Travelling to three cities in one trip may sound daunting and exhausting, but it’s not as complicated if you know the tricks! Grab your notes because this is how you can conquer Europe’s best trio in one adventure!
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Getting there
Your airfare actually determines your trip, so it’s important to land the best deal! As you're doing a multi-city route, we recommend using ticketing sites such as Skyscanner, CheapTickets.sg or Expedia to compare prices of different airlines so you can travel at the best price. The flight prices depend on the travel seasons, which city you're flying from, and which city you decide to fly to and fly home from on your trip.
Note: For this itinerary, we decided to do a London-Amsterdam-Paris route as it appeared to be the cheapest route on average (whether you're flying from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore) for the travel period that we chose (May 2023). But do note, that with brand-new train services between London and Amsterdam, it's possible to visit these 3 cities in any order. So, compare prices for possible flight routes (and look out for airline deals) before planning your trip!
Public transport in London, Amsterdam and Paris
We'll start with London's public transportation system! It might seem tricky, but it’s actually quite simple.
Credit: London Underground on Facebook
The London Underground (more commonly known as the Tube) gets you around places faster, while buses (yes, the famous double-decker red buses!) allow you to admire the view and experience London traffic. Besides, daily capping also applies when you use the Oyster card to pay for your journeys, which allows you to save more. Read more about the price capping here.
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Subways and trams are the way to go in Amsterdam. Purchase the I amsterdam City Card for unlimited public transport rides as well as free admission to some of the city’s best attractions, including the canal cruise. Do note that you can’t use this card from on your journey from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station!
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The Paris Visite pass allows unlimited travel on the metro, tramway, bus, RER and SNCF Transilien networks in Paris. It’s valid for 1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days, and allows you to travel either anywhere in Paris (zones 1 to 3) or beyond the city (zones 1 to 5, including airport connections, Disneyland Paris and more). The pass can be purchased at the ticket vending machine.
Day 1: Arrive in London
- Once you arrive in London, buy your Oyster card from the nearest ticket machine. It’s the easiest and cheapest way to get around the city and you can use the card on most of London’s public transport.
- Take the Tube to central London. There are three stations in Heathrow - one between Terminal 2 and 3, one at Terminal 4 and another at Terminal 5.
- London might seem expensive at first but you can save more with our list of 7 unbelievable budget hacks that'll help you save a lot!
Explore Westminster (2h)
You can’t go to London and not visit Westminster! The heart of London’s politics, history and culture, there’s no better place to begin your trip than here!
- Standing majestically over the River Thames, the Palace of Westminster, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are a sight one should never miss.
- If you’re planning to ride the London Eye across the river, we recommend that you purchase the ticket in advance on Klook. Not only is it cheaper, but it’ll also save you time so you don’t have to queue!
Admire the beauty of Westminster Abbey (1h)
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- From Parliament Square, head south on Abingdon Street and walk for around 3-5 minutes to reach Westminster Abbey. This beautiful Gothic-style church has been the venue for many royal events, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton!
Enjoy a taste of home at Roti King (1-2h)
Credit: @toastiez.london on Instagram
- Hop on a bus or tube and head all the way to Euston for dinner at Roti King. This restaurant serves familiar Malaysian food like Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai, perfect for your first night in London. Do note that it gets crowded here very quickly so you might need to wait to get a table!
- If you don’t want to call it a night yet, King’s Cross Station is right around the corner! Many shops are available if you want to do some shopping!
Day 2: Harry Potter field trip
Relive magical moments at Warner Bros. Studio (7h)
- Potterheads, do you solemnly swear that you are up to no good?
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- Live your Harry Potter dreams and embark on the tour of your lifetime at the Warner Bros Studio, where they filmed all eight movies.
- Do note that it’s located outside the city, near Watford Junction, and you would need to spare around 7 hours for this tour. Remember to buy your ticket in advance! You can book through their website or also through third-party vendors like Klook.
Credit: Karen Roe on Flickr
- When purchasing your ticket, you can opt for the package which includes transportation. This means the bus will pick you up at a location of your choice (King’s Cross, Central London or Birmingham) and take you directly to the studio.
- Otherwise, you can travel by train from London Euston to Watford Junction. From there, there’ll be a shuttle bus which costs £3.00 for a return trip!
Credit: Karen Roe on Flickr
- After a short briefing and introduction, the magic begins! As you enter the Great Hall, it’s hard not to imagine it is your first day at Hogwarts.
- The tour is largely self-guided and you are free to roam around the studio as long as you want. The best thing about this tour is that many sets, costumes and props have been retained as in the films, so you can really experience being in the world of Harry Potter!
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- Photography is allowed inside, so pose to your heart’s content!
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- Don’t forget to try the famous butterbeer! It’s alcohol-free (think root beer!) so don’t worry!
Have Britain’s national dish for dinner (1-2h)
- It feels so wrong to be in England and not taste their signature dish - fish and chips! Poppies Fish and Chips is one of the few places where you can get Muslim-friendly fish and chips!
Credit: @luqthecook on Instagram
- With a retro diner-style interior, this restaurant serves crispy battered fish fried to perfect golden colour and chunky fries - this will definitely make you want to come back to London!
- Note: This restaurant serves non-halal meat and alcohol, but their fish batter is alcohol-free and cooked separately in groundnut oil. Do ask their friendly staff if you have any questions or requests! (P.S. Check out more places in London to enjoy fish and chips here!)
Day 3: Soak in London’s culture
- Now that you’ve visited the tourist sites, it’s time to pretend to be a Londoner!
Soak in the atmosphere at Borough Market (2h)
Credit: Borough Market on Facebook
- Start your day at Borough Market! Located next to London Bridge, Borough Market is one of the city’s largest and oldest food markets. From fresh produce and meat & poultry to baked goods and confectioneries, it’s easy to understand why this place is a favourite for foodies and local chefs.
- Besides the stalls, there are many cafes at Borough Market where you can have breakfast and coffee!
- If you need to perform your afternoon prayers, head over to Holborn Mosque!
- P.S. Looking to get away from the tourist crowd? Check out our list of 10 incredible London gems you won't find in travel guides!
Shop at Covent Garden (2h)
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- Next, make your way to the trendy Covent Garden. What was home to the largest food and vegetables market in London is now a high-end shopping district that’s also famous for theatres and entertainment. While the fresh market has been moved to New Covent Garden, the original building now houses hip cafes and a vibrant bazaar.
- Make sure you drop by the Royal Opera House too!
Admire artworks at National Gallery (2h)
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- Time to get cultured! The National Gallery houses paintings and sculptures by the world’s famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Monet and Van Gogh.
- Don’t forget to visit the iconic Trafalgar Square just outside the gallery!
Visit Buckingham Palace (1h)
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- While we’re on the topic of the British monarchy, make your way to the residence of Her Majesty the Queen next to complete your royal tour. Changing of guards is the highlight of Buckingham Palace, but it’s alright if you miss it because that means fewer crowds!
- Mayfair Islamic Centre is located just an 11 minute's walk from Buckingham Palace, so you can do your prayers there.
Fill your tummy at Wrap It Up! (1h)
- After a day of sightseeing, it’s time to fill your stomach. Head east to Wrap It Up! at Charing Cross for some halal burritos or falafel!
Credit: @wrapitupuk on Instagram
- P.S. If you're missing a taste of home just by a bit, check out our list of 8 Malaysian eateries in London!
Shop for souvenirs at Bayswater (1h)
- Looking for some souvenirs to bring back home? Do your last minute shopping at Bayswater. Although souvenir shops can be found all over London, you can get them at a cheaper price here!
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- P.S. Not sure what souvenirs to get your loved ones back home? We've rounded up a list of 10 absolutely brilliant gifts to bring back from London!
- The best part about Bayswater is that you can find a lot of halal restaurants here, thanks to its diverse population. Malaysian Hall (which serves authentic Malaysian fare!) is located here as well!
Take a stroll at Kensington Gardens (1-2h)
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- If you feel like having a picnic, Kensington Gardens is right around the corner from Bayswater!
- While you’re here, don’t forget to pay Kensington Palace a visit as well! Once the childhood home of Queen Victoria, the palace now is the official residence of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
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Shop at Harrods (2h)
- It's your last night in London! What better way to end the first leg of the trip than to shop at London's most famous department store, Harrods?
- You can almost anything here, from souvenirs to household items, luxury accessories, clothes, snacks and more! So, shop till you drop!
[Looking to spend more days in London? Check out our 6D5N Muslim-friendly itinerary of London!]
Day 4: Amsterdam-bound
- After a good three days in London, it's time to move on to our next destination, Amsterdam!
- There's a direct train from London to Amsterdam with the Eurostar, so your trip will only take you around 4 hours. You can get train tickets for as cheap as £35 but do book early
Credit: Uzoamaka Madu on Facebook
- The train will take you directly from London's St. Pancras station to Amsterdam's Centraal station.
- But if you prefer a shorter travelling time, take a 1-hour flight from London to Amsterdam! But do note that there's extra travelling time between both airports and city centres.
- From Schiphol Airport, take a train to Amsterdam Centraal Station. Don’t forget to purchase your I amsterdam city card at the I amsterdam store at the station.
- Do remember that there’s a 1-hour time difference so if you’re taking a morning flight or train ride, you’ll most likely arrive in Amsterdam at noon!
- Check out our first time visitor's guide to Amsterdam to get ready for your trip!
Savour Muslim-friendly snacks at Albert Cuyp Market (2h)
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- Take a tram and make your way over to Albert Cuyp Market. With a laid-back atmosphere, this daily market sells almost everything from fresh produce to souvenirs, and it’s where you can get a peek at the locals’ everyday life.
[P.S. Check out our guide on travelling around Amsterdam on a budget!]
- Make sure you come with an empty stomach because there are lots to eat! Our top picks are the halal grilled chicken from Benny’s Chicken, kibbeling (Dutch deep-fried battered fish pieces) poffertjes (Dutch baby pancakes which come in various toppings of your choice) and the signature stroopwafel, made fresh upon order!
- Do leave some space in your stomach for some Dutch frites! Head over to Manneken Pis for a choice of 22 different sauce toppings, including vegan mayonnaise ?
- P.S. Check out our list of 8 Muslim-friendly street food in Amsterdam that'll make you drool.
Soak in the Dutch culture, history and art (2-3h)
- There are more than 400 museums in Amsterdam(!!!) so it’s time to get your inner nerd out ?
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- Located in Museum Square, Rijksmuseum is one of the grandest and most popular museums in Amsterdam. Believe it or not, this museum is over 200 years old! It’s the home of famous artists Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hal and more.
Credit: Juergen on Flickr
- Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit when you’re in the Netherlands. With the largest collection in the world, learn about the life of the best-known Dutch painter and check out his famous works - including Sunflowers and his self-portraits.
- After the museum tour, recharge yourself with some yummy shawarma at Kebab House which is an 11-minute walk away.
Day 5: Get in touch with nature
Take a day trip to Zaanse Schans (6-7h)
- One of the most popular countryside in the Netherlands, Zaanse Schans is a destination you shouldn't miss. Board a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Koog-Zaandijk, which takes less than 20 minutes, and from there walk for around 15 minutes to reach this place. There are signs along the way, but if you’re not sure, just follow the other tourists!
- Breathe in the fresh air and admire the beautiful landscape as you take a stroll around, and take as many pictures as you want ? There are also a number of museums and workshops as well as windmills that you can check out!
- Need something to warm you up? Make your own hot (or iced) chocolate at Zaans Gedaan CacaoLab, a chocolate factory! Or make your way over to the cheese factory to watch the process of making cheese. You can also try the samples and buy some to bring home.
- Don’t forget to visit the pride of Zaanse Schans, the clog museum! You can learn the history of clogs, and buy a pair or two home as souvenirs!
Have some Dutch (sea) weed for dinner (1-2h)
Credit: @thedutchweedburger on Instagram
- If the name The Dutch Weed Burger Joint sounds intimidating, you really don’t need to worry because there's no weed inside! It’s actually a vegan restaurant that champions seaweed in their menu.
- Try their signature Dutch Weed Burger which features their unique green weed buns, as well as the desserts. The portion is large so do come with an empty stomach, or you can always share!
Day 6: Spend a day in Utrecht
- Hop on the train to Utrecht, a charming university town half an hour away from Amsterdam.
Credit: @angelica_dj on Instagram
Walk around Utrecht Centraal (2-3h)
- Utrecht Centraal is attached to a giant shopping mall, as well as Stationsplein, the world’s largest bicycle parking which has three levels and can house up to 12,500 bicycles!
- There’s an exit from the shopping mall that will take you straight to the centre of Utrecht, Domplein (or Dom square). This square surrounds the city’s Cathedral and has plenty of brand-name stores lining up the cobblestone streets and overlooking the canal.
Credit: Maarten Danial on Flickr
- Standing at the height of 112m, the Dom Tower is hard to miss. It’s the icon of Utrecht and the country’s tallest church tower. You can climb up the tower with a guided tour. Learn about the tower’s history as you climb up 465 stairs (gasp!).
- Make sure you head behind the Cathedral and visit its secluded lovely courtyard known as Pandhof Domkerk.
Visit Museum Speelklok (1-2h)
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- Interested in musical instruments? Stop by Museum Speelklok, one of the most cheerful museums with exuberant tunes playing from every corner! A free tour is given every hour in Dutch and English.
- #HHWT Tip: Purchase the combination of Dom Tower and Museum Speelklok tickets for more savings!
Walk along Oudegracht (30min - 1h)
- Don’t forget to walk along Oudegracht, the oldest canal in Utrecht. What makes it more special than Amsterdam’s is the wharf and wharf cellars that were added in the Middle Age to create an inner-city harbour system.
Visit Miffy Museum (1h)
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- Did you know that Miffy originated from the Netherlands? Created in 1955, there’s a museum dedicated specially for this beloved Dutch icon, located 10 minutes walk away from Domplein. Miffy Museum is a delightful experience not only for young kids but also for adults!
- Miffy Museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit ahead!
- Take a bus or walk back towards Utrecht Centraal and head north to Ulu Mosque to do your prayers. This mosque is located in a multicultural district, Lombok (yes, it's called Lombok!), which has a large Muslim community, so many halal restaurants can be found here. If you don’t want to go far, Kebab Factory is located in the same building as the mosque!
Day 7: Time for Paris
- Head to Paris from central Amsterdam via the Thalys train network.
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- The journey costs from €35 per person and takes about 3.5 hours, which is pretty much similar if you factor in the waiting time to board a flight. Plus, you get to admire the picturesque scenery from your seat!
- Have lunch at Pizza Grill Istanbul, about 11 minute walk from Gare du Nord station. This Turkish restaurant serves halal Middle Eastern cuisine as well as pizza! Do note that they also serve alcohol, so dine at your own discretion.
Walk around Paris' coolest district (2h)
- Navigating the labyrinth of cobblestone alleys in Le Marais is a fascinating experience. One of the oldest districts in Paris, Le Marais is lined with historic buildings with grand architecture, museums as well as trendy boutiques and cafés you’ve dreamt about.
Credit: Andrea Schaffer on Flickr
- A guided walking tour is available if you would like to know more about the district.
- After all that walking, take a short break and unwind at Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris. The garden is every bit like a typical French garden, and one of the few where you can sit on the grass.
- If you’re interested in Picasso’s works, Musée National Picasso is also located nearby!
Do your prayers at Grande Mosquée de Paris (30min - 1h)
Credit: Istvan on Flickr
- Visit Grande Mosquée de Paris, an Alhambra-inspired mosque located in the Latin Quarter. Do your prayers here and take in all the intricate architectural details and decorations. There’s also a tearoom, restaurant, hammam and shops here.
- Indulge in French desserts at Boulangerie & Salon de Thé 17 Rue Daubenton, a halal bakery just a stone’s throw away from the mosque.
Visit Jardin du Luxembourg (2h)
Credit: Joe deSousa on Flickr
- Next destination: Jardin du Luxembourg. 106 statues can be found around this beautiful park, as well as the monumental Menici fountain, children rides and more. It’s one of the most scenic places in Paris to have a picnic.
- The palace is off-limits except for a short time in September.
Take in the sights of Cathédrale Notre-Dame (1h)
Credit: Miguel Mendez on Flickr
- Before you call it a day, drop by the Cathédrale Notre-Dame your final stop. This Parisian icon is located along River Seine and considered a Gothic masterpiece.
- Note: Due to the fire on 15 April 2019, the cathedral is still undergoing renovations for the time being and is closed to tourists and worshippers for the time being. However, the site is still a precious and famous location that we think is worth a visit.
Day 8: Exploring Paris’ best attractions
Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées (30 min)
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- Before starting your day, pick up some escargot pistache chocolat from Du Pain et des Idées. Don’t worry, the real escargot is not a part of the ingredient - it refers to the snailshell-like swirl pattern on the pastry!
Make a stop at The Louvre (2h)
- The Louvre is a Parisian icon you shouldn’t miss. This museum is home to some of the world’s greatest works of art, including the painting of Mona Lisa.
- Even if you’re not a great fan of museums or art, the Louvre is not one you should skip!
Visit the world-famous Eiffel Tower (1h)
- Is a trip to Paris even complete without visiting the city’s best-known icon?
- Make your way to Place du Trocadéro, a large square in the heart of the area. It’s the best place to take photos with Eiffel Tower in the background ?
- Afterwards, walk south towards Seine river and cross the Pont d’léna bridge to reach the Eiffel Tower and admire its full glory.
- #HHWT tip: Since Eiffel Tower is a crowded place, be extra careful of pickpockets! For more tips on making the best of your visit to the Eiffel Tower, read this!
[P.S. Before you go, make sure you set your expectations right with our real guide to Paris ]
Take photos at Arc de Triomphe (30 min)
- Another famous monument in Paris, Arc de Triomphe stands majestically at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle. Inspired by Italy’s Arch of Titus, this monument honours those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
- French cuisine for lunch? Yes, please! Head over to Le 1818, a halal French restaurant located in Victor Hugo, less than 1km away from Arc de Triomphe.
Stroll through Champs-Élysées (2h)
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- Time to take a light stroll and unwind at Champs-Élysées. Feel like a Parisian as you stroll past the luxury boutiques, flagship stores, posh hotels and fancy restaurants lining up the streets.
- Don’t forget to stop by L'Éclair de Génie for some authentic eclairs! This boulangerie is not halal-certified but the eclairs are made with fish gelatin. Take note that some of their seasonal flavours may contain alcohol, so do ask the staff.
[P.S. Looking for more gorgeous spots? We've got you covered with our guide of 11 picture-perfect places in Paris!]
Day 9: Glittering Versailles
Admire the breathtaking Château de Versailles (3-4h)
Credit: Jonas Witt on Flickr
- From Paris, take the RER C line train to Château de Versailles. At the train station, follow the signs to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche and be sure to check the monitor before boarding the train because not all of them will get you to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche! The journey takes around 45 minutes.
- #HHWT Tip: Purchase a round trip ticket so you can avoid the queue when returning to Paris later!
- You haven’t seen glamour yet until you’ve been to Château de Versailles. Once home to the kings and queens of France, this palace is perhaps the most extravagant place in Europe ?
- Château de Versailles opens its door at 9 am, and you are encouraged to be there early and purchase your ticket in advance to skip the queue!
- The first king to live in Versailles, Louis XII bought land and build a château for his hunting trips. Meanwhile, Louis XIV wanted to show his power through architecture. He radically transformed the place, thus the splendour and magnificence of the palace.
Credit: Thibault Chappe on Flickr
- The Hall of Mirrors is the central gallery and largest room in the palace. At 73m long, the gallery pays tribute to France’s political, economic and artistic successes.
- Check out the Queen’s Apartments and the Petit Trianon where Marie Antoinette once resided and spent the most of her time! Many of her portraits are also on display.
Do your prayers at La Mosquée de Versailles (30min - 1h)
Credit: La Mosquée de Versailles on Facebook
- After finishing your tour at the Palace, head out to Mosquée de Versailles (or Association des Musulmans de Versailles) for your prayers. Take bus 171 from Château de Versailles to Jean Mermoz, and walk 500m down Rue Jean Mermoz.
- Make your way to Essaouira to fill your stomach. This Moroccan restaurant serves halal authentic North African food ?
[Click here for 10 more Parisian eateries to dine at while you're there!]
Head to Charles de Gaulle Airport (1h 30min)
- It's time to say au revoir, Paris! Your Europe trip has come to an end ?
- From Versailles, take the RER C train and transfer to the RER B at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame which will bring you all the way to the airport.
Credit: @instaplanegeek on Instagram
So there you have it, the London-Amsterdam-Paris itinerary you’ve been waiting for! We hope this itinerary has equipped you with all the information you need to plan that dream Europe vacation! If you know more interesting places and halal food to recommend, feel free to introduce them to us in the comments below ☺️