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.
