Christmas in London

Welcome to London at Christmastime! There's nothing like the city when it's bursting with the excitement of the season. With no scheduled activities today, you can explore London's festive streets at your leisure. Feel the holiday spirit as you perhaps shop the Christmas markets for handmade gifts and colorful decorations amid the scent of warm, mulled wine and cinnamon.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton - Tower of London (5 Nights)

A local expert leads a panoramic and walking city tour. See Trafalgar Square, the exteriors of Buckingham Palace, Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben. End your tour in the bustling Covent Garden, one of London's oldest marketplaces. Perhaps you'll be entertained by a street performer — after all, Covent Garden is popular for its artistic scene. With some free time, explore Covent Garden before returning to the hotel by bus via a route that showcases the magnificent Christmas lights of London. (B)

Climb aboard the local transport river bus en route to Greenwich, seeing the Tower of London from the river. Dock in Greenwich, known as the village of London. Shop at the local stalls (perhaps bargaining like a local), and then it's your choice! Visit your pick of museums: the Cutty Sark -OR- National Maritime Museum. Enjoy lunch in a local pub that's full of charm.

After, you can take the Clipper boat back to the West End, or if you wish, take it back later so you can further explore Greenwich on your own. No matter where you spend your free evening, the festive atmosphere will add joy to your discoveries. (B/L)

Visit Blenheim Palace, one of England's most magnificent homes and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. At Christmas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes a true winter wonderland. After an included Christmas Afternoon Tea, spend some time in the afternoon perusing the many market stalls or take some time to wander the beautifully manicured garden. Arriving back in London in the early evening, you still have time to see the city in all its glory. (B/L)

Today, set off to visit the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral. With its world-famous dome, this is one of the most iconic features in the London skyline.

After some free time for lunch, join your Tour Manager to walk along London's South Bank. Walk across the Millenium Bridge for some wonderful views of the city and see Shakespeare's Globe, ending the tour at the wonderful Borough Market.

This evening, go with your new friends to a traditional English restaurant for a farewell dinner. Toast the end of a festive trip to an amazing city. (B/D)

It's time to head home, full of warmth and memories of your Christmastime London adventure. (B)