London, UK - 25 Days Itinerary

Arrive at Heathrow Airport (LHR)

After your flight from Melbourne, you'll arrive at London Heathrow.

Clear customs, collect your luggage, and head to your accommodation.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your hotel, unpack, and relax after your long journey.

Anniversary Dinner in Mayfair

Celebrate your anniversary with a special dinner at a highly-rated restaurant in the elegant Mayfair district.

Consider options like Sketch or Dinner by Heston Blumenthal for an unforgettable experience.

Reservations are essential for popular restaurants, especially on a Monday evening. Dress code is typically smart casual to formal.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony (check schedule, usually on selected days) and take photos outside the Queen's official residence. Consider visiting the State Rooms if open.

The Changing of the Guard schedule varies. Arrive early for a good viewing spot.

Westminster Abbey Visit

Explore the historic Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the traditional place of coronation and burial for British monarchs.

Book tickets online to avoid queues. Check for special events or closures.

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

Walk past the Houses of Parliament and admire the Elizabeth Tower, home to the famous Big Ben.

Photo opportunities from Parliament Square.

London Eye Experience

Enjoy panoramic views of London's skyline from the iconic London Eye Ferris wheel.

Booking online in advance is highly recommended for specific time slots and to save money.

Dinner in Covent Garden

Enjoy dinner in the lively Covent Garden area, known for its street performers, shops, and diverse dining options.

British Museum Exploration

Discover world art and human history at the British Museum, home to famous artifacts like the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Elgin Marbles.

Entry is free, but consider a donation. Large bags may need to be checked. Plan which galleries you want to see in advance.

Lunch in Soho

Enjoy lunch in the vibrant Soho district, offering a wide array of international cuisines and trendy eateries.

Trafalgar Square & National Gallery

Stroll through Trafalgar Square, admire Nelson's Column, and optionally pop into the National Gallery for a quick look at European masterpieces.

National Gallery admission is free. Check current exhibitions.

West End Theatre Show

Experience the magic of London's West End with a world-class theatre production.

Choose from musicals like 'Hamilton', 'Les Misérables', or 'The Lion King'.

Book tickets well in advance for popular shows and better seating options. Matinee performances are sometimes available.

Tower of London Tour

Explore the historic Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

See the Crown Jewels, visit the White Tower, and learn about its dark history with a Yeoman Warder tour.

Book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip queues. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Tower Bridge & Views

Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge and enjoy views of the Thames.

Consider doing the Tower Bridge Exhibition for insight into its history and mechanics.

The exhibition offers glass floor walkways.

Lunch & Explore Borough Market

Indulge in a delicious lunch and browse the stalls at Borough Market, one of London's oldest and largest food markets, offering gourmet street food and fresh produce.

Expect it to be busy. Sample local and international delicacies.

Views from The Shard

Ascend to the top of The Shard, Western Europe's tallest building, for unparalleled 360-degree views of London.

Book tickets online in advance, especially if you want a sunset slot.

Dinner on South Bank

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the South Bank, with views of the Thames and city lights.

Thames River Cruise to Greenwich

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the River Thames, passing iconic landmarks, en route to Greenwich.

Greenwich Park & Prime Meridian

Visit Greenwich Park, stand on the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, and enjoy the views of London's skyline.

There is a fee to enter the Royal Observatory and stand on the Meridian Line. You can also see the line from outside the gate for free.

Explore Cutty Sark

Tour the historic tea clipper, Cutty Sark, and learn about its voyages and life at sea.

Book tickets online to save time.

Lunch in Greenwich Village

Have lunch in one of the many charming pubs or cafes in Greenwich Village.

Shopping on Oxford Street

Return to central London for some retail therapy on Oxford Street, home to major department stores and high-street brands.

Farewell Dinner in London

Enjoy a final dinner in London.

Consider a Michelin-starred experience or a cozy pub dinner, depending on your preference.

Travel from London to Paris

Board a high-speed train from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, a comfortable and scenic journey under the English Channel.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Arrive at your Parisian hotel, check in, drop off your luggage, and take some time to relax and freshen up before exploring the city.

Eiffel Tower Visit

Ascend the iconic Eiffel Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris.

Consider reaching the summit for the ultimate experience.

Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially on a Saturday. Different ticket options are available (stairs vs. lift).

Romantic Seine River Cruise

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Seine River, gliding past illuminated landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Pont Neuf.

A perfect way to see the city from a different perspective.

Many companies offer cruises from various points, often near the Eiffel Tower or Pont Neuf. Check for options that include dinner or champagne for a special anniversary treat.

Anniversary Dinner with a View

Savor a romantic dinner at a restaurant near the Eiffel Tower, perhaps catching its hourly sparkle.

Reservations highly recommended for popular restaurants, especially on a Saturday evening. Explore bistros in the 7th arrondissement.

Louvre Museum Exploration

Immerse yourselves in art and history at the world-renowned Louvre Museum.

See masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Egyptian antiquities.

Book timed entry tickets online in advance to bypass queues, especially on a Sunday. Decide on a few key areas to focus on to avoid museum fatigue.

Lunch near Palais Royal

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or bistro in the charming Palais Royal gardens or nearby streets.

Stroll Through Le Marais

Wander through the historic and vibrant Le Marais district, known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, beautiful architecture, and rich history. Explore Place des Vosges.

Perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk, discovering hidden courtyards and enjoying the trendy atmosphere. Many charming cafes for a coffee break.

Dinner in Le Marais

Dine at one of Le Marais' many excellent restaurants, offering diverse cuisines from traditional French bistros to trendy eateries.

Notre Dame & Île de la Cité

Visit the exterior of the magnificent Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, currently undergoing restoration.

Explore the charming Île de la Cité, home to Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie.

While Notre Dame's interior is closed, its exterior is still impressive. Consider visiting Sainte-Chapelle for its stunning stained glass windows (booking recommended).

Lunch in Latin Quarter

Cross over to the Left Bank and have lunch in the bustling Latin Quarter, known for its student vibe and diverse food options.

Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Explore the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre.

Visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for more panoramic views of the city. Wander through Place du Tertre, where artists create and sell their work.

Take the Funicular of Montmartre up the hill to save your legs, or enjoy the climb. Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Dinner in Montmartre

Enjoy an authentic Parisian dinner in one of Montmartre's charming restaurants, soaking in the bohemian atmosphere.

Day Trip to Versailles

Travel to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the opulent State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and the vast Gardens of Versailles.

Take the RER C train from central Paris directly to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. Book palace entry tickets online well in advance. Consider renting a golf cart or bicycle to explore the extensive gardens.

Late Lunch in Versailles

Grab a quick bite or a relaxed late lunch in one of the many cafes or restaurants around Versailles before heading back to Paris.

Musée d'Orsay

Discover the stunning collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces housed in a beautiful former railway station, featuring works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.

Often open late on Thursdays. Book tickets online to reduce wait times. Enjoy the clock face view of the Seine.

Dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Enjoy an evening meal in the chic and historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, known for its literary cafes and excellent restaurants.

Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

Stroll down the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, indulge in some window shopping, and visit the Arc de Triomphe.

Climb to the top for more incredible city views.

Pre-book Arc de Triomphe tickets to save time. Be aware of traffic when crossing the roundabout.

Lunch near La Madeleine

Enjoy a final Parisian lunch near the Madeleine Church, an area known for its upscale shops and eateries.

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop View

Visit the stunning Galeries Lafayette department store, admire its Art Nouveau dome, and head to the panoramic rooftop terrace for a free, spectacular view of Paris.

Great for unique souvenirs or just to enjoy the architecture and views without an entry fee.

Last Minute Shopping / Free Time

Use this time for any last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite spot, or simply relax at a café.

Farewell Dinner in Paris

Enjoy a final, memorable dinner in Paris, perhaps trying a different arrondissement or revisiting a favorite local bistro.

Pack & Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to pack and make final preparations for your onward journey to the Swiss Alps tomorrow.

Train Travel to Interlaken

Board a high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Basel SBB, then connect to a scenic Swiss train towards Interlaken Ost.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you journey into the heart of Switzerland.

Ensure you have your train tickets booked in advance. Consider a Swiss Travel Pass for flexibility and cost savings on trains, buses, and boats within Switzerland.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel in Interlaken, the adventure capital of the Jungfrau region.

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.

Many restaurants around Bahnhof Ost and West offer traditional Swiss and international cuisine.

Scenic Lake Thun Cruise

Embark on a relaxing cruise on Lake Thun, admiring the picturesque castles, charming villages, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. A perfect way to unwind after your journey.

Boats depart from Interlaken West. Your Swiss Travel Pass may cover this cruise, otherwise, tickets can be purchased at the pier. Dress warmly as it can get chilly on the lake in October.

Dinner in Interlaken

Enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner in Interlaken.

Consider trying fondue or raclette for an authentic experience.

Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe'.

Take the scenic train via Lauterbrunnen and Kleine Scheidegg, marveling at the Eiger North Face. Explore the Ice Palace, Sphinx Observatory, and enjoy panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier.

This is a full-day excursion. Dress in warm layers, even in October, as temperatures at the top are always cold. Book tickets in advance, especially for specific train times.

Relaxation & Souvenir Shopping

After a day in the mountains, relax back in Interlaken.

You might browse the shops for Swiss souvenirs or enjoy a drink at a local cafe.

Dinner in Interlaken

Savor another delightful dinner in Interlaken, perhaps trying a different local specialty.

Grindelwald First Expedition

Take a train to Grindelwald and then a gondola up to First.

Experience the thrilling First Cliff Walk by Tissot, offering breathtaking views. Depending on the weather and your preference, you can also try the First Glider or First Mountain Cart (seasonal, usually available in October).

The adventure activities are weather-dependent. Check opening status before you go. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Explore Grindelwald Village

Spend some time exploring the charming Alpine village of Grindelwald, known for its stunning views of the Eiger North Face and its traditional chalets. Enjoy a coffee or pastry.

Dinner in Interlaken

Return to Interlaken for dinner.

Consider a restaurant with lake views if available.

Lauterbrunnen Valley Exploration

Take a short train ride to Lauterbrunnen, a valley famous for its 72 waterfalls.

Stroll through the charming village and walk towards Staubbach Falls, which plunges almost 300 meters from an overhanging rock face.

The walk is relatively flat and easy. Excellent photo opportunities.

Trümmelbach Falls

Visit the impressive Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten glacier-fed waterfalls inside the mountain, made accessible by a tunnel-funicular and paths.

These are Europe's largest subterranean waterfalls.

The falls can be loud and wet, so waterproof clothing might be useful. Check operating hours, usually open until early November.

Late Lunch in Lauterbrunnen

Enjoy a late lunch in Lauterbrunnen before heading back to Interlaken.

Free Evening in Interlaken

Enjoy a relaxed evening.

You might try a different restaurant or simply unwind at your hotel.

Harder Kulm Panoramic Views

Take the funicular up to Harder Kulm, Interlaken's local mountain.

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Interlaken, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from the Two Lakes Bridge.

The funicular station is near Interlaken Ost. Great photo opportunity for a final Swiss Alps memory.

Farewell Swiss Lunch

Enjoy a final Swiss lunch in Interlaken before departing for Italy.

Train Travel to Rome

Depart from Interlaken Ost, taking a scenic train journey through the Alps and into Italy.

You will typically connect through Milan, then take a high-speed train to Rome Termini. This is a longer travel day, so ensure you have snacks and entertainment.

Booking train tickets in advance for this route, especially the high-speed segment from Milan to Rome, is highly recommended.

Colosseum & Roman Forum

Step back in time at the iconic Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheater ever built.

Afterward, explore the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, once the bustling center of Roman public life.

Book skip-the-line tickets online well in advance. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

Traditional Roman Lunch

Enjoy a hearty Roman lunch at a trattoria near the Colosseum, savoring classic dishes like 'cacio e pepe' or 'pasta all'amatriciana'.

Look for local spots slightly off the main tourist paths for better authenticity and pricing.

Palatine Hill Views

Wander through the ruins of the imperial palaces on Palatine Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.

Entry is included with your Colosseum/Roman Forum ticket. This area provides excellent photo opportunities.

Dinner Near the Pantheon

Experience the charm of Rome by dining at a restaurant in the lively area around the Pantheon, enjoying delicious Italian cuisine.

The Pantheon is beautifully lit at night, making it a great backdrop for an evening stroll after dinner.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Explore the vast collections of the Vatican Museums, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's masterpieces.

Book tickets online directly through the Vatican website to save time. Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.

Lunch Near Vatican

Grab a quick and delicious lunch at a cafe or pizzeria in the Borgo neighborhood, just outside Vatican City.

St. Peter's Basilica

Visit St.

Peter's Basilica, an architectural marvel and one of the largest churches in the world. Marvel at its grandeur and Michelangelo's Pietà.

Entry is free, but expect security lines. Climbing the dome offers spectacular views (additional cost). Dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered.

Trastevere Evening & Dinner

Cross the Tiber to Trastevere, a charming, bohemian neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets.

Enjoy a traditional Roman dinner in its lively atmosphere.

Known for its authentic Roman eateries and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for an evening stroll.

Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

Begin your day by tossing a coin into the magnificent Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome, then stroll to the iconic Spanish Steps.

Visit early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds.

Via del Corso & Pizza Lunch

Enjoy some light window shopping along Via del Corso or Via Condotti, followed by a classic Roman 'pizza al taglio' (pizza by the slice) for lunch.

Pantheon & Piazza Navona

Explore the marvel of ancient Roman engineering at the Pantheon, then walk to the stunning Piazza Navona, adorned with Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers.

Entry to the Pantheon is free but often has queues. Piazza Navona is great for people-watching and street artists.

Gelato & Roman Dinner

Indulge in authentic Italian gelato before enjoying a relaxing dinner in a charming Roman square.

Seek out artisan gelato shops for the best experience. 'Giolitti' and 'Fassi' are famous options.

Borghese Gallery & Museum

Visit the exquisite Borghese Gallery, housing masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Canova.

Pre-booking is essential.

Tickets are strictly timed and must be booked several weeks in advance. No large bags allowed inside.

Picnic in Villa Borghese Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the beautiful grounds of Villa Borghese, Rome's third-largest public park.

Pick up some fresh bread, cheese, and cured meats from a local market or deli for an authentic Italian picnic.

Pincio Terrace Views

Stroll through the gardens and head to the Pincio Terrace for spectacular views overlooking Piazza del Popolo and the Rome cityscape.

Pasta Making Class & Dinner

Participate in a hands-on pasta making class, learning the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine, followed by enjoying your delicious creations for dinner.

A fun and immersive cultural experience. Book in advance.

Catacombs & Appian Way

Explore the ancient underground burial chambers of the Roman Catacombs (e.

g., Catacombs of Callixtus or Domitilla), then take a scenic walk along a section of the historic Appian Way.

The Catacombs require a guided tour, usually available on site. Consider taking a bus or taxi to reach this area.

Lunch Near Appian Way

Enjoy a casual lunch at a restaurant or trattoria located near the Appian Way.

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot, enjoying a coffee, or doing some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Farewell Roman Dinner

Savor a memorable farewell dinner at a highly-rated Roman restaurant, reflecting on your incredible journey through the city.

Consider booking a table in advance for popular establishments, especially on a Saturday night.

Travel from Rome to Athens

Fly from Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Athens International Airport (ATH).

Upon arrival, take a taxi or express bus X95 to your accommodation in Athens.

Direct flights are available from Rome to Athens with airlines like Aegean Airlines or Ryanair. Ensure you factor in travel to and from airports.

Check into Hotel

Check into your hotel, settle in, and refresh after your journey.

Take some time to relax before heading out to explore.

Stroll Through Plaka

Wander through the charming, historic neighborhood of Plaka, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis.

Explore its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and souvenir shops.

Plaka is very walkable and has many quaint shops and cafes. It's a great place for a leisurely introduction to Athens.

Traditional Greek Dinner

Enjoy your first authentic Greek dinner in Plaka.

Savor local specialties like Moussaka, Souvlaki, or fresh seafood at a traditional taverna.

Restaurants like 'Tzitzikas kai o Mermigas' or 'Scholarhio Ouzeri Kouklis' offer a great atmosphere and traditional dishes.

Acropolis & Parthenon

Ascend to the magnificent Acropolis to explore the iconic Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Experience the breathtaking views of Athens.

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Go early to avoid crowds and the midday sun. Combined tickets are available for multiple archaeological sites.

Lunch Near Acropolis Museum

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cafe or restaurant near the Acropolis Museum, offering views of the Acropolis.

Acropolis Museum

Discover fascinating artifacts found on the Acropolis at the modern Acropolis Museum, offering incredible insights into ancient Greek art and daily life.

The museum is very well laid out and offers fantastic views of the Acropolis from its cafe. Photography may be restricted in some areas.

Explore Anafiotika

Wander through the tiny, picturesque neighborhood of Anafiotika, built by islanders from Anafi. It feels like a Cycladic island village right in the heart of Athens.

This hidden gem is perfect for a quiet stroll and offers unique photo opportunities. It's right below the Acropolis.

Dinner in Monastiraki

Head to Monastiraki Square for dinner, a bustling area known for its flea market and many restaurants with views of the Acropolis.

Ancient Agora of Athens

Explore the heart of ancient Athenian public life, including the excellently preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos, which houses a museum.

A combined ticket with the Acropolis is often available and recommended. This site is quite extensive, so wear comfortable shoes.

Lunch in Psiri

Have lunch in the lively Psiri neighborhood, known for its traditional eateries and vibrant atmosphere, just a short walk from the Ancient Agora.

Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds

Visit the Roman Agora, built later than the Ancient Agora, and see the impressive Tower of the Winds, an ancient meteorological station and clock.

This site is smaller than the Ancient Agora but equally significant. It's often included in the combined ticket.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Marvel at the colossal ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, and Hadrian's Arch nearby.

The sheer scale of the remaining columns is impressive. This site is also typically covered by the combined ticket.

Dinner in Koukaki

Explore the vibrant Koukaki neighborhood for dinner, known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent food options away from the main tourist crowds.

National Archaeological Museum

Visit one of the world's most important archaeological museums, housing an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts from various periods.

Allow plenty of time as the collection is vast. A must-see for anyone interested in Greek history and art.

Lunch Near Syntagma Square

Grab a quick lunch in the area around Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens.

Changing of the Guard

Witness the ceremonial changing of the Evzones, the Presidential Guard, in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square.

The main ceremony happens on Sunday, but a smaller ceremony occurs hourly.

The hourly change is impressive, but the grand Sunday morning ceremony is more elaborate. Check current schedules.

Shopping on Ermou Street

Enjoy some retail therapy on Ermou Street, Athens' premier shopping street, offering a mix of international brands and local boutiques.

A good place to find gifts and souvenirs, or just enjoy the bustling city atmosphere.

Sunset at Mount Lycabettus

Take the funicular up Mount Lycabettus for panoramic sunset views over the entire city of Athens, including the Acropolis.

The funicular departs from Aristippou and Ploutarchou streets in Kolonaki. It's truly magical at sunset, so plan to arrive beforehand.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final memorable dinner in Athens, perhaps at a restaurant with rooftop views or a cozy spot in Kolonaki.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a final Greek breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe, savoring the last moments of your European adventure.

Last-Minute Souvenirs or Coffee

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a relaxing coffee in a favorite spot.

Ensure you have enough time to get to the airport without rush.

Check-out & Airport Transfer

Check out from your hotel and arrange for a transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH) for your return flight to Melbourne.

Departure Flight to Melbourne

Board your flight from Athens International Airport (ATH) back to Melbourne, concluding your incredible 25-day European journey.