This post is a 1 week itinerary for London and Paris.
This was the kind of trip I had been dreaming about forever, London and Paris in one week. Just saying it out loud felt like something surreal. I’d always wanted to walk along the Seine, sip espresso in a Parisian cafe, ride the iconic red double-decker buses in London, and finally see Big Ben in real life. And guess what? I did it.
Planning this trip took a bit of research (okay, a lot), but it was so worth it. And now, I’m sharing everything with you, not just the logistics, but also the little moments, how I felt when I saw those iconic places for the first time, and the memories that stayed with me. So if you’re planning your first trip to Europe or just want to relive the magic of these two beautiful cities, grab a cup of coffee and come along for the ride. Keep on reading my tips on planning a 1 week itinerary for London and Paris.
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THINGS TO KNOW- HOW DO I PLAN A 1 WEEK ITINERARY FOR LONDON AND PARIS?
When is the best time to visit London and Paris?
Personally, the best time to visit London and Paris: My answer is definitely spring or fall. I went during early spring, and it was absolutely perfect. The weather was mild and fresh, flowers were blooming everywhere, and the crowds hadn’t reached their summer peak yet. Spring in Paris feels like a romantic movie come to life, the cherry blossoms in parks, the light breeze by the Seine, and sidewalk cafes buzzing with locals enjoying the first warm days. London in spring also has this refreshing energy, people picnicking in parks like Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens, and all the daffodils and tulips making everything look extra cheerful.
Fall is another magical time, think crisp air, golden leaves, and a cozy, stylish vibe in both cities. September and October are ideal if you prefer fewer tourists, lower hotel rates, and that perfect in-between weather. Summer, while beautiful, can get overcrowded and pricey, and winter can be charming with holiday lights but a bit gloomy if you’re not used to cold and gray skies. So if you’re planning your dream European escape, aim for spring or fall, you’ll get the best of both worlds: lovely weather, romantic scenery, and a more relaxed pace. Spring (April to June) or Fall (September to October) are ideal, great weather, fewer crowds, and the cities are just extra charming during these seasons.
How to get around London and Paris?
You can either chose to fly in from London to Paris or take the popular Eurostar high-speed train which takes a little over 2 hours. I personally find the train system in Europe extremely convenient and take every opportunity I can. I mean imagine not having to go through the long security lines at the airport, trying to fit all your belongings in a tiny backpack, or overpaying for checked luggage? It is a travelers’ dream to be able to avoid all the hassle!
You can read more on how to plan your trip to London and Paris.
While in London, get an Oyster Card or use contactless payment for the Underground. Super easy and efficient. For Paris, Metro and walking are your best friends. Grab a Navigo Easy pass for convenience. Both cities are also super walkable, some of my favorite moments were just wandering.
What to pack for 1 week itinerary for London and Paris?
- You can also checkout my Amazon storefront for some inspiration. Click here.
- A travel plug adapter for your electronics. Click here.
- Portable phone battery charger. Click here.
- Portable fan to keep cool in summers. Click here.
- Makeup- mostly my essentials and whatever fits in this bag. I have it in brown. Click here.
- Skin care- travel size only, the Origins travel skincare set was perfect, I use most of their products at home too. Click here.
- Sunscreen- again travel size only, I like the Neutrogena stick version which works for face & body. Click here.
- Camera- I have the Canon EOS T7i, there is a great bundle deal on Amazon. Click here.
- Waterproof camera- under $50, loved it! The quality is pretty good for the price. Click here. I also purchased a wide angle lens. Click here.
- Tripod- solo traveler problems. Get something sturdy and lightweight, especially if you plan on taking pics when it is windy. Click here.
- Shoes- 2-3 sandals, a reliable pair of sneakers and some comfortable heels.
- Packing cubes- to keep things organized especially when you have limited space. Click here.
- Blister bandages because you never know how painful walking all day can be. Click here.
- Portable luggage scale because shopping is unavoidable in both cities. Click here.
What to do in London and Paris?
I am very well aware that my bucket list for a 1 week itinerary for London and Paris is extremely long and ambitious. I can’t help the fact that there is a lot to do and see in both these iconic cities. I suggest you pick and chose the best things that catch your interest or check out my itinerary below.
London Bucket List
- See Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: Standing in front of Big Ben felt like such a “pinch-me” moment. The clock tower is iconic, and when it chimes, goosebumps, every time!
- Ride a red double-decker bus: There’s nothing like sitting on the top deck, front row, cruising past London landmarks. It’s such a fun, touristy thing to do (and honestly, the views are unbeatable).
- Walk across Westminster Bridge: The views from the bridge are so classic London. I loved catching the reflection of Big Ben in the Thames, especially in the early morning light.
- Visit the London Eye: Riding the London Eye at sunset was unforgettable. The city stretches out in every direction, and watching the lights slowly flicker on is pure magic.
- Stroll through Notting Hill: Charming pastel houses, quirky shops, and the Portobello Road Market, I could have spent hours getting lost in these picture-perfect streets.
- Afternoon tea at Sketch: The pink velvet interiors, the playful tea sets, and those delicious scones made this such a dreamy, must-do experience.
- Explore Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park: There’s something so peaceful about wandering through the greenery, watching swans glide by, and soaking in that rare London sunshine.
- Visit the British Museum: Even if you’re not a huge museum person, the British Museum is fascinating. I loved seeing the Rosetta Stone and just roaming the incredible exhibits.
- Eat at Borough Market: This place is foodie heaven! I devoured a grilled cheese toastie and followed it up with fresh oysters and pastries. Worth every bite.
- Walk across Tower Bridge: Iconic and beautiful, especially when the bridge lifts for passing boats. The views of the Thames are gorgeous from here.
- Tour the Tower of London: Walking through centuries of history (and spotting the crown jewels!) gave me chills. It’s one of those places you feel, not just see.
- Enjoy cocktails at Sky Garden: Sipping cocktails with panoramic city views at sunset felt like the perfect end to a busy London day. Plus, the lush indoor garden has such a vibe!
- Dine at Dishoom or Duck & Waffle: Dishoom’s cozy atmosphere and rich Indian flavors are unforgettable, while Duck & Waffle sky-high views and late-night energy made it such a treat.
- Take in the views from a rooftop bar: London’s rooftops are magical at golden hour. I loved just soaking in the skyline with a glass of something bubbly in hand.
- Breakfast at The Wolseley: The elegant art deco vibes and perfectly poached eggs made this breakfast feel extra special. A classy London morning for sure.
- Pasta at Padella: Their hand-rolled pasta is pure joy in a bowl. I still dream about that cacio e pepe, simple but unforgettable.
- Shop in Covent Garden: Street performers, charming boutiques, and cozy cafés make Covent Garden such a lively, beautiful spot to wander and shop.
- Explore Shoreditch nightlife (Nightjar!): The cocktails were almost too pretty to drink (almost). Nightjar’s speakeasy vibe and live jazz made it a night to remember.
Paris Bucket List
- Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night: Every hour on the hour, the tower lights up and sparkles, and no matter how many times I see it, my heart skips a beat each time.
- View the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro: This spot gave me the most postcard-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. Sunrise here is quiet, peaceful, and totally worth the early wake-up call.
- Enjoy a Seine River Cruise: Gliding down the Seine as the city lights twinkle feels like a scene from a romantic movie. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.
- Visit Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre: The climb to the top is so worth it for the panoramic views of Paris. Plus, the basilica itself is breathtaking.
- Stroll around Place du Tertre (artist square): I loved wandering through this artsy square, watching painters bring Paris to life right in front of me. It feels like stepping back in time.
- Coffee & people watching at Café de Flore: There’s nothing like sitting at a classic Parisian café, sipping espresso, and watching the world go by. Pure Parisian magic.
- Have hot chocolate at Angelina: Rich, velvety, and basically a dessert in a cup. I savored every sip of this iconic treat.
- Explore the Louvre Museum & see the Mona Lisa: Standing in front of the Mona Lisa felt surreal, but I equally loved getting lost in the endless halls of art and history.
- Steak-frites at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: A Paris classic! Perfectly cooked steak, crispy fries, and that secret sauce… I could have eaten here every night.
- Walk along the Seine by Notre-Dame: This riverside walk is dreamy, especially at sunset when the light reflects off the water and the cathedral towers over you.
- Discover Le Marais vintage shops: I found the cutest vintage treasures here! Le Marais has that perfect mix of history, charm, and trendy energy.
- Eat falafel from L’As du Fallafel: Crispy, flavorful, and packed with all the good stuff. The line moves fast, and trust me, it’s worth the wait.
- Visit the Palace of Versailles & Hall of Mirrors: Stepping into Versailles felt like stepping into a fairytale. The Hall of Mirrors sparkles in the sunlight, and the gardens are simply stunning. All pictures approved!
- Relax in Luxembourg Gardens: I loved taking a quiet moment here, sitting by the fountains and watching Parisians enjoy their beautiful city.
- Buy macarons at Ladurée: Colorful, delicate, and oh-so-delicious. These little treats make for the perfect Parisian souvenir (if they last that long!).
- Sip wine at Bar Hemingway (Ritz Paris): Sipping a cocktail where Hemingway himself once drank felt like a little piece of literary history. The atmosphere is intimate and timeless.
- Lunch at Carette by Place des Vosges: Sitting on the terrace at Carette, enjoying a perfect croque-monsieur and people-watching, felt so wonderfully Parisian.
- Get lost in charming Parisian streets: Honestly, some of my favorite moments in Paris were the unplanned ones, wandering quiet streets, discovering hidden courtyards, and soaking in the everyday beauty of the city.
Where to eat in London and Paris?
One of the best parts of this trip? The food. London and Paris absolutely spoiled me with their culinary delights. In London, Dishoom became an instant favorite, Indian food with an old Bombay cafe vibe, perfect for cozy comfort food. Sketching was a whole experience in itself, from the whimsical decor to the iconic afternoon tea (yes, the pink room is as fabulous as you think). I also had a memorable dinner at Duck & Waffle, where the views from the 40th floor were just as satisfying as the crispy duck confit. Padella blew me away with their homemade pasta, it’s casual, affordable, and ridiculously delicious. For something classic, The Wolseley served up elegant breakfasts that made me feel like I’d stepped into a vintage film.
Over in Paris, the cafe culture just stole my heart. I loved sitting outdoors at Café de Flore, people-watching over a cappuccino and croissant. Angelina was a dream for lunch and their famous hot chocolate is every bit as rich as the rumors say. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte had one of the best steak-frites I’ve ever had, simple, no-fuss, and perfectly French. Le Consulat in Montmartre was charming and picturesque, the kind of place that feels straight out of a painting. Carette near Place des Vosges was perfect for a chic Parisian lunch, and L’As du Fallafel in Le Marais delivered the best falafel sandwich I’ve ever tasted, crispy, flavorful, and packed with fresh toppings. Honestly, every meal felt like part of the adventure.
STEAL MY 1 WEEK ITINERARY FOR LONDON AND PARIS
DAY 1- Hello London!
Landing in London felt surreal. There’s something about that crisp British air and the hustle of Heathrow Airport that immediately makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from a movie. I picked up my Oyster card at the airport (pro tip: do this right away, it makes getting around so much easier) and headed to my hotel near Covent Garden.
I stayed at The Henrietta Hotel, a boutique hotel with charming decor and the coziest bed after a long flight. After a quick nap and freshening up, I wandered around Covent Garden. It was the perfect welcome, live music, cute shops, and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air.
For lunch, I stopped at Dishoom Covent Garden, and wow, the food was incredible. I tried their signature black daal and garlic naan, and it was the comforting meal I didn’t know I needed.
In the evening, I took a walk along the Thames River, watched the lights sparkle over the water, and had dinner at Duck & Waffle, their views from the 40th floor? Absolutely unreal.
DAY 2- London Icons & Afternoon Tea
Woke up to a foggy London morning, which honestly felt kind of perfect. I made my way to Westminster, and as soon as I saw Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, I literally gasped. It’s one thing to see photos of it, but being there in person… there’s just something magical about it.
I crossed Westminster Bridge, walked past the London Eye, and took the classic touristy photos because yes, I’m that person. Then I hopped on a red double-decker bus and rode to Notting Hill, those pastel-colored houses had me snapping pics at every corner.
Lunch was at Farm Girl Cafe, tucked away behind a pink door, healthy, aesthetic, and delicious. Afterward, I made my way to Kensington Gardens for a peaceful stroll before heading to Sketch for the ultimate afternoon tea. I’d seen this place on Instagram a hundred times, but let me tell you, it’s even prettier in real life.
Finished the day with cocktails at Nightjar, a speakeasy-style bar in Shoreditch. The vibe was dark, moody, and the drinks were an experience on their own.
DAY 3- Museums, Markets & Tower Bridge
I started my day with a hearty breakfast at The Wolseley, a classic London spot that made me feel super fancy. Then it was off to explore the British Museum, honestly, you could spend an entire day here. I saw the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and so much more. Even if you’re not a museum person, this place is worth it.
In the afternoon, I wandered through Borough Market, one of my favorite places on the trip. I sampled everything, from fresh oysters to warm raclette cheese over potatoes (yes, it was as dreamy as it sounds). The energy, the smells, the people, it’s such a vibe.
Later, I walked across Tower Bridge at sunset and visited the Tower of London. Something about that mix of ancient history and modern city skyline just made my heart happy.
Dinner that night was at Padella, known for their homemade pasta. I still think about that cacio e pepe to this day. I ended the night with a nightcap at Sky Garden, soaking up the view of the city skyline one last time.
DAY 4- Paris, Je T’aime!
Early morning Eurostar train from London to Paris, smooth, scenic, and just a little over 2 hours. As soon as I arrived at Gare du Nord, everything just felt different. Paris has this way of wrapping you in elegance the second you step onto its streets.
I checked into Hotel Le Six near Luxembourg Gardens. The Parisian balconies, the cozy decor, the croissants at check-in, everything was straight out of a dream.
My first stop? Montmartre. I wandered through cobbled streets, visited Sacré-Cœur, and watched artists sketch at Place du Tertre. I had lunch at Le Consulat, one of the most charming cafes in the area. That tomato tartine and glass of rosé? Chef’s kiss.
Later, I made my way to the Seine River, walked past the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and ended my evening with dinner at Café de Flore, classic, chic, and so very Paris.
DAY 5- Eiffel Tower & Louvre Day
I woke up so excited, this was my Eiffel Tower day. I walked from my hotel, grabbing a buttery croissant and espresso from a corner boulangerie, and headed to Trocadéro for the best Eiffel views. As I turned the corner and saw it for the first time… wow. I literally teared up. It was more beautiful than I imagined.
I spent the morning just sitting on a bench nearby, soaking in the moment. Then I took a river cruise on the Seine (such a relaxing way to see the city) before heading to Angelina Paris for lunch, yes, I had the famous hot chocolate and Mont Blanc dessert. Worth every calorie.
In the afternoon, I visited the Louvre Museum. I wasn’t prepared for how massive it was. I saw the Mona Lisa (she’s smaller than you think!) and wandered through halls of Renaissance art and sculpture.
Dinner was at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, no menu, just perfectly cooked steak-frites with secret sauce and wine. So French, so perfect.
DAY 6- Day Trip to Versailles + evening in Le Marais
Today was all about royalty. I took the RER train to Versailles, and walking through the golden gates of the Palace of Versailles felt like a scene from a historical drama. The Hall of Mirrors? Jaw-dropping. The gardens? Endless and exquisite.
I had lunch at La Petite Venise inside the palace grounds, simple, elegant, and so atmospheric.
Back in Paris, I explored Le Marais, one of my favorite neighborhoods. The vintage shops, cozy cafes, and energy of the area felt so local and authentic. I had a casual dinner at L’As du Fallafel, hands down the best falafel I’ve ever had.
Ended the night with wine at Bar Hemingway at The Ritz. A little boujee, but hey, it’s Paris.
DAY 7- Last Paris strolls + saying goodbye!
My last day started slow. I strolled through Luxembourg Gardens, journaled a bit on a park bench, and soaked in the final peaceful Parisian morning.
I visited a few little boutiques, picked up some macarons from Ladurée, and had a final lunch at Carette by Place des Vosges. Everything just felt extra special that day, like the city was giving me a soft goodbye.
As I made my way back to the airport, my heart was full. Tired, yes, but so incredibly grateful for this trip.
CONCLUSION- 1 WEEK ITINERARY FOR LONDON AND PARIS
This one-week adventure through London and Paris was truly a dream come true. From the iconic landmarks to the cozy cafes and spontaneous strolls, every moment was magical. I hope this itinerary helps you feel a little more prepared and a lot more excited for your own European getaway.
Take this as a guide, make it your own, and get ready to create memories that will stay with you forever. And if you ever need help planning, I’m just a message away. Bon voyage & happy travels!
