London and Paris: A Tale of Two Cities (8 Days)

When Charles Dickens penned A Tale of Two Cities, it was written as social commentary. Set during the French Revolution, it accurately described the oppression of the lower classes and justifiable unrest and upheaval which unseated the "Bourbon Kings" and changed the natural order of Europe forever. Travel with The History Channel on a voyage of great discovery, as the interconnected paths to revolution are uncovered on an experiential tour between Dickens' two famous cities - London and Paris. Over the course of 8 days, travelers will visit the greatest sites both capitals have to offer, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, The Tower of London and Windsor Castle, as well as Versailles, Notre Dame and more. Also included are two London theatre performances, and an unforgettable dinner atop the Eiffel Tower. London and Paris: A Tale of Two Cities is also being run in conjunction with an upcoming special documentary The French Revolution set to air on The History Channel in early 2005.Day by Day ItineraryDay 1 Depart for London Begin your vacation with an overnight flight to London. Day 2 London Your tour begins in London, a sophisticated metropolis featuring style, culture and history. Its bustling city streets are filled with colorful history, regal pageantry, beautiful gardens, fascinating museums, celebrated monuments and grand theatres. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner followed by one of London’s finest theatre performances. (D) Day 3 London A local expert leads you on a panoramic tour of London. See Trafalgar Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace, the London home to Britain's royalty since 1837. At Westminster, see the houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Your day concludes with another spectacular theatre performance, Les Miserables. Day 4 London After breakfast, visit Windsor Castle. Originally built to guard the city of London, Windsor Castle has been the home of Kings and Queens for nine centuries and is the oldest royal residence still in use today. Explore the medieval St. George’s Chapel*, resting place of ten English sovereigns; Queen Mary’s Doll House, a fine collection of master drawings; and nearly 13 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Later, visit the Tower of London, the 900-year-old site of executions and imprisonments - now home to the Crown Jewels. Be dazzled by The Imperial State Crown, set with the 530 carat Culinan I, one of the largest cut diamonds in the world. Explore the mysteries of the White, Bloody and Beauchamp Towers where prisoners of fame were incarcerated and executed. (B, D)*At times, St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle may be closed to the public.Day 5 Paris Sit back and relax as you depart London and travel on the innovative Eurostar High Speed Train to France. Arrive in the “City of Light,” Paris, for a delightful three night stay. Following dinner at a charming French restaurant, enjoy a romantic Seine River cruise against a backdrop of Paris’s glittering skyline.Day 6 Paris The world-famous Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Champs Elysees, Place de la Concorde and the magnificent Place Vendome are some of the amazing landmarks you will see while on a locally guided tour of Paris. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to Louis XIV’s magnificent Palace and Gardens of Versailles. Relive history as you walk through the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bed chamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Day 7 Paris Discover Paris off the beaten path with a leisurely paced walking tour through the historic Marais District, including beautiful Place des Vosges. This fashionable area is known for its beautiful 17-18th century architecture, stunning mansions and abundance of unique boutiques and antique shops. Next, learn more about the Parisian lifestyle and culture when you visit the impressive Carnavalet Museum. Toast the end of your trip with a memorable dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring breathtaking views of the Paris skyline. Day 8 Paris Depart Paris and return home with many unforgettable memories of your vacation in London & Paris.(B)