a cosy bistro for dinner.

Days 5 and 6 – Incomparable Paris

Whether you are enticed here by the romance of the Île St. Louis, the vibrancy of the Champs Elysées, the more bohemian Quartier Latin, the audacious modernity of the Centre Pompidou or the imposing and unique Eiffel Tower, Paris will beguile you with its gallic charm. Our carefully selected hotel is perfectly located for exploring Paris. In fact since Paris is such a compact city you will find yourself at the heart of it all, from the finest gastronomic restaurants, welcoming, traditional brasseries and smart cafés that spill invitingly onto the streets.

Experience the marvellous views from the Sacré-Coeur, the poignancy and quirkiness of the Père-Lachaise cemetery, and the lesser known charm of the Marais near the Bastille. You might like to visit La Conciergerie, a Gothic palace that was used as a prison during the French Revolution. You could also head to Montmartre where the streets, houses and cafés still evoke the colourful experience that Dickens would have known from his visits.

Paris is one of those fabulous cities that reveal a different aspect at every turn, leaving the visitor with wonderful memories and an overwhelming desire to return time after time.

Day 7 – Paris to London – Homeward bound

This morning your driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you back to the Gare du Nord as you bid au revoir to Paris. Here you join the Eurostar service and head for home. Take time to reflect on the magnificent sights, sounds and tastes you have enjoyed on your vacation as you sit back and relax with a light meal and drinks before your arrival into London St Pancras ahead of the final stage of your journey home.