Festive London & Paris
Holiday cheer from London to the Louvre
Sip a cozy cup of hot chocolate as you stroll through colorful Christmas markets, enjoy a magical tour of London's Christmas lights, and go ice skating under the Eiffel Tower! Celebrate the holidays more festively than ever on this incredible winter vacation to two sparkling cities. Enjoy included city passes, afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey, a Parisian Christmas-themed cooking class, and much more!
What's Included
- Round-trip, economy-class airfare into London (LHR), out of Paris (CDG)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in London at the Durrants Hotel or similar
- London Pass with Oyster Card (2-Day)
- Encore Tickets Premier Theatre Passport
- Afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey & Magical Christmas Lights Tour
- Standard class rail from London to Paris
- 3 nights in Paris at the Hotel Square Louvois Paris or similar
- Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour
- Paris Pass (2-Day)
- Traditional French Festive Christmas Cooking Class with Market Visit
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Find unique handmade crafts at colorful Christmas markets throughout London and Paris.
- Accompany a French chef to a local produce market in Paris!
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Head to London's dazzling West End and enjoy included show tickets.
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Savor the flavors of the holidays as you partake in a Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour in Paris.
-
Treat yourself to delicious dinners at festively decorated restaurants in both cities!
Treat yourself this holiday season! Visit London and Paris as they're all dressed up for the holidays. Browse through buzzing Christmas markets and feel yourself gasp at breathtaking decorations around the cities. From Christmas lights, to Christmas carols, to holiday treats, this festive vacation is a thrill for the senses.
Start off your holiday adventure in the sophisticated city of London. Use your included London Pass and Oyster Card to sightsee your way through the city, from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. Enjoy a special afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey, then Embark on a magical Christmas lights tour through the city! When exploring London on your own, you may want to go ice skating at the Natural History Museum and immerse yourself in holiday cheer at Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland.
Take the train from London to Paris - pretend you're on the Polar Express! When you arrive in the City of Light, you'll be greeted with beautiful Christmas decor and mouthwatering cuisine. Take advantage of your included 2-day Paris Pass, which grants you great perks, like a hop-on/hop-off bus tour, a cruise on the Seine, and admission to some of Paris' most iconic museums! The best part of the holidays is the food - we know that, and Parisians know that. With this being said, enjoy two more included tours: a Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour, on which you'll sip and sample your way through Parisian holiday traditions, and a Traditional French Festive Christmas Cooking Class with a Market Visit, on which you'll shop at a local outdoor market with a French chef before you create a culinary masterpiece of your own.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip, economy-class airfare into London (LHR), out of Paris (CDG)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 3 nights in London at the Durrants Hotel or similar
- London Pass with Oyster Card (2-Day)
- Encore Tickets Premier Theatre Passport
- Afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey & Magical Christmas Lights Tour
- Standard class rail from London to Paris
- 3 nights in Paris at the Hotel Square Louvois Paris or similar
- Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour
- Paris Pass (2-Day)
- Traditional French Festive Christmas Cooking Class with Market Visit
- Breakfast Daily
-
Find unique handmade crafts at colorful Christmas markets throughout London and Paris.
- Accompany a French chef to a local produce market in Paris!
-
Head to London's dazzling West End and enjoy included show tickets.
-
Savor the flavors of the holidays as you partake in a Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour in Paris.
-
Treat yourself to delicious dinners at festively decorated restaurants in both cities!
Treat yourself this holiday season! Visit London and Paris as they're all dressed up for the holidays. Browse through buzzing Christmas markets and feel yourself gasp at breathtaking decorations around the cities. From Christmas lights, to Christmas carols, to holiday treats, this festive vacation is a thrill for the senses.
Start off your holiday adventure in the sophisticated city of London. Use your included London Pass and Oyster Card to sightsee your way through the city, from Big Ben to the Tower Bridge. Enjoy a special afternoon tea at Westminster Abbey, then Embark on a magical Christmas lights tour through the city! When exploring London on your own, you may want to go ice skating at the Natural History Museum and immerse yourself in holiday cheer at Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland.
Take the train from London to Paris - pretend you're on the Polar Express! When you arrive in the City of Light, you'll be greeted with beautiful Christmas decor and mouthwatering cuisine. Take advantage of your included 2-day Paris Pass, which grants you great perks, like a hop-on/hop-off bus tour, a cruise on the Seine, and admission to some of Paris' most iconic museums! The best part of the holidays is the food - we know that, and Parisians know that. With this being said, enjoy two more included tours: a Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour, on which you'll sip and sample your way through Parisian holiday traditions, and a Traditional French Festive Christmas Cooking Class with a Market Visit, on which you'll shop at a local outdoor market with a French chef before you create a culinary masterpiece of your own.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to London!
Upon arrival in London, enjoy a convenient transfer to your hotel. Settle in, freshen up, then go explore!
Be sure to take advantage of your included London Pass, Oyster Card, and Encore Theatre Passport! As you sightsee through the city, warm up with a cozy cup of coffee or tea - and be on the lookout for beautiful holiday decorations!
Shared transfer to London hotel
A family-run hotel for nearly 100 years, Durrants Hotel knows how to make you feel welcome during your stay. The hotel is a short ride from St Pancras and Paddington stations, as well as the Bond Street tube station. Only a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and 15 from Regent's Park and Hyde Park, you'll never need to worry about transportation. Relax in you charming guestroom and pamper yourself with L'Occitane toiletries. Take in the lively atmosphere of Durrants restaurant and bar or get in touch with the concierge to take care of any reservation, theater ticket, or chauffeur services you may need.
Experience true English elegance at this beyond-luxurious hotel. Nestled right in between Regent's Park and University College London, this hotel boasts stylish decor, modern amenities, and fabulous facilities. After checking in to your spacious, well-equipped room, hop on the Tube and find yourself at all of London's most famous sights in just minutes!
After an exciting day of exploring the city, make your way back to the hotel. Freshen up in your swanky marble bathroom, then head downstairs and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at the elegant Steak and Lobster restaurant. Why not unwind with a cocktail at its trendy, bustling bar? Return to you room, kick off your shoes, and climb into your large cozy bed. Catch up on your favorite TV shows, look through priceless photos from the day, or use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure.
London Pass (2-day with Oystercard)
The London Pass with Oystercard provides free entry to over 60 of London’s top attractions, tours, museums and sights - including Fast Track Entry to a selection of the most popular attractions – plus a Travelcard providing unlimited access to public transportation! You'll also receive a 160-page guidebook packed with useful information about the attractions, including directions and maps and a one day Hop-on/Hop-off bus ticket.
You’ll have complimentary access to such “must-see” sights and activities as Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Wembley & Arsenal Stadiums, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and a Thames River cruise – with fast track entrance to some of the most popular attractions - the Tower of London, London Bridge Experience, Windsor Castle, London Zoo, Kensington Palace and Hampton Court Palace! And the Oystercard component complements your London Pass by providing unlimited transportation on all London Underground, buses, trams, Docklands Light Rail and other select National Rail Services within Zones 1-6.
Includes:
- Free entry to over 60 of London’s top attractions, tours, museums and sights
- Fast Track Entry to a selection of the most popular attractions
- One day Hop-on/Hop-off bus ticket
- Travelcard providing unlimited access to public transportation
- 160-page guidebook packed with useful information about the attractions, including directions and maps * Access to a free London Pass Travel Guide App
- Thames River Cruise
Encore Tickets Premier Theatre Passport
The Encore Tickets Premier Theater Passport gives travelers the flexibility to see just about any West End show they’d like, on any date, without having to commit to a specific performance at the time of booking.
The Premier Theater Passport entitles the bearer to premium seating at just about any performance of any show on any date. Vouchers must be redeemed at the Encore Ticket Reception Center on the day travelers wish to go to the theater. Visit here for a list of currently available shows with the premiere pass.
Day 2. London
Recharge with a lovely English breakfast, then get ready for a day of fantastic festivities. After a leisurely morning, head to breathtaking Westminster Abbey, where you'll enjoy a special afternoon tea. From this iconic site, you'll be taken on an evening Christmas tour around London. See this sophisticated city's landmarks all lit up for the holidays!
Afternoon Tea at Westminster Abbey & Magical Christmas Lights Tour
Celebrate the holidays with a delicious Christmas-themed Afternoon Tea at Westminster Abbey, followed by a tour of London’s magical Christmas lights! Your afternoon tea will take place in a private area of the Cellarium Café & Terrace at Westminster Abbey, where you’ll enjoy such treats as smoked salmon sandwiches, chocolates, mince pies, cranberry and raisin scones, and more.
After a scrumptious afternoon, board a luxurious coach for a panoramic tour of London at night, including the famous Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, and the magical lights of the West End!
Please refer to your final travel documents for the date of this tour.
Please note: This tour does not include full admission to or a tour of Westminster Abbey.
Day 3. London
After breakfast, soak up the festive spirit of London at your own pace. Step into Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, then glide around the stunning Christmas Tree at the ice rink adjacent to the Natural History Museum.
If you're a Harry Potter fan, be sure to check out the Warner Bros. Studio to see Hogwarts all decked out for Christmas! Visiting the studio during the holiday season is magically unique, as many of the sets are ornately decorated or set in the snow.
If you haven't used your theatre pass, be sure to keep it in mind! Whether you see a Christmas show or an everyday musical, London's West End is a vibrant hub of holiday cheer.
Day 4. London - Paris
Indulge in one last English breakfast, then give London the royal wave goodbye. Paris, here you come!
Enjoy a lovely train ride through Europe and watch towns and countryside whiz by. Upon arrival in the City of Light, make your way to your luxurious accommodation. Settle in, then stroll around and take in the elegant atmosphere of this romantic city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner of French cuisine!
Train to Paris!
The Hotel Square Louvois enjoys a very central home, in the heart of Paris’s 2nd arrondissement. Its location in Louvois Square was a focal point of high society and French culture dating back to the early 19th century, and today the same spirit of art and history reigns, in the new Hotel Square Louvoisa. Its elegant style with Art Deco details have made it a number one destination in Parisian chic, where contemporary design and 19th century Haussmannian influences are combined with great refinement, and French classicism contrasts with noble modern materials.
With the influence of bygone charm, the warm and cozy guestrooms convey all the authenticity of the past. The decoration highlights the influences of yesteryear, together with the comfort of today, for a stay where French-style charm plays the leading role. Far from the urban hubbub, the hotel’s Wellness Area with fitness center and herbal tea room is dedicated to peace and relaxation for an interlude outside of time. Under the natural stone vaults, the indoor swimming pool has a hydromassage bench for total relaxation.
Between 4 and 6 p.m., the hotel provides a delicious French-style afternoon tea for its guests. For a "just like home" experience, enjoy a welcome break with a snack made up of sweet creations.
Step into trendy sophistication at this quintessentially Parisian hotel. Upon entering the Royal Madeleine Hotel, you'll notice stunning decor - a mix of rich jewel tones, antique metals, wooden furniture, and eclectic accents. Think: mid-century modern with an artsy twist.
Nestled in the heart of Paris' 8th arrondissement, the Opera district, this elegant hotel makes a perfect home base for your Parisian adventure. Just a 15-minute walk to the Louvre and Tuileries Garden, the Royal Madeleine is easily accessible by the Metro.
Open the door to your luxurious room and find Wi-Fi, TV, plush bedding, L'Occitane products, and much more. In the mood to relax? Head down to the zen spa and steam all your stresses away in the sauna. Why not take a dip in the heated pool or rest in the herbal tea room? Keep up your workout routine at the on-site fitness center - so you can make more room for pastries and baguettes! Speaking of food, treat yourself to a lovely lunch or a classy cocktail at the Royal Madeleine's Restaurant ROYAL.
Make yourself at home in this quaint boutique-hotel that pairs Parisian elegance with English comfort. Located in the heart of the city, you will be immersed in the beauty and artistic culture of Paris. Wake up to colorful flowered fabrics, exposed beams, and eclectically chic decor. Start your day with a coffee and a croissant on the garden patio, then take a refreshing bath using complimentary L'Occitane toiletries. Walk over to The Luxembourg Gardens, Sorbonne, the Pantheon, or the Louvre, and stop at a local cafe along the way. Need some help with directions, tours, or tickets? Not to worry -- a friendly staff, including a concierge, will happily assist you.
After an exciting day of exploring, shopping, and eating, escape the bustle of the city and unwind in your comfortable, soundproof, air conditioned room. Raid the mini-bar, make some tea, and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to plan your next day of adventure.
Day 5. Paris
There's nothing quite like waking up in Paris. Fuel up with a delightful breakfast, then get ready for your next round of holiday festivities! As you walk through Paris, look around and admire the elegant, wintry atmosphere of the city.
Today, sip and sample your way through Parisian holiday traditions on an included Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour. After a delicious afternoon, consider starting your 2-Day Paris Pass and sightsee your way through the city.
Parisian Christmas Gourmet Walking Tour
In the heart of St-Germain-des-Prés, discover the joy of the holiday season with this special Christmas-themed gourmet food tour. Your guide will take you to some of the some wonderful specialty gourmet shops of the neighborhood, where you'll sample pastries, chocolates and other festive French products only available at this time of year. Learn about the traditional French "13 desserts" and sample delicious nougat, spiced gingerbread and candied fruits.
After visiting the neighborhood and discovering the Christmas market, you'll wrap up your tour by getting out of the winter cold and into a tea room, where you'll have a chance to sit, warm up, and enjoy tea, coffee, hot chocolate or mulled wine. An excellent way to celebrate Christmastime in Paris!
Paris Pass (All-Inclusive) - 2-Day Pass
Experience the best of Paris with the 2-day Paris Pass, while enjoying great savings with all-inclusive access to 35+ attractions, tours and experiences. From climbing the iconic Eiffel Tower to breakfast at the charming Cafe Louise, we've got you covered! Hop on-board Big Bus Paris for a tour of the City of Lights, take in the city from the water on a Seine River Cruise, enjoy a guided climb to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower, explore different parts of Paris with a selection of walking tours, and finish off the day with wine tasting at Les Caves de Louvre. See more, spend less. Sync your digital pass to the Go City app for a seamless experience - the digital guide will help you plan and reserve attractions for the best city break in Paris.
The 2-day Paris All-Inclusive Pass includes:
- Access to 35+ activities, over 2 consecutive days
- Must-do activities including the Eiffel Tower, Seine River cruise, and Montmartre walking tour
- Digital pass and guide to included activities (download to your mobile device or print at home before you go).
Day 6. Paris
Make the most of your very last day in Paris! Today, enjoy a uniquely local experience, as you partake in a traditional holiday-themed French cooking class. Feel like a native as you stroll through an outdoor market with a French chef, then learn how to make festive delicacies!
Following a fun morning, you'll have the afternoon to explore Paris during the holiday season. Visit the charming Christmas markets in La Defense, the Tuileries Gardens, or near the Champs de Mars. Go window shopping and gawk at the twinkling decorations, or go ice skating under the Eiffel Tower!
Tonight, wander down the Champs Elysees, known for boasting one of the brightest Christmas lights displays in all of Paris!
Traditional French Festive Cooking Class with Market Visit
While in Paris during these winter months, why not indulge yourself in an exciting opportunity to spend a morning visiting a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, then learning how to cook a succulent Christmas meal, French style under the expert guidance of a highly respected French chef.
The meal is prepared and cooked in the chef's own kitchen, and limiting numbers to 8 allows for a real hands-on practical cooking class. In the company of the Chef, you go to a Parisian outdoor market to choose the fresh products that will be used in that day's recipes. Then, you will work your way through the special menu, learning as you go. No previous cooking skills are necessary, as you will be coached through every step. The class ends when everything has been cooked and the group sits down together to enjoy the fabulous food and wine offered.
The class begins with the market visit at 9am, and ends at around 2pm, after you’ve enjoyed your delicious home-cooked holiday meal, in the company of new friends. At the end, you will receive all the recipes, so you can cook a traditional French Christmas meal at home. (Minimum age to participate is 6 years old).
Day 7. Depart France
Today, it's time to wrap up your holiday cheer and bring it home. Enjoy a convenient transfer to the airport, then find your departure gate. Spend your flight home replaying warm memories and dreaming about your next adventure.