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The 50 best attractions in London

Discover London’s best attractions, landmarks and sightseeing spots that you’d be mad to miss, even if you‘re a local

London landmarks are iconic for a reason.  You’ve got your London Eye, your Hyde Park, your Big Ben, and even if you’ve lived here for years and have steadfastly been avoiding ‘tourist traps’, you really ought to check these places out at least once.  Whether you’re a day-tripper or a local, marvelling at the capital’s museums , galleries , monuments and  parks  is a London rite of passage – and they’re all really bloody great.  But where to begin? We’ve pulled together a list of the best attractions in London for you to start ticking off your bucket list. And the best news? Loads of these must-see London attractions are free, and for those that aren’t, you can book below.

Still after some sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of  101 things to do  in London, and find out what’s happening in London  today ,  this week , and  this weekend .

RECOMMENDED: the best hotels in London   RECOMMENDED: the best alternative attractions in London RECOMMENDED: the best London bus tours

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There's a massive discount on some of London’s top attractions

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London’s top attractions

1.  The London Eye

• Things to do
• Event spaces

What is it? Much like the Millenium Dome – or, as it's known to those who don’t remember the twentieth century, the O2 Arena – the London Eye was built to celebrate the year 2000. Since then, the Eye has been a resounding success and it’s hard to picture London’s skyline without it. It rarely ever comes to a stop, so you won’t be standing on the ceremony when you get on. Before you know it, you’re halfway into the sky and taking in sweeping vistas of the city.

Why go? The view, obviously. 

2.  Shrek’s Adventure! London

• Theme parks

What is it? An interactive tour that starts with a breathtaking 4D ride through the sky before you crash-land near a certain ogre’s swamp and find yourself having to flee from the wicked Rumpelstiltskin. You’ll encounter a few favourite characters while you take on different missions, such as liberating Pinocchio from the Wheel of Torture and cooking up some spells with the Muffin Man. 

Why go? To have a giggle on a whirlwind trip to Far, Far Away.

3.  Madame Tussauds

What is it? In 1802 Marie Tussaud made her waxwork debut in the capital (32 years after she founded the show in Paris). By 1884 she decided to lay down permanent roots in Marylebone and she’s been there ever since (well, her legacy at least). Visitors to Madame Tussauds today will find over 150 lifelike models including contemporary stars like Drake and Dua Lipa and historic icons like Einstein and Marilyn Monroe. Elsewhere The King stands proudly on the Royal Balcony and stars like the Marvel cast have their own Hall of Heroes.

Why go? To snap a selfie with all the famous faces. Instagram, incoming.

4.  The View from the Shard

• Towers and viewpoints
• London Bridge

What is it?  The capital's tallest tower, having joined London's skyline in 2012.  Measuring 310 metres, The Shard was built with everything in mind: offices, homes, hotels, bars, restaurants and, of course, the alluring viewing platform. From the highest point, the public are allowed access (floors 69-72) you get stunning 360-degree views of the city. There’s a silent disco on selected Saturday nights and other events, such as gigs and gin tastings throughout the year.

Why go? The floor-to-ceiling windows allow exceptional views out across the capital, especially on a clear day.

5.  The London Dungeon

What is it?  A tour of London’s nastiest historical moments, with gory stories retold with humour, gooey props and gruesomely costumed actors. You can board a traitor’s boat to the Tower of London, dash through the streets of Whitechapel in pursuit of Jack the Ripper and glimpse plague London. 

Why go?   Gore-seekers can ride a recreation of The Death Express, a line which carried the deceased to their final resting place in Surrey. 

6.  Up at The O2

• Sightseeing
• Greenwich Peninsula

What is it? Ever wondered what London looks like from 53 metres above North Greenwich? Find out with a ticket for Up at The O2 where you can choose from Daytime, Sunset and Twilight climbs. The ultimate AAA pass gains you access to the roof, where you’ll be able to see across the capital, spotting famous sites like the Olympic Park, Thames Barrier, The Shard and Canary Wharf.

Why go? For an incredible 360-degree view – and that adorable climbing onesie.

7.  Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

• Sport and fitness
• Parks and gardens
• Olympic Park

Remember the London Olympics in 2012? Feels like a lifetime ago – and a very different time – but we were promised a legacy and, if the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the yardstick, we got one. The buildings and all that parkland are now one of London’s best attractions, drawing swathes of tourists and Londoners every year. The  London Stadium  (host to big concerts with headliners like The Weeknd and West Ham FC as well as various athletics championships). The southern section of the park is home to all the stunning parkland, including children's play areas, four walking trails, a couple of dozen public artworks, plus the attraction of ascending the remarkable  ArcelorMittal Orbit . Make sure you check out foodie hot spots like  Hackney Bridge food market  and the award-winning floating restaurant  Barge East . It continues to honour its reputation for state-of-the-art sporting venues – from the  Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre  as well as the Zaha Hadid-designed  London Aquatics Centre , which is open for public swimming and diving sessions, followed by the VeloPark, home to road, track, BMX and mountain biking. There’s more to come too. Heard of East Bank? Set to be London’s newest cultural quarter with world-class experiences from BBC, Sadler’s Wells, UAL’s London College of Fashion, University College London and the V&A East. In short: a lot of great stuff to explore.

8.  Westminster Abbey

• Religious buildings and sites
• Westminster

What is it? Like the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, where you can see the tombs and memorials of great figures from history, Westminster Abbey is a popular attraction to peruse the graves, tablets, busts and stone dedications. In fact, seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with dukes, countesses and history’s ‘celebs’ (Think Darwin, Dickens and Hardy). Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, there have also been 16 royal weddings here and every single British coronation has taken place within the Abbey's walls since 1066.

Why go? To see Gothic grandeur in all its splendour.

9.  Buckingham Palace

What is it? A chance to see world-famous art, glimpse regal opulence and get inside HM’s headquarters. Tourists and locals alike know the façade of Buckingham Palace, which stands at the end of The Mall. But it was only in 1913 that this addition was made, by King George V and Queen Mary. Before that, in 1633, the palace wasn’t even royal – it belonged to Lord Goring, who was forced to hand over ownership to the Royal Family (under King George III) due to a flaw in his contract. Poor chap. 

Why go? To snoop around the most famous royal residence in the world.

10.  Hampton Court Palace

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? A resplendent palace with plush grounds on the edge of south west London. From the Tudor indoor tennis court to the Royal Maze, from the King’s private loo to the Magic Garden adventure playground, there’s something here for all ages. History buffs and art enthusiasts should purchase a ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those with little ones in tow will appreciate the Magic Garden and Maze ticket. Make sure you keep an eye on the site for their seasonal opening times.

Why go? To get lost in the Royal Maze.

11.  The Houses of Parliament

What is it? The seat of British democracy. Take an audio tour through the House of Lords and House of Commons to bring the building to life. It takes around 90 minutes and features leading parliamentary figures such as Mr Speaker and Black Rod. 

Why go? For a dazzling combo of history, politics and architecture.

12.  St Paul’s Cathedral

What is it? Iconic as St Paul’s may be, the cathedral as we know it today is in fact version six, at least. Mark five was razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666, mark three was also destroyed by fire, in 1087, and mark four fell to ruins under Henry VIII’s leadership. Thankfully Sir Christopher Wren’s design, which was completed in 1708, survived 12 monarchs and two world wars, notably the German Blitz of WWII. If you’ve paid for the main admission you’ll be treated to an introductory talk before being taken on a 90-minute tour.

Why go? To test your hearing in the Whispering Gallery.

13.  Afternoon tea at the Ritz

• Restaurants
• price 3 of 4

What is it? An occasion to enjoy finely cut sandwiches, fresh cakes and the tinkling of shiny silver teapots in the gold and white splendour of the Ritz Hotel’s former Ballroom. It’s so popular that you can book sittings from 11.30am to 7.30pm every day – sure, it’s not strictly the afternoon, but it’s all accompanied by the delicate sounds of a pianist, harpist or string quartet.

Why go?  For the unlimited scones and sandwiches.

14.  Tower Bridge

• Tower Bridge

What is it? There’s more to this ornate Victorian bridge than something cool to look at: you can actually venture inside. Check out the engine rooms with their whirring wheels and pistons, then head up to the glass-floored viewing platform above the draw bridge, where you can delve into this magnificent structure's story.

Why go?  Time it right and you'll see the bridge rising up to let paddle steamers and barges through. Want to know a fun fact? A full schedule of bridge lift times is available on their website . 

15.  Kensington Palace

What is it? Where William, Kate and the kids hang their hats. This tourist attraction has a chic style: it played host to the most fashionable salons in Georgian times, was home to Queen Victoria in her youth, then sassy Princess Margaret and then classy Princess Diana. Now the main palace is a pretty visitor magnet with tranquil gardens to wander.

Why go? To be blown away by the outfits in the ‘Royal Style in the Making’ exhibition.

16.  Big Ben

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What is it?  Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell inside Westminster’s iconic clock tower, but even locals think ‘Big Ben’ when they see the Elizabeth Tower. You can’t get inside for a tour due to maintenance work but you’re a minute away from the river, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey here, so it’s an easy visit.

Why go?  To see the world's most celebrated clock face to face.

17.  Wembley Stadium

What is it? The venue where England won the World Cup in 1966, and the Lionesses won the Euros in 2022. Wembley still has a magic about it, even when you don’t have a ticket for a match or a rock concert. Take the tour and you’ll get to walk down the players’ tunnel and climb the 107 Trophy Winner’s steps, plus, with the use of 360-degree video, experience the electric atmosphere at some of the stadium’s biggest events.

Why go?  To peek  behind the scenes and sense that Cup Final magic.

18.  The National Gallery

• Trafalgar Square

What is it? A huge art museum right on Trafalgar Square that’s free to enter. Perfect, whether you’ve got ten minutes in your lunch break to check out Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ or time to wander the entire collection of Western European paintings from the thirteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Check out the Friday Lates for after-hours access to exhibitions, creative workshops and life drawing sessions.

Why go? To be swaddled in artistic greatness.

19.  Churchill War Rooms

What is it? A secret, secure bunker, tucked behind Downing Street and Parliament Square, where Churchill and his cabinet could monitor how World War II was going, receive intelligence and give orders. It’s the little details that give the biggest impression, from a daily-updated weather noticeboard to the scratch marks on Churchill’s chair (caused by his ring on a stressed day).

Why go? For history lovers to see the rooms just as they were left after 1945.

20.  National Portrait Gallery

• Charing Cross Road

What is it? Just around the corner from The National Gallery, this is the home of a stunning collection of portraits, from paintings to photography, capturing the essence of notable royalty, celebrities and our enduring fascination with the human face. The permanent collection is free to visit, with ticketed special exhibitions.

Why go? To wander among the great and good.

21.  Thames RIB Experience

• Victoria Embankment

What is it? A high-speed ‘rigid inflatable boat’ that will have you zooming up and down the river. If you want to ramp up the excitement on the Thames – the kind that would make 007 proud – hop aboard the RIB to travel at speeds of around 35 knots (roughly 40 mph).  

Why go? Because it’s the most thrilling way for adrenaline junkies to see the sights.

22.  National Theatre

• Public and national theatres

What is it? Only the greatest theatre in the world (well, we would argue so, anyway). Take your pick of entertainment from the three theatres, and if you’ve got time to kill pre- or post-performance, take a seat at one of the various bars or restaurants. 

Why go?  To witness shows that champion rising talents and showcase big-name stars.

23.  Royal Albert Hall

• Music venues
• South Kensington

What is it?  Across the road from the ornate golden memorial statue of Prince Albert is another dedication. The construction of Royal Albert Hall was ordered by Queen Victoria and named after her late husband. Since its completion, the hall has hosted music and theatre and continues to do so to this day – most famously the Proms.

Why go? To experience the dazzling Victorian opulence.

24.  Tower of London

What is it? O ne of the capital’s best and most well-known historical attractions.  The Tower of London offers wonderful architecture, gruesome stories, hands-on activities for younger visitors, costumed actors and guides, and worryingly confident ravens.

Why go? To get an eyeful of the Crown Jewels.

25.  Royal Opera House

• Classical and opera
• Covent Garden

What is it? Covent Garden’s grand old opera house. You don’t have to be super-rich to get in on the action – there are reductions for students, senior citizens and those on credits, plus regular ticket offers for all. Alternatively, take a backstage tour, where you can sometimes spot the Royal Ballet practising their moves. 

Why go? To see a right royal opera or ballet performance.

26.  Kew Gardens

What is it? Budding horticulturalists will have a field day here. There are over 300 acres to explore filled with indigenous flora and fauna, as well as exotic greenhouses and nature trails. There’s also a treetop walkway and the Grade I-listed Temperate House recently reopened after a five-year refurb. It’s the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world and quite a sight to behold.

Why go? For a breath of fresh air in the busy city.

27.  Shakespeare’s Globe

• Shakespeare

What is it? A painstakingly accurate recreation of the kind of theatre Shakespeare would have written all his plays for. If you’ve never been, book groundling tickets and stand in the open-air pit like you’re at a rock festival. It makes Bard’s poetry seem a lot less like homework and a lot more like first-rate drama.

Why go? For a raucous, interactive take on  theatre.

28.  Somerset House

What is it? An elegant eighteenth-century landmark and cultural hub on the north side of Waterloo Bridge that hosts several art exhibitions and events at a time, incorporating the Courtauld Gallery and temporary exhibitions in the Embankment Galleries. Hell, even the courtyard (once an Inland Revenue car park) makes itself useful, with gigs, alfresco cinema and fountains in summer.

Why go? For music and movies under the stars.

29.  Tate Modern

What is it?  A riverside icon dedicated to modern and contemporary art, based in what was the Bankside power station. You can discover works by the likes of Warhol, Dalí and Hockney, as well as unusual, eye-grabbing installations, as part of its free-to-visit permanent collection.

Why go?  For some of the best art and architecture London has to offer. 

30.  Kew Palace

What is it? The favoured residence of George III looks more like a massive, ornate biscuit tin than the glittering home of a royal. In the gardens, there is a wonderful little cottage built for Queen Charlotte that trumps any garden shed. You can only visit the palace via Kew Gardens (it’s free with entry to Kew).

Why go? To discover an often-forgotten treasure.

31.  Cutty Sark

• Ships and boats

What is it?  Experience life aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper in Greenwich. See the intricate craftsmanship used in its creation and find out how the crew lived. Thanks to a million-pound refurbishment after a fire in 2007, you can now walk underneath the hull.

Why go?  To get a taste of life at sea without leaving the dock. 

32.  HMS Belfast

What is it? A grey warship, with its guns tilted high, moored close to Tower Bridge, that’ s a museum nowadays. Open daily, with scenes set to show you what life was like on board a working WWII warship, HMS Belfast is a lively visitor space. You can scoot around the lower levels, exploring the engine room, the kitchens and the dentist’s office, and the action stations up on deck.

Why go? To play life-sized battleships.

33.  London Transport Museum

What is it? A vast museum full of real relics of the bygone ages of London transport, where there’s always a bus or a train to hop on. Find out why tube stations were used as wartime shelters, see decades of beautiful poster artwork and discover how the latest technology will run our services in the future. The LTM always hosts a fabulous Friday Late themed around its newest exhibition.

Why go?  To discover a treasure trove of retro design. 

34.  London Zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

What is it?  The Regent’s Park landmark has come a long way since the days when zoos were full of homesick wildlife. London Zoo does a lot of world-class animal welfare work, creating carefully designed settings in which beautiful creatures from gorillas to lizards, penguins to tigers now reside. There’s a dedicated area for small kids and daily shows for nature fans of all ages.

Why go?  To take a walk on the wild side.

35.  Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

• Hertfordshire

What is it? The Warner Bros Studio, a short trek north of London, where you can set foot inside the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. See film sets, costumes, props and exhibits that take you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films. Changing exhibitions are included in the ticket and you get the chance to discover the secrets of the movie’s special effects.

Why go? To finally get your mitts on a flagon of Butterbeer.

36.  Royal Observatory

What is it? For centuries, the location for the scientific study of the stars and of timekeeping – originally for the benefit of sea navigation. This is where you’ll see the Greenwich Meridian Line marked out, from which point the world’s time zones are measured. You can also see the incredible instruments with which astronomers made discoveries about our universe, long before the digital age, or go stargazing at a planetarium show.

Why go? To give Brian Cox a run for his money. 

37.  The South Bank

What is it? A buzzing open space and cultural nucleus of the capital, lined with some of the city’s most exciting galleries, theatres and attractions. Start at the Southbank Centre, for free art and live shows, lunch at one of the many restaurants, watch the skateboarders and then wander east past the artists’ enclave at Gabriel’s Wharf and on to Tate Modern and the Globe.

Why go? For riverside adventures and ace views. 

38.  SEA LIFE London Aquarium

What is it?  The home of sea creatures from all over the world, from Pacific nurse sharks to Antarctic penguins (with a glimpse of what’s swimming past you in the Thames, too). It can get busy, but go off-peak to get some one-one-one time with the crocs

Why go? To immerse yourself in the life aquatic.

39.  British Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations
• King’s Cross

What is it? A working resource for printed and sound archives that’s open to all. If you nip into the free entrance hall exhibitions you might get to see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark scientific items too, including very early photographs. Don’t expect silence to be enforced when a Late at the Library event kicks off.

Why go? For studious research or to geek out on paper-based artefacts.

40.  The British Museum

What is it? Since it opened in 1759 – the first-ever national museum for the public – the British Museum has been displaying global artefacts discovered by British explorers. Must-see gems include the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.

Why go? The museum has more than eight million objects in its collection, 50,000 of which are on display. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, considering entrance to the main areas is free.

41.  Hyde Park

What is it? A massive central London park that’s easy to take for granted. Wander into Hyde Park’s vast greenery and eventually, you get to the Serpentine lake, where you can take a dip, go boating, board a solar-powered ferry (in summer) or eat pizza by the water. You can also take guided tours of the gardens and a secret pet cemetery – visit the park's website to book the latter. 

Why go? Because life’s more fun if you stop for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic.

42.  Highgate Cemetery

What is it?  A beautiful, crumbling north London cemetery full of overgrown paths that will lead you to several Grade II-listed catacombs and a number of famous remains, including poet Christina Rossetti, architect Sir Lawrence Weaver and philosopher Karl Marx. On a sunny day, it even feels a little less morbid.

Why go?  To try to find Karl Marx’s hidden-away grave.

43.  Museum of London

What is it?  A museum that traces the capital’s history from its beginnings to the present day – you can even see part of the city’s original Roman Wall from its windows. Sense the drama of the Great Fire of London, walk through a Victorian shopping arcade, see the stunning London 2012 Olympic cauldron and get an eyeful of part of the fatberg found lurking in a Whitechapel sewer. Yuck!

Why go? To find out what life was really like in Londinium – for free.

44.  V&A Museum

• Art and design

What is it? One of the greatest collections of decorative art, design, fashion and textiles in the world. The Fashion galleries run from 18th-century court dress right up to contemporary chiffon numbers; the Architecture gallery has videos, models, plans and descriptions of various styles; and the famous Photography collection holds more than 500,000 images. Admission is free.

Why go? To drool over amazing designs and gobble up cake in the sunny courtyard. Bliss.

45.  Natural History Museum

• Natural history

What is it? The magnificent South Kensington home of around 80 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. This fascinating museum, which is also a world-class research institution, is full of natural wonders and admission is free.

Why go? To marvel at a  25.2-metre-long  blue whale skeleton, a piece of Mars rock,  Mary Anning's  ichthyosaur fossil and lots more.  

46.  Science Museum

• Science and technology

What is it? An incredible, free-to-enter, hands-on museum that features seven floors of entertaining and educational exhibits, including the Apollo 10 command module, a virtual reality space-descent experience and a 16th-century artificial arm.

Why go? To experience the incredible Information Age gallery, from where the Queen sent her first tweet, signed Elizabeth R.

47.  Regent’s Park

What is it?  A verdant 410 acres of lush, open space, just a short stroll north of Oxford Circus. Featuring a pretty rose garden, the elegant Open Air Theatre (open throughout the summer – check the  website for exact dates) and tree-lined avenues for jogging, it’s a slice of horticultural heaven and a much-needed respite from the rest of the whirring city. 

Why go? To escape the Oxford Street crowds.

48.  St James’s Park

What is it? London’s oldest Royal Park and, essentially, Buckingham Palace’s front garden. St James’s Park runs alongside The Mall and offers a handy escape from the traffic noise of Trafalgar Square. The two islands in its lake are home to wildlife and there’s the Princess Diana Memorial Walk to follow if you fancy some gentle exercise.

Why go? To watch the pelicans (which were introduced to the park more than 400 years ago) being fed at 2.30pm daily.

49.  Trafalgar Square

What is it?  When it comes to London’s top attractions, Trafalgar Square can’t be overlooked. Bring your selfie stick because posing for pics is a must. Get the lions and fountains in shot (no paddling in the fountains, please) and check out the latest modern art installation adorning the Fourth Plinth, as London’s red buses circle on the busy roads around you.

Why go? To take the archetypal, cheesy, London tourist selfie.

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London, England   Travel Guide

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34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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Instantly recognizable icons like Big Ben and St. Paul's Cathedral welcome you to history-laden London, the UK's multicultural capital that's a tireless innovator of art and culture.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Westminster Abbey

The West End

A splendid mixture of architectural styles, Westminster Abbey is considered the finest example of Early English Gothic. It's not merely a beautiful place…

Tate Modern

One of London's most amazing attractions, Tate Modern is an outstanding modern- and contemporary-art gallery housed in the creatively revamped Bankside…

Natural History Museum

Kensington & Hyde Park

With its thunderous, animatronic dinosaur, riveting displays about planet earth, outstanding Darwin Centre and architecture straight from a Gothic fairy…

St Paul's Cathedral

Sir Christopher Wren’s 300-year-old architectural masterpiece is a London icon. Towering over diminutive Ludgate Hill in a superb position that's been a…

Tower of London

Few parts of the UK are as steeped in history or as impregnated with legend and superstition as the titanic stonework of the Tower of London. Not only is…

Shakespeare's Globe

Seeing a play at Shakespeare's Globe – ideally standing under the open-air "wooden O" – is experiencing the playwright's work at its best and most…

British Museum

With almost six million visitors trooping through its doors annually, the British Museum in Bloomsbury, one of the oldest and finest museums in the world,…

One of London’s best parks, Hyde Park spreads itself over 142 hectares of neat gardens, wild expanses of overgrown grass and glorious trees. As well as…

Top picks from our travel experts

13 of the best things to do in london.

It’s hard to imagine South Bank without the London Eye (officially named the lastminute.com London Eye after its current sponsor), the world’s largest…

Kensington Gardens

A delightful collection of manicured lawns, tree-shaded avenues and basins immediately west of Hyde Park, the picturesque expanse of Kensington Gardens is…

Kensington Palace

Built in 1605, Kensington Palace became the favourite royal residence under William and Mary of Orange in 1689, and remained so until George III became…

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London and beyond

WELCOME TO LONDON

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF LONDON

London is one of the most fascinating cities in the world! More than 30 million visitors coming from all over the world walk along its streets every year. There is a huge variety of places to visit and things to do in London and we want to ensure that you make the most of your time and money while you enjoy as many of them as you can.

We are here to help you have a memorable time in London and around the big city, which is why we put together the best collection of tours, trips, workshops and events to provide you with the London experience of a lifetime. Whether you would like to explore an area or an interest, our team of local experts are ready to treat you to the best London has to offer.

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Visit London like a Londoner with this list of best visiting tips and planning ideas

Experience all the unique things London has to offer

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN

Planning your trip to London can seem overwhelming, so we put together some easy tips to get you started. We are all about making you feel welcome, so we've got you covered.

Check out the sections below to find out everything you need to know about the most popular and not to be missed things to do in London, museums and galleries, events, best tours and trips in and around London, key travel information, as well as the top places to go to keep your little ones entertained.

There is always something going on in London, so make the most of planning ahead by checking out our London tickets and special deals, the London event and shows guide, the best shopping and dining places and even what there is to visit out of London.

So whether you are in London for one day, for the weekend or for longer, we're sure to help you make the most of your time and guarantee your stress-free holiday.

Top ten ideas for your first visit to London

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Welcome to London offer you the opportunity to discover the best London has to offer, exactly as you want it and as you expect it, magnificent and impressive.

Castles, palaces, cathedrals, museums, galleries, parks, endless shopping areas, restaurants and bars, as well as an impressive London architecture and an incredible mixture of cultures and communities, plus the exciting history are all waiting to be explored around every corner.

Discover London on board of the best hop on hop off tour buses or Thames river cruises. Save money and time with the London Pass, skip the long queues at the busiest London attractions by reserving your tickets in advance or find the best seat for the best price in your favourite West End musical or play.

If you haven’t booked your accommodation in London yet, now is the time to do it! Just have a look at our excellent selection of centrally located London hotels.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Best tickets for London attractions

With fantastic routes and multilingual commentary, the open top bus tour is the best way to explore and enjoy London. The tour includes walking tours, river cruises and the flexibility to hop on and off at all the popular landmarks and attractions. Get your tickets here

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Enjoy unique views of London from the top deck of the hop on hop off sightseeing cruise on the Thames. Choose from the guided tours that run daily between Westminster and Greenwich or go for the extra special Dinner or Showboat cruises. Find out more here

Explore English heritage at its finest and choose from a fantastic range of day trips to places like Stonehenge, Royal Windsor, Oxford, Bath, Stratford upon Avon, The Cotswolds. The local experts are ready to share all their exciting stories.

From theatres, concert halls, nightclubs, sports venues, cinemas and outdoor performances, when you are in London there is a guarantee that you will not run out of ideas of what you can do. Boo your best seats here

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The Perfect London Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

by annisa | May 8, 2020 | London Guide | 0 comments

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to visiting London for the first time, from a local

How do i plan a trip to london england.

London for first-time visitors can be overwhelming, so preparing for a trip to London is crucial. I’ve heard people don’t organise and plan what they’re going to see and do, they’ll just go along with it once they’ve arrived in the country. It’s the wrong way to go about it, especially when travelling to London.

London has so many things to do in so little time. People can spend half a day in one area, and you won’t have time to see other areas of London. So, before booking your flight and accommodation, research, research, research. This London travel guide for first time visitors will cover all you need to know about visiting London for the first time. Here are some tips before making any rash decisions:

Firstly, book in advance. Summer is the busiest and the most expensive time of the year and there are more activities in summer than there are in winter. Although winter can be as busy as summer, during Christmas, it’s cheaper but colder. I have a link to several websites to compare flights, and accommodation, travel insurance and visa so you can organise well.

Secondly, get used to using public transport and how to visit famous landmarks and small attractions. Although buses can take longer because of traffic and it can be claustrophobic, (it’s not a nice feeling), it’s cheaper. You’ll tap £1.65 per bus ride. Taking the tube can get claustrophobic too but getting around is quicker.

There’s also a section on what people don’t tell you when you want to go to London. While you’re researching for flights and accommodation, read my safety tips in London. It can save your life.

The best thing about London is that everything is all in one place, and everything is just walking distances from one another. From the top 10 famous attractions to the hidden gems, as well as the best neighbourhoods and markets, London has it all. London are avid walkers, and sometimes you must keep up with us. If you’re not a walker, then, take public transport, it’s also convenient.

Every adjective you’ll find in the dictionary is what London is all about. Cosmopolitan. Quirky. Unique. Cheap. Expensive (in a good way). Multicultural. Old. New. Antique. Vintage. Unusual. You name it. London is everything. So, if you’re looking for rich British history, the longest monarchy in Europe, amazing Instagram photos, delicious food from around the world, the multicultural community, and friendly and polite people, then this post is for you!

How much time do you need to spend time in London?

If you are on a budget, 3 days in London or 4 days in London are average length of time depending on what you want to see and do, assuming you just want to take photos outside of the attractions. There are also free attractions and areas that are quirky yet interesting to visit. Visit my itinerary guide for more information on how long each attraction takes. Focus more on how long you want to take in each attraction, and take this post as your guide, but don’t use it religiously. If you’re on a budget, read my London on a budget guide.

Don’t forget to visit hidden gems in London. You can spend 10 – 20 minutes in the hidden gems. The best thing about it that most of them are free. 

What should I know before travelling to London?  

When travelling to the London, you’re travelling to the UK, so it’s imperative you also know facts before you travel to the UK in this UK travel guide . Here’s more information on visas and money.

Visas in London 

Before visiting London, check what visas are required. We are not in the EU anymore so, it’s crucial to check whether you need a visa to visit us. There are different regulations regarding your purpose of visit to the UK.  It really depends on your circumstances. Click here  for more information on visiting the UK after Brexit.

Visit the government website here   for more information on visa applications and whether they apply to you. The gov.uk is their homepage, and it’s a great website relating the government in the UK.

Money in London

Plan on how you are going to handle money in London. Don’t carry more than £100 cash in your pocket. I suggest bringing around £30 in cash and pay with your card when you’re eating out or visiting attractions. I’ve been living here for more than 30 years and I’ve never been pickpocketed, but tourists can be vulnerable.

ATMs are used around Central London and most of them are free. We also use the chip and pin and contactless system here. Some banks have ATM machines inside so it’s safe but be vigilant at the same time. It’s crucial that you blend in with us as much as possible. You can also use your Contactless debit cards and Google Pay on your phone. You tap your card on the payment device without entering your pin, and you can use it on public transport, supermarkets, and all shops around London.

Convenience, security, value, and options to open bank accounts are necessary if you want to stay here for at least 6 months. You can also change money at airports, major train stations like Victoria, London Bridge, King’s Cross St. Pancras, department stores, and major high streets around London.

As most know, our currency is the British Pound Sterling. London is an expensive city so it’s advisable to save and spend wisely if you’re on a budget. Even though there may be attractions that are discounted, it’s still expensive.

Visit the Tripsavvy website to find out the best way to spend money in the UK.

If you want to make bank transfers easier and making a hassle free transactions abroad, then you won’t need to find a foreign bank abroad, you can always pay and transfer like a local. That’s why online banking is so convenient. Revolut vs N26 , which one is better? You decide.

Click here to compare travel insurance and here to compare exchange rates.

  Transportation in London 

Public transport in London is one of the best in Europe in terms of convenience and its modernism. The disadvantage of public transport is the crowds on tubes, buses, and trains, especially during rush hour. During working hours, it’s relatively quiet, as people. are usually at work. Avoid the hours of 8 am – 9 pm and 5 pm – 6 pm, especially the Central Line because the Central Line leads to Central London from the north, east, west, and south of London. This is where tourists, locals, and business people congregate.

The black taxi cabs can be expensive, and I don’t recommend you use them. I spent £14 on a half-hour journey. If you really want to use taxis, consider Uber and licensed cabs as a cheaper alternative. Ubers here are generally safe.

Oyster Cards 

I cannot stress enough on getting an Oyster Card as the first thing you’ll do when you land at the airport. It’s the cheapest and best option to take. I wouldn’t recommend applying online as it can get tedious. Get them as soon as you arrive at the airport. There are Oyster Card barriers, Transport for London staff and Oyster Card machines in every stations. Pay as you Go will stop charging you after you’ve spent an equivalent of a daily travel card depending on how many days you’re travelling.

Travel cards are mainly used for travel outside London since they don’t use Oyster cards beyond London. You can use your Oyster card on National Rail trains, tubes, buses, and trams. You can spend around £10 – £15 a day on trains and tubes entering and exiting, depending on how many journeys you take. You won’t be charged for interconnecting between tube lines though.

As for travelling with children, if they are between 11 – 16, they will get a discount visitor cards and under 11’s travel free. Check with the staff at the train barriers for more information. There’s always 3 or 4 staff members standing by the barriers who are happy to help you.

Tips on using Oyster Card in just 2 steps

1. At the airport, follow the instructions on the ticket machine to get your Oyster Card. It’s £7 for the card. If you got your card on or after 4 September 2022, the fee is non-refundable. If you got your Oyster card before 23 February 2020, you can get your £5 refunded when you don’t need your card anymore.

2. You top-up how much money you want to put into your Oyster Card. You can pay by cash or debit card. Depending on what zones you’re in, there is a cap on the journeys you make. Hypothetically, if you’re tapped your Oyster Card in zones 1 – 3, if the cap is £10, then you won’t get charged more than £10 for that day even if you tapped 100 times. 🙂

Click here for more information on Oyster Cards and other general travel cards.

In addition to an Oyster Card, download the City Mapper app to easily find your way around. Compared to TfL , City Mapper is more reliable if you need a map of London on your phone. You can compare which one is right for you.

Buses and trams

Using buses are the cheapest means of transport for only £1.65 per journey. The buses here are usually packed with people, especially in the central. Most of the times, you’d have to stand up and be prepared to be squashed with other people. Getting from A to B can be long so it’s advisable to walk if you’re going to places nearby.

It’s advisable to walk from A to B if it’s more convenient. Londoners are avid walkers and most attractions are next to each other, although it can still be tiring because most attractions are big. Visit my Southbank Walk and 31 Things to do in Southbank as well as my West End Walk .

Londoners rarely use their cars to go to work by car unless it’s necessary. Roads can be hectic and frustrating in London. If you see a red C sign painted on the roads and a “Congestion Charge zone” sign, you are going to get charged between £10 – £16 for driving in Central London to reduce pollution. Most cars and trucks are usually construction workers, business cars, black taxis, or people living within the city because the Congestion Charge is usually paid by the company.

Londoners rarely use their cars to go to work unless it’s necessary. Roads can be hectic and frustrating in Central London. If you see a red C sign painted on the roads and a “Congestion Charge Zone” sign, you are going to get charged betwen £15 daily charge between 7:00-18:00 Monday-Friday and 12:00-18:00 Sat-Sun and bank holidays. There is no charge between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day bank Holiday (inclusive). The easiest way to pay is by setting up Auto Pay. Parking is very inconvenient because one, it’s expensive for an hour and two. You’ll be lucky to get a spot on the side roads. Be aware that car Parks are usually more expensive than parking on the side roads. If you do have to park, check out AppyParking+ app which will tell you where and when you can park. 

When it comes to cycling, like cars, it can be dangerous if you’re not used to the system. Cycle on quiet roads and use the cycling paths provided. Even if you use the cycle paths on busy roads, it can still be dangerous as you may have to swerve out into the main road from parked cars and bus drivers pulling out.

For tourists, it can be dangerous because there are areas where you aren’t able to turn left, right or even both, and considering how busy Central London is, you must make sure you’re aware of your surroundings. We drive on the left side of the road here and the steering wheel is on the right. Most countries drive on the right side of the road, so if you’re not used to cycling in London, it can be dangerous.

People will frown upon cycling on the pavement. Find out more about The Boris bikes here if you want to experience cycling in Central London. If you do want to cycle, try cycling in quiet areas or in most of the major parks around London. I’ve seen people cycle in The Mall (the street connecting Buckingham Palace and Admiralty Arch) since it’s a nice and quiet open space.

Comparing flights and accommodation 

If you are thinking of flights and accommodation, you might have to compare reasonable prices to suit your budget.

Here are a few websites to compare flights, accommodation, car hire, and other extras on the side. AirBnB is now a thing when booking a type of accommodation, and it’s like living in a home away from home. Here are some travel tips for booking on AirBnB .

Travelsupermarket

Booking.com

10 Best things to do in London 

Visit the top 10 attractions .

Before you visit the top 10 London attractions, make sure you check out the London Pass and the London Explorer Pass for discounts of 100+ attractions combined. Be careful though, the London Pass and the London Explorer Pass are two completely different discount packages.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace doesn’t need an introduction. It’s the first attraction people think of. Around fifty thousand people visit every year, and it’s people’s dreams to visit Buckingham Palace. Home to the British royal family and used for administrative businesses and state functions, Buckingham Palace has many reasons why we should visit it each year. It’s close to St. James’ Park and the Green Park . Trafalgar Square and Horse Guard Parade are a short walk away from Buckingham Palace. You can watch the Changing of the Guards outside the palace and the Changing of the Guards in Horse Guard Parade. In summer, you can visit the State Rooms , but dates and times vary each year and only opens in summer. No wonder Buckingham Palace is the most visited attraction in London.

London Eye 

The London Eye opened a day before the year 2000 by Tony Blair, the former Prime Minister, to celebrate the start of the new millennium. The first two attractions you can see are Big Ben and Parliament and Westminster Abbey. The other landmarks are difficult to make out and can be covered by trees and bushes. There are 32 capsules and takes 30 minutes to go round. It’s also the main area where New Year’s Eve’s fireworks happen just before the clock strikes midnight.

Sea Life London Aquarium

Sealife London Aquarium is a great day out for the family, and it’s in the top 10 London attractions to visit. If you’re into marines, bugs, insects, and turtles, then visit Sealife London Aquarium. Touch a live starfish, go through the arch under the big white sharks, visit the Amazon rainforest and learn and see beetles, spiders, piranha fossils and many more. Why not visit the Polar Experience and see the penguins, who are personally named? Everything you’ve always wanted to see are here.

Madame Tussauds

Visit Madame Tussauds, where you’ll meet Hollywood and Bollywood A-List celebrities with the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, Nicole Kidman, Tom Hardy and many more. Meet A-List musicians with the likes of Britney, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, and Kanye West. Take photos with the British Royal Family and step into the world of Hollywood films. Meet the face of King Kong, E.T. Audrey Hepburn and many more.

Take a train ride and step back to 250 years of British history. Meet Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth I. Hear wax children laughing on carousel rides, and watch an animated 4D cinema where the 4 superheroes like Superman, Captain America, Spiderman, and Batman try to save the world in London. Although terribly busy, like Sea Life London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds is a great attraction for all the family.

London Dungeon

Step back into British history and visit the London Dungeon. Go back to the 17th Century to the 19th Century. Experience the bloody, gruesome, and dirty London. See and hear heads being chopped off, imprisoned for no previous offenses and many more. Learn about Henry VIII and how he beheaded some of his wives for treason and adultery. Learn about the 1666 great fire of London started in an old bakery. What about learning about the life of Sweeney Todd and his so-called partner Mrs. Lovett? A barber who dropped his victims into the basement and cut their body parts and made them into pies. You can visit Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop and could become her victim too. Enjoy the Drop where British prisoners were dropped to their death after their release. Whatever British history you want to hear about, check out London Dungeon. Beware. Children under 10 might find this scary.

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour

Step into the world of Harry Potter. Do you remember Harry’s first few years at Hogwarts? You can see all the adventures he went on in this studio tour. You will see the Great Room where Harry had his feasts and where he sat under the Sorting Hat.

Explore the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley, Privet Drive, and many more. Have you wondered what Butterbeer taste like?

Discover and learn about the props and costumes as well as the many exhibitions and events that happens throughout the tour. The Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour is situated in Leavesden, and you can get there from Euston Station. It will take less than an hour to get there. Before or after the tour, make sure you visit Platform 9 and ¾ in King’s Cross Station, push your trolley to Hogwarts (there’s usually a line to take professional photos by the photographer, and it’s not free. An assistant will help you to put on your scarf and wand before you disappear. You can’t just take photos by yourself) and visit the Harry Potter Shop.

Visit the Golden Tours website for packages with the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio as an alternative to getting there by public transport.

London Zoo is one of the most visited tourist attractions in London. With nearly 2 million visitors a year, you can enjoy visiting some of the big 5 safari animals. From lions, tigers, giraffes, marine mammals and insects, gorillas, penguins, goats, pelicans and many more.

There are many attractions worth visiting near the London Zoo. The London Zoo is situated in Regent’s Park, Camden Town, Little Venice and Regent’s Canal, and Madame Tussauds. I suggest you visit these attractions all in one day.

Westminster Abbey

Built in 1066, Westminster Abbey has more than a million visitors each year. If you want to learn about Westminster Abbey’s history, the staff will give you an audio guide in more than 5 languages. Just click on the numbers on the audio guide to find out more about the history and story about that burial, the memorial or object. You’ll see the burials and memorials of British kings, queens, poets, scientists, and writers with the likes of Jane Austen, William Shakespeare, Stephen Hawking, and many more.

It’s £18 for adults and £7 for children if you buy your tickets online, and the tour takes approximately one hour. If you want to visit for Sunday services, it’s free to enter. Although you won’t learn about the history from the audio guide, you’d be able to see the beautiful interior of Westminster Abbey. Click here to find out more of what I got up to. Find out about the Abbey on their website here. 

Hop on Hop Off

The Hop on Hop Off Tour takes you around London during the day. The Hop on Hop Off Tour bus is ideal for people who only have 3 days or less in London. You can cover the famous landmarks at least. I recommend you take Golden Tours, it’s the best one. Golden Tours is great because the Hop on Hop off bus takes you to London, and you get another 24 hours complimentary.

With Golden Tours, you will also get a complimentary Cruise Tour on the River Thames exploring the main sights of London. Walking tours are also available which includes The Changing of the Guards and The Beatles Walking Tour. Click here for more information on the Golden Tours Hop on Hop off packages.

Things no one tells you when you go to London 

What should i know before travelling to london .

Should I use cash or card?

London has been moving towards a cashless society in recent years, with more and more people using contactless cards and mobile payments to make transactions. This trend has been accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, as people have been encouraged to avoid cash as a way of reducing the spread of the virus.

One of the main drivers of the move towards a cashless society in London has been the widespread adoption of contactless payment technology. Contactless payment allows people to make transactions quickly and easily by simply tapping their card or mobile phone on a reader, without the need for cash or a PIN number. This technology has become increasingly common in London, with contactless payments now accepted by most retailers and transport providers in the city.

Another factor driving the move towards a cashless society in London has been the growth of mobile payment services. Companies like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay allow users to make payments using their mobile phones, which are linked to their bank accounts or credit cards. These services have become increasingly popular in London, with many people now using their mobile phones as their primary payment method.

There are a number of advantages to a cashless society in London. For one thing, it is more convenient for people to be able to make payments quickly and easily using their contactless cards or mobile phones. This can save time and make transactions more efficient, particularly in busy urban areas where time is at a premium.

Another advantage of a cashless society in London is that it can be more secure than carrying cash. With contactless payment technology, there is no need to carry large amounts of cash, which can be lost or stolen. This can help to reduce the risk of crime and make people feel safer when they are out and about.

Most European countries don’t charge 12.5% on their restaurant bills, and if you go out for a meal, you’ll see a small print at the bottom of your bill on whether they charge a discretionary service charge or not. If not, feel free to ask.

Eating in the West End can be a nightmare, so it’s better to reserve a table. Some gastropubs will accept table bookings, some don’t so make sure you find out before you order your fish and chips. If you do decide to eat in gastropubs, you can either pay and order at the table or go to the bar and order there. Generally, you’ll wait 20 – 30 minutes to wait for your food to arrive. Fish & chips can be double the price in gastropubs at around £12 or more, so if you find a local fish & chips shop, which are usually found in the suburbs, away from the West End, you can save up to 50%.

You’ll often see crowds of people standing outside gastro pubs in the West End. Some high-end restaurants can be intimate and organised, but some, like Gaucho’s and Vapiano’s, can be packed. You may have to reserve a table or get there early. You’ll often see loud Londoners standing around drinking pints, squashed together watching football, and most of the time, the food and drink quality is the same as high-end restaurants. It really depends on the chef and the service.

In restaurants, they will usually escort you to your table, take your order straight away or someone will be with you shortly. Either way, you must wait until someone comes to you while you choose your meal from the menu.

When you’re ready for your bill, ask someone for attention, they’ll give you your bill on a plate or docket. They’ll usually disappear for a while and come back to you when THEY’RE ready. You must wait for them to come to you. You don’t go to them.

Shopping in London

Shopping in Oxford Street, Regent Street and Tottenham Court Road can be a nightmare. It gets remarkably busy; you’ll be swerving past people especially when they’re walking slowly, so don’t expect to walk in a straight line. However, aside from the fact it can be a nightmare, there are so many high street stores and luxurious department stores to choose from.

Shopping in Primark, the biggest bargain department store can also give you a headache. There’s a stereotype that Londoners shop in Selfridges, Harrods, and Harvey Nichols all the time. No, it’s not true, we’d rather shop in our local high street shopping centres and prefer to go window shopping in Selfridges instead. Pretty much all the shopping areas in London are terribly busy, so be prepared.

People have recommended shopping in Westfield shopping centre situated in Stratford, but it can be as busy as shopping in Oxford Street and Regent Street. As for the stores, it’s no different from the stores you’d find in Oxford Street and Regent Street. Westfield Shopping Centre is a great place to get your essentials, and there are many restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmacies to choose from. It’s also conveniently located near the tube station.

Tubes and trains to and from Central London

There are several options for using public transport to and from Central London:

1. Underground: The London Underground, or “the Tube,” is a fast and convenient way to travel around Central London. There are several lines that run through the city, with many stations located in the heart of the city. You can buy tickets at the stations, or use a contactless payment card like Oyster or a mobile payment system like Apple Pay.

2. Bus: London’s bus network is extensive and can be a great way to see the city. There are numerous routes that run through Central London, and many buses are equipped with WiFi and USB charging ports. You can use an Oyster card or a contactless payment card to pay for your journey.

3. Overground: The London Overground provides another option for getting around the city. The service operates on several routes that connect different parts of London, including Central London. You can use an Oyster card or a contactless payment card to pay for your journey.

4. National Rail: There are several National Rail stations located in Central London, including Paddington, King’s Cross, and Liverpool Street. You can use your Oyster card or buy a ticket to travel on these services.

5. Docklands Light Railway: The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is a driverless train service that operates in East and South East London, including the Canary Wharf financial district. It is an affordable and convenient way to get around, and you can use your Oyster card or a contactless payment card to pay for your journey.

Overall, there are plenty of options for using public transport to and from Central London, and it’s often the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel.

Buses in London

Although this is the cheapest way to go around London for £1.65 per Oyster tap, it can be extremely long to get from A and B. It can also be crowded, and it can be packed to a point you aren’t able to move.  You’d be lucky to get a seat, otherwise, you’d have to stand with the rest. If you happen to go out during the night, night buses tend to be quieter but less safe. Although nothing has happened to me, you should always be aware of your surroundings. Beware of drunk people during the weekends.

The West End

To many first-timers, you would think the West End is the place to be because it’s trendy, there are so many things to do and so many things to see. Well, don’t get me wrong, it is trendy and there are places to see and do but there are downsides. Food and drinks can be SUPER expensive, and locals and tourists mix. It can also be crowded, and you’ll have little patience being in a place for long periods of time.

Final Thoughts

I hope there’s a lot of useful information for you to take for your trip to London. On a side note, London is accessible to any UK towns and villages by plane, train and even buses. Here are 32 prettiest villages and small towns in the UK if you have more time to visit areas outside London. The information here is for your guide, don’t follow it religiously. If you have more questions, feel free to contact me, pin one of my Pinterest pin, and subscribe on my homepage.

Take care and be safe!

I am a part of an affiliate program with  Expedia.com , and  Tripadvisor . If you book through me with no additional charge to you, I get a commission from them. Feel free to contact me on Facebook if you have queries about travelling to London.

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London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on London

Top 5 Things to See and Do in London

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

London Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 16-25 GBP per night while a bed in a dorm with 10-18 beds costs 13-16 GBP. A private room with a shared bathroom costs 50-90 GBP per night. If you want to stay closer to the center of the city expect to double these prices and expect prices to be at least 10 GBP higher in peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels offer free breakfast and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room costs 70-100 GBP per night. Prices are higher in the center and in peak season. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in London. A private room costs 45-60 GBP per night (80-100 GBP in the center), while an entire home/apartment starts around 90-150 GBP per night (more in high season).

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can eat cheap in London if you stick to street eats and food vendors (plus many of the hostels have free breakfast). You can find fish and chips or a kebab for about 7 GBP each. Indian food can be purchased for between 8-10 GBP for lunch entrees. You can buy pizza for 8-12 GBP or burritos and sandwiches for 5-9 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 GBP for a combo meal.

For a mid-range meal of traditional British cuisine at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay 14-16 GBP. A pint of beer can cost up to 6-8 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7-10 GBP.

You can find tons of high-end dining in London, but be prepared to spend a lot. Expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant and upwards of 70 GBP in a higher-range establishment.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl and Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are more mid-range, while Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are higher-end.

A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

Backpacking London Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking London, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 150 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most of your meals, having a drink or two, taking public transit and the occasional taxi, and doing some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of about 300 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

• Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.
• Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.
• People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.
• Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.
• Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.
• Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.
• Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.
• Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.
• Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .
• Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.
• Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

• Astor Hyde Park
• St. Christopher’s
• Clink261 Hostel
• Generator London
• Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

How to Get Around London

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

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5 New Hotels Where the Past Meets the Present

Turrets, towers and tapestries greet guests at these evocative hotels in reimagined historic buildings in London, New York and beyond. (The food’s not bad, either.)

By Stephanie Rosenbloom

When is a hotel more than a place to sleep? When it’s in a building with a storied past, allowing guests to go back in time to the Gilded Age or Edwardian era as easily as they go to the gym or spa.

Nowadays you can check into a 17th-century former soap factory on the French Riviera, or part of the Old War Office in London, or a Renaissance-palazzo-style building that was once a bank in New York. Here are five new hotels in historic spaces where you can experience the past and present, delighting in the architecture of vanished days even as you indulge in the latest luxuries.

Château de Théoule

Théoule-sur-mer, france.

This seaside respite on the Côte d’Azur was once a 17th-century soap factory yet looks like a castle thanks to a Scottish lord who, in the early 1900s, added turrets and crenelated ramparts. Near the Massif de l’Estérel mountain range, the property opened this month with 44 rooms and suites, some in the castle and others in villas. All have an airy feel, thanks to linen curtains, rattan light fixtures, hardwood floors and views of the Bay of Cannes.

While the building begs to be explored, soft sand and sunshine are the order of the day — and the hotel has its own beach, La Plage Blanche, with 90 sun beds. Château de Théoule is about 20 minutes from Cannes, though if you get hungry there’s no need to leave the sand. A beach restaurant and lounge has cocktails — like the Strambery Fields (elderberry-infused gin, vanilla syrup, strawberry purée, tonic and egg white) — and menu items that include salads, pissaladière (think focaccia with confit onions, anchovies and black olives), and grilled octopus with citrus fennel and chimichurri. If you can bear to leave your lounge chair, explore the area’s hiking trails, swim in the pool, or visit the hotel spa for a massage or body treatment.

As evening descends, head to Mareluna on the terrace of the castle overlooking the bay for Mediterranean food and wine with dishes like cuttlefish tagliatelle with avocado and smoked herring eggs. Prices from 360 euros, or about $390 in low season, and from €920 in high season (mid-June to mid-September). The hotel will close for the season in mid-November.

Raffles London at the OWO

The former workplace of government and military officials, including Winston Churchill , the Old War Office (known as the New War Office when it was built in the early 1900s) has long been a place of intrigue. Fans of James Bond may recognize its Edwardian Baroque - style exterior from some of the films, and indeed Ian Fleming , the creator of Bond and a former naval intelligence officer, is said to have visited the building. It’s now open to the public for the first time, with part of it reborn as the 120-room-and-suite Raffles London at the OWO, the first Raffles Hotels & Resorts property in Britain.

Inside the grand space, some of the offices of political and military leaders have become suites, including one named for Churchill. There are also corner suites that take their names from female spies and other women linked to the property’s history, including Viscountess Astor , the first woman to sit in the House of Commons, and World War II operatives such as Vera May Atkins , a spy who recruited British secret agents.

The hotel’s interior design is by Thierry Despont , the French architect and designer known for his work on the Ritz Paris and the centennial restoration of the Statue of Liberty, who died last year.

Strategic planning taking place nowadays involves when to book an appointment at the hotel’s spa, which spans four floors. Historic spaces have new purposes, like a former library that’s been transformed into a restaurant, Saison by Mauro Colagreco , with Mediterranean dishes from the chef, perhaps best known for his Michelin-starred restaurant, Mirazur , in France. At Mauro Colagreco , another of the chef’s restaurants at the hotel, tasting menus highlight seasonal British fruits and vegetables.

Visit the Drawing Room , a wood-paneled lounge with a Steinway piano, for afternoon tea or something stronger, which you can sip while overlooking the Horse Guards at Buckingham Palace. Or slip off for a drink in rooms formerly used by MI5 at the underground Spy Bar . Prices from 922 pounds, or about $1,162.

Hotel Casa Lucia

Buenos aires.

Once one of Latin America’s tallest buildings, the Edificio Mihanovich — commissioned in the 1920s by Nicolas Mihanovich, a shipping businessman — is now home to this new 142-room-and-suite hotel. Inspired by the shape of a lighthouse, the building was among the first things sailors could see when coming into port, according to Casa Lucia, and Mihanovich wanted it to be tall enough so that he could see his own ships.

These days, guests can benefit from his ambitions with bird’s-eye views from some of the soft-hued contemporary rooms and suites. Many have balconies with outdoor showers, and spots overlooking Buenos Aires and the Río de la Plata.

In addition to being near the river, you’re in the midst of all that the chic Recoleta neighborhood has to offer: French-inspired architecture, boutiques, galleries and tourist destinations such as the Recoleta Cemetery , where you can visit the tomb of the former first lady Eva Perón .

Back at the hotel, savor Argentine cuisine and, of course, wine at Cantina Restaurant , then go next door to Le Club Bacan , a moody cocktail bar with a large selection of Argentine wines. Later this spring, you should be able to drop by the completed fitness center or the spa, which will have a heated pool. Prices from $670.

The Fifth Avenue Hotel

Located in a building that’s more than a century old, as well as a new 24-story glass space called the Tower, this 153-room-and-suite hotel in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood harks back to the Gilded Age, when it was a home and carriage house. In the early 1900s the building was sold, eventually becoming the Second National Bank , a five-story Renaissance-palazzo-style structure designed by McKim, Mead & White, the architectural firm behind New York’s original Pennsylvania Station and the Brooklyn Museum .

Step inside today and you’ll see a shimmering lobby with chandeliers, walls paneled in antique mirrors, marble flooring and cabinets replete with curiosities. The interior design by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is at once playful and sumptuous, featuring tapestries and walls saturated with colors and patterns. The guest rooms mix old and new with antiques, Murano glass chandeliers and wardrobes inspired by traditional Chinese cabinets.

Going out to eat in New York is a must. But the chef Andrew Carmellini , a James Beard Award winner known for restaurants like A Voce, Café Boulud and Locanda Verde, tempts guests to stay in. The hotel’s Café Carmellini is his take on modern Italian and French cooking, with a menu that includes dishes like black bass forestière and cannelloni of lobster and golden osetra. Afterward, drop by the art-filled, wood-paneled Portrait Bar , with an atmosphere inspired by Italian villas, for a drink by a fireplace. Prices from $895.

Charleston, S.C.

The 25 rooms, suites and residences in this stylish boutique hotel are spread across three buildings in downtown Charleston, including two from the Victorian era. And they are ideal if you want the amenities of a hotel and the flexibility of a vacation rental. All rooms have full kitchens, as well as washers and dryers. Some have French doors leading to private balconies and terraces. You’ll hardly want to hole up in your room, though. An outdoor terrace off the main lobby has a fireplace that invites you to pause after exploring the neighborhood’s romantic streets dotted with gas lamps, historic architecture, boutiques and restaurants.

Alternatively, wander over to the hotel’s Lequeux-Williams House, a Greek Revival-style building that the hotel says dates to 1834. Formerly a private residence, it has been repurposed into restaurants overseen by the chef Jason Stanhope , the winner of a James Beard Award for Charleston’s popular Fig restaurant. They include the Quinte , an oyster bar and cocktail spot (you can order seafood towers, soups, sandwiches and ice cream, too), named for a 1918 billiards hall that was in the same location. Or try Lowland , a tavern with inviting dining spaces spread over two floors, including an outdoor dining area on cobblestone that’s hundreds of years old. Wherever you sit, you can tuck into comfort food like a biscuit with farmer cheese and pepper jelly, or a burger and fries. Prices from $399.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .