Sandwiched between the seemingly distant memories of sensuous summers and the slow but steady shortening of days ushering in the winter- October can be a tricky month for many when looking to plan a last-minute European holiday. If you think you missed your window for a beach escape, fret not- we’ve got you covered! From stunning Madeira to Italy and the Greek isles, the sun continues to shine boldly between fluffy clouds and all you need is the right guide to go about choosing your favourite island. 

Here are 9 of our favourite European beach destinations that are still warm and welcoming in October. With toasty daytime temperatures that promise a great tan, grab some sunblock, a cute swimsuit, large hat and you’re good to go!

Brač, Croatia

Average daytime temperatures: 20-24 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Split Airport (SPU) and then take the ferry across to Brač

Endowed with magical bays and covered with forests of cypress trees, there’s something magical about Brač. Although popular for its iconic sliver of beach- Zlatni Rat, there’s much more to Brač than its triangular stretch of shimmery coastline. With quaint fishing villages adorned with classic Croatian red tile roofs and white facades, baroque churches and little streetside restaurants dishing up fresh seafood delicacies, it paints the perfect picture of a quiet coastal town, away from the throngs of tourists.

A fun fact about Brač- stone from its quarries on the Northern side of the island, is used to build homes in Brač, along with the White House in Washington and Diocletian’s palace in Split.

Madeira, Portugal

Average daytime temperatures: 20-28 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Madeira Airport International Cristiano Ronaldo (FNC)

Tell us you’ve seen a more enchanting place than Madeira and we’ll help you with an itinerary to rediscover this little island and prove you wrong. Madeira has the perfect climate, never too hot, never too cold and a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors.

This volcanic island is not home to your typical golden sand beaches, instead, it boasts a dramatic rocky coastline, lush forests, stunning waterfalls and pods of friendly dolphins. With colourful street art, black and white mosaic pavements and cute street cafes with checkered tablecloths, the capital city of Funchal is compact but packs a real punch.

Crete, Greece

Average daytime temperatures: 21-26 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Chania International Airport (CHQ)

The peak-summer crowds have trickled down and while Crete is a popular cruise stop, there’s much to this sunny island that encapsulates the fabled Greek magic. After all, it is the birthplace of the mighty Zeus and that of the oldest civilization in Europe.  Crete falls into two climatic zones, with the largest part of the island falling into the Mediterranean and the southern with a North African climate- so you’re really spoiled for choice.

When not relaxing by turquoise waters and pink sand beaches, Crete’s few but stunning national parks, offer opportunities to discover deep gorge hikes, mountain drives, ancient history and more!

Corfu, Greece

Temp: 20-26 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Corfu Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU)

Delicate and boasting a glorious cultural past, Corfu is the founding home to the first Philharmonic Orchestra and the First School of Fine Arts. 

Its idyllic settings have been the backdrop for multiple Hollywood movies, and for good reason. With lush olive groves, fragrant orange gardens, fascinating culture and a beautifully preserved Old Town, Corfu is beguiling and calls to be explored with no rush.

Ustica, Italy

Temp: 20-25 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) Palermo and then take a ferry to Ustica

A little island shrouded in charm, history, and unique landscapes, Ustica sits pretty and secluded from mainland Palermo. Like a green oasis rising from the sea, this island was made the first Italian Marine Reserve in 1986, providing excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Expect lush seabeds, colourful shoals of fish and coral unlike elsewhere in the Mediterranean. 

The island’s indented coastline carefully hides from the public, stunning caves, pebbly coves, small beaches and natural pools. Dive in for an exhilarating adventure!

Sardinia, Italy

Average daytime temperatures: 20-27 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG) 

The embodiment of ‘la dolce vita‘ with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and pretty pastel-coloured houses piled atop a rugged outcrop- this Mediterranean island spells bliss.

With an abundance of activities for every traveler, October still sees warm sea temperatures minus the crowds, a two-million-year-old cave in Capo Caccia, charming villages and the famous Autunno in Barbagia festival, Su Nuraxi Nuraghe- the island’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and much more!

The island’s beloved festival is a celebration of its culture and ancient traditions-  among others, you’ll see how local bread and pasta were once made and the techniques behind ancient crafts originating in Sardinia.

Malta

Average daytime temperatures: 20-25 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Malta International Airport (MLA)

With gorgeous architecture and a rich history, long winding beaches and glistening waters, Malta enjoys over 200 hours of sunshine in October. Without a single dreary vibe in sight- it’s just great weather, warm waters and fabulous food. 

With over a dozen tranquil spots to soak up the Mediterranean sun, you’re really spoiled for choice. Short boat rides will take you across to sister island Gozo for an easy day on the sandy shores of San Blas Bay. For the water babies, underwater treasures in the form of wrecks, caves and vibrant marine life lie just beneath the surface of the island’s crystal-clear waters. Wind down with a walk through Valletta’s pretty narrow streets coupled with a coffee break at a cute alleyway cafe. 

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands- Spain

Average daytime temperatures: 25-28 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) from mainland Spain

Everything about Fuerteventura is dramatic- windswept and baked by the sun, with its bunt red, Martian landscape, the island is nothing like its neighbouring sister islands. With flatter terrain, here, the clouds aren’t trapped by mountains and strong winds rake up the best weather for watersports.

With multiple choices ranging from windsurfing, kite surfing, scuba diving and sailing- it’s a great bet for an offbeat getaway to unwind by the golden sands of Corralejo and Morro Jable. Its arid landscape and endless sunshine allow for long days out, to explore the otherworldly beauty of its volcanic terrain. 

Bodrum, Turkey

Average daytime temperatures: 23-28 degrees Celsius 

How to get there: Fly into Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV)

Nestled on Turkey’s southwest coast, Bodrum is a mesmerizing blend of history and modernity. Come October- the Aegean presents itself as an enticing option with sea temperatures that have been consistently warmed through the summer. With balmy temperatures reigning, the forested coast and ancient city are ready to be explored. Ancient ruins like the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the stunning Bodrum Castle will have both history and outdoor enthusiasts enthralled.

With an abundant bounty ripe and fresh from the sea, October afternoons are best spent lazily by the beach followed by an easy segue into a vibrant night scene. 

An alluring bunch to choose from, which of these magical islands has piqued your interest? Make the most of the month and head off for a crowd-free beach escape.

A kingdom that sits snugly in the shadow of the mighty, snow-capped Himalayan, Zanskar and Karakoram ranges, accentuated by the shimmery waters of Indus and Zanskar, Ladakh is spellbinding, to say the least.

A landscape that is dotted with reminders of a rich and varied legacy, transport yourself back in time this summer and embark on a surreal journey like no other.
Beyond the typical circuit, here’s a list of our favourite lesser-known villages and experiences that allow you to experience Ladakh in all its glory through a humbling lens.

At a short distance from Leh, you’ll find undisturbed villages like Nimmoo, UleyTokpo and Basgo. Providing opportunities to be close enough to the main city, yet away from the bustle for an immersive experience, these villages are ideal if you’re looking to split your stay or just for some quiet time.

Why Nimmoo?
Just 45 minutes from Leh, the picturesque village of Nimmoo also goes by ‘Jannat’ of Ladakh. Standing at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, bringing in greenery and beauty, there’s a particular charm about Nimmoo that must be experienced first-hand to be understood. 

Experience Nimmoo at: Nimmu House and engage with the in-house Chef for an immersive apricot pie-making masterclass.

Why Thiksey?
Under 30 minutes from Leh, Thiksey is frequented for its magnificent twelve-storey grand Thiksey monastery, but visits are generally brief. If you’re looking for a quiet but adventurous experience, this is the place to be. Ride with the wind at scenic Wari-La- the world’s fourth-highest motorable road. Whiz down the best cycle track the Ladakh Himalayas have to offer, with mountains stretching to one side and the rich green oasis of Sakti village to the other.

Experience Thiksey at: TUTC Chamba Camp Thiksey. Quieten yourself amidst the magnanimity of your surroundings as you hike to the Khaspang meditation centre from the remote village of Igoo.

Why Basgo?
An hour from Leh, a solitary monastery built in 1680 towers over the ruins of an ancient town. Ideal for history buffs, Basgo Monastery consists of Basgo Palace and Gompa which all hold an important space in Ladakhi history, tradition and culture. The approach to Basgo involves winding roads between huge cliffs which spell mystery at every turn. 

Experience Basgo with: A guided walk through the Monastery and temples dedicated to Maitreya Buddha. 

Why UleyTokpo?
UleyTokpo sits close enough to Leh but is still far enough to start giving you an idea of just how vast and beautiful this terrain is. Frequently visited by those approaching Ladakh via the Leh-Srinagar highway, it’s a foretaste of what is yet to come. The village of Likir is not too far away and is home to the last potter of Ladakh, carrying forward a 1000-year-old legacy of clay pottery. Saunter over for an immersive workshop and end with a hot cup of butter tea.

Experience UleyTokpo at: Uley Eco Resort, nestled amidst apple, almond and apricot trees. Brave Grade 5 rapids with the Indus at your doorstep.

As you slowly move away from the main city and its surroundings, the roads open up to uniquely weathered mountains, snaking rivers and streams that feed small patches of green adding bursts of colour to the otherwise rugged landscape. Whether in the charming valley of Nubra or the Changthang Plateau region, there’s a list of places that paint an authentic picture of Ladakh. Here is our list.

Visit Kharnak village in Changthang, located in the Tibetan Plateau of Ladakh in pursuit of Ladakh’s ‘soft gold’ or prized pashmina wool.

Stay in Sumur village at Kyagar and take a dip at the Panamik hot springs.

Take the long drive out to Merak, instead of Spangmik and Man for a crowd-free experience of beautiful Pangong-Tso

Admire the multicoloured rugged mountains from Rumtse in the Rupshu Valley- starting point for an arduous, yet rewarding trek to beautiful Tso Moriri.

Drive to the stark and secluded Hanle- India’s first Dark Sky Reserve and home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory.

Try Ladakh beyond the typical — If you’re looking to make these experiences a part of your summer journey to the land of high passes, our team of travel advisors will be happy to assist.

‘The only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa – for he has so much to look forward to.’ – Richard Mullin

As you peek out your binoculars at the far end of your game lodge, or at the edge of your jeep seat, a cloud of dust fills the air in the distance. Beneath your feet, the ground starts to tremor as thousands of wildebeest charge toward the Mara River.

Exhilarating, with palpable excitement and fear, alongside mighty beasts, there really isn’t anything that comes quite close to this experience- what you’re witnessing is the Great Migration. 

So what is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of over a million animals across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Guided by survival instinct, the wildebeest traverse along age-old migration routes in a circular pattern, through Tanzania and Kenya. It still remains unproven as to how the wildebeest chart their course, but it is generally believed that their response to the weather dictates their journey; they follow seasonal rains and the growth of new grass.

Because so many animals rely on wildebeest and zebra for food, the Migration attracts many other species, making for exciting sightings of diverse species. The movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra, gazelle, and impala will attract predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and Nile crocodiles.

The animals will start from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the south of the Serengeti in Tanzania, up through the Serengeti, and across into the Masai Mara in Kenya, before returning south to Serengeti.

Towards end-May, the wildebeest slowly move up through Serengenti’s western corridor to cross the Grumeti River in Tanzania and then further into Mara. The Grumeti River crossings aren’t as spectacular as the famous Mara crossings, but there is still enough movement to track. 

The Mara River crossings constitute the ‘peak season’ for the Migration and take place between August and October. Situated on the border between the two countries, this crossing marks the most treacherous point of the journey and hence, makes for the most dramatic river crossing. Also, the wildebeest have a more concentrated route through Mara, as compared to the vast and open plains of the Serengeti, hence, August to October will see a majority of crowds flocking to spot the herds.

It’s worth noting that the herds arrive at different times each year, depending on the rains and their crossing the Mara River is not guaranteed. Sometimes they’ll arrive at the bank and leap across immediately, while at other times they may wait, or even retreat.

The key to planning a great Migration holiday is first understanding the phenomenon and then weaving your way through the various logistical arrangements required. Here’s what you should be considering as you plan your holiday.

Pre-planning: Holidays are to be typically booked between 6 months to a year prior to departure.

Minimum stay: At least 5 nights (considering crossings are never guaranteed and the longer you stay, the more time you have for sightings).

Accommodation type:
There’s much to consider when choosing where you’d like to stay- between location, luxury, camp type, etc. myriad options present themselves to be considered.

Needless to say, location is of prime importance, and proximity to the Mara River ensures unrivaled sightings. The Masai Mara National Reserve is open to the public and day visitors and if you’re looking for a sense of exclusivity then it’s advisable to stay in a private conservancy.

Private conservancies are separate from the main Game Reserve. They are on the border, and often encompass important migratory corridors. Camps in private conservancies are co-managed between tourism partners and the original landowners- the Maasai. The land is leased and the funds generated by tourism are invested back into the community to protect the ecosystem and sustain the Maasai.

While selecting accommodation, you have the choice between permanent lodges and mobile camps and each has its own level of luxury and additional amenities to suit your budget.

When you’re far out in the wilderness for eight to ten days, creature comforts are important. And comfort can spell different things for different people. For some, it’s a comfortable bed, cozy bonfire, and great company to discuss the day’s sightings. For others, it could be an indulgent soak in a tub under the stars with a loved one. 

The right travel partner will be able to guide you through the options available basis all these factors.

Good to know: For a quieter and (possibly) enriching experience, staying in a private conservancy is your best bet. It allows for crowd-free game drives and the pleasure of enjoying a wilderness experience minus the congestion of other vehicles. You also have the opportunity to undertake guided nature walks, and night safaris, set up bush picnics at enviable locations, and go offroading  – activities not permitted in the national reserve. 

ET recommends: Mara Conservancy camps- Mahali Mzuri, Mara Plains Camp, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

Travel partner:
Choosing the right travel partner for your holiday is important because their guidance and assistance will determine not just your safari experience, but more importantly, your knowledge and perspective of the destination as a whole. The right travel partner will understand your needs and recommend the right accommodation type and a proficient guide whose practices are ethical and culturally sensitive. They also recommend additional experiences to augment your time in Africa. 

With established and longstanding relations with trusted local partners, when you book with Eastern Travels, your holiday is in the hands of a trained professional.

Connect with us, and let our travel advisors help you plan the most exhilarating African getaway.

Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast or not, a drive along South Africa’s most iconic route should feature high on your bucket list simply for the plethora of opportunities on offer. With endless detour options, the route can be explored to cater to the appetites of culinary aficionados, those who appreciate fine wine and local spirits, adventure enthusiasts, beach lovers, and mountain people alike. 

With food that’s so good, it’s true- a large number of people will plan their entire journey around visits to clifftop restaurants or tiny, hole-in-the-wall waffle and coffee stops. So whether you were looking for it or not, here’s a roundup of our favorite stops along the Garden Route that demand a definitive place on your breezy and beautiful drive. 

Before we dive in, here’s the traditional route at a glance to familiarize yourself with.

1. Mossel Bay
2. George
3. Knysna
4. Wilderness
5. Plettenberg Bay
6. Storms River

While the above is the typical route, if you’re starting from Cape Town or Port Elizabeth, there’s more to be covered and your itinerary can span anywhere between 5 to 14 days!

For now, we’ll stick to restaurant recommendations along the traditional route. Here’s a list of our favorites.

Mossel Bay: Hugging the coast, this harbor town boasts the bounty of the ocean complete with wild oysters, (quite possibly) the best fish and chips, and steaks. Mains aside, delectable dessert tarts and pudding is paired with the finest coffee from master roasters.

Cafe Gannet | Cuisine: Seafood
What we love: Stylish decor, great seafood, and even better gin paired with incomparable, sweeping views of the coast.

Cafe Axara  | Cuisine: Cafe
What we love: Set cozily in a beautiful 116-year-old building, their strawberry milkshake cream puffs and pink hot chocolate are a must-try.

Carola Ann’s | Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Cafe, Mediterranean, Healthy
What we love: Historic farm setting with an imaginative menu featuring lovely, fresh, produce. Must try their Baklava ice cream.

George: Sitting in the shadow of the famous Outeniqua mountains, surrounded by lush valleys, forests, and lakes, George is so much more than just a transport hub on the Garden Route. Within the historic town, the local markets boast delicious cream teas and immersive culinary activities spanning strawberry picking, craft brewery tours, cheese farm visits, and more- you’re sure to enjoy great country hospitality.

Bayleaf Cafe | Cuisine: Cafe, European
What we love: A hidden gem in George with a humble yet cozy warm, wooden cafe-style set-up. What’s not to love about a lovely big breakfast spread in the cool shade of the garden followed by an indulgent lemon cheesecake?

101 Meade | Cuisine: Steakhouse, African, Seafood
What we love: Excellent cocktails with a flamboyant chef serving up the most exquisite lamb chops. Beautiful decor and vibe for George.

Kafe Serefe | Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
What we love: A no-frills setup, serving a mean Camembert Parcel starter, with a balsamic glaze and rocket salad.

Knysna: A melting pot of cultures- Knysna is a culinary hotspot that attracts people from all over. Famous for its 10-day long Winter Oyster Festival, impeccable seafood is paired with sparkly Chardonnay and savored while overlooking the glistening waters of Knysna’s lagoon.

East Head Cafe | Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian, Seafood
What we love: Fuss-free, with stunning views of the blue lagoon, sandstone cliffs, the Milkwood Forest. Inimitable calamari and chips!

The Drydock Food Co | Cuisine: Sushi, Healthy
What we love: Set on the water’s edge, the staff ensures you’ve got a great wine pairing to go with incredible food. You must try the sirloin steak and fresh catch of the day.

Ile de Pain | Cuisine: Cafe
What we love: Hands down, the decadent chocolate mousse and a cappuccino.

Wilderness National Park: A world of rivers, lagoons, beaches, forests and mountains, spoil yourself silly in the great outdoors. When you’re done for the day, pamper yourself to little restaurants that dot the small town for a mellow experience.

Serendipity | Cuisine: African
What we love: Thoughtful decor with ostrich egg tea lights and cozy nooks shows the level of passion for this project. Featuring a seasonal menu, Serendipity always is a pleasant surprise.

Joplins Steak Bar | Cuisine: Steakhouse
What we love: Simply put- Great steaks, cooked to perfection!

The Girl’s on the Square | Cuisine: African, Fusion
What we love: A lovely garden setting, surrounded by local artwork that showcases the soul of the region. Great wine, flavorsome curries, and outstanding African food.

Plettenberg Bay: With sandy coves, sheer cliffs, and boasting the coast’s best beaches, the waters of Plett are home to migrating whales and dolphins. Sporting a careful selection of culinary experiences, you’re left with superlative wine estates, great seafood, and candlelit fusion dinners overlooking shimmery waters.

Emily Moon | Cuisine: Fusion
What we love: Butter chicken samosas to Bali bowls- Emily’s carefully thought out menu is extraordinary and needs to be experienced to be understood.

Bramon Restaurant and Wine Estate | Cuisine: Mediterranean
What we love: The stunning vineyard set-up overlooking the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Grilled prawns, asparagus ravioli and the most outstanding ice creams.

Enrico’s | Cuisine: Italian, Seafood, European
What we love: Incomparable sunset views with dolphin spotting, paired with the finest pizzas and fresh catch.

Storms River: Across dizzying bridges, deep canyons, and pristine forests, a drive to Storms River brings you to the Eastern Cape to a tiny town that is also the gateway to ‘the garden’ of the Garden Route- Tsitsikamma.

Fynboshoek Cheese Restaurant | Cuisine: Deli, Light meals
What we love: An experience we’d really travel for, the wine and cheese along with every item off the lunch menu is worth coming back for!

De Oude Martha | Cuisine: Organic, African
What we love: Simple, yet elegant little restaurant with views of the Tsitsikamma forest.

Tsitsikamma Cattle Baron | Cuisine: Steakhouse, Seafood, Grill
What we love: Lovely viewpoint accompanied by comfort food of burgers and chips.

We hope this list gets you thinking of a dreamy South African self-drive holiday, even if for just a tiny part of this fabled route. If you’ve already done the Garden Route, tell us what made for your key moment across the drive!

As the end of the year draws near, Finland turns into a winter wonderland that calls to be seen to be believed. And what’s not to love about Finnish winters? Landscapes blanketed in white, smooth ski slopes with candle trees, toasty saunas, endless dark-night activities, and Christmas markets in the home of the man who keeps the Christmas magic alive! 

The dancing Aurora is page one of the enchanting storybook that Finland has up on display.

Here’s our take on making the most of your Finnish winter escape.

Activities on the snow and amidst ice

When you’re not whizzing past snowy white slopes, captain a snowmobile, or march on for a snowshoe hike. Experience a sled ride with reindeer or huskies or just toboggan down the slopes for a rush of adrenaline. 

ET Tip #1: Sure, snowmobiling, and skiing are fun. But have you ever given thought to drifting in a sleek McLaren 570S coupe over a frozen lake in Ivalo? 

Meet Father Christmas (and his helpers)

What if you had special access to the main man himself? In addition to a private visit from Santa on Christmas day, a truly magical night before Christmas involves having Santa’s little helper elves come over to your villa to help set up your Christmas tree!

A warm bed under the Arctic skies

With hotels and resorts that boast stunning architecture in the stark, Lappish wilderness, these luxury hotels are worth the extra buck, even for a couple of nights. With opportunities to marvel at the dancing lights from under glass domes or through floor-to-ceiling glass panes, let the Arctic magic lull you to sleep.

ET Tip #2: Here are our top 3 hotels and resorts in Finnish Lapland

• OCTOLA  
• Arctic TreeHouse Hotel 
• The Otava Lodge

The magical Aurora from up above

If you thought the most magical way of viewing the Aurora was from your toasty bed, with a glass of glögi, or out in the snow, with a mean snowmobile, think again. For those of you looking to take your Northern Lights expedition a notch higher, we’d recommend being in the skies.

ET Tip #3: Head to the skies for a truly unforgettable experience and witness swirls of green and blue with a flight over the fells of Lapland.

Healing in a Finnish sauna

An integral part of local culture and a daily experience, saunas are a place for mental and physical relaxation. The crackle and smell of the warm wood are inviting and when you can no longer stand the heat, hop out and get ready for an icy plunge to feel invigorated. A fun alternative is to take a roll in the snow to cool down.

ET Tip #4: Enhance your traditional sauna experience with a slice of stargazing from the comfort of a private wooden hut. 

Admire snow-dusted Helsinki

Winters in Helsinki can be magical. With snow-dusted streets and the warm glow of street lights and bustling, warm markets, take a charming walk around the city. The views from the marina, with stationed bobbing over frozen waters provide quite the spectacle for an afternoon sit-down lunch.

ET Tip #5: A real adventure lies just East of Helsinki- climb into a heated hoverboard that whirs over the frozen archipelago. End your experience with ice floating in a frozen lake.

What will it be? McLarens on ice or a Northern Lights flight? Make your winter escapade a real dream and get yourself on a flight to Finland.

Stepping into the most exciting city in the world spells endless possibilities whether it’s cuisine, nightlife, art and culture, or just some good old sightseeing- there’s something new around every corner.

While it may seem like there’s no reasonable way to mark off everything, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate a week around London, ensuring you cover key experiences and make the most of your time in the city.

First things first- London is separated into different boroughs and neighborhoods and each one offers its own interesting take, adding flavor to this eclectic city.

ET Tip #1: Plan you days around boroughs so that you know you’re not repeating an area for one missed sight.

Let’s start!

Day 1- Hello, London! The city and its main sights
Begin at Trafalgar Square, nice and early. You have The National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery (free of charge) on either side in case you fancy a visit.

Here’s your ideal routing, you can thank us later.

– Walk along The Mall or through St. James’ Park, by the ponds, and onward to Buckingham Palace.
– Aim to be at the Palace by 10:45 AM so that you can watch the Changing of the Guard at 11 AM.
– Detour toward Birdcage Walk to arrive at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
– Around the corner, you have Westminster Abbey- the home of coronations and royal weddings – the heart of history beats strong inside this UNESCO site.
– Cross Westminster Bridge and take in stunning views of London and the snaking Thames. From here, you have a clear view across the River of the London Eye.

Stop by Seven Dials Market, Covent Garden for a delectable afternoon lunch. Alternatively, the area has a plethora of cuisine options to choose from.

– Continue walking past London Eye and you’ll pass by Waterloo. Stop in front of the Millenium Bridge for a quick photo-op and walk across to St. Paul’s.
– From St Paul’s it’s a quick 15-minute walk to the Tower of London.

ET tip #2: If you’re keen on covering the Tower of London in detail and meeting the Beefeaters (Guardians of the Tower), make sure you sign up for a guided tour and reserve half a day for the visit.

End with a feast in Borough market, one of the largest and oldest food markets in London or end in style, atop The Shard, with the best city views to accompany your glass of bubbly.

ET tip #3: Make reservations at Hutong (Level 33 of The Shard) for an unforgettably fiery Northern Chinese experience.

Day 2- A day in Greenwich

Today, travel towards Greenwich (approx. 1hr away on the tube). You can take the DLR to Greenwich station or a boat from the London Eye.

Spend the day at Cutty Sark and the glass museum, Greenwich market, National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s house, Greenwich Park (with a picnic in tow), Royal Greenwich Observatory and the Prime Meridian.

Walk up the hill to the Observatory for views of London’s skyline at sunset.

Day 3- Museums, Cricket, Afternoon tea and local markets

After 2 days of shuttling between Westminster and the city of London, it’s time for a more leisurely approach to the city. Venture into South Kensington and choose the museums that best pique your interest.

ET tip #4: In order of proximity, visit the Science Museum, Natural History Museum, V&A (for Modern Art).

Alternatively, if museums aren’t your thing, head over for a morning tour of Lord’s cricket ground.

For lunch, prepare for an afternoon foodie trail through Portobello and Camden Market.

Complete your afternoon city experience with a classic high tea at Claridges or The Ritz.

Day 4- Engage your senses: Food, Theatre, Retail, and Art

Engage your senses with a trip through Chinatown, shop across the boutiques of Chelsea or across Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus, stop by exhibitions at the TATE and others and end with a dazzling evening at the West End.

Day 5- Beyond Mayfair- Day trips through the coast and countryside

Step beyond Mayfair with day trips to the coast or across the countryside.

Day trip options:

Take a Small Group Tour to Oxford, Entry to Shakespeare’s Birthplace and the Cotswolds.
Shopping at Bicester Village (and we’ll get you special VIP amenities when you visit!)
Head to the coast in Brighton or further out to Swanage and the Jurassic coastline (if you’re looking for an overnight trip).
Spend a day in and around Surrey/ Virginia Waters.

Day 6- Suburbs and nature

Spend a magnificent morning at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. You can also travel a short distance and visit Richmond Park where hundreds of deer may end up being surprise guests to your picnic. Richmond Park is 30mins from Kew while using public transport (bus) or 10mins by taxi.

If you want to engage in a few last-minute buys, take the bus to Shepherds Bush for a stop at London’s massive Westfield shopping mall. Post this, continue for an early evening in Notting Hill, coffee or hot chocolate in tow. End in Notting Hill and take a taxi back to your hotel.

Day 7- Evening farewells to the city

Spend this day at leisure with a closing toast by the Thames, at the cozy igloos of CoppaClub.

And that’s it! 7 perfect days in London- planned to show you every highlight, with enough time to explore at your own pace too.