Arrive in London, England's dynamic capital. During the day, enjoy some time to start exploring on your own.
This evening, get a taste of contemporary British fare as you join your fellow travelers for a meal highlighting London's modern culinary renaissance. (D) Stay: Strand Palace Hotel (3 Nights)
Start your morning with a local expert in London. Kick it off with a walking tour of Westminster, where you will see the exteriors of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. Continue to Buckingham Palace, to see the official office of His Majesty The King.
This afternoon, visit Covent Garden Market's elegant boutiques and restaurants at your own pace, before joining your fellow travelers for a traditional afternoon tea. The remainder of the day is yours to do as you wish. (B/L)
After a hearty breakfast, set out for a morning in the East End of London. Stop for a view of St. Paul's Cathedral before continuing the tour on foot. Cross the Millenium Bridge and take a leisurely hour-long stroll along the South Bank towards Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Sir Francis Drake's historic Golden Hinde replica ship. After, return to your hotel with free time for the rest of the day to enjoy London independently. (B)
Allons-y! Today you're off to Paris! Hop aboard the Eurostar high-speed train to get there in just two hours. A sophisticated metropolis of style and culture, Paris' bustling city streets are filled with colorful history, fascinating museums, renowned monuments and grand theatres. Once you arrive, join a guided walk to take in some of the most iconic sites, including the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Place de la Concorde, and the magnificent Place Vendome. Settle in for your four-night stay in the “City of Light.” (B) Stay: Crowne Plaza Republique (4 Nights)
This morning, visit a Parisian Christmas market and soak up the festive atmosphere. Then, be romanced by Paris – the afternoon is yours for the taking. Should you indulge in some of the world's best shopping on the Champs-Elysees, or simply do as the Parisians do and sit at a sidewalk café and watch the beauty that is Paris go by?
Tonight, celebrate the arrival of a New Year as you glide down the enchanted Seine River on a romantic dinner cruise, set against Paris' glittering skyline. Ring in the New Year with a gourmet dinner, complete with wine, champagne and live musical entertainment. (B/D)
Enjoy a leisurely morning before visiting the city's hilltop arrondissement of Montmartre. Meander through the charming cobblestone streets and take in the iconic Basilica of Sacre-Coeur. The afternoon is yours to explore more of the French capital. Perhaps you'll stroll along the verdant Canal Saint-Martin or the elegant district of Le Marais, abounding with winding streets and gorgeous old mansions. Or, take a walk down to the Ile de la Cité and snap a picture of the awe-inspiring Notre Dame. (B)
It's your last day in Paris – how will you spend it? You may wander over to the Left Bank of the Seine and plunge into the bohemian atmosphere of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and the Latin Quarter. Or, join an optional excursion to Louis XIV's magnificent Palace and Gardens of Versailles and relive history as you walk through the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the famous Hall of Mirrors.
Tonight, enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring French cuisine and breathtaking views. (B/D)
You depart today, but London and Paris will remain in your heart forever. (B)
Collette Tours
Travel Styles