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England/France

The Best of London and Paris: A Tale of Two Cities

Program No. 20953RJ
Compare the grandeur of these two cities as you discover iconic monuments, historic landmarks, distinct cultures and classic architecture on expert-led walks through London and Paris.

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At a Glance

London and Paris. Both historic capital cities boast world-class museums and instantly recognizable landmarks and buzz with commerce, politics, education and culture. But it’s what separates them that makes them most intriguing: the languages, the aesthetics, the food, the attitudes. Compare for yourself on this journey that combines field trips led by top-notch Road Scholar experts and abundant time for independent discoveries.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
3-5 hours of walking and standing per day. Extensive use of the London Tube and Paris Metro system, often accessed only by stairs.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Learn about the modern history of the Royal Family from trusted insider Ken Wharfe, then discover Kensington Palace, the former home of Princess Diana.
  • Uncover the great artistic treasures of Paris at the Musee du Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay and the Musee Rodin.
  • Enjoy free time to explore the neighborhoods, historic sites, pubs and cafes of London and Paris.

General Notes

Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials. Current Events in Paris: Due to the fire at Notre Dame, the cathedral is closed to visitors. Road Scholar programs that visit île de la Cité will be able to see the outside of the cathedral, but we will not be able to go inside.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Christine Brangwin
Chris Brangwin has led Road Scholar groups for 20 years in countries including France, Russia, the USA and the UK. She is a member of a ukulele orchestra, and has a wide range of creative interests including furniture restoration, stained-glass window making and metal sculpting.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Christine Brangwin
Christine Brangwin View biography
Chris Brangwin has led Road Scholar groups for 20 years in countries including France, Russia, the USA and the UK. She is a member of a ukulele orchestra, and has a wide range of creative interests including furniture restoration, stained-glass window making and metal sculpting.
Profile Image of Alice Trickey
Alice Trickey View biography
Alice Trickey qualified as a Blue Badge Guide for London and offers expertise and in-depth knowledge of British history from the Romans to the 21st Century. Winner of the St Paul’s Cathedral Award, Alice brings expertise and infectious energy to all her programs, combining a love of storytelling with a keen eye for fascinating detail. A history graduate, Alice worked at some of Britain’s top heritage attractions including Shakespeare's Globe, Hampton Court Palace and the Museum of London before becoming a professional group leader. She lives in Kent with her fiancé and collection of cacti.
Profile Image of Michael Armitage
Michael Armitage View biography
Mike Armitage was born in London, living there all his life until moving to Windsor recently. He worked as a customs officer at Heathrow Airport, during which time he led lots of international training, particularly in Africa and Eastern Europe. Mike combined a new-found love for teaching with his passion for London in 2010 when he completed a three-year course and began leading visitors around his home city. He leads walks for visiting government dignitaries and the Friends of the Imperial War Museum, among others.
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Jerome Hugron View biography
Jerome Hugron grew up in Lyon, in southeastern France. When he was 17, he spent one year in the U.S. as an exchange student attending high school while living with an American family in Michigan. He forged special ties with the U.S. thanks to that experience, returning to America every year since, especially to the west. He then earned a degree in history from the University of Lyon. Since then, he has been enjoying his passion as a leader and has traveled throughout the world.
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