Flights: Depart Melbourne at 22:55 with Emirates

To make the long-haul flight more comfortable and enjoyable, we’ve included a 2-night stopover in Dubai.

Take time to rest, adjust to the time zone, and explore your stopover city.

Arrive early in London, transfer to your hotel, and enjoy a free afternoon to settle in and explore at your own pace.

Wake up in one of the world’s most iconic cities, welcome to London! Today is all about getting your bearings and diving into the vibrant blend of history, architecture, and culture that this city is famous for.

To kick things off, you’ll activate your 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass, which gives you unlimited access to three scenic routes winding past London’s most legendary sights. From the majestic Buckingham Palace to the stately Houses of Parliament, the lively West End, and the historic Tower of London, it’s all at your fingertips.

🚌 Join the Travel Connex team for a guided city loop:

If you'd like to ease into your London experience, you're warmly invited to hop on the bus with the Travel Connex team today. We’ll do a full city loop together, offering a great overview with plenty of photo ops. No stress, no rush, just great company and even better views!

Prefer to roam at your own pace? You’ve got full flexibility to hop off wherever you like, linger longer at the places that spark your curiosity, and tailor your own adventure.

As your 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off pass continues, today is your chance to slow down, dig deeper, and enjoy more of the places that piqued your interest yesterday, or discover something entirely new.

🛳️ River Thames Cruise with the Travel Connex team:

Today, the Travel Connex team will be leading a scenic river cruise down the Thames for anyone who’d like to join. It’s the perfect way to take in famous landmarks from the water, including the London Eye, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and more, without the traffic!

With the cruise departing from either Westminster Pier or Tower Pier, you can sit back, relax, and see London from a different perspective, while soaking in stories of the city’s past.

Choose Your Own London Adventure (or Escape to the Countryside!)

Today is yours to enjoy, with no fixed plans—just the freedom to explore however you please. While your Hop-On Hop-Off bus pass has now wrapped up, getting around London is still a breeze thanks to the iconic London Underground (the Tube). It’s fast, efficient, and a right of passage for any visitor!

💡 Travel Tip: Pick up an Oyster card or use a contactless card to tap on and off—easy, cheap, and gives you access to the entire city.

You might want to revisit favourite spots, dive into a museum or gallery, or simply soak up the atmosphere in one of London’s charming neighbourhoods. Think Soho, Notting Hill, Greenwich, or a wander along the South Bank for riverside vibes and street performers.

🧳 Fancy a change of scenery?

If you’re keen to escape the city buzz, today’s optional day trip is something truly special…

🌿 Optional Tour: Cotswolds Villages & Oxford Day Tour

Trade London’s skyline for winding lanes, honey-coloured cottages, and the dreamy spires of Oxford. This full-day guided tour takes you to some of England’s most picturesque countryside, including stops in Burford, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold, followed by a visit to the historic university town of Oxford.

🕙 Please note: This is a 10-hour day, but well worth it if you love quaint villages, history, and postcard-perfect scenery.

Got somewhere special in mind?

If there’s a place you’re dreaming of visiting while we’re in the area, let us know! We’re happy to help organise a day trip just for you. We’ll even put it out to the group, chances are, you won’t be the only one keen to go!

Departing from London, travel to the mysterious Stonehenge. Here, you have the option to explore the ancient archaeological wonder that has stood for thousands of years in the countryside of south-west England. Ponder the mysteries of this ancient site for yourself and learn about the history of the area.

Next stop is the beautiful, historic city of Bath, where your tour leader will show you the main sights including the famous Roman baths. Heading into nearby Wales, arrive in the capital, Cardiff, and enjoy a driving tour around the city before heading to the hotel for the night.

After breakfast, travel to Stratford-upon-Avon; William Shakespeare’s hometown, which offers more than 800 years of history. Delve deeper into Shakespeare’s life on an optional excursion to his childhood home before indulging in an afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre!

Next up is Liverpool; this port city has a rich history and culture. Football fans will delight in being in the home of Liverpool and Everton football clubs, while music fans will love being in the home of the Beatles. Spot the famous sites with our driving tour* of the city.

The evening is free to explore. Why not head to Matthew Street, home to the world-famous ‘Cavern Club’, where the Beatles first made their mark on modern music?

*Please note the second half of the Liverpool driving tour will take place on the morning of Day 3.

See more of Liverpool’s top sights on a driving tour this morning before catching the ferry across the Irish Sea to Dublin!

Before reaching the ferry, make stops in Conwy to see the gorgeous castle and at the village with the longest name in Europe; Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

Then, it’s onto Dublin. Enjoy some free time in this 1,000-year-old city this evening; discover more about the city’s Viking past, its Medieval castles and its cathedrals. Explore its many museums that illustrate some of the city’s more turbulent episodes.

Dublin is big enough to keep you entertained but small enough to get across town in no time at all!

Enjoy a free day in the city of Dublin! Take a trip back in time as you discover the most famous people and events in Irish history during the Ireland’s Identity optional excursion. The Whiskey & Guinness optional excursion includes a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse to see how this famous dark beer is made.

Tonight, there’s also the option to enjoy a taste of traditional Irish music! Look forward to an evening of fine Irish food, music and dance. You can also save and book the all-inclusive Full Irish Experience which includes all three of these excursions! Due to popularity, the Full Irish Experience must be booked prior to the start of the tour - contact us to book now!

Leaving Dublin behind, travel onwards to Waterford; the oldest city in Ireland! Founded by Vikings in 914 AD, Waterford has a fascinating history and rich maritime tradition, and is also famous for its cut crystal glass.

Next up, it’s time to travel to the famous Blarney Castle for an included visit, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone and hopefully gain the ‘gift of the gab.’ Built nearly 600 years ago by one of Ireland’s most famous chieftains, Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most famous attractions.

Depart Blarney and leave County Cork behind. Next, enter County Kerry and travel towards the hotel for this evening. Enjoy an included dinner tonight.

Enjoy a free day in the Kerry region. There are incredible trails to hike, as well as amazing golf courses and beautiful churches to visit. The best way to see it all is on the Ring of Kerry day trip!

Join the optional excursion that travels along the famous circular tourist route in country Kerry. It is home to the most breathtaking coastal views and emerald-green pastures. Enjoy visits to charming villages such as Kerry Bog Village, and explore the shops and cafés in the area.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery of Killarney National Park during a jaunting (carriage) ride. Then, end the day with some free time in Killarney town. Experience this iconic route to the fullest on this excursion!

Today is another day for epic Irish scenery! Travelling along the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’, the first stop is Adare; often called Ireland’s prettiest village. Next, it’s time to travel on through the county of Limerick to the iconic Cliffs of Moher. These incredible cliffs rise over 200 metres from the frothing ocean below, and the views on a clear day are absolutely breathtaking.

Next stop, Galway! This is a bright, bohemian city renowned for its oysters, live music venues, cafés, weekend parties and contemporary vibe. Explore the city for yourself during free time, or join the Tales of Galway excursion for fascinating insight into Galway’s folklore in a local pub before travelling north to County Sligo and tonight’s hotel.

After breakfast this morning, journey onwards to Northern Ireland, stopping first in Derry/Londonderry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city has a lot to offer from culture to art and historic city walls. Next stop is Northern Ireland’s top tourist attraction; the Giant’s Causeway - a breathtaking network of interlocking columns created by ancient volcanic activity.

The final stop on the Irish leg of our adventure is Belfast; the capital of Northern Ireland. Join a local guide for a combined driving and walking tour, showcasing some of the city’s most famous attractions, and sharing insight into the city’s past. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.

Please note: The Titanic Belfast Experience will either take place on this day or the next, depending on the time of year.

Enjoy free time in Belfast this morning with the chance to learn all about the Titanic, and its ill-fated voyage, on the optional Titanic Belfast Experience.

Next up is Scotland! Hop on board and sail across the Sea of Moyle to the land of whisky, haggis and tartan! Arrive in Scotland, and once back on dry land, drive to tonight’s accommodation, which is in the picturesque Highlands! Enjoy an included dinner with the group this evening.

Journey into the Highlands and further explore this famous region of Scotland. Stop for a photo in the stunningly beautiful Glencoe before visiting the famous Loch Ness, reputedly the home of the Loch Ness monster!

Join an optional cruise on the Loch, admire the views and try to spot Nessie! Enjoy a Scottish distillery tour before driving to Scotland’s beautiful capital city, Edinburgh. Once in the city, enjoy a walking tour of the Scottish capital followed by dinner.

Apart from being home to Holyrood House, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, this is the city where JK Rowling famously penned the first Harry Potter novel. Fans of the series might find the city strangely familiar! Enjoy an included dinner tonight.

Today is yours to spend as you like – revisit some of the highlights from yesterday’s walking tour, or delve into the history, culture and interesting spots of the city on a Conquer the Capital optional excursion with your tour leader. This includes time to explore the incredible Edinburgh Castle.

Today also offers the opportunity to visit Stirling with an optional half-day sightseeing tour. Enjoy an orientation tour, take a trip to the top of Wallace Monument, see the Kelpies, Stirling Castle and more!

Tonight, choose to enjoy the optional Scottish dinner and storytelling experience, complete with a chance to taste famous traditional foods.

Say goodbye to Scotland, and cross the border into England. Enjoy the opportunity to visit the famous Alnwick Castle, the home of the Duke of Northumberland. This castle has also featured in many famous films and TV shows, including two Harry Potter films, Downton Abbey, and many more!

Next, we travel into Yorkshire, and to the county capital; York. Home to the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe (York Minster), York is a charming city of winding cobbled streets and medieval architecture.

Enjoy an orientation tour of the city with your tour leader, and see its most famous sights, before heading to tonight’s accommodation in Yorkshire.

Travel to the historic university town of Cambridge. Along with the exquisite architecture, quirky traditions and deep history, there are a significant number of bright sparks who have passed through the city’s famous university including Charles Darwin and David Attenborough.

Enjoy a traditional punting trip along the River Cam. Afterwards, it’s time to return to London

Today, we say au revoir to London and bonjour to Paris as we board the iconic Eurostar train for a smooth journey under the English Channel. Sit back, relax as we glide from the heart of London straight into the centre of Paris in just a few hours.

Upon arrival in the afternoon, we’ll head to our hotel to check in and settle into our new surroundings. You’ll feel the shift in energy immediately, Paris is chic, charming, and effortlessly enchanting.

🌃 Tonight, Paris turns on the charm with an included Big Bus Paris Night Tour.

As the sun sets, we’ll climb aboard an open-top bus and cruise through the city’s most iconic sights bathed in golden light. From the sparkling Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées, Notre Dame, and Louvre, Paris at night is simply breathtaking. It’s the perfect way to be introduced to the magic of the city and an experience you’ll never forget.

Your Parisian adventure is well underway, and today is all about seeing the city in comfort and style with your 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass. This open-top ride covers all the must-see landmarks, with plenty of flexibility to explore on your own terms.

The Travel Connex team will be taking a group loop around the city today, so feel free to hop on with us as we cruise past the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, the Louvre, and more. We’ve even got a few hidden gems up our sleeve! If you’d rather forge your own path, go for it—your pass gives you the freedom to hop off at any stop and dive into what excites you most.

And just like that, our incredible journey comes to a close, at least for some! Today marks the official end of our tour as we depart from Paris, filled with memories, laughter, and maybe a few extra pastries tucked into our bags.

For those heading home, we’ll ensure you have everything you need for a smooth journey. It’s hard to say goodbye, but we hope this adventure has left your heart full and your camera roll even fuller.

But if you’ve chosen to join the Paris Extension…

In the morning, the Travel Connex team will be hosting a group cruise along the River Seine, included with your pass. Glide past Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and more from a unique vantage point, it’s relaxing, romantic, and totally Paris. You can continue using the Big Bus to explore more of the city today at your leisure.

Your second day with the hop-on hop-off bus pass means one more opportunity to explore everything Paris has to offer. Whether you're diving deeper into your favourite neighbourhoods or checking off any spots you missed, the day is yours to design.

Recommended Stops for Today:

• Le Marais Vintage boutiques and cool cafés

• Luxembourg Gardens Ideal for a slow afternoon stroll

• Île de la Cité & Sainte-Chapelle A gothic masterpiece with jaw-dropping stained glass

• Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Shop with a view!

Optional Extra: Eiffel Tower Summit Access with Lift

Take your Paris experience to new heights—literally—with a ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower via the lift. Marvel at panoramic views over the city and spot the landmarks you’ve come to know so well. It’s a breathtaking experience and a bucket-list moment for many travellers.

Whatever you choose to do today, whether you go big with the Eiffel Tower or enjoy a slower wander through charming side streets, Paris has a way of making it unforgettable

Today is yours to explore Paris and go back to the sites you want to see. Sip a coffee at a corner café as the world strolls by. Treat yourself to a buttery croissant and wander through hidden laneways.

Or

(Optional Tour) Discover the beaches of the D-Day landings on this guided day trip to Normandy from Paris. Focusing on the sites where American troops faced intense battles and heavy losses, the tour stops at Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Enjoy free time at Omaha Beach and take in the powerful history of these sacred sites. During this immersive and expertly guided tour, reflect on the day’s history while enjoying a pre-arranged lunch, maximizing your time to explore.

Pay tribute at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking the sea

Enjoy a seamless experience with a pre-booked, two-course lunch

Day trip to Normandy’s D-Day beaches from Paris, led by a knowledgeable guide

Learn about the Normandy Invasion during WWII and the sacrifices of American troops

Visit Utah Beach, where the first American soldiers landed

See one of the original D-Day B-26 fighter planes on Utah Beach

Explore the dramatic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled enemy defences

Spend free time at Omaha Beach, one of the most crucial sites of the landings

• Enjoy a seamless experience with a pre-booked, two-course lunch
• Day trip to Normandy’s D-Day beaches from Paris, led by a knowledgeable guide
• Learn about the Normandy Invasion during WWII and the sacrifices of American troops
• Visit Utah Beach, where the first American soldiers landed
• See one of the original D-Day B-26 fighter planes on Utah Beach
• Explore the dramatic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled enemy defences
• Spend free time at Omaha Beach, one of the most crucial sites of the landings
• Pay tribute at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking the sea

Today is yours to write the final chapter of your Parisian adventure, and whether that means diving into one last iconic experience or simply slowing down and soaking it all in, you’re in exactly the right place.

Pop back to your favourite landmarks or shop ‘til you drop on the Champs-Élysées. Whether you're ticking off the last few sights, revisiting your highlights, or doing absolutely nothing but enjoying the moment—this day is your Paris, your way.

We depart Paris late in the evening to make our way back to Australia

After an unforgettable adventure through London and Paris, we return to Melbourne on Saturday, 30th August at 05:30am.

As you touch down, we hope you’re bringing home more than just souvenirs, think cherished memories, new friendships, and stories you’ll be telling for years to come.