Attractions
London
As one of the most influential capitals in the world, with hundreds of years of history under its belt, London has literally thousands of things to see and do. Here are a few of our favorites:
Windsor Castle One of the oldest inhabited strongholds in the world, built in 1070 by William the Conqueror, Windsor Castle has been a home to the Sovereign for more than 900 years and today is one of the three official residences of the Queen. Touring the castle is one of the most popular things to do in England.
Buckingham Palace The official residence of the Queen of England is a massive palace to boot. You’ll see a flag outside when the Queen is in residence. Buckingham Palace first became the official royal residence in the 19th century. The changing of the guard happens here daily.
Big Ben Famous around the world for keeping impeccable time, the Big Ben Clock Tower was fully operational on September 7, 1859. The Big Ben Clock rings in the London New Year and is a rallying point for the New Year’s celebration of the entire country of England.
Hyde Park The largest of the parks that make up the “green lung” system of London city parks, Hyde Park London covers an area of 608 acres and over the years has hosted everyone from the boisterous hunting parties of King Henry VIII in the 16th century to the raucous Rolling Stones in 1969. Although Hyde Park London has myriad things to see and do, tourists will be delighted to find that most of the beauty of the park can be enjoyed completely free of charge.
The London Eye Sometimes referred to as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye offers patrons one of the best views of the city of London. Officially opened by Prime Minister Tony Blair on December 31, 1999, to celebrate the Millennium, the London Eye is the largest effort on the part of the British government to offer a vantage point for views of the city.
Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square is the most famous square in London. Featuring statues at all four square corners, it was originally constructed to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, a victory in the war against Napoleon.
Paris
From outdoor activities to historic monuments and great food and wine, Paris is a historic and cultural center with hundreds of top things to do and see.
Eiffel Tower Ascend the Eiffel Tower for spectacular views of Paris. At over 1,000 feet, the massive structure has two restaurants, a souvenir shop, viewing area and more.
The Louvre Paris’ world famous museum was built in the 12th century and is divided into eight collections. The Mona Lisa is on display behind a glass case, roped stanchions and a throng of museum-goers.
Notre Dame Notre Dame Cathedral is an impressive marvel of medieval architecture. Started in 1163 and completed in 1330, Notre Dame Cathedral has a striking gothic exterior, two broad towers and plenty of sweeping arches.
Arc de Triomphe Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor the French military, the Arc de Triomphe is L’Etoile to Parisians, who revere it as a patriotic symbol of France’s history. Located in the center of the world’s largest traffic rotary, the Arc de Triomphe towers 164 feet above the ground.
Versailles Located 13 miles southwest of Paris, the Palace of Versailles was the political capital of France for more than a century. No luxury or extravagance was spared. Every corner, ceiling and wall is detailed with carvings, woodwork, marble or another exquisite covering. Now the Palace of Versailles is one of the best tourist attractions in France. Visitors come to see the lavish palace, the abundant gardens and the surrounding sights.
