In a few weeks, I’ll be headed across the pond for my first trip to London and Paris, and I’d love your suggestions of things to do and see while I’m there!
As a thank you, I’ll selecting one commenter at random and sending you a pair of my Gabrielle earrings (in your choice of steel, silver, or 14-kt gold filled) as a thank you! I almost never do give aways, so this is a great opportunity to snag my favorite pair of earrings!
To enter the contest, please leave a comment with your favorite things to do or places to visit in London or Paris. (Or both!) (If you’ve never been, you can share one place that you’re hoping to visit when you do make the trip.) You must post a comment by Friday, February 17th at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. I will choose one winter at random from the comments.
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In Paris – absolutely hit up the Musee D’Orsey if you’re at all into impressionism. And check out the Marais district (17th arrondisment I think??). It’s very hip and fashiony, but also very french… less touristy than a lot of Paris. Be sure to get breakfast from a local bakery… the croissants are better than anything you’ve ever had in your whole life (at ANY bakery! promise!). Then for lunch, just pick up a baguette and some meats and cheeses from the shops and find a nice bench to eat on. Otherwise, you’ll spend a fortune on anything Americans would consider substantial enough for lunch.
In London – The Tate Modern is astounding! And I would enjoy some time in one of the local parks if you get a sunny day (after not being able to sit on the grass in the Parisian parks!). Eat ethnic food while in London. They do it better than anywhere. And if you’re a tea drinker, take tea at least once, but not at one of the touristy spots (like the Orangerie… no). Just do it at a small shop where the tea will be amazing, the experience will be quiet, and you’ll get really yummy little scones and biscuits that are worth what you’re paying.
Hope this helps! Have an amazing time!!
Both cities are full of amazing museums, but you MUST visit the Victoria & Albert in London. As a designer I think you would really love their fashion and decorative arts exhibits, plus it’s just an amazing museum all around!
In Paris the Musee d’Orsay is my favorite, and the Opera House, but I have a “thing” for opera, so your mileage my vary. 🙂
But *definitely* the V & A!!
Have a fantastic time!
Ok here goes:
In Paris, try Colette (great store; sales potential? Karl Lagerfield often sited there), Atelier de la Villette (wonderful, thin terra cotta white dinnerware), Laduree (pastry, breakfast, macaroons….charming, feminine), Sacre-Coeur (Basicallica, way up high), and Brasserie Lipp (semi-touristy yet famous), and definitely Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain (may also be a good place for sales).
In London, Sketch (fun gallery and restaurant together), Tate Modern (ditto!), Design Museum (may be a great place to carry your jewelry), White Chapel Gallery, and the Fat Duck (a short train or taxi out of town, a gastro-experience–get on the cancellation list for lunch or dinner).
Enjoy!!!
My first thought for you was V&A V&A V&A!!!! I have no doubt, you being who you are, it will blow your mind.
Other thoughts will come to me… must let them bubble up to the surface. I’ve lived half my life in Britain, but not in London. But the V&A was shouting at me the whole time I was watching your vid, so I had to quickly say so.
Oh wait… other thoughts coming… first, there is sooooooo much touristy crap you can get sucked into — avoid it all like the plague — but the one touristy thing that is totally worth it is to ride one of the red-bus tours. You’ll see red double-decker tourist buses all around central London (note: not all double-deckers are tourist buses, but the ones that are are obvious). Pick one, get on, and take the tour. Make this one of the first things you do, because it gives you a really good, quick (90min?) overview of the entire city, you’ll get a feel for the layout of the city and the main sites (historical sites rather than tourist traps), and then you can take that and decide what you really want to go back and explore in more depth. When my British friends to me to take the red-bus tours I thought they were nuts (I was almost a little insulted) but it’s really good advice.
Also, pack layers. Pack camisoles! And wool and silk! Regardless of the temperature, the air is wetter there, so the cold gets in your bones faster. Especially this time of year. Layers, layers, layers of mostly wool and silk (some cotton layers are ok, but it’s just not as effective at keeping you warm and if you wear all cotton layers, you’ll be cold!)
This site recently launched…looks great! Creative Paris – http://www.creativeparis.info
Our favorite thing to do in London is simply to walk. The area around Covent Garden is a lot of fun (and a visit to Neal’s Yard Dairy for simply the best bread and cheese is a must), but almost every area has something to offer. The area south of the V&A has a great collection of shops and restaurants and is not all that touristy, and a visit to Harrod’s and the area around it shows the great diversity of cultures in the city.
I’m envious! I have never been to either so I will be of little help. But I would love to go … I have extensively studied Gothic and Renaissance Architecture and have travel through Italy, Germany and Spain but have yet to have the chance to experience the breathtaking beauty and space of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Then of course, loving art, I would also love to go to The Louvre as well.
In England, I am told that attending a soccer game is a very unique experience, I am hearing this from those who travel there extensively for business.
Have a wonderful, successful and safe trip!~
It’s been years (years!) since I’ve been to London, but a couple things I can recommend: walk, walk, walk! It’s a spectacular city and it’s best seen on foot (the Underground is great too). The British Museum really made an impression on me. And, of course, V & A.
I’ve never been to Paris …
Have a great time! I hope we see lots of photos when you return (and a few while you’re there too!).
Safe travels.
Fantastiskt roligt Peter! Vad stolt man blir som svnesk! Ska ta med mig resten av slakten har i London for att titta pa dig! Du blir perfekt som gjord for denna roll!! Du ar en lysande stjarna alla andra bleknar i din narvaro!
I have never been to London or Paris, would LOVE to go! So I don’t know that I have any recommendations for you BUT if I were going to London I would want to go to Tate Modern and enjoy a football match in a local pub! I think that would be so fun.
One of my favorite places in the whole world is just a little bit outside of Paris, but well worth the drive. I suggest you visit Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. The house itself is lovely but walking thru the gardens is like stepping into an Impressionist painting. Enjoy!
I lived in London 2002-2003, and I’m so jealous that you are going!
My #1 recommendation is Gordon’s Wine Bar at 47 Villiers Street (by Embankment Station). It’s the oldest wine bar in London and looks like it hasn’t changed since it was established – it’s practically underground with these low vaulted ceilings. It’s seriously atmospheric. They have port straight from the barrel.
My other most beloved food destination is Borough Market. It’s south of the Thames by London Bridge stop, and nearby Neal’s Yard Dairy which you can smell from blocks away. Only open Thurs., Fri., and Sat. so check the times first.
For art, my favorites are the Tate Modern and the Saatchi Gallery, followed closely by the Victoria & Albert Museum.
My favorite gastropub is The Queen’s Head and Artichoke (http://www.theartichoke.net/), although it might be a bit out of the way depending on where you are staying.
My last bit of advice is to walk as much as you can when traveling around central London. I promise it is much smaller than it looks on the tube map, and you’ll discover lots of awesome things just avoiding the underground and hoofing it. Definitely stroll through St. James’ Park and down to the Thames for a spectacular view of Parliament.
Have so much fun!
So, I’ve never been to either. But I’m obsessed with the Louvre. That glass pyramid has my heart on fire every time I see it. Also, walking along the banks and chatting with the artists there is a dream of mine.
In Paris, there is also the home of Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas. Such amazing contributors to the culture and lifestyle of early 20th century Parisian life. And awesome women.
In London, I’d visit Sas Petherick and Leonie Wise {who might be in NZ right now}. And Highgate Cemetery {such beautiful markers}. Someday soon, yes.
Have an amazing adventure! Can’t wait to see your videos from across the pond!
How exciting!!! I bet you can’t wait to get started on your trip!!
In Paris
Avenues des Champs- Élysées …Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Élysées. (Anything you want to do on the Champs- Élysées…famous song.) The Champs- Élysées is known for its restaurants and boutiques. The shopping is great, and the energy, especially at night, is so alive. At one end of street is L’Arc de Triomphe. The history and architecture are amazing, but it’s the view that’s captivating…not to mention it’s in the middle of this insane roundabout where you can see Parisian drivers at their best (or craziest!).
Sacre Coeur and Montmarte – Sacre Coeur is a church up on a high hill (Montmarte). The exterior of church is an impressive sight, and the view from the steps is fantastic. Also, Montmarte is known for its artsy, bohemian crowd. You will see plenty of painters around.
Musée d’Orsay –spectacular impressionist collection, especially of Degas’s dancers. If you prefer modern art, Le Centre Pompidou is fantastic, usually street performers out front…
Ile de la Cite and Ile Saint-Louis – These islands are in the center of Paris. I wouldn’t spend a ton of time wondering, but there are some must sees: The Pont Neuf (oldest bridge in Paris…will take you to Ile de la Cite), Notre Dame (also Ile de la Cite, the stairs are worth it!), and Berthillion (Ile Saint-Louis, for the ice cream, one of the oldest ice cream shops in Paris…maybe even the oldest. Yum!).
Palais de Versailles – It’s a little outside of Paris but an easy train ride. The history and luxe are breath-taking. You’ve never seen so much gold or so many mirrors! And the grounds (gardens and fountains) are spectacular.
Crepes (no particular place) – Don’t pass up the opportunity to grab a crepe on your walk. You can get them at a sit down restaurant, but there will street vendors selling them all over. They will be wrapped up and easy to eat…maybe a little messy 🙂 In the US, we tend to think of crepes as a dessert, but try some of the meals, maybe fromage et tomate (cheese and tomato)!
In London
St. James Park – The grounds are beautifully kept, peaceful
Buckingham Palace – You can’t go in, but try to time your visit for the changing of the guards…of course the Palace is impressive as well
Westminster Abbey – Amazing church, tons of history…some very famous people are buried here, beautiful architecture
Camden Market – sometimes kitschy but really fun street market
Obviously, I’ve spent more time in Paris 🙂 I hope you have a fantastic time!
Lot’s of great advice here already, but one of my favorites was getting to the outdoor flea markets! Both London and of course Paris have great ones! So excited for you, can’t wait to see the video’s from you when you return. Cheers!
Hi, I live in London and have for the last 2+ years and LOVE it! With Paris only a short 2.5 hour Eurostar train ride away, I’ve been there often too.
I HIGHLY recommend a verger led tour of Westminster Abbey, it can be booked by calling them the day before and it is AMAZING. You get access to off limits areas which is always cool. It’s so beautiful and full of history.
A spot that’s a bit forgotten is the Apsley House at the corner of Hyde Park, the home of Duke of Wellington and it’s still owned by the Wellington’s to this day, the last heir Duke of Wellington the 8th is still alive. The art collection in there is pretty amazing.
The British Museum of course… The Parthenon wing, the Lindow Man upstairs, the mummies, the LOBBY! And its free!
A great Afternoon Tea would be the Ritz or the Mad Hatter Tea at the Sanderson Hotel , The tea at the Langham would also be pretty perfect. Also, book a reservation.
Best burger I’ve ever had: Goodman’s on Maddox Street near Oxford Circus.
Best Brunch spot: Tom’s Kitchen in Chelsea near South Kensington
Cool bars: Milk and Honey, Purl, Marks Bar on Brewer, Vista, Connaught Bar, Coburg Bar
Shopping: Harrods, Portobello Road Market, Westfield, Oxford Street, Kings Road, Regents Street, Covent Garden, Liberty’s Department Store (its gorgeous) Marylebone Road
Delicious Vegetarian Restaurant: Mildred’s on Lexington in Soho – no reservations
London Eye at night
Beefeater tour at Tower of London
Borough Market- Thursday-Saturday… have coffee at Monmouth Coffee and eat all the custard tarts and mozzarella that you can while there.
Granola Parfait at Le Pain – several locations around town
Hidden jewel: St. Barthelomew’s Church (est 1128) near St. Pauls – Ben Franklin use to work in a printing shop in the back and TONS of movies have been filmed here.
Another favorite is St. Brides Church on Fleet Street – the spire inspired the tiered wedding cake, it was designed by Christopher Wren and the lightening rod that is inside that spire is the one that Ben Franklin made while living in London.
Ben Franklin has a house here, where he lived for 16 years, its just off the Strand
Trafalgar Square is always a must to get a picture with the Lions
Tower Bridge and the Monument
Notting Hill: Portobello Road Market: everyday, but Saturday is the biggest day, Hummingbird Bakery and Gails for something sweet or Melt on Ledbury for the best chocolate caramel EVER!
Churchill’s War Cabinet Rooms is in Westminster and is pretty cool
A place called Oliver Bonas (a few locations) has some very cute and affordable jewelery
A stroll through Hyde Park is a must, check out the fountains, the ducks, geese, flower walk, statue of Albert, statue of Peter Pan is pretty fun…
Buckingham Palace: make sure you check the times of the guard changing if you want to see it… they vary… you can find it on your website
Abbey Road crosswalk is you are a Beatles Fan
Primrose Hill has a GREAT view of the city and is very close walk to Regents Park Road that has a lot of cute shops and cafes…
Camden: a market area that is a bit punk, tattoo, rock n roll, cool shops, cafes, etc… very different than the norm
Great sushi: Zuma and Nobu
Kew Gardens is beautiful but a bit outside the city… check out their website
Wahaca: great mexican street foods
Brick Lane on Sunday has a great market, its huge! Spitafields market is also good – same area
Columbia Road Flower Market is quite an experience – near Brick Lane
I use to own a tour company here (don’t anymore) so if you have any questions feel free to check out my blog/email…. themccooeysoflondon.blogspot.com
Have a great time!
By the way, check out Tripadvisor for restaurants in Paris, cant go wrong! Fauchon for macaroons – get the vanilla bourbon!! I also highly recommend catching the city sight seeing tour bus at the Eiffel Tour and ride it until the end without getting off. Worth every penny and gives you a good idea of the lay out. They do a pretty good job. If you have time hop the train to Versailles and see the Palace – the word amazing doesn’t give it justice.
-Safe Travels,
Wendy
I haven’t been yet, but have a trip planned to both places in September! I’m crazy excited about it – here are a few of the places we’re planning to go!
In London – Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, guard change at Buckingham Palace, British Museum, Tower Bridge, grabbing a London Pass and perusing a few of the museums offered with this. I also have full intentions of doing a lot of walking to take it all in, finding a few pubs, and hopefully taking in both some of the local and tourist life while there.
In Paris – of course the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Montmartre, strolling the Champs-Elysees, and we’re taking a full day trip to Versailles. Aside from the tourist sites, I plan to do a lot of wandering and eating my heart out while in Paris. 🙂
Have you used plnnr.com yet? It has a neat way of helping you plan out your time – you put in your dates, where you’re going, and how quickly you want you move through the city, and it helps you plan it out. It has its limitations, but it’s good for getting ideas!
Hiya,
So having lived all my life in London you can get pretty bored of doing all the “normal” things so here are a few off the wall things you should do when you’re in town.
1. If you think Sunday is all about relaxing then think again! Sunday is THE time to hit Shoreditch and Old Street. You want to head to the Hoxton Grill for a bit of brunch (they do amazing Eggs Royal), then you need to make your way towards Spitalfields market. Spitalfields is a wonderful market full to the brim with great designers, book stalls, food stalls however if you only go to Spitalfields you are missing out on the BEST part about this area. You will need to head over the road to the old Truman Brewery for a more gritty side to the area – check out the food in here the Pad Thai is fantastically authentic… if you are still in need of food you are right on Brick Lane. If you are a curry lover you will be in heaven as there are about a hundred different curry houses to choose from! You can also head in to the Whitehall galleries at the end of Brick Lane for a bit of modern art.
2. Another great area to check out is Islington (I’d advise starting at the Angel end and walking up Upper St towards Highbury and Islington tube), there are some fantastic restaurants and if you want a real treat head to Public House on Islington Park Street for an amazing cocktail experience. This area gives you a bit more of an area what it’s like to really live in London. There are also a few theatre’s that are great – the Almeida does some lovely productions.
3. Yes you should visit the V&A!
Enjoy!
Sorry it has taken so long to get back to you. The restaurants I am more familiar with in London are in the southwest part and not near the typical tourist places. As for Paris, there are lots of great cafes everyone. You have to go to the island of Ile St. Louis which has great cafes, restaurants and is known for their ice cream/gelato. On St. Germain des Pres are the famous cafes of Les Deux Magots and Cafe de Flore (Hemingway and other famous folks frequented these places). Even if you go for a drink or coffee you can get the experience. Hope that helps.
Thanks to everyone for your suggestions!
Yes, I will definitely be visiting the V&A (it’s been on my list for YEARS!) and I’ll be sure to check out many of your other recommendations as well.
And a special shout out to Kia – you were randomly chosen as the winner of the Gabrielle earrings! Congrats!