What to do in London and Paris
One of the best things about London and Paris is how available public transit is, which means that the entire city is available to you by the buses and metros. However, there are also lots of things in the neighborhoods of our hotels to explore.
We will have one free day in both London and Paris, in addition to having free chunks during some of the days. Here are some ideas on what to do, eat, and see on free days and when you have extra time.
South Kensington
Our London hotel is the Holiday Inn Kennsignton Hotel, located near several museums, Tube stations, and markets. Here are some things you may enjoy doing.
Museums
Natural History Museum: The Natural History Museum showcases all sorts of flora, fauna, and natural materials, from Iguanodons and a 91-foot, life-sized blue whale, to simulation earthquakes, moon rocks, and more!
Victoria & Albert: The V&A is perfect for anyone interested in fashion and design from around the world. There are beautiful tapestries, art from the Middle East, Japan, and Medieval Europe, over 75,000 individual textile pieces, and a gallery of exquisite jewelry. Make sure to stop by the gift shop for some unique souvenirs and gifts.
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Science Museum of London: The Science Museum showcases how technology has impacted our lives through the Industrial Revolution, medicine, and the creation of new materials, like corn-based plastics and flexible solar panels. Visit the top floor for a medical exhibit collaboration with the Hunterian Museum.
Food
The entrance to the Natural History Museum. Photo by Scott Liddell
Afternoon Tea at the Orangery: What is more British than afternoon tea? How about afternoon tea outside of Kensington Palace? The Orangery is a lovely place to relax and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets. However, the location is very elegant, so we recommend wearing something nicer than street clothes.
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Nando’s: Nando’s is a Portuguese Peri-Peri Chicken chain that is very popular in England. Their sauces range from mild to wild, and it is a fun place to have an inexpensive dinner. They are also one of the few places in London with unlimited soft drinks.
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The Britannia: The Britannia is a Kensington High Street pub with traditional British foods. Their specialties include bangers and mash, fish and chips, and sticky toffee pudding.
For more information on things to do in London, click here. For day trip ideas, press here.
Opéra
The Opera Cadet is a wonderfully beautiful hotel near public transportation, delicious restaurants, and a small grocery that is perfect for trying French foods!
Restaurants
Café de la Paix: This Cafe is an expensive but delightful way to treat yourself to French cuisine. The menu is based on seasonal ingredients, so make sure to check the menu before you go!
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Creperie Traditionnelle: Crepes are great to eat on-the-go or as part of breakfast, but they can also be a filling meal on their own. Creperie Traditionnelle serves both sweet and savory crepes until 10 PM, making it the perfect late-night snack.
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Mojo Kitchenbar: Affordable sandwiches, salads, and entrees call Mojo Kitchenbar home! They also serve tapas and charcuterie.
Stores
View from Galeries Laffyette
Galeries Laffyette: If you want it, you can buy it at Galeries Lafyette. In addition to all sorts of clothing, decor items, and foods, this upscale department store has one of the best views of the city.
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A La Mere de Famille: This delicious and closely located chocolate and confectionary store is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. Try some for yourself first though, to make sure that you are only bringing home the most delicious treats! Repeated trips back to A La Mere de Famille are not only acceptable, but practically required.
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Franprix: After a long day of sightseeing and business briefs, the Franprix is the perfect convenience store to pick up inexpensive meat, cheese, fresh fruit and vegetables, and wine. Only a 4-minute walk from the Opera Cadet, you can also pick up some French sweets, spices, and snacks to bring home.
All these stores are very near the Opéra Cadet.
For more information on things to do in Paris, click here​. For day trip ideas, press here.