European Epilogue: London, Paris, Amsterdam

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks, serving for centuries as the coronation church and final resting place for monarchs, poets, and statesmen alike.

Westminster Cathedral

Red & white striped Byzantine style Catholic Cathedral.

Red-&-white striped Victorian Catholic cathedral in Byzantine style with gold, mosaics & marble interior.

Buckingham Palace

Historic landmark and monument, Buckingham Palace is the home to the British Monarch and Royal Family. Its opulent staterooms are open for touring at certain times of the year and the changing of the palace guards outside its grounds is a sight worth trying to catch!

SOLA

SO|LA brings the flavors of California to Soho, earning a Michelin star for its modern American cuisine. The intimate setting and focus on high-quality ingredients make it a standout dining destination.

Ronnie Scott's

A legendary Soho venue since 1959, Ronnie Scott’s pairs world-class live jazz with a stylish dinner and cocktail menu, offering an unforgettable night out in one of London’s most iconic music clubs.

Quo Vadis

Quo Vadis is a historic Soho restaurant known for its British and European dishes. With a rich history and a menu that changes daily, it offers a unique dining experience in a charming setting.

The Old Bailey

The Old Bailey, officially known as the Central Criminal Court, is London’s most famous courthouse, where many of the UK’s most significant criminal trials have taken place, housed in a grand neoclassical building topped with a golden statue of Lady Justice.

National Gallery

The National Gallery in London houses one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, with masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Turner displayed in a grand neoclassical building overlooking Trafalgar Square.

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery showcases the faces and stories of Britain’s most influential figures—from monarchs and artists to activists and celebrities—through a vast collection of paintings, photographs, and sculptures spanning centuries.

Royal Academy of Arts

The Royal Academy of Arts is a prestigious, artist-led institution in London dedicated to the promotion and exhibition of visual arts, renowned for its historic legacy, influential exhibitions, and commitment to artistic education through its free postgraduate art school.

Taste of Lahore

A beloved Pakistani restaurant, Taste of Lahore is renowned for its flavorful curries, grilled meats, and traditional dishes. Situated on Edgware Road, it offers a casual dining experience with a focus on authentic flavors. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking hearty South Asian cuisine.

Satay House

Established in 1973, Satay House is one of London's most enduring Malaysian restaurants. This family-run establishment offers a cozy environment and serves traditional Malaysian dishes, such as satay skewers and rendang, prepared with authentic recipes. It's a go-to spot for those seeking genuine Southeast Asian flavors.

The Seashell of Lisson Grove

A London institution, The Seashell of Lisson Grove has been serving some of the city's best fish and chips since 1964. Known for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and crispy batter, the restaurant offers both dine-in and takeaway options. Its reputation for quality has attracted a loyal following over the decades.

Café Laville

Perched over the Regent's Canal in Little Venice, Café Laville offers Italian-inspired dishes in a picturesque setting. With large windows overlooking the water, it's an ideal spot for a leisurely meal or coffee. The menu includes a range of options from breakfast to dinner, all served in a relaxed atmosphere.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s most comprehensive and iconic museums, home to over eight million artifacts—including the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures—spanning two million years of global history.

British Library

The British Library is the UK’s national library and one of the largest in the world, home to over 170 million items—including treasures like the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and handwritten Beatles lyrics.

Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum, a short walk south from the riverfront through Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park, offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience with its exhibitions on modern warfare, personal stories, and the impact of conflict—particularly compelling for history enthusiasts and those interested in human resilience.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern, housed in a converted power station along the Southbank, is one of the world’s leading modern art museums, offering free entry to its vast collection and striking riverside views—an essential stop for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse where many of Shakespeare’s works were first performed, offering engaging tours and open-air performances that transport visitors into the heart of London’s theatrical past—especially appealing to literature and history enthusiasts.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most beloved food markets, offering a vibrant mix of artisanal produce, global street food, and gourmet specialties beneath its iconic glass and iron Victorian roof.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is London’s most iconic river crossing, known for its twin Gothic-style towers and lifting bascules, offering both a working drawbridge and a glass-floored walkway with panoramic views over the Thames.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic fortress on the banks of the Thames, famous for its thousand-year royal history, the Crown Jewels, and its role as a former palace, prison, and place of execution.

Sainte-Chapelle

It's ok, you can be dumbstruck at the incomparable stained glass of this royal chapel

The Sainte-Chapelle glows in the heart of Paris with its breathtaking stained-glass windows. Regard in awe the 15 windows, each 15m high, illustrating biblical stories in vibrant colors and intricate detail. Built in the 13th century on the Île de la Cité for Saint King Louis IX, this chapel was originally conceived to house precious Christian relics, including spines from Jesus Christ's Crown of Thorns. Visitors today, like kings and kings of yesteryear are often awestruck by the celestial light and serene ambiance that these windows transmit, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the chapel's interior. The upper chapel, in particular, offers an ethereal experience, with its towering windows and star-studded vaulted ceiling.

Conciergerie

Explore the somber past of this Gothic riverside fortress, a heart of the Great Terror that followed the French Revolution

  The Conciergerie in Paris is a historic monument and former prison on the Île de la Cité, and an inflection point between France's royal and revolutionary pasts. Once part of the royal palace, but later transformed into a prison during the French Revolution, its most infamous inmate was Queen Marie Antoinette before her execution. Visitors can explore the medieval halls, the somber cells - even the Queen's own - while absorbing the tales of justice, power, and tragedy that echo through its walls. This site stands as a poignant reminder of France's turbulent history, here where the Revolutionary Tribunal sat from 1793, condemning some 2,600 persons to the guillotine.

Notre-Dame de Paris

Thrill at one of the most beautiful and recognized churches on Earth.

Gaze at the heart of Paris, Notre-Dame Cathedral, as iconic to the city as it is to Gothic architecture. Standing on the Île de la Cité, this 13th-century medieval masterpiece, still boasts its stunning rose windows, flying buttresses, and sculpted facades, despite a devastating fire in 2019.  The ongoing reconstruction of this center of French spirituality is captivating in itself, and people around the world await the full restoration's of this symbol's élégance, planned for December 8th, 2024.

Quai Branly Museum

Discover a captivating collection of indigenous art in this literally verdant building.

The Quai Branly Museum, oficially known as L'Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, is a vibrant celebration of indigenous art and cultures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Located on the banks of the Seine near the Eiffel Tower, this innovative museum stands out with its striking modern architecture and a lush wall garden adorning its exterior. Inside, visitors are treated to a rich tapestry of artifacts, including traditional costumes, masks, sculptures, and jewelry, all showcased in a dynamic and immersive display. The museum's commitment to cultural diversity and its extensive collection offer a unique opportunity to explore the history, art, and traditions of non-Western civilizations.

Museum of Man

Ponder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...

Le Musée de l'Homme in Paris's Place du Trocadéro delves into human evolution and diversity through anthropology, ethnology, and prehistory. Showcasing artifacts from prehistoric tools to modern art, it highlights humans' biological and cultural development while exploring our identities, societies, and relationship with nature. Interactive and engaging, the museum offers a profound investigation into the essence of humanity, prompting reflection on our collective past and future.

Palais de Tokyo

Discovering the greatest of modern and contemporary French art in this dramatic structure

Que vous seriez un peu plus parisien(ne)... That you would be a bit more Parisian, visit the Palais de Tokyo in the 16th arrondissement, a beacon of contemporary art known for its avant-garde exhibitions and innovative art installations. Blending historical elegance with modern creativity, it offers visitors a privilaged exploration of the latest artistic expressions. Highlights include its own modernist architecture, a constantly evolving array of exhibitions showcasing everything from installations to live performances, and the Yoyo nightclub and Le Tokyo Eat for leisure and dining. Visit the Palais de Tokyo to step into an intersection of art, culture, and architecture, and let the cutting edge of contemporary art in Paris take you away.

Tuileries Garden

Relax in the beautiful Tuileries Gardens, an oasis of manicured landscapes and historic statues in the heart of Paris.

The Tuileries Gardens, located next to the Louvre Museum, offer a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city. Originally created as the royal gardens for the Tuileries Palace in the 16th century, they represent a classic example of French garden design. Visitors can marvel at the array of statues, including works by Rodin and Maillol, stroll along its perfectly aligned trees and flowerbeds, and enjoy panoramic views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower.

Museum d'Orsay

Soak it all in at the Musée d'Orsay, a former Beaux-Arts railway station transformed into a stunning showcase of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

The Musée d'Orsay, housed in an elegantly converted railway station, offers a world-renowned collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, featuring works by masters like Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir. Its unique architecture, with grand clocks and sweeping galleries, complements the diverse array of sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts on display. A visit to the Musée d'Orsay is not just a tour of art history, but an immersive experience in a space where the past and present merge beautifully.

Orangerie

Let your vision swim with Monet's Water Lilies and other Impressionist artwork at the Musée de l'Orangerie

The Musée de l'Orangerie, nestled in a corner of the Tuileries Gardens, exhibits the stunning "Water Lilies" series by Claude Monet. This series of large-scale paintings, designed specifically for the two oval rooms they inhabit, offers an immersive experience into Monet's impressionist vision of his garden at Giverny. Beyond Monet, the museum boasts the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani.   

Napoleon's Tomb

Discover the tomb of one of history's most fearsome generals, and a controversial figure of the 19th century.

Reflect at the sarcophagus resting underneath the dome of Les Invalides' church - Napoleon's tomb is as still as his life was frenetic. Crafted from red quartzite and set upon a green granite base within a circular crypt, Napoleon's sarcophagus is surrounded by a series of statues representing his victories and achievements. The entire ensemble, designed with solemn grandeur, reflect both the power and complexity of his legacy. But visitors can come and go please, this great general commands no one now.

The Army Museum

Exploring the martial history of France in this regal strucure

Gather your forces and lay touristic seige to the French Army Museum and its immersive expositions of French military history from medieval times to the present. Will you conquer the extensive Medieval Collections, Napoleon Bonaparte's grand tomb, and detailed exhibits of the World Wars, or will they conquer you? These exhibts and more offer insights into the evolution of warfare, strategic intracacies, and personal narratives of conflict. A visit to the Army Museum encourages discussion about the contradictions and complexities of war, one of the most important, and disturbing, traits of our humanity.

Rodin Museum

Let the greatest sculptures of the 19th and 20th centuries inspire you

The remarkable sanctuary of art and beauty that is the Musée de Rodin displays the greatest works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Nestled in the exquisite Hôtel Biron, and its serene garden, this museum invites visitors to discover the profound depth of Rodin's creativity. Thrill at the world-reknowned pieces "The Thinker" and "The Gates of Hell," among others, each piece exploring  human emotion and thought through its dynamic forms. Wander through the garden paths to encounter these and other masterpieces in an intimate setting, where the fusion of art and nature crafts a truly unforgettable experience.

Arc de Triomphe

Ascend one of the most iconic monuments in the world, and view Paris from this beloved symbol of France

L' Arc is not just a symbol of French pride and triumph. Yes, this monument crowning the western end of the Champs-Élysées honors those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic War. However, it also commorates the horrific losses of World War I with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  Your visit here can be surprisingly poignant. Visitors can ascend to the top for panoramic views of the City of Lights below, whose energy somehow rotates around this reminder that there is a little sobriety in every party.

Grand Palais

Structure built for the Universal Exhibition in 1900, now a children's science museum and art gallery.

The Grand Palais, built for the Universal Exhibition in 1900, boasts a large glass and iron roof. It is home to the Palais de la Découverte science museum for children - be aware this museum only offers information in French, which greatly reduces its value to English speakers. Another wing of the building features rotating art exhibitions, which are usually curated by theme (such as The Moon or Soviet Art). Look on the website https://www.grandpalais.fr/en if you are interested in finding out what's on during your time in Paris. You may purchase tickets on site should you choose to attend.

Petit Palais

Pop in for a Rembrandt painting and discover a secret garden in one of Paris's "hidden gems".

The Petit Palais in Paris, built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, is a Beaux-Arts architectural marvel that houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. With free admission to its permanent collections, it showcases an extensive array of artworks from ancient to early 20th century, including notable pieces by Rembrandt and Courbet. Its stunning architecture, complete with a grand dome and a serene courtyard garden, makes it a cultural and visual haven. Located just off the Champs-Élysées, the Petit Palais is a key destination for art enthusiasts.

Champs-Elysées

Experience a promenade on the most famous road in the world!

Stretch your legs on the Avenue Champs-Élysées, an emblem of French prestige and elegance. On this unparalleled thoroughfare stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe waits a parade of luxury shops, fine dining, and lush greenery, offering an unparalleled urban experience. On the "Champs" you can indulge in world-class shopping, savor exquisite French cuisine at chic cafés, and marvel at the architectural beauty of illustrious building.

Musée de Cluny

Step back into the Middle Ages at the Musée de Cluny in Paris, where ancient art and history come alive

The Musée de Cluny, officially known as the Musée National du Moyen Âge, is a hidden gem located in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This museum, housed in a 15th-century abbey, showcases a remarkable collection of medieval art, including the famous "Lady and the Unicorn" tapestry series. The museum also contains a variety of sculptures, stained glass, and artifacts that illuminate the richness of medieval culture. Its unique blend of architectural styles, from ancient Roman baths to Gothic structures, makes it a captivating journey through time and an essential destination for those fascinated by the medieval era.

Sorbonne University

Ponder along with the greats from Aquinas to Foucault and back in one of the greatest universities in the world

Put on your thinking caps and visit the Sorbonne, a beacon of intellectual achievement in the heart of the Latin Quarter that embodies centuries of academic excellence. This prestigious university, founded in the 13th century, is the source of many world-changing theories and theorists. Wander through its historic courtyards and grand lecture halls, where some of the world's most brilliant minds have studied and taught. The Sorbonne is not just a place of learning; it's a symbol of the enduring relationship between Paris and the pursuit of knowledge.

Panthéon

Guarding the remains of some of France's greatest luminaries in typical French splendour.

Pay tribute to intellectual and artistic founders of modern France at the Panthéon, a neoclassical building in the Latin Quarter, originally a church and now a mausoleum for France's eminent personalities like Voltaire and Marie Curie. Known for its imposing architectural beauty, it features significant art, sculptures, and the famous Foucault's pendulum. Beyond its role as a tribute to French intellectual and cultural heritage, the Panthéon offers visitors stunning views of Paris from its dome, blending historical exploration with scenic beauty.

National Museum of Natural History

Peruse the wonders of the natural world at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Nestled in the Jardin des Plantes, the National Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Founded in the 17th century, it boasts a rich collection that spans paleontology, mineralogy, and botany. The museum is renowned for its Gallery of Evolution, showcasing thousands of animal specimens in a grand, historic setting, and provides a unique insight into the diversity and complexity of life on Earth, making it a notable and educational experience for all ages.

Westerkerk

Visit Rembrandt's burial place in this Renaissance-era Protestant church with a crown-topped spire.

Westerkerk, in English, the Western Church, is is the most largest and most important church in the city. Built between 1619 to 1631, the church and its bell tower – the Westerkerk Tower – are often regarded as the symbol of the city.  Come visit Westerkerk, if only to pay respects to that great master, the painter Rembrandt. Although technically a part of the canal ring, both the church and Anne Frank House are often described as a part of the Jordaan district as well. Since both these highlights rest on right on the border, it is the perfect starting point to explore either neighborhood!

Amsterdam Anne Frank House

Learn about one life of six million lives

The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam stands as a poignant tribute to the young Jewish girl who, along with her family, hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. Visitors are invited to explore the secret annex where Anne penned her now-famous diary, offering a deeply moving glimpse into the struggles faced during one of history's darkest periods.

Koninklijk Paleis

Yes, the Dutch Have Royalty, and You Can Often Visit Their Home.

Amsterdam's Royal Palace, originally built as the city hall in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age, stands majestically in Dam Square. Renowned for its classical architecture and opulent interiors, the palace serves as one of the King's official residences and is used for state visits, awards ceremonies, and other official functions. Its rich history and architectural grandeur, including lavish rooms and intricate sculptures, reflect Amsterdam's past prominence and wealth.

Jewish History Museum

Examine hundreds of years of stories and histories.

The Jewish Historical Museum in Amsterdam, set in the city's former Jewish Quarter in four 17th-century synagogues, delves into Jewish traditions, religion, and contributions to Dutch society. It features artifacts, personal Holocaust stories, and interactive exhibits, highlighting Amsterdam's Jewish heritage and its impact on the Netherlands. This museum fosters understanding and dialogue, making it vital for anyone interested in exploring Jewish history and culture.

Jewish History Museum

Examine hundreds of years of stories and histories.

The Jewish Historical Museum in Amsterdam, set in the city's former Jewish Quarter in four 17th-century synagogues, delves into Jewish traditions, religion, and contributions to Dutch society. It features artifacts, personal Holocaust stories, and interactive exhibits, highlighting Amsterdam's Jewish heritage and its impact on the Netherlands. This museum fosters understanding and dialogue, making it vital for anyone interested in exploring Jewish history and culture.

Portuguese Synagogue

Take a moment in this active synagogue to learn about this historic building

The Portuguese Synagogue, located in the heart of Amsterdam, is a magnificent testament to the city's rich Jewish heritage. Known for its 17th-century architecture, this grand edifice stands as one of the most important legacies of the Jewish community that once flourished in Amsterdam. The synagogue's spacious interior expresses timeless tranquility and spiritual depth. Notable for its historical and cultural significance, the synagogue also houses an extensive library and archives, making it a center for Jewish learning and heritage.

Holocaust Museum

Remember and Learn

The Dutch National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam offers an in-depth look at the Holocaust's effects in the Netherlands. Located in the Jewish Cultural Quarter, it combines personal stories with artifacts to highlight Dutch Jews' experiences during World War II, focusing on themes of resistance, persecution, and survival. The museum acts as both a memorial and an educational resource, promoting tolerance and awareness of human rights issues. It's essential for understanding the Holocaust's impact on Dutch society.

Rijks Museum Shop

Find Tickets and Trinkets related to the Rijks- and Van Gogh Museums

Located on Museumplein (Museum Square), this convienent shop is operated by both museums to contend with the overflow at their respective ticket offices.  Even this shop can become busy.  However, if you don't plan on visiting the museums, but still want to pick up some souvenirs, this is your spot: both museums supply this store with their own merchandise.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum - How Can't You Be Impressed?

Maybe no other artist since Michelangelo has touched the Western World as deeply as Vincent Van Gogh.  His exhuberent palates of color, the frenetic pace at which he painted, the humanity of his subjects, not to mention the pathos of his own life, all combined to make unforgettable works - many of whic hare at this museum.  Millions of words have been written about the man and his art; but somehow, seeing them live often leaves a person speechless.

Moco Museum

Contemporary in an Old City Can Be Beautiful Too

The MoCo Museum dedicates itself to showcasing modern, cutting-edge works from some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Situated in a renovated townhouse in the heart of Amsterdam, it offers a dynamic and engaging art experience, featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Highlights include pieces by Maria Abramović, Banksy, Andy Warhol, and other iconic figures who have shaped the contemporary art scene. The museum's intimate scale allows for a personal exploration of the artworks

Diamond Museum

This museum will defintely make your eyes sparkle.

The Diamant Museum in Amsterdam delves into this dazzling gem's history, highlighting Amsterdam's significance in the diamond industry since the 16th century.  Simultaneously, it showcases its journey from raw stones to exquisite jewelry, emphasizing the art of diamond cutting and polishing, and, of course, features a collection of gems and artifacts,.