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London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

The iconic London Parliament building lit up at night in bustling London, England

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

View of the famous Tower Bridge spanning across the River Thames in London, England

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

Street scene with people walking around under a sign for the Underground in London, England

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

People walking around on the waterfront of the River Thames with London's iconic skyscrapers in the background

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

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

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

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

The 8 Best Hostels in London

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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The Travel Intern

15 Best Things to Do in London in 2022 Incl. Travel Tips

london travel tips 2022

PSA: All Covid-19 requirements in London have been scrapped as of March 2022 — meaning it’s business as usual, no pre-departure tests, quarantine or arrival forms! 🥳 Here are the best things to do in London, plus travel tips at the end.

London City Skyline from The Shard - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @bendavisual via Unsplash

Buckingham Palace, Borough Market, the British Museum — that’s all I could fit into my first London itinerary. It was sufficient, given that it was just two days before hitting other cities like Bristol, Bath, and Brighton.

london travel tips 2022

Four years later, I got the chance to revisit London. This time for a month! It allowed me to slow down and really get to know the city better.

Natural History Museum - London Itinerary

A month later and I still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. There are countless weekend markets, musicals running everyday, free museums… after my second visit, I can confirm that London is one of the most lively cities I’ve ever been to.

If it’s your first time in London — here are some of my favourite recommendations:

1) Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Warner Bros - The Travel Intern

Despite being about an hour out of London, city — the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London had to be number one on the list. (especially for the Potterhead who can recite several scenes from memory — a.k.a me )

The average visit lasts 3.5hrs, but I spent double the amount of time there. There’s so much to take in — actual movie sets, original costumes and props, and behind-the-scenes footage!

Seasonal Goblet of Fire Exhibit in the Great Hall at Warner Brothers Studio Harry Potter Tour in London - Scotland Wales London Itinerary BritRail Pass

From the iconic Great Hall where Harry and gang got sorted into their houses to Diagon Alley where they picked up school supplies, the tour is definitely worth the money if you’re a fan.

*Pro-tip: Book your tickets way in advance — entry is via time slots and we’d recommend choosing the earliest for ample time to explore!

Cost: From £49.95 (~S$91)  Opening hours: 9:30AM – 8PM (Weekdays), 8:30AM – 10PM (Weekends) How to get there: Take the West Coast Main Line to Watford Junction station, then a 15min shuttle bus (incl. in ticket)

Read also: Harry Potter London Itinerary: The Quintessential Guide To 4 Days in London for All Potterheads

2) Thrift Shopping at Brick Lane

Brick Lane Thrift Shopping - Things to do in London

Brick Lane is an edgy, youthful neighbourhood in East London. We visited on a Saturday and were greeted by streets lined with murals and graffiti; buskers beatboxing and food carts dishing out hot meals.

Besides the main street, there are several markets to check out — you could easily spend a full day here and still not cover everything.

Brick Lane Vintage Market - Things to do in London

There are a lot of vintage and thrift shops in Brick Lane — and the prices range quite a bit too! Some shops sold secondhand sweaters for £10, and some offered more unique pieces for £150. The Brick Lane Vintage Market is one such place that’s a little more upmarket, but still really fun to explore!

Beigel Bake Brick Lane Bakery Salt Beef Bagel - Best Things to do in London

Food-wise, there’s a lot to be excited about. Like the famous Beigel Bake salt beef beigel (£5.50) that’s been around 1974! For more options, head to Upmarket (above Brick Lane Vintage Market) and the Old Spitalfields Market .

Opening hours: Different markets have different opening hours, but most open from 10AM – 5PM How to get there: Take the District, Hammersmith or City line to Aldgate East station, walk 11min

3) Catch a Musical at West End

Wicked Musical - Best Things to do in London

Photo credit: Wicked

When in London, you’ve got to watch a musical. London’s West End is home to dozens of award-winning musicals, with shows playing every night.

Popular musicals include Wicked , The Book of Mormon , Mamma Mia! and The Phantom of the Opera . I managed to catch three musicals during our month-long stay in London — and The Book of Mormon is my favourite! It’s satirical, witty, and just insanely entertaining.

*Pro-tip: Afternoon and weekday shows tend to be cheaper!

4) Panoramic Views from Sky Garden

Sky Garden Interior - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @hellolightbulb via Unsplash

Several friends recommended a trip to the Sky Garden for the best views of London. This 38-storey building is home to London’s highest public garden, and the entrance is free!

View from Sky Garden - Things to do in London

View from the Sky Garden. Photo credit: @thechrisbatch via Instagram

Tickets are released every Monday and get snatched up really quickly, so book as early as possible (three weeks in advance!).

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (Mon – Fri), 11AM – 9PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: Take the District or Circle Line to Monument station, walk 3min

5) Camden Market and Primrose Hill

Camden Lock Streets - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @hertwashere via Unsplash

Camden Market is a bustling area of over 1,000 stores selling everything from street food to vintage fashion.

The outdoor section sees mainly street food stalls offering more than just British favourites. I had a tough time deciding what to have for lunch — choices include Hawaiian poke bowls, fresh Italian pasta, and American hotdogs.

Camden Market Street Food - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @iermartinez via Unsplash

Indoors is where the shops are at! Local artisans are selling handmade leather goods and jewelry, friends are rummaging through thrift shops; there’s even live music at a few bars.

*Pro-tip: Camden Market gets really crowded during mealtimes. Order takeaway and walk 9min to Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park to enjoy your food! It’s one of the best viewpoints in London, with unobstructed views of the city skyline.

Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM How to get there: Take the Northern line to Camden Town, walk 5min

6) Museum -Hopping

The British Museum - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @nico86 via Unsplash

One of the best things to do in London is to visit a museum. And if you need another reason: Entrance is FREE for most museums. You just gotta pre-book a slot online!

The British Museum was first on my list as it was featured in Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb . The modern interior architecture was an attraction in itself, and the main exhibits include the Egyptian sculpture gallery and Roman empire display.

London Natural History Museum - Best Things to do in London

Step into the Natural History Museum and be greeted by a 25.2m-long blue whale skeleton!

Another museum worth checking out is the Natural History Museum . The focus here is on the natural world and evolution — all the way back to the time of dinosaurs.

7) Buckingham Palace  and Hyde Park

Buckingham Palace - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @francaisalondres via Unsplash

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the royal family and is one of London’s most recognised landmarks. This palace complex has been around 1703 and now has almost 800 rooms.

One of the best (free!) things to do here is watching the changing of guards outside Buckingham Palace. It happens at 10:45AM every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday — I’d suggest coming early to reserve a good spot as it gets crowded.

Entrance fee: £30 (~S$55) Opening hours: 9:30AM – 7:30PM, Last entry at 5:15PM (Jul – Aug), 9:30AM – 6:30PM, Last entry at 4:15PM (Sep – Oct)  How to get there: Take the Circle or District line to Victoria or St. Jame’s Park station then walk 11min

8) Notting Hill and Portobello Market

Notting Hill Lancaster Road Colourful Houses - Best Things to do in London

If the name Notting Hill sounds familiar, you might have gotten the reference from the famous 1999 romantic comedy , starring Huge Grant and Julia Roberts!

This upscale neighbourhood in West London houses iconic filming locations including the colourful houses along Lancaster Road, The Notting Hill Bookshop, and the Blue Door.

*Pro-tip: The best day to visit is Saturday — when all the street stalls are open. The market isn’t open on Sundays.

Notting Hill Portobello Road Market - Best Things to do in London

Notting Hill is also home to Portobello Market , one of liveliest markets in London. It stretches along Portobello Road, and you’ll find stalls selling everything from antiques to secondhand clothing to books.

At the end, there’s a street food section perfect for a lunch break. International cuisine is aplenty — Korean fried chicken, Spanish paella and North African dishes are just a few options!

Don’t ignore the permanent stores when you visit; there are several gems worth checking out. Like the many charity shops (Oxfam, Fara and British Red Cross), coffee houses and other small businesses.

Portobello Market Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (Mon – Wed), 9AM – 1PM (Thu), 9AM – 7PM (Fri), 9AM – 7PM (Sat), Closed on Sun  How to get there: Take the Circle line to Ladbroke Grove, walk 5min

9) Shop at Oxford Street

Oxford Street - Best Things to do in London

Whether it’s your first or fifth time visiting, one of the best things to do in London is to walk down Oxford Street. It’s Europe’s busiest shopping street, with around 300 shops — Primark, Zara, Marks & Spencer among them.

Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, the area is a fantastic place to soak in the lively city atmosphere, with buskets and performers, and the iconic red buses that periodically drive by!

Opening hours : Most shops close by 9PM  How to get there: Take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus Underground Station. Oxford Street is located right at the exit

10) Grab a Bite at Borough Market

Borough Market Stalls - Best Things to do in London

Borough Market is London’s most well-known market. It’s been around since 1756 and is split into three areas — Three Crown Square, Green Market, and Borough Market Kitchen.

The first two are where you’ll find fresh produce, while Borough Market Kitchen is the street food area.  

*Pro-tip: Borough Market is located within walking distance of the River Thames! Grab a bite and stroll along the river, and cross the famous Millennium Bridge that leads to St Paul’s Cathedral.

Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 5PM (Sat), 10AM – 3PM (Sun) How to get there: Take the Jubilee or Northern line to London Underground station, Borough Market is located right beside it

11) Dine Out at Chinatown

Chinatown Gate - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @brunus via Unsplash

One of the most popular things to do in London is visiting Chinatown , located right next to West End! The iconic red lanterns and grand gate are clear signs you’ve arrived in this lively neighbourhood.

There’s several Chinese restaurants, but you’ll find other Asian cuisines too! Some recommended eateries include Golden Dragon ( dim sum ), Dumplings’ Legend and BaoziInn Romilly Street .

Opening hours: Generally 12PM – 12AM How to get there: Take the Piccadilly or Northern Line to Leicester Square station, walk 3min

12) Catch Street Performances at Covent Garden

Covent Garden - Things to do in London

Hanging out at Covent Garden is one of the most popular things to do in London. It’s a hot spot for dining and shopping (mostly upscale brands like TAG Heuer and Ray-Ban), with occasional street performers as well.

Here you’ll find the well-loved Flat Iron steak house — a must-try when visiting London for the first time!

Opening hours: 24 hours, but shops are usually open from 10AM – 8PM How to get there: Take the Piccadilly line to Covent Garden station, walk 2min

Soho District - Things to do in London

Photo credit: @tombag via Unsplash

Located at the heart of West End, Soho is London’s nightlife and entertainment district! It’s also a hot spot for the city’s LGBT community with several gay bars in the area.

Carnaby Street Soho District - Best Things to do in London

Photo credit: @pooorliza via Unsplash

Check out Carnaby Street — located behind Oxford Street — for Instagrammable streets, plus an endless amount of shopping and dining options.

Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take the Bakerloo, Central or Victoria line to Oxford Circus, walk 1min

14) Greenwich 

Greenwich Market Entrance - Things to do in London

Located further South across the River Thames is the charming, cultural neighbourhood of Greenwich . This area is known for its naval and military past, with landmarks like the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House — both free entry!

Right beside the train station is Greenwich Market . It’s not big, but there are some interesting food options available.

*Pro-tip: There aren’t any seats at Greenwich Market. Buy street food and walk over to the Thames Foreshore for views of the river!

Greenwich Park View from The Royal Observatory - Best Things to do in London

One of the best things to do in Greenwich is hanging out at Greenwich Park , London’s oldest Royal Park. Climb to the top of the hill where The Royal Observatory sits for the best views of the city.

Fun fact: The Prime Meridian Line is located there too. It’s the exact spot that divides the eastern and western hemispheres — meaning longitude zero!

Greenwich Old Royal Naval College - London Itinerary

After chilling at Greenwich Park, head down to Old Royal Naval College ! The final fight scene from Thor: The Dark World was filmed here! You’ll be walking on the same grounds as the God of Thunder 🤩.

Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take the Jubilee line to North Greenwich station

15) Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge - Things to do in London

If there’s a blockbuster film featuring London, you can bet that Tower Bridge will be in it. Opened in 1894, Tower Bridge has been a key landmark in London’s cityscape.

For a fee, visitors can cross the iconic glass walkway between the two towers and enjoy views of the River Thames as well as view the engine rooms that were used to raise the bridge.

Entrance fee: £11.40 (~S$18.40) Opening hours: 9:30AM – 6PM, Last entry 5PM How to get there: Take the District or Circle line to Tower Hill station, walk 7min

Pre-trip Essentials and Tips for Your Next Trip to London

London Bridge - Things to do in London

Entry requirements: As of 18 Mar 2022 , visitors to the UK no longer need to complete a passenger locator form or take any pre-departure or on-arrival Covid-19 tests.

Connectivity:  Vodafone UK SIM card costs £30 for 25GB of data, which can be found at Heathrow Airport.

London Underground Train Station - London Itinerary

Transport within London: The easiest way to get around London is via train or bus. There are a few different train services, and the main one is the London Underground (or the Tube, as locals call it).

London is divided up into nine travel zones and most attractions are located in Central London (Zone 1). There are peak fares (Mon – Fri) from 6:30AM – 9:30AM and 4PM – 7PM.

You can either purchase an Oyster Card (£5) or use a contactless payment card (like Apple Pay!). A single-tube journey in Zone 1 costs £2.40 (S$4.38) while a bus ride is £1.55.

Where to stay in London: We’d recommend staying in Zone 1, where most of the main attractions are located! One of the best places to stay in London for first-time visitors is Covent Garden, as it’s within walking distance to West End and Oxford Street

Dumbledore's Office at Warner Brothers Studio London The Making of Harry Potter - Harry Potter London Itinerary

Tips for planning your next trip to London:

1) You can pretty much go cashless ( we did, for a full month ) — most street food stalls also accept card!

2) Book tickets early in advance. Slots for the Warner Bros Studio Tour, The Shard, and museum tickets run out quickly — I tried booking tickets for The Shard two weeks in advance and there were none left.

3) Transport (even public) can add up very quickly — save on transport costs by planning your London itinerary to cover attractions within walking distance of each other on the same day. Walking is also a great way to see the city — here’s a Google Maps link with all the attractions pinned!

What are your favourite things to do in London? Share with us in the comments!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

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london travel tips 2022

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The London 2022 travel guide is out now

london travel tips 2022

London 2022 is the perfect travelling companion if you have a trip to Britain’s capital coming up soon (or want a good excuse to book one)

Containing all you need to know about the city’s amazing array of attractions – from iconic monuments and West End shows to tucked-away art collections and traditional farmer’s markets – this is the only guide to the city you’ll need.

From the makers of BRITAIN magazine, the London 2022 travel guide is now on sale in UK stores (coming to the US on 23 November) and online. Inside you’ll find:

  • 101 things to do in 2022 – a roundup of the hottest events, exhibitions, restaurants, shows and surprise discoveries of 2022
  • What’s new – our pick of the year’s exciting new openings and launches
  • Go west – once, West London was a rural outpost. Now, it’s a thriving cultural area at the city’s heart
  • Walk this way – themed tours of London take in everything from historic markets to Harry Potter locations
  • Royal London – Buckingham Palace is just the start: the capital’s palaces have been home to generations of royals
  • Time for tea – savour a behind-the-scenes taste of afternoon tea at Claridge’s, the landmark London hotel
  • City strolls – explore the capital on three routes filled with history, through Belgravia, Temple and Hampstead
  • Curating the capital – Joint Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces, Tracy Borman picks out her London highlights
  • Corridors of power – Number 10 Downing Street has the most famous front door in the world: the entrance to the Prime Minister’s official residence. But what lies behind it?
  • London in bloom – embark on an enchanting tour of London’s flower displays, which brighten buildings across town
  • By royal appointment – from flagmakers to florists, the Royal Warrant Holders – suppliers to the Queen – are an eclectic group
  • Plus we explore the city’s best alfresco restaurants, top hotels and more.

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Pick up your copy online now.

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10 essential travel tips for your next trip to London

Person taking a photo by the bridge in London

Planning a trip to London ? It can get overwhelming, especially if this is your first time visiting the city. England ’s vibrant capital is full of cultural gems, tasty treats, and incredible sights. But we’ve got all the information you need to make traveling in London a breeze. Here’s everything you need to know before you embark on your trip.

1. Pick the right neighborhood as your base

Colorful houses in London

Where you stay can make or break your holiday. London’s neighborhoods have varying styles and will each suit a different type of traveler. Don’t make the mistake of booking a hotel in Soho if you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, or staying in Pimlico if you’d like to be in the heart of the action. To avoid a disastrous vacation, it’s best to do some research before deciding where you’ll stay in London.

2. Keep your wits about you

London is considered a safe city, but a dash of common sense will help your trip go as smoothly as possible. As with most dense cities, the best way to stay safe in London is to pay attention to your surroundings. To prevent being pickpocketed, keep your belongings secure and close to your body at all times, especially when you’re in crowded areas or on the Tube. Be vigilant about distraction tactics like fake tourist surveys or sudden commotions. A general rule of thumb is to move around in groups and avoid empty streets and alleys, particularly after dark.

3. Plan your routes in advance to save some Tube fare

London Underground trains

With 272 stations, the London Underground , known affectionately to Londoners as the Tube, can get you anywhere you want to go in London. You’ll likely be traveling on the Tube a lot, and those fares can add up quickly.

To save some cash, we recommend mapping out your trips beforehand. There are a couple of ways to pay your Tube fare, like Oyster Cards, which charge pay-as-you-go fares with a fare cap; Travelcards, which grant unlimited access for a set period of time; and contactless cards, which charge pay-as-you-go adult fees and might incur overseas transaction fees. If you do the math right, you can get the most bang for your buck. Check out our guide to the London Underground for more tips and tricks.

4. Don’t be afraid to walk

During peak hours, we suggest avoiding the traffic and crowded Tube by traveling around London on foot instead. You might be put off by England’s notoriously bad weather, but the truth is, London isn’t that rainy . Of course, it’s always wise to gear up with a waterproof jacket or umbrella, just in case.

Don’t worry about planning ahead—going off the beaten track is the best way to discover London’s secrets. As you wind through the city’s plethora of parks, enjoy the fresh air tinged with the sweet scent of flowers. If you’re keen on a more guided approach, there are plenty of walking tours available; you can retrace the footsteps of Jack the Ripper , or simply enjoy a historical pub crawl .

5. Skip the line whenever possible

Person overlooking the view of London

It’s exhausting to wait around in line, especially in scorching summer or freezing winter. Must-see spots like the London Eye and Westminster Abbey have a never-ending stream of visitors, and you could be stuck in what the Brits call a “queue” for hours. Make the most of your time in London with fast-track tickets that will let you breeze right ahead.

6. Eat like a local

Food spread of meat, fries, and beer in a London pub

Toad in the hole? Spotted dick? Jellied eels? In order to fully immerse yourself in English culture, you’ve got to try their traditional dishes, no matter how off-putting they might sound. You’ll find most of these classic items in pubs like The Coal Hole and The Blackfriar .

On Sundays, don’t miss out on a nourishing Sunday roast. Hawksmoor Spitalfields serves up a mean rump with Yorkshire pudding, lashings of bone marrow, and onion gravy. Blacklock Soho ’s succulent meat is slow-roasted over an authentic charcoal grill and comes with fresh seasonal sides. Throw in cocktails for a fiver and it’s clear why even locals forgo their mum’s Sunday roast to come here—avoid disappointment by making an advance reservation.

There’s nothing more British than afternoon tea , and The Drawing Room is a great place to acquaint yourself with this tradition. Located in the chic Brown’s Hotel , this tastefully furnished London tea room perfectly captures the artsy vibe of Mayfair . Or dine among the flowers at Dalloway Terrace named after Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway . Like its literary origins, this outdoor restaurant in Bloomsbury is elegant, poetic, and will leave you longing for more.

7. Venture out of the city

Building surrounded by trees in autumn

While you’ll never run out of things to do or see in London , there are plenty of other dazzling sights out of the city. It’s worth taking a day trip to check out what else the U.K. has to offer. Make the most of your journey by checking off multiple attractions with this guided tour that will take you to visit Stonehenge , Bath , and Windsor Castle . Explore the historic Roman Baths and admire the grand St. George’s Chapel , where numerous royal weddings have been held.

8. Stay in a bed and breakfast for a local experience

For a cozy, friendly stay in London, we recommend checking into a local bed-and-breakfast. These small guesthouses are typically family-run, like St. Athans Hotel , and far more affordable than a hotel. The Hayden gastropub offers rooms upstairs , so you’ll be guaranteed a tasty breakfast. The modest Macdonald Hotel , just down the road from King’s Cross Station , is a great bargain for its convenient location. Don’t forget to reach out to your hosts for their vast wealth of insider knowledge and tips.

 9. Visit lesser-known museums

Sign that says travelling post office on a large red container

Sure, you can’t miss out on icons like the National Gallery , The British Museum , or the Victoria and Albert Museum . But London is a cultural hub that’s home to many other less famous but equally interesting museums that cater to a vast range of interests.

Take advantage of The Wallace Collection ’s free entry to check out a range of masterpieces, from paintings to sculptures to even porcelain. Learn more about Britain's military history at the Imperial War Museum and the Royal Air Force Museum . Tennis fans, don’t miss out on the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum , where you’ll get behind-the-scenes access to the court. Last but not least, take a ride through history at The Postal Museum —your little ones will enjoy playing postman for a day.

10. There’s more than just Oxford Street

Neon lights surrounding a sign that says huge vintage clothing market downstairs today

Most people think of Oxford Street as London’s prime shopping district, but the city is full of hidden gems. Head to Shoreditch to poke around quirky gift shops, hunt for treasure at the Brick Lane Vintage Market , and shop for the trendiest streetwear. While you’ll find the usual designer brands at Coal Drop Yards , this relatively new hotspot is known for featuring indie labels and up-and-coming designers. This shopping mall is situated in a Victorian brick warehouse by Regent’s Canal , so you can even enjoy some food by the waterside.

Recommended tours and activities

london travel tips 2022

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  • West End musicals, plays and Shakespeare: What’s on in London theater right now
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london travel tips 2022

girl gone london

51+ Insider Travel Tips in London for First Time Visitors (2024)

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There are so many London travel tips that we could be here for a million years talking about them, but after 10 years of living in or near London as an American, I’ve finally broken it down to the top 49 travel tips for London (yes, it’s a lot, but you’ll thank me later).

These travel tips in London range from everything to culture tips to travel insurance in the UK to transportation tips in London to what to pack for London, but rest assured that after reading you’ll be even more prepared to plan a wonderful and memorable trip to this amazing multicultural city.

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The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

  • 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
  • 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
  • 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
  • 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
  • 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

1. Use Nannybag to Store Your Luggage

Whether you’re staying at a hotel or AirBnb, there may be times before or after check-in when you want to store your bags somewhere so you can enjoy London attractions (many don’t allow you to bring full suitcases).

To find safe places throughout the city to keep your luggage while you sightsee, use Nannybag .

They’re cheaper than the train stations and come with full luggage protection and safety seals so you can rest easy knowing that your belongings are being looked after by trustworthy people while you squeeze as many hours out of your London trip as possible.

To check out Nannybag, click here . 

london travel tips 2022

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. When Booking Flights, Consider Transportation Costs to and from the London Airport

People walking through airport with planes in the background

People often ask, “which is better, Heathrow or Gatwick?” and the truth it: it depends on where you’re staying!

If the cost to fly into one is over $100 difference, then usually you’re best off going with the cheaper one.

However, if there is a smaller amount of difference in cost, make sure to calculate how much it will cost to get from each airport to your specific hotel or AirBnb.

Even if the flight to one airport is $30 cheaper, you might find that the cost to get from that airport to your hotel is $30 more than the other airport, suddenly making it a moot point and difference.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

  • Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
  • International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

3. Location is Everything

london travel tips 2022

I have a whole guide on the best areas to stay in London , because there are a lot of amazing locations, but I’m writing this tip for the majority of travelers who might be budget-conscious and wondering about staying further out of the city and “commuting in.”

While this might be a good idea in some smaller cities, the sheer size of London means that it’s often not a good idea.

If you stay a 40 minute train ride away from Tower Bridge Station, for instance, you might think, “ah, I can brave that every day”.

But what about when you want to go to the other side of Zone 1, to see things like Kensington or Notting Hill, which can be quite the long trek during peak hours on public transportation?

london travel tips 2022

Now you’re not just 40 minutes away, but maybe twice that!

Try to stay within Zone 1, if possible, and failing that, Zone 2 – you don’t want to waste your time in London to save a few pounds.

Save them elsewhere in your trip and choose a better location.

london travel tips 2022

4. Download Offline Maps and Write Address Down

london travel tips 2022

Sometimes, our phones go kaput, the battery dies, it says you have 50% left but actually you have 0 left.

In this instance, make sure you carry around the address you’re staying at written down somewhere, especially if it’s an AirBnb .

This way, you could tell a taxi driver or ask a passerby to help you navigate your way back even if you can no longer rely on your phone.

It’s also a good idea to have an offline map downloaded of London that doesn’t require 3G or any sort of data to access, as you never know when that might drop, you run out, or don’t get signal.

5. British Tipping Culture (= none)

london travel tips 2022

Coming from the US, British tipping culture was weird to adjust to because there really isn’t one.

Often, a restaurant might already add in a “service charge” to your bill (basically the tip), and other times they won’t, but you’re never obligated to leave anything extra than your actual bill.

If you do want to, closer to 10% is seen as standard.

The 20% USA tipping percentages will be welcomed by your server, of course, who will feel lucky to be serving Americans that day who didn’t catch the memo on tipping culture in the UK, but it’s not necessary.

6. Don’t Take Unlicensed Vehicles

london travel tips 2022

Whether it’s a rickshaw in Leicester Square or an unmarked cab that approaches you to see if you need a ride somewhere, don’t get in unlicensed vehicles offering to take you anywhere!

When you hail a taxi, you will see its licensing paperwork in the window and it won’t just be a plain, unmarked, car.

There are scams and other nefarious things run by people using unmarked cars that you didn’t book, so never get in one.

7. Map Out Your Day by Zones

Because London is so big, one of my best travel tips in London is to map out your day by doing attractions that are in the same area at the same time.

It sounds obvious, but people lose sight of this when they start looking at ticket slots or randomly booking West End tickets, dinner reservations, and more.

You will waste so much time just going back and forth from your attractions.

When I plan London itineraries for people, I always do my best to group by area, because that means more time actually enjoying London.

8. Use an Oyster Card or Contactless Card

london travel tips 2022

Never get a single ticket or paper ticket for the tube.

You’ll pay almost twice the amount if you do that than if you used a contactless card or purchase an Oyster card (more on Oyster cards here ).

I’ve got a full guide on using the London Underground to check out.

9. Get fish and chips from a “chippy”

london travel tips 2022

A lot of people think of fish and chips and pubs together, but for the best fish and chips, try visiting a “chippy,” which is like takeout fish and chips.

They specialize in fish and chips, meaning the fish and chips you get here will be usually fresher and made with a more authentic technique of the classic fish and chips you’re after.

10. Ride Boris bikes through a park, not on the road

A man in a flourescent jacket cycling in Hyde Park

London has bikes that you can ride as a visitor, renting from pods around the city, and you might see photos of visitors merrily biking through way through London streets, smiling.

I would highly, highly recommend against cycling in London if you’re not a Londoner.

You can rent one, and use it in a park, like Hyde Park, which allows them.

This way, you get your (safe) cycling on without worrying about getting run over because you looked the wrong direction or just have no business trying to navigate London streets a a visitor on two wheels.

11. Stand on the Right, Pass on the Left

People standing on the right of an escalator on the tube underground in London

When you’re going up or down the tube escalators, always make sure to stand on the right side and let people pass you on the left – no exceptions!

12. Skip the Wax Museum and the Aquarium

4 london attractions to avoid

There are a few London attractions that I don’t feel are worth it, and those include Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and the London Aquarium.

The aquarium is not notable or really a must-do unless you’re trying to pass the time with young kids, and Madame Tussaud’s has locations all around the world – you’re better off going to one in a city that has less history and culture to explore.

13. Get the London Pass

london travel tips 2022

It’s always hard to know if city passes are worth it.

The London Pass is a visitor pass that includes entrance to multiple sites, and I have a full breakdown of whether the London Pass is worth it here .

In general, if you are planning a jam-packed trip, the London Pass is usually worth it and will help you see even more while not spending as much money.

14. Eat Lunch at the Street Food Markets

london travel tips 2022

Lunch is always an awkward meal while out sightseeing.

Do you want to have a full sit-down meal, do you try and pack sandwiches, etc?

For me, one of the best ways to eat lunch in London is to take advantage of the street food markets.

Of course you have markets like Borough Market which is the best food market in London, but don’t forget about others like Camden Market, or even Leather Lane Market in Farringdon which is a more local food market offering up some really delicious options at cheap prices.

15. Try a Mid-Level Afternoon Tea

Kalyn pouring red berry tea from a floral tea pot in to a floral mug

If your life’s goal has been to have afternoon tea at the Ritz, by all means, don’t let me stop you.

However, if you’re open to different afternoon tea options in London, then I highly recommend you go with a “mid-level” one, which is to say, not one of the cheapest and not one of the most expensive.

My favorite mid-level afternoon tea is the afternoon tea at St. Ermin’s Hotel .

Afternoon tea desserts

It’s still a classic afternoon tea experience, which sometimes you miss out on with the cheapest options, but I find that the most expensive ones, like the one at the Ritz, has become a bit touristy and actually lower quality in terms of taste than the mid-level ones because they feel the atmosphere makes up for it.

16. Don’t Walk with Your Phone in Front of You

london travel tips 2022

London is relatively crime free when it comes to visitors, but one of the most popular crimes is phone snatching, often by a person riding a moped.

They target anyone who is basically holding their phone up out in front of them to look for directions or look something up, particularl if you’re right on the edge of the road.

If you do need to use your phone to look up directions, step away from the curb and head closer to a building, or step inside a building if you can.

17. Bring Waterproof Walking Shoes

london travel tips 2022

The weather in London is completely variable, but one staple most of the year is the chance of rain.

When it does rain, it’s often drizzly, not huge thunderstorms, which means it could just be happening off and on all day.

You don’t need rainboots, but waterproof walking shoes are a fantastic idea, especially in the winter time.

18. McDonald’s has free bathrooms, and pubs have them if you buy a drink

london travel tips 2022

Finding bathrooms (or as they say, toilets) in London can be tricky, but what I usually do is look for a McDonald’s, which will have free bathrooms, or stop into a pub and buy a soft drink or similar for someone in the group and then go and use the bathroom.

19. Book West End Tickets either Far in Advance or on the Day

People walking in the West End, London, holding umbrellas, with show adverts in front of them

There are two ways to find the cheap West End tickets , and that is booking them far in advance from somewhere like London Theatre Direct (as the closer to the date, the less expensive ones are usually all purchased), OR if you want really good seats but don’t want to pay full price, then you can chance it on the day.

There are a few booths across London, the Leicester Square one being the most famous, where you can get discounted theatre tickets the day of the show for many West End performances.

Of course, this doesn’t fit into everyone’s schedule or planning-crazed mindsets (hello, that’s me), so just know if you do have a show in mind and want cheap tickets and don’t mind sitting high in the balcony, try to snag them as soon as possible from London Theatre Direct .

20. Use “999” as the Emergency Number

The emergency number in the UK is “999,” so program that into your phone or write it down somewhere in case you run into trouble.

21. Don’t Bring Hair Dryers or Straighteners

Particularly for American readers, do not pack hair dryers or straighteners!

“But how will I straighten my hair?” you ask.

Well, you will buy a cheap one on-site from somewhere like Boots!

The reason is because the voltage of the UK and the US is different, with stronger voltages in the UK.

This means that many of your hair heating tools could catch fire if used in the UK if they don’t have a built-in converter.

You’re on vacation, so put your hair up or use the hotel’s hair dryer or just purchase a cheap one when you get here to avoid ruining any of your expensive tools, your hair, or your hotel room.

22. Get a Credit Card without Extra Fees

london travel tips 2022

It’s usually possible to just alert your bank that you’re going abroad and using your card overseas, but have you thought about getting a card that has no additional fees for being used abroad?

You’re still going to have to contend with fees related to the differences in your home currency and the pound, but there are some credit cards and debit cards designed specifically to not hit the international traveler with additional fees, and if you have enough time before your trip, it’s worth looking into.

Gone are the days of traveler’s cheques, and in fact gone are the days of being able to pay cash everywhere.

A lot of the world has become card-driven, so making sure you have the right one for traveling can do wonders for your budget.

23. Bring an Adapter

london travel tips 2022

An adapter, a physical item that allows you to plug your chargers that use American, European, or other plugs into a UK outlet are essential.

You can buy them in the UK, of course, but it’s much easier to have them when you arrive in case you need to charge your phone first thing.

You’re not fitting your plug into a UK outlet without one of these, so add it to your must-haves!

24. Leave the Money Belt at Home

I was reading a Rick Steves book from possibly 2015 or 2016 the other day, and he mentions wearing your “money belt” while in London.

I think there was a time when international visitors, particularly from the US, approached European travel with their “money belts” (meant to put your money and valuables in and hide it around your waist under your clothes), but those days are long gone.

Sure, if you want to and it makes you more comfortable, then go ahead, but it’s really not necessary in London.

Think of how you would pack, dress, or carry your valuables while in a big city like New York or Toronto, and then do that.

For most of us, it just means being aware of our belongings and using bags that are easy to keep close to us and keep zippered up.

25. Look Both Ways (and again) Before Crossing

People shopping in London

Yes, the UK drivers on the opposite side of the road to the US and a lot of Europe, which means you should always look both ways and then look once more before crossing.

It’s so easy to always turn to the side you would normally look to when in the US, which is why there are “Look RIGHT!” signs written in many intersections in London to help out confused visitors.

26. Take Your Backpack Off and Hold it in Front of You on Transportation

london travel tips 2022

While on the crowded tube or London buses, always take off any backpack you’re wearing or big bag or purse and put them in front of you (at your feet if it is really crowded).

This is going to save space to allow others on the bus or tube, as well as make sure that you are being aware of your belongings, so win-win.

27. Understand Differences between Uber and Black Cabs

london travel tips 2022

Uber does operate in London, and while many people are used to thinking of getting around London as synonymous with black cabs, most Londoners (particularly younger ones) use Uber.

The argument to using Uber is that it is much cheaper than using a black cab (note: this isn’t as much the case in 2022), but black cab drivers are much more knowledgeable about the city and of course, it is an iconic experience.

Understand the pros and cons of each when deciding which option to go for.

28. Choose Pubs Not on the “Mall” or in Leicester Square

london travel tips 2022

When you want to experience a pub, there are so many wonderful ones in the city (check out the best pubs in London ), but overall, a good rule of thumb is to avoid ones that are on the road leading between Big Ben and Trafalgar Square (the Mall) as it is a very touristy area, and to avoid pubs in Leicester Square (same reason).

It’s not that you would have a bad experience.

It’s just that you don’t want to just experience the touristy-Disneyfied view of London pubs.

29. Don’t Expect 24 Hour Tube Service

london travel tips 2022

While the London Underground does run night tubes on some lines on the weekend, don’t expect this every night and on every line.

Before going out, you should always look up transportation home and set that Google Maps directions timer to late in the evening.

This means that you won’t be assuming a tube line is running because it was at 6pm, but when you wanted to go home at 12:00am, the doors were shut.

There are London buses that do run 24 hours every night of the week, so check out my guide to London buses to familiarize yourself with the bus system.

30. Skip the London Dungeons and London Bridge Experience

Another touristy London attraction I encourage visitors to skip is the London Dungeons or the London Bridge experience.

These are very tourist-focused, without much history, and are more like glorified haunted houses.

I much prefer the Clink Prison Museum , which is both cheaper and has more history.

31. “Open/close” Buttons on the Tube Do Nothing

london travel tips 2022

See those buttons on tube trains that look like you need to press them to open and close the doors?

Yeah, they do nothing.

The true sign of a visitor is trying to use those buttons.

If you’re on a regular train, then yes, you need to use those buttons to open and close the doors at stops, but if you’re on a regular tube line in central London, they’re useless!

32. Explore John Lewis on Oxford Street for Authentic Shopping

People often wonder about shopping in London and end up at the touristy stores or stalls on Oxford Street, but I highly recommend heading into one of the large flagship stores on this street, John Lewis.

This is a British department store, and you’ll find some cute souvenirs that aren’t meant to be “tourist souvenirs” but instead are just cute items with a British or London theme that have a bit more class and authenticity than a Queen bobblehead.

33. Casual Clothes are Fine for the Theatre

london travel tips 2022

A lot of people think you have to dress to the nines to go to the theatre in London, but more casual clothes are perfectly acceptable from a cultural perspective.

Many people are coming straight from work and will be wearing nicer jeans and shirts (I mean, don’t wear your Bermuda shorts, but you don’t need a cocktail dress either).

34. Check Out Trafalgar Square on Weekends

london travel tips 2022

Trafalgar Square is one of the best places for people-watching in London, but I recommend seeing if you can stop by on a weekend as it is usually even more of a hive of activity then and often there are events on.

In the winter, there are Christmas markets, at easter there tends to be plays, and in the summer, well, Brits love a British summer so the sky is the limit really!

35. Attend Evensong for Free Church Entrance

Exterior of St Giles Church Wrexham

If you want to visit some of London’s churches that require an entrance fee, like St. Paul’s, it can be a good idea to visit during Evensong for free entrance.

You won’t get to tour around it as much, but if you’re more hoping to sit inside it and take in the atmosphere, Evensong is a great way to get involved without paying the price tag.

36. Don’t Expect “Jolly Old England”

london travel tips 2022

People have stereotypes of British people all wearing top hats, speaking like the Queen, and generally being something out of a (pretty fancy) cartoon.

Of course, there are idyllic countryside villages and people who will live up to that stereotype, but you won’t find that in London. London is a multicultural city where you could try a new cuisine every night of the week.

It’s a place of beauty and wonder, as well as grit and grime, a place where royalty and cash poor students live. People are from everywhere, not just the UK, and London prides itself on being open to everyone.

No one’s going to raise their hat to you like you’re in Mary Poppins or use every British slang phrase you heard about in your guidebooks.

And that’s what makes London so great!

37. Always Ask about “Concessions” Prices if Student or 60+

If you’re a student or about 60+, don’t be afraid to see if there are any student or “concessions” rates (what they often call a discounted rate for certain people).

If there aren’t any, the worst they’ll say is no, but you’d be surprised how many discounted entrances you can get if you just ask.

38. Don’t Assume Your Hotel Has Air-Conditioning

The Westbury Mayfair exterior

Despite having summers that seem to be getting increasingly hotter, London is not well-fitted with air-conditioning (referred to as aircon here).

Some hotels and places do have it, so if that is important to you, make sure to not assume, but rather ask and make this a priority in your accommodation search.

39. Plan for Lots of Stairs

london travel tips 2022

You know how you came to London for all the history?

Well, that history didn’t always involve elevators, or “lifts” in the UK!

Prepare for stairs, tube stairs, stairs in your hotel, stairs in museums.

If you have mobility issues, this will definitely be an area where you’ll want to stay alert when booking and making plans so that you don’t run into any situations where you have booked at a hotel with no elevator or similar.

40. Pretend to “Drive” the DLR to Greenwich

The Docklands Light Railway is one of the coolest looking trains in London, and it’s part of the tube network so you can use it with your Oyster card or contactless card.

If you’re heading to Greenwich, which you should, you can take the DLR to get there.

The DLR is driverless, which means you can sit in the front of the train and pretend you’re driving, which is some of the most fun transportation nerds can have in London!

41. Look Out for Blue Circle Plaques on Buildings

Clink Prison Museum in London with people walking past

If you ever see a blue circle on the side of a building with writing in it, make sure to read it!

These have the names of people who used to live in those buildings or important events that happened, as well as the dates.

A fun, free way to go on a little history tour as you wander around!

42. Read the “Room” on the Tube

london travel tips 2022

If you want to fit in with the Londoners, reading the atmosphere on the tube is important.

During the rush hours, you’ll find that everyone is quiet and keeps to themselves, which is partly a way to keep sane and partly just British sensibilities.

In the late evenings or on the weekends, the tube will be filled with more visitors or friends hanging out, and you’ll hear more chatter.

Try to be respectful of the culture on the tube if you’re headed in during rush hour, but feel free to talk loudly if everyone else is during the off-peak times.

43. Harry Potter Studios Tour isn’t in London

A room in the Harry Potter Studio Tour

So many people think the Harry Potter Studios Tour is actually in London, when really it’s in a town outside of London called Watford.

Here’s my guide on how to get to the Harry Potter Studios Tour from London .

44. “VAT” or Sales Tax is Already Included

london travel tips 2022

If you’re from the US, you’re used to calculating sales tax on top of what you’ve already see on the sales tag.

Not so in the UK!

What you see on the price tag is what you pay at the end!

45. Explore London at Night

london travel tips 2022

London is like a totally different place at night, visually, and it’s well worth taking a specific nighttime bus tour or just wandering around at night.

Obviously you don’t need to be out at 3am, but during regular people waking hours in the evening, London is perfectly safe!

46. Get a “Meal Deal” from a Supermarket

On a budget and want to get in on a British classic?

Head to any supermarket, like Tesco, Sainbury’s, or Co-Op, and get yourself a “Meal Deal,” which is usually a sandwich, a bag of chips (crisps in the UK) and a dessert or drink.

They’re usually about £3, and great to get a cheap lunch for a picnic and try some new flavor sandwiches or crisps that you haven’t had before.

47. Don’t Expect a Washcloth or Top Sheet

london travel tips 2022

Whether you’re staying in a hotel or AirBnb, prepare yourself for (probably) no washcloths included with the towels as well as different bedding than you might be used to.

In the US, we are used to have a bottom, fitted sheet, then a top sheet, and then putting a comforter on top of that.

In the UK, they have the bottom, fitted sheet and then a duvet, which is a comforter covered by a washable cover.

There is no top sheet to speak of!

48. Get a British SIM Card instead of International Plan

london travel tips 2022

If you’re coming for more than a week, I highly recommend getting a British SIM card instead of relying on an international phone plan, as international phone plans can get really expensive.

Read more about how to use your foreign phone in the UK .

49. Don’t use the Covent Garden Tube Station

Oh, Covent Garden Tube Station.

A little known fact to first time visitors is that this is one of the most annoying tube stations, as it’s almost always crowded and only has elevators (lifts) which take forever.

Instead of using this tube station, just use Leicester Square Tube Station, which is a couple minute walk from Covent Garden and connected to more tube lines than Covent Garden.

There, tons of hassle saved!

50. Try a Sunday Roast

london travel tips 2022

A Sunday roast is such a traditional British meal (served on Sundays!) that features some type of meat, usually chicken or beef, as well as vegetables, roasted potatoes (roasties) and sometimes Yorkshire Puddings.

Check out our guide on the best British foods to try in London to learn more about Sunday roasts, and make sure to book in at a pub that serves Sunday Roast during your visit!

51. Some Tube Stations are Closer than You Think

It’s sometimes easier to actually walk between tube stations or areas rather than taking the actual tube, particularly if line changes are involved.

Make sure to use Google Maps to really map out your options because the walk might be 10 minutes, and the tube journey total time might be 15 or more (and you won’t realize until you map it out!)

Want more London travel guides? Check these out!

  • The Definitive London Packing List for Visitors
  • A Full Guide to Oyster Cards in London for Dummies
  • Getting around London: Everything a Visitor Needs to Know
  • Weather in London: a Visitor’s Guide
  • The Best Time to Visit London: a Local’s Guide
  • London on a Budget: How to Save Money in London
  • Money in the UK: How to Pay for Things in London
  • Exactly How Many Days to Spend in London: an Expert Guide
  • How to Use the Tube in London: a Guide for Newbies
  • What to Wear in London (How to Dress Like a Londoner)
  • British Pub Etiquette: the must-read guide
  • Visiting London with Anxiety: the ultimate guide
  • 23 Must-Read London Safety Tips

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system.

2 thoughts on “51+ Insider Travel Tips in London for First Time Visitors (2024)”

Citymapper is the best app for navigating London – offering up a selection of routes and transport options to get you there quickly with the minimum number of changes.

Why queue at the machines to top-up your Oyster card when you can top up on the go using the TfL Oyster app . It’s super quick & easy – it’ll even alert you when you balance is getting low.

Wow, what an incredibly helpful guide! As someone planning their first trip to London, I’m soaking up all the tips and insights shared here. Thank you for making the daunting task of navigating a new city feel much more manageable. Can’t wait to put these suggestions into action!

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London Travel Guide

Ah, London — home to world-class restaurants, an unparalleled music scene, fantastic hotels, and some seriously rich history. Plus, tea. Who could forget the tea? London is a beautiful city to visit, and with England's fantastic public transportation, it's a breeze to get from point A to point B. You could easily spend a week or more exploring all that each London neighborhood has to offer and still have things left over for your next visit.

With sites and cultural hubs like the National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Kensington Gardens, and all manner of food, drink, shopping, history, and culture, it's no wonder why the 'Big Smoke' is a top travel destination.

Greenwich Mean Time during the winter, British Summer Time during the rest of the year (starting at Daylight Saving Time).

Best Time to Go

England experiences relatively mild and somewhat rainy weather year-round, and when you should go depends on what you'd most like to experience. Spring, summer, and fall allow for taking in the parks and getting the most out of how walkable London is, while winter is beautiful and festive for those looking to get their fill of Christmas markets and traditional cheer.

Things to Know

London is filled with neighborhoods brimming with great things to do, and England's exceptional public transportation makes it simple and stress-free to travel between them.

Londoners, and English people in general, have a much different manner of interacting with one another than Americans do. While an American might think nothing of smiling at a stranger they pass on the sidewalk or asking about work in the first few minutes of a conversation, etiquette in London errs on the more private, respectful, and more distant. Don't mistake this for aloofness or consider those you meet unfriendly; it's just a difference in cultural norms. Instead, talk about things like movies, TV shows, books, your travels, and the like, instead of work or family.

A fun and somewhat reassuring fact is that London has much better takeaway sandwiches than the U.S. If your day is too packed to have a sit-down lunch, a sandwich from a chain will be legitimately delicious. Most importantly, almost all British museums are free , meaning anyone can wander to their heart's content, no matter their budget.

How to Get Around

Getting around London is unbelievably easy thanks to the well-maintained and extensive Underground (also known as the Tube). Tickets for riding the Underground, unlike American transportation systems, which often pay per ride or per trip length, are paid in zones. Fare also varies based on the time of day and the method you use to pay. It's worth getting an Oyster card — the Underground's MetroCard or SmarTrip Card — to simplify your vacation.

There are 11 Underground lines servicing all nine zones. Maps of these zones are in every Tube station. Most of the popular sites in London are in Zone 1, which covers central London. The Tube runs daily from 5 am to midnight and with reduced hours on Sunday. Some late-night services are available on the weekend, but generally, you'll want to be prepared to take one of the easily-found London taxis or use a rideshare app if you're out and about after midnight.

Best Hotels

Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom Phone:+44 20 7836 4343 Book Now

The only luxury hotel on the River Thames, The Savoy is a five-star experience known worldwide for its luxurious and beautiful accommodations. As the first hotel built for the purpose of being a luxe hotel in all of London, it has a rich and storied history; seeing its beautiful architecture and dramatic decor is worth doing even if you don't end up staying here.

The Connaught

Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7499 7070 Book Now

The Connaught has known a few names and owners over the course of its more than 200-year history, but its main throughline has always been luxury. Chef Hélène Darroze runs a restaurant with the distinction of two Michelin stars, and the bar was awarded Europe's Best in 2019. For a spectacular experience in the heart of London, The Connaught can't be beat.

Address: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3828 2000 Book Now

Once an abandoned bank building, The Ned found new life in 2012 as a five-star luxury hotel. Outfitted in a style reminiscent of the 1920s and with ten restaurants under its roof, The Ned is an experience unto itself — much less a great retreat from your London adventure. In addition, The Ned features a spa with treatments from massages to vitamin IV drips. Trendier than other 5-star hotels but certainly with style, The Ned is a great choice for a young couple or friends traveling in style.

Chiltern Firehouse

Address: 1 Chiltern Street London W1U 7PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7073 7676 Website

Originally a fire station, the Chiltern Firehouse is small and cozy. Each of the 26 rooms features at least one working fireplace and range from standard rooms to lofts and suites. The Chiltern Firehouse restaurant is a Michelin-starred eatery with seasonal offerings. A unique and domestic experience, the Chiltern Firehouse truly does feel like a home away from home.

Address: 15 Beeston Place, London SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7396 9000 Book Now

The Goring is a century-old, family-owned luxury hotel with 69 uniquely decorated rooms. Along the same road as Buckingham Palace, The Goring is the last word in having a truly royal stay. The Goring offers an excellent restaurant and bar and several packages that let you tailor your trip to exactly what makes you happiest.

11 Cadogan Gardens

Address: 11 Cadogan Gardens, London SW3 2RJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7730 7000 Book Now

Built in the late 19th century as four separate townhouses, 11 Cadogan Gardens has a resulting unique and eclectic interior of winding corridors and staircases. Located in upscale Chelsea, the hotel is within walking distance from Harrods, the Saatchi Gallery, Hyde Park, and many other can't-miss tourist spots.

Address: 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN Phone: +44 20 7781 8888 Book Now

Near the British Museum and Covent Garden, the Rosewood is a centrally located luxury hotel boasting lush, classic decor. The five-star hotel has carefully renovated its Edwardian architecture, melding the historic and modern seamlessly. Enjoy contemporary afternoon tea modeled after the art of British sculptor Antony Gormley in the intimate Mirror Room, then step out into the bustling heart of London. During busy times there is a minimum stay required to book, so be sure to check early and often if you have your heart set on staying at the Rosewood.

The Lanesborough

Address: 2 Lanesborough Place SW 1, London, SW1X 7TA Phone: +44 20 7259 5599 Book Now

Once an elegant country house, The Lanesborough is now a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, private spa and fitness club, cognac lounge, and award-winning afternoon tea service. With elegant and warm decor, The Lanesborough is an iconic and world-class option for travelers looking to stay somewhere in style.

Best Restaurants

Address: 593 High Road Leytonstone, Leytonstone, London E11 4PA Phone: +44 020 8281 4801 Website

Singburi is a gem of a Thai restaurant, beloved for its rotating menu of delicious and authentic curries, noodles, and seafood. Try something new here — don't stick to your usual takeout Pad Thai order (as delicious as Pad Thai is). A crispy omelette, like their delectable Kai Jeow (a crispy omelette with oysters), should do the trick.

Westerns Laundry

Address: 34 Drayton Park, Highbury East, London N5 1PB Phone: +44 020 7700 3700 Website

This beloved, sustainably-focused restaurant focuses on fresh seafood and small plates — and bread. So, so much bread, some of the best you'll ever eat. Stop in for a pastry or a sandwich, enjoy their small plates, or order a loaf of bread ahead of time to set yourself up with delicious breakfast for a week.

The Palomar

Address: 34 Rupert Street, Soho, London W1D 6DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 7439 8777 Website

The Palomar is walking distance from Trafalgar Square and some of the most enjoyable museum-going in London, so chances are you'll have the opportunity to enjoy their modern-day Jerusalem menu in a beautiful, mosaic-scattered space. Try the octopus glazed with harissa oil or the Bayt al Maqdis Chicken just for the artichoke crisps.

Address: 51 Lamb's Conduit Street, Holborn, London WC1N 3NB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7242 8963 Website

A seasonal wine bar with a classic British menu, this flashy restaurant puts the "British food is boring" rumor to rest. There's a wine for every dish, and more — their list is outstanding, and the bold and unique twists on classic British dishes make this a must-taste spot even for folks for which (gasp) wine isn't that exciting.

Address: Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch, High Street, Shoreditch, London E1 6JJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3011 5911 Website

Lunch is a la carte at Lyle's, meaning you have the opportunity to order and share a few dishes between yourself and your friends and get the best of all worlds. The dinner menu is set, offering a prix fixe three-course meal with a few options for your appetizer, entree, and dessert. The space is beautiful and minimalist — a calm, understated place to focus entirely on your incredible food.

Address: 39 Endell Street, West End, London WC2H 9BA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3422 0221 Website

A small, sustainable seafood restaurant in Covent Garden, Parsons has an unpretentious, always-fresh menu. Parsons has mastered the art of updating classic British flavors, like smoked eel, for the modern palette. Their fish pie is heavenly, and you'd be remiss not to enjoy a sticky toffee pudding if you've got room for it.

Black Axe Mangal

Address: 156 Canonbury Road, Highbury, London N1 2UP, United Kingdom Phone: No phone number, email only: [email protected] Website

What this Turkish restaurant lacks in size, it makes up for in personality — up to and including their occult buns (which are hot cross buns, but with pentacles on them). It's loud, but most importantly, it's fun: nothing about Black Axe Mangal takes itself too seriously, from the hard rock soundtrack to the delicious food. Edible glitter, tongue-in-cheek dish names, and an excellent beer list all make Black Axe a top spot for a good time.

Address: 40 Doric Way, Somers Town, London NW1 1LH, United Kingdom Phone: +44 020 4580 1282 Website

Roti King is in a basement — this is just something to know because otherwise, it might be a touch difficult to find. "Hidden gem" isn't a metaphor here: you're going to have some of the best Malaysian food you've had in some time, possibly ever. If you're having trouble finding the entrance, just look for the line; there's almost always at least a short one of people waiting for their chicken murtabak and char kuey teow.

Dishoom Shoreditch

Address: 7 Boundary Street, London, E2 7JE Phone: +44 020 7420 9324 Website

London restaurant recommendations wouldn't be complete without at least one Indian food recommendation, and to be fair, most places are going to be incredible. Dishoom is something special, though — its airy, Bombay-style decor, beautiful views from the veranda, and house recipes have earned it a dedicated following. As a reminder, chicken tikka masala is sweet in England, so if you want something savory, try a new dish — like gunpowder potatoes or the marsala prawns.

Things to Do

Tower of london & tower bridge.

Address: St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7403 3761 Website

The bridge most associated with London isn't actually the London Bridge, it's Tower Bridge — this is the bridge you almost certainly have in your mind's eye when imagining London. The Tower of London has an infamous reputation, but its history is even more interesting than most know. Tudor buffs will love tracing the steps of Queen Elizabeth I, and there are free tours given throughout the day.

St. Dunstan in the East

Address: St Dunstan's Hill, Billingsgate, London EC3R 5DD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7374 4127 Website

Built in 1698, St. Dunstan in the East was once a church. It was firebombed during World War II, and the ruins were converted into a public park — certainly one of the most unique and beautiful. Though small, stepping into the park feels like stepping into another world. Bring a camera; you won't want to miss snapping shots of the ivy-covered ruins.

National Gallery

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7747 2885 Website

The National Gallery has one of the most incredible collections in the world, including pieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Rembrandt, Cézanne, Monet, Van Gogh, and many, many more. Their 2,300-piece collection is frequently rotated, so be sure to see what sometimes-stored pieces are on display when you go.

St. James' Park

Address: London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 300 061 2350 Website

Not to be confused with the football (aka soccer) stadium in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, St. James' Park in London is one of its most famous, right alongside Buckingham Palace and perfect for a rest during a busy day of sightseeing. It is known for its waterfowl — ducks, specifically, but also a small flock of pelicans.

Address: Hyde Park has several entrances, convenient to the neighborhoods surrounding it. Phone: +44 300 061 2000 Website

Hyde Park is a massive 350 acres, nestled smack dab in the middle of London, and worth a day's focus all on its own. With events, historical monuments, walking tours, and gardens, it is a truly stunning and fun place to be. It's famous for its Speakers Corner, which has been a stage for free speech and debate since 1872.

Shakespeare's Globe Theater

Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7902 1400 Website

Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse for which Shakespeare wrote his plays, and his entire body of work is rotationally performed. The Globe's performances are heavily influenced by what is known historically as the experience of seeing them in Shakespeare's day, for an immersive experience impossible to find elsewhere.

Highgate Cemetery

Address: Swain's Ln, Highgate, London N6 6PJ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 8340 1834 Website

Ghost-chasers and history buffs alike will love to walk around Highgate Cemetery, where 170,000 people are buried. It is also a nature reserve, and the entire grounds are lush, beautiful, and feel a bit out-of-time. Notable graves to pay your respects at include Douglas Adams, George Eliot, Karl Marx, Leslie Hutchinson, and many more.

Buckingham Palace

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 303 123 7300 Website

In the heart of Westminster, Buckingham Palace is a beautiful and awesome (in the traditional sense of the word) piece of architecture and history. You can actually go inside the famed Buckingham Palace — tours of certain rooms in the palace are available.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, South Bank, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7967 8021 Website

Also known as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is the best view of London — it was literally built to be exactly that, and its construction is known as an observation wheel, not a Ferris wheel. It's a touch expensive, but visited by millions of tourists for a reason: the view from the top is absolutely stunning.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Address: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7246 8350 Website

One of the most recognizable sites in London, St. Paul's Cathedral dates from 1690 and still has most of its original stained glass. It's known for its extensive and stunning mosaics, soaring Gothic architecture, and large, beautiful Cathedral library.

Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7219 4272 Website

Everyone's must-stop for a classic London Insta snap, the iconic clock is nearby to other points of interest and featured in most driving and walking tours. Tours of the tower itself are limited to UK residents.

British Museum

Address: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7323 8299 Website

The British Museum differs from the National Gallery in that it is as much an anthropological museum as an art museum. Collections are organized by era and country of origin, and frequent exhibitions are curated around themes to explore human experiences across ages. Their total collection is estimated to be around 8 million pieces, with many taken out only for specific reasons, so it's worth seeing what special exhibitions are on display.

Westminster Abbey

Address: 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7222 5152 Website

Even people for whom history is not necessarily a thrill, gothic Westminster Abbey is an overwhelming, stunning experience. Every coronation of an English monarch since 1066 has happened here, and the Abbey is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth I, Elizabeth of York, Geoffrey Chaucer, The Unknown Warrior, and dozens of others. Westminster Abbey also pays homage to great poets, artists, and writers with a series of beautiful memorials.

Best Shopping

Covent garden.

Address: 14 James Street, London WC2E 8BU, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7420 5856 Website

Covent Garden is both a neighborhood and a famed market, first established in 1694. The center is the beautiful Piazza, where walking is made easier and more pleasant by the lack of cars. In addition to an array of unique shops, Covent Garden is home to the London Transport Museum, St. Paul's Cathedral, and several high-end restaurants.

Borough Market

Address: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7407 1002 Website

The motto of London markets is: if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Borough Market is large and primarily focused on food, and is one of the longest-running in the city. Officially established in the 19th century, there is one area that dates back to at least the 12th — so definitely buy yourself a sandwich and think how pleased your ancestors would be at your bounty.

Address: 107 Charing Cross Road, Soho, London WC2H 0DT, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 7437 5660 Website

There are a few equally-convenient locations for the famed, enormous bookstore Foyles, but the flagship — and most impressive — store is in Soho, at Charing Cross. Even folks who wouldn't describe themselves as readers travel to visit Foyles for the sheer scale of it, including the gorgeous architecture and the vast collection of books.

Camden Market

Address: Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF, United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3763 9900 Website

Camden Market was established in 1791 and has been charming London and travelers ever since. Near enough to Regent's Park and the London Zoo to walk, Camden Market is full of shops, cafes, nightlife, and live music.

Oxford Street

Address: From Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch Website

Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping areas in Europe, greeting about half a million visitors every day across its 300-plus shops. Whatever you're looking for, Oxford Street probably has it. Notable shops include Topshop, Dr. Martens, Flying Tiger, Muji, and Selfridges.

Regent Street

Address: From Piccadilly Circus to Park Crescent Website

Intersecting with Oxford Street is the equally impressive Regent Street, home to the flagship stores for Burberry, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and more. Regent Street was built to be London's dedicated shopping street, a place for Londoners to get anything and everything they might need. There might be a few more now, but Regent Street is the original — and some might say the best.

Carnaby Street

Address: From Beak Street to Great Marlborough Street Website

The third in the shopping street trifecta is Carnaby Street. A few streets over from Regent Street, Carnaby is much shorter and largely fashion-focused, especially vintage shops specializing in threads from the '60s. Shorter doesn't mean less diverse, though — Carnaby Street is home to over 100 shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Seven Dials

Address: Center of St. Giles District Website

Seven Dials, sometimes considered part of Covent Garden, is truly unique: a circular road junction that has a slower, calmer pace than the rest of London. Seven Dials is named for the seven sundials at its center and is surrounded by about 90 shops and restaurants.

Neighborhoods to Know

Shoreditch : A trendy neighborhood chock full of vintage shops, cafes, art galleries, and clubs. The neighborhood skews young and boasts everything from artisan coffee shops and fine dining to chain restaurants. Wander around here for some of the best shopping in London.

Notting Hill : Yes, that Notting Hill. It's as charming as you imagine it to be. Famed for Portobello Road Market and the antiques and vintage stores that line it, Notting Hill is also home to high-end restaurants, the Ladbroke Square Garden, and some of the most charming and beautiful residential streets in London.

Covent Garden : Synonymous with the Covent Garden Market, this much-loved neighborhood is filled with odd little gems like tiny toy stores, bookstores, clothing boutiques, and more — plus an array of restaurants and eateries. Covent Garden is not a mall; it is, truly, a garden, and a lively and beautiful place to sit, have a coffee, and people-watch.

Camden : Also known as Camden Town, though no one really calls it that anymore. Home to Camden Market and the famed venue Electric Ballroom, it abuts The Regent with easy walking access to the London Zoo and a bit of a longer walk to Queen Mary's Rose Gardens.

Kings Cross : Not only a rail station but a neighborhood, too! Historic Kings Cross Station is a big draw, though, with a photo area for Platform 9 ¾ and a "Harry Potter" gift shop right nearby. Kings Cross was once heavily industrial but has been made over with gardens and small green sitting areas.

Soho : Lively, theater-dotted Soho in the West End is the place to go for nightlife of all stripes. Take in a show, go dancing, enjoy a late-night movie or dinner, or a few of the above. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, being an easy walk from Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.

The West End : The West End is London's Broadway. But don't be fooled — it's not just international stagings of Broadway shows. The West End is a thriving theater scene with original work going up regularly.

On one hand, the weather in London does not tend to fluctuate between highs and lows, no matter the season. On the other, it rains in London — a lot. About nine to 10 days a month , on average. No matter when you go, pack some waterproof layers; odds are you'll be glad you brought them.

Spring: Spring in London, and England as a whole, is beautiful. London is a very green city, and spring brings the parks and gardens to blooming, fragrant life. Early spring can be a little chilly, but it might be worth going then to beat the tourist boom from late spring through summer.

Summer: Summer in England is mild and lovely, and London is no exception. Temperatures rarely climb above 75°F. For this reason, it is by far the most popular season for travel, and hotel and flight prices tend to reflect that — however, it's also inherently a bit more lively, with a lot going on.

Fall: Again, fall is temperate, with a little more rain than summer. If you want to beat the summer rush but still want warmer weather, you might want to wait until fall for your trip.

Winter: Winter can get cold, but not bitterly so; average temperatures rarely fall below 30°F. England is big on Christmas, and holiday markets and cheer abound. If you love the winter holidays, London might be a perfect choice for you — it's hard not to feel festive in the land of A Christmas Carol.

Apps to Download

London Tube Live : Up-to-date info on delays, updates, departure information, and routes. iOS | Android

The Pub Finder : Crowdsourced app for pubs and bars, including reviews and tips. iOS | Android

London Pass : Free interactive London guidebook. iOS | Android

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25 London Travel Tips to Help You Plan, Shop, Eat and Find Hidden Gems

Tower Bridge London Travel Tips

[updated March 2022]

Whenever I’m asked for London Travel Tips, I tend to talk really fast, excited that folks are going to the city that I’ve been enamored with for more than twenty years. They look at me and say “can you send those to me?” as they back away from the crazy lady.  I could probably list 100 London Travel Tips (or more) but off the top of my head these 25 travel tips come to mind when planning a London visit. Mom’s first visit to London & Paris was an adventure so my tips are for first time visitors.  With the low fx rate for the U.K., now is a great time for you to plan a hop across the pond for your visit to London. You can even use the Icelandair stopover program  for a long weekend in Reykjavik  like I did to get two vacations in one!

6 London Travel Tips for Planning

  • Tickets to the Tower of London Keys Ceremony usually sell out months in advance! Advanced planning is needed here – tickets are free with a minimal service charge (5GBP).  I once scored a ticket and was so excited until the universe had other plans for me (read all about it in my Nightmare Travel Day ).
  • Do you have carry-on only luggage/bags that you can easily lift/carry up and down stairs without issue? Look at using the London Underground to save money (but not time)
  • Want to ride the Heathrow Express or tube without your luggage?  Send your luggage to the hotel using Airportr , my favorite London luggage delivery option.
  • Know 90 days in advance you will be in London? Look at the Heathrow Express discounted fares for the 15 minute journey from Heathrow to Paddington train station.  From there, decide to journey onward with the London underground (if you can handle your bags) or opt for a London black cab.
  • More than one person? Choose to hire a car pickup or use a cab.  Note that the London Black cab can easily seat five but not your luggage so easily as it sacrifices boot (trunk) space to be more spacious seating.  You generally put the luggage in sideways at your feet or up front with the driver if he has open space in the passenger area. There’s no flat fee so you will be charged for travel time (sounds easy on the highways but once in the city and traffic the meter can easily go above 100+ euro (over $100+ US). Be prepared to pay or the trip from the airport into London in a cab or hire car (drive time at least an hour or more depending on arrival time/day).
  • The English Heritage website and app is a wonderful way to find historical England (think castles and Downton Abbey history) throughout the city and countryside
  • Tell your bank you are going overseas to ensure the ATM will work (best exchange rates for cash). This is a pet peeve of mine given how much I travel and yet my bank has consistently shut down my access so make sure your phone can dial internationally if you need to explain how you can be in two countries in one day because their computer (and many people sadly) don’t realize there’s a train between Paris and London.  My ATM card was denied as I arrived at St. Pancras train station so I had no cash for the cab to the hotel, thankfully I was able to pay by credit card (although I apologized for doing so). Also be vigilant for ATM skimmers.  Many vendors take credit cards tap and pay so that’s helpful.
  • Be open to new foods, neighborhood shops and a quick pace
  • Free Wi-Fi is usually offered at the major takeaway shops like EAT and PRET, others may require an access code with a purchase (if I need to eat a chocolate croissant to use the Wi-Fi, it seems a small sacrifice).

Tower Bridge London Travel Tips

5 London Travel Tips for Getting Around London

London Black Cab 25 London Travel Tips

  •  Black cabs are uniquely British and generally owned by small business owners (the driver) who have endured years upon years of training to take The Knowledge .  Read the NY Times article to see how they learn every nook and cranny in London and can navigate the maze of streets with their eyes closed.  This is my personal preference and based on experience, I can get into a London black cab and give partial information and arrive safely at my destination while having an interesting conversation.  They don’t need a GPS or instructions on where to go – it’s all in their head. They are the best guides to what’s popular and fun to do in the city. (note: have cash available or a credit card that is chip/pin not the american chip/sign card)
  • CityMapper App is awesome because it works offline to help you plan your journey through London (and other cities) with live departure times for transit
  • Stand on the right, pass on the left on escalators in the Tube – it’s a quick pace and you don’t want to stop the flow of people.
  • When you enter a tube station be ready with your Oyster card (don’t have one? go to the window to buy one – it’s a reloadable transit card good on busses and river line too! You need to have enough on the card to exit at your stop which is charged by zone) so you don’t cause a backup in the flow of people. If you have a tap credit card you can use that for transit in London without getting an Oyster card.
  • Don’t get in a cab during theatre times – it’s generally quicker to walk so plan to eat/drink near the theatre early to avoid the traffic jam (and pricey cab ride).

4 London Travel Tips for Food in London

Fitzrovia London Food

  • Yes, there are AMERICAN restaurants but don’t spend all your time at Starbucks, Five Guys, Shake Shack or TGI Fridays because they are familiar. Try British restaurant chains like Chicken Shop , Byron Burger, Brandisa, Polpo or Bill’s Café for reasonable prices.  The Ivy Brasserie is a bit more posh (expensive) but still very lovely dining option.
  • At the pub , if you want to order food and/or drink you do so at the bar and then find a seat. No waiter service at the pubs unless they are geared for tourists.  Mushy peas are an interesting vegetable as a side to fish & chips – maybe the only way I’ll eat my peas
  • Sweet Tooth – You can read about my Cupcake & Chocolate tour of Soho or visit the Food Halls of Selfridge’s or Harrods’s. Fancy a posh (expensive) ice cream sundae experience then Harrods’s Ice Cream Parlour is for you (and your kids).
  • In the mood for American breakfast because the full English breakfast with baked beans seems odd? Missing the ridiculous American “stand in line for brunch” ritual then be prepared to queue up at The Breakfast Club in Soho or other locations in the city.  The club is small but the portions are huge. You won’t leave hungry!
  • **Bonus** Borough Market is a feast for your eyes and stomach.  With a mix of food stalls, cafes and restaurants, you won’t go hungry here.  Check out the local vendors with Nut Butters, Breads and Cheeses.  Bring a market bag, your appetite and plan for crowds during the day.

4 London Travel Tips for Entertainment Fun in London

Rosewood London courtyard

  • Consult Time Out London to see What’s On during your visit. With a plethora of choice, you are spoiled to pick just one art opening, new restaurant, museum happening, rooftop cinema or browse the top ten lists.
  • Music and Craft Cocktails in a posh hotel more your style? Go to Scarfes Bar in the Rosewood Hotel in Holborn.  With hidden nooks and couches to sink into, don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two (but no selfies folks, this isn’t that kind of place as my friend found out when she tried a stealth selfie with flash and celebrity in background
  • Walks.com – this is the original walking tour of London with a plethora of offerings seven days a week all year long. Feel like walking in Jack the Rippers London, they’ve got a walk for you.  Fancy a pub crawl in Soho – yep, they have that. Want to watch a court session – you can do that too!  I’ve taken many walks in and out of London – they are usually small groups with fantastic knowledgeable guides. Cash only!
  • The Hoxton Hotel Events in Holborn and Shoreditch host live music and other events in the very happening lobby bar and lounge.

3 London Travel Tips – Shopping

Oxford Street Christmas Lights

  • M&S and Tesco are fantastic supermarkets for quick food (and drink) stock up. I love the individual food options which are great if you are staying in a flat like I did to cook up a variety of dinners each night.
  • Bring your own bag to avoid paying for one in the markets and department stores. Sure it’s only five pence or so but it’s still annoying to have to pay for a bag each time.
  • Take a photo of your passport if you plan on shopping and want a Tax Refund on the VAT paid on purchases. At the store, see if you qualify and ask for the tax refund forms – at M&S you can take all receipts to their VAT reclaim area in customer service.  They will fill out the forms (this is where you need your passport information) for you to submit when you leave the U.K.  In Heathrow, the reclaim office is just after baggage check but BEFORE security.  There is a fee for the service so sometimes it’s worth it, sometimes not.

4 London Travel Tips – Hidden Gems

Shoreditch Street Art Tour

  • Great views and photos of St. Paul’s Cathedral are free! Go to One New Change Mall on Cheapside (across the street from St. Paul’s tube station) and take the lift (elevator) to the rooftop, There you will get a better view of this famous landmark in the City of London.  While there, have a drink and relax in one of the many seating areas.
  • Want a city escape from London? Hop on the train to the seaside town of Brighton to walk around the laneways (shopping roads) or wander to the beach to dip your toes in the ocean and walk in the sand
  • Viewing the Shoreditch Street Art of London   which includes a visit to Brick Lane and stops at the Banksy art. Learn the history of graffiti, street art, yarn bombing, stickers, etc. and see how it’s transformed into the trendy area that it is now.
  • **Bonus** SkyGarden London is a FREE viewing point above the Thames in the Walkie Talkie building.  You must reserve online in advance for the free tickets.  Its a very nice alternative to see the city from above.

Ok, 25 London Travel Tips is a bit more than a few (I talk fast, hence the ask to email those tips!).  I could probably (and will) share a million more especially with all the new tips and sights I’m learning about with Mom’s trip.

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8 thoughts on “ 25 London Travel Tips to Help You Plan, Shop, Eat and Find Hidden Gems ”

Thanks for all the great tips! I did the Heathrow Express at a discount and it was worth it, especially since next I had to go from Paddington to Lambeth North and the Bakerloo line was not stopping at Paddington.

Did you find your flat through airbnb? I’ve been considering something like that but I’m a little dubious about the whole idea. I’ve heard good reports (mostly). I stayed in a guesthouse that had a studio flat on this last visit. I’m hoping to return to London in May of next year and am slowly investigating options for places to stay.

P.S. Mushy peas–nope, not for me!

The South Kensington flat in London was Airbnb and a great area and lovely flat, I’d recommend it. For my next visit to London, I’m going to try OneFineStay which is like Airbnb but more luxury and managed directly by the company.

I’m heading to London at the beginning of September. I may be in touch for some more tips. You can speak as fast as you want to. 😉

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We are going to London for 7 days at the beginning September. These tips have been very helpful – especially the traveling from the airport to our airbnb. And thanks for the Tower of London Key ceremony – of course it is already booked but lots of other things to do. If you have more suggestions please email me.

Hi Rob – glad these can help for your trip in September. That’s a fantastic time to visit London. Definitely make advanced reservations at SkyGarden (free), Harry Potter Studio Tour (sells out quickly) and enjoy the free museums. In September there are many great weekend festivals so look at TimeOut London and on FB Secret London

Thanks for your tips, this is an amazing blog you shared for travelers help to plane their journey to London. I want to add one more thing If you are wondering for a short stay in London choose Serviced Apartments, and have a great experience. [edited]

Do you fancy a London bus tour with a difference? Do you love eating cake?

Do you like the idea of eating cake while seeing the sights of London? If you do you’ll love the B Bakery Afternoon Tea bus tour – classic afternoon tea while seeing the sights of London on board an iconic red Routemaster bus is a rather unique experience.

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What’s new 2022

In London, a Platinum Jubilee and ‘Bridgerton’ Events Await Visitors

Royal culture, historic sites and traditional British experiences are catnip to Americans who have missed traveling across the pond. A visitors’ guide.

london travel tips 2022

By Amy Tara Koch

London is springing back to life. Heathrow Airport reports that March 2022 was its busiest month since the start of the pandemic, with passenger travel from North America in particular increasing by more than 60 percent from January 2022.

The uptick is linked to the British government’s recent elimination of coronavirus restrictions, a welcome move for many travelers eager for their fill of British culture, including once-in-a-lifetime Platinum Jubilee events and experiences based on “Bridgerton,” the heady hit show from Netflix.

“We love ‘Bridgerton’ and all things royal,” said Tasha Gelling, a Chicago-based teacher who with her daughter Ruth, 16, booked an afternoon tea during their six-day trip to Britain this month. The duo also toured the Tower of London and Hyde Park, and spent an afternoon in Bath.

Even with new coronavirus variants brewing and a war raging in Ukraine, many other U.S. travelers are planning trips to the British capital.

“London has remained the second-most popular international travel destination for Americans — only behind Cancun — for recent holiday travel periods,” said Jen Moyse, vice president of product for TripIt , a travel-organizing app with 19 million users. The volume of flight bookings to London, she said, increased 300 percent when comparing TripIt’s reservation data over the four-month period from April to July to December to March.

Some city stalwarts closed their doors during the pandemic. Among them: Cafe de Paris , a cabaret venue in the West End since 1924; Le Caprice in St James’s, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana; and the physical locations of Debenham’s , the 242-year-old department store. But throughout London, other cafes and shops bustle, scads of new bars and restaurants have opened and city squares teem with everyday life. Many of the Royal Parks are ablaze in daffodils and brimming with picnickers, while live theater is back in the West End. The return of in-person events lends to the buoyancy of the Platinum Jubilee “Central Weekend” in June, when public celebrations will mark Queen Elizabeth’s 70-year reign.

Here’s more on what is new and noteworthy in London.

The latest in restaurants

It’s a testament to London’s vitality that new restaurants managed to open and even thrive during the pandemic. One of the buzziest spots is Sessions Arts Club in Clerkenwell, a reimagined 18th-century courthouse where artwork and crumbling, dramatic décor lend a fanciful patina to fare from the chef Florence Knight. Dishes like sea bream with parsley and eel with creme fraiche are delightfully British with whiffs of France and Italy (entrees range from 10 to 25 pounds, or around $13 to $32).

Another new hit is KOL , Britain’s first Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant, where the chef Santiago Lastra turns out items like pork belly carnitas with cabbage purée. On the ground level is The Mezcaleria , which serves kicky, mezcal-focused cocktails (six- or nine-course tasting menus cost £90 and £125, without wine or mezcal pairings; cocktails at Mezclaria are £15).

Vegans and meat-eaters alike might be delighted with the restaurant Gauthier Soho ’s pivot from classic French gastronomy to plant-based fine dining. One dish, rice with truffle “cream,” delivers the richness of dairy through a potato-and-lentil starch combination (the tasting menu starts at £50, without wine pairings).

When Leroy in Shoreditch adopted rotisserie chicken takeaway as a pandemic survival maneuver, the Michelin-starred restaurant might not have imagined the side hustle would evolve into a stand-alone eatery. Now, Royale sells whole or half cornfed Anjou chicken, sides like leeks vinaigrette, and a hazelnut parfait dessert (whole chickens cost £30, sides about £10).

New cocktails

At his 1970s-inspired, Thames-facing bar Lyaness , the bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana crafts cocktails around offbeat ingredients. A spring drink called the 21st Daisy blends vodka, passion fruit and crystallized verbena with a homemade “Green Sauce Liqueur” (£14.5), but this South Bank location also serves a weekend “Spirited Tea” (£55 for the full tea selection, paired cocktails, cakes and sandwiches).

Brown’s clocks in as the oldest hotel in London, opening its doors in 1837, but the bartender Salvatore Calabrese devises fresh ways to revisit the property’s history through cocktails. The First Call honors Alexander Graham Bell (who famously made the first phone call from Brown’s) with Elephant gin, pistachio pesto, verjus, coconut syrup, egg white and white port (£23). Another drink, the Winston — as in Churchill — is whisky based and spiked with coriander, lime juice and a swirl of smokiness (£25).

New hotels and lodging

In Covent Garden, the New York-based design company Roman and Williams has transformed a 19th-century Magistrate’s Court into the first European Nomad Hotel . The selected art and textured materials imbue spaces with a contemporary edge and the restaurant is housed within a three-story glass atrium (rates from £409).

Two interconnected Georgian homes are now the 14-suite Beaverbrook Town House in Chelsea, where interiors designed by Nicola Harding offer vibrant color combinations, lively prints and tassel-fringed upholstery inspired by London’s grand theaters (rates from £495). Hotel guests can access the leafy, residents-only Cadogan Gardens as well as enjoy “Bridgerton”-themed experiences with the sister property Beaverbrook Estate in Surrey.

Kingsland Locke has unveiled 124 sleek apartment-style rooms in East London’s Dalston neighborhood, with a coffee shop, microbrewery and kebab restaurant on the ground floor (rates from £123).

West End offerings

Lights are back on in the West End with blockbuster musicals like “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” and “Six,” a modern chronicle of the fate of Henry VIII’s wives. For those seeking plays, there is “Much Ado About Nothing” at The Shakespeare Globe (through Oct. 23) and the West End openings include “The Glass Menagerie” starring Amy Adams (from May 23 to Aug. 27) and “Prima Facie” with Jodie Comer of “Killing Eve” fame (through June 18).

Ticket prices range for various shows, from £5 (standing room only) to around £90, and may be sold out for popular shows. Weeknight tickets and matinees are cheaper and the TKTS booth in Leicester Square offers discounted day-of tickets. Note that some theaters have their own vaccine requirements, so double check to see what documentation is required for entry.

Museum exhibits

At the Victoria & Albert Museum, the “ Fashioning Masculinities : The Art of Menswear” exhibition brings together historical and contemporary ensembles to highlight the concept of gender fluidity. Expect to see 18th-century frock coats and suits worn by the Beatles to gowns sported by the singer Harry Styles and the drag performer Bimini Bon-Boulash (admission to the museum is free and there’s no timed entry; “Fashioning Masculinities” runs through November).

“ Surrealism Beyond Borders ” at the Tate Modern explores the global reach of the Surrealist movement with works by lesser-known artists from Osaka, Japan, and Bogotá, Colombia, juxtaposed with paintings by Dali, Miro and Magritte (free and ticketed admission to the museum and advance bookings are recommended; “Surrealism Beyond Borders” runs through August).

In King’s Cross, Britain’s first museum dedicated to L.G.B.T.Q. individuals, Queer Britain , opens May 5 with a display of paintings, photographs and paintings assembled by Matthew Storey, the art, design and L.G.B.T.Q. history curator for Historic Royal Palaces .

The Platinum Jubilee and other live events

Britain is celebrating the Platinum Jubilee , marking Queen Elizabeth as the first British monarch to spend 70 years on the throne, all year. But from June 2 to 5, events like “Trooping the Color,” a ceremonial parade featuring 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians, will be held. The parade will march from Buckingham Palace down the Mall with members of the royal family; among the other festivities that weekend are a concert at Buckingham Palace and a series of street parties.

Hotels are also celebrating. The Jubilee edition of the Berkeley’ s “ Prêt-à-Portea ” features Her Majesty’s most iconic looks in petit fours and other pastries (£79 per person, available from May 30 to June 12) and on June 5, the Connaught will throw a Jubilee street party, with an English brass band, bunting and family-style tables offering tea sandwiches.

Other nonroyal, high-profile events welcoming spectators once again are the Chelsea Flower Show , (May 24 to 28); the Royal Ascot horse racing (June 14 to 18), and Wimbledon ( June 27 to July 10).

london travel tips 2022

52 Places for a Changed World

The 2022 list highlights places around the globe where travelers can be part of the solution.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive 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 for a Changed World for 2022.

Open Up Your World

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

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

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

London Travel Planning

DO YOU DREAM OF VISITING LONDON?

We are here to help you turn that dream into a reality!

Our London travel tips, guides, resources and itineraries are designed to answer all your questions and make planning your trip an easy and fun process.

We aim to remove the overwhelm from planning your visit and help you make the most of your time in London.

📝 PLANNING RESOURCES

london travel tips 2022

London Travel Guide

SD › London Travel Guide Updated: May 20, 2022

View across the River Thames from the London Eye to Big Ben and Westminster Palace.

View across the River Thames to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

London is the capital and largest city in the United Kingdom, and chock-full of great attractions, from historic to ultra-modern. Though its reputation as a cold and rainy island is well-deserved, summer weather in London is often warm, sunny, and ideal for sightseeing – especially for those looking to avoid the high summer heat found in other European cities. Its wealth of important cultural sites, fantastic restaurants, historic luxury hotels , world-class theater, and some of the best museums in the world make London a fantastic vacation destination at any time of year. The London Travel Guide Skip to our London FAQ London Basics Where to Stay in London Best Time to Visit London London with Kids London Hotels Best Hotels in London Best Hotels in London for Families Best London Boutique Hotels Best Cheap Hotels in London London Choice Hotels London Hotels with Pools Gatwick Airport Hotels Heathrow Airport Hotels New Hotels in London London Hotel Map London Activities Best Things to Do in London Best Restaurants in London Best Bars & Pubs in London Best London Shops & Markets London Trip Planning London Airport Transportation London to Paris by Eurostar Latest Articles & My Travel Newsletter Travel Guides & Newsletter Frequently Asked Questions about London Where is London? London is the capital city of England, and is the largest city in the United Kingdom (which also includes Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). London is located on the southern and eastern end of the island, straddling the River Thames 80 km upstream from its North Sea estuary. London lies about 115 km west of the English Channel, a 33 km waterway (at its narrowest point) that separates England from continental Western Europe. London has a land area of 1,570 km²; its population is just under 9 million. What are the best things to do in London There is no shortage of great things to do in London , no matter your age or interest. Must-see sights include the jaw-dropping Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace – tour them, or view them aloft from across the Thames on the London Eye. Royal watchers will also want to visit Kensington Palace, Windsor Castle, and Hampton Court Palace. History buffs appreciate the storied Tower of London (once a royal palace and prison, it’s now a World Heritage Site that houses the Crown Jewels) and visiting the Cutty Sark, Churchill War Rooms, and the East London haunts of Jack the Ripper. The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Theater-goers have their pick of world-class shows in the West End’s Theatreland or can catch an Open-Air Play at Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre. Among London’s many world-class museums are the British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, National Gallery, and Victoria & Albert Museum. Some of the best things to do in London with kids are the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Legoland Windsor, and visiting the London Zoo and Sea Life Aquarium. When is the best time to go to London? The best times to visit London are during spring (March through April) and fall (Mid-September through November), when the city sees mild weather and fewer tourists than in the busy summer travel season, when the weather is ideal but crowds and prices are at their peak. It is easiest to secure theater tickets to West End shows in the low season of January and February, and theater-going families can find discounts on kids’ tickets during the month of August. All of London’s best shopping sales, including Harrods’s ultra-popular summer sale, are in late June and early July. Royal watchers would do well to visit in June, when the queen’s annual birthday celebration (Trooping the Colour) is held, or in August, the only month in which all royal sites are open to visitors. Westminster Abbey, British royal headquarters for coronations, weddings, and burials. Most of London’s royal attractions are open to visitors year-round, but Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms are available to tour from late July through September, Kew Palace is closed during the winter months, and Clarence House (home to the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall) only opens to the public in August. How long should I spend in London? There is so much to see and do in London that we recommend spending at least 3-4 full days there, and the more the better. Three days will allow you to get a good sense of the city and see the absolute highlights, like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and a museum or two. No matter how long your stay, your time can be maximized by taking a guided tour . If staying in London longer than 5 days, it’s a worth considering a guided tour or day trip to explore the surrounding countryside. The best day trip destinations from London include the majestic university towns of Oxford and Cambridge , Stratford and the Cotswolds (home of the Bard), the beautiful Georgian city of Bath , mystical Stonehenge , Leeds Castle and the white cliffs of Dover, and Windsor Castle – the ancestral home of the British Royal Family. You can even visit the filming locations of Downton Abbey . Combination tours allow you to visit more than one far-flung destination in a day. The charming stone villages of the Cotswolds in southwest England make an idyllic day trip from the busy city. Where is the best area to stay in London? The best neighborhoods of London for first-time visitors are Covent Garden and Mayfair; their central locations makes it easy to visit many of the city’s biggest attractions or catch a play, and they’re both loaded with great restaurants and hotels – both have plenty of luxury and boutique accommodations, Covent Garden also provides budget options. The Connaught , London’s best luxury hotel, is located in Mayfair. The best areas to stay in London for a local vibe are Camden (the birthplace of British Rock) and the East End (Jack the Ripper’s old haunt). These are also two of London’s best neighborhoods for nightlife, along with centrally-located Soho. The best areas in London for families with kids are the quieter neighborhood of South Kensington or in Marylebone, which is within easy reach of London Zoo. Both of these neighborhoods are near the immense Hyde Park, which is filled with paths and playgrounds, a small lake popular for boat rentals, and hosts the family-friendly Winter Wonderland during the colder months.

Map of London for Tourists.

Which London airport should I use? The London area is home to six airports, but the two most commonly used by travelers are Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) . Located 24 km from central London, Heathrow is the closest large airport to central London, and is also the best-connected, served by both underground metro (the Tube) and express train. Gatwick is about a 40 km drive from central London and connected by express train. To get from any London airport into central London without public transportation, we recommend pre-booking a car service rather than taking a taxi, which are notoriously expensive. Aerial view of the river Thames, with the Tower Bridge in and Tower of London in the foreground. Most travelers flying into London will use Heathrow or Gatwick airport. What currency is used in London As England is part of the United Kingdom, the official currency used in London is the pound sterling (£), commonly referred to as “the pound”. Similar to American pennies, there are 100 pence (p) to a British pound. £1 and £2 currencies are available as both coin and banknotes. To change money we recommend withdrawing pounds directly from an ATM in London. These will have lower exchange rates and be quite a bit cheaper than using money changers or banks. Remember that ATMs often charge foreign transaction fees, however, so it is usually better to withdraw a larger amount at once than the smaller amounts over multiple withdrawals. ATMs are easy to find in all parts of London. Rules is the oldest restaurant in the city, and one of the best places to eat in London . Tipping in London restaurants is common, generally 10-20% of the total bill. However, many restaurants will include a “service charge” on the bill – usually about 12-15% of the total – if so, this is the only tip that is expected and there is no need for an additional tip. Cab drivers in London expect to be tipped 10%. In the best London hotels , it is customary to tip the bellhop £1-2 per bag, the housekeeper £1 per day, and the doorman £1-2 for hailing you a cab. Tipping is not expected for drinking in British pubs, unless you’re buying food. Still, most barkeeps will be appreciative of a few pounds for exceptional service. Is London safe? London is generally very safe, but like any other large city has its seedier sections, and common precautions should be taken. While most areas of London are fine during the day, parts of Camden, as well as Hackney and Shoreditch in the East End, can be sketchy at night, especially for solo travelers. The Soho and Leicester Square area can also get rough late at night, and Hyde Park is best avoided after dark. Similarly, while the King’s Cross area has been rejuvenated, the area around the train station can still be a bit dodgy and is best not to wander around late at night. In general, stick to populated areas – especially at night – and take care to protect your belongings from pickpockets and petty thieves. Kingly Street in Soho. Soho is one of the best areas in London for nightlife, and generally very safe.
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  • Travel Tips

Top 15 London Travel Tips | The Best Hacks on Budget Travel, Sightseeing, & More

As the city of London is a melting pot of rich history, plentiful culture, and a cornucopia of liveliness in every nook and cranny, intelligent planning can help you avoid tourist traps while making the most of your vacation. Read on to get the best 15 London travel tips that will enhance your upcoming trip.

15 essential London travel tips & hacks

london travel tips and hacks

1. Be mindful of the traffic direction

Getting around tip.

  • If you are from a nation that drives on the right, being out on the streets of London could be a dangerous stunt, as the UK drives on the left.
  • Pay meticulous attention to traffic direction and road signs when you cross the roads and when in doubt, find a group of locals going in the same direction and follow them.

london travel tips and hacks

2. Always carry an umbrella

Packing tip.

  • The UK is notorious for its weather and rain may arrive at any moment no matter which time of the year you are in London.
  • From November to mid-March, you can expect snowing as well. Pack a few extra sets of clothes in case you are out in the snow.

london travel tips and hacks

3. Walking can be faster than the Tube

Transport tip.

  • London’s Tube network is famed worldwide, and as a tourist, it is easy to be whisked by the hype and take the Tube everywhere. However, sometimes, walking is faster.
  • Take a look at London’s maps and see if you need the tube at all for journeys that take one or two Tube stops.

london travel tips and hacks

4. Shop on a weekday

Shopping tip.

  • London has some of the top luxury brand outlets in the world, most of which are in Oxford Street. However, this area also gets quite crowded on weekends.
  • Defer your shopping spree by a day or two and head to Oxford Street on a weekday to have a much more relaxed shopping experience.

london travel tips and hacks

5. Bike around London

  • London is an extremely biking-friendly city. Don’t shy away from renting a bike on a clear day and zooming around the city’s bike paths.
  • With the latest bike renting facilities across London, you will be able to find a place to get bikes on almost every block of the city.

london travel tips and hacks

6. Bring a universal adapter

  • The UK uses a type G plug for most of its appliances. Make sure to bring a universal adapter for your phones and other electronics.
  • Preferably, purchase one from your source destination to avoid paying more for the same product in London.

london travel tips and hacks

7. Use the river bus

  • One of the top experiences in London is the Thames river cruise . However, if you want to experience this for a lower cost, the river bus is a great option.
  • You can use your Oyster card for traveling on the river bus. Be sure to avoid office hours as many Londoners also use the river bus to commute to work.

london travel tips and hacks

8. Bring the right credit card

Finance tip.

  • Credit cards are accepted all across London. But make sure to bring a card with a chip and a 4-digit pin number to transact in London.
  • Check if your card offers free foreign transactions. If not, try to acquire one that comes with this facility to save a lot of money.

london travel tips and hacks

9. Explore the city with a local

Sightseeing tip.

  • The best way to experience London is certainly with a local. Find a resident of London and explore the streets with them to know the city better.
  • Don’t forget to visit the best pubs in London with a local during a rugby or football game to see the unbridled passion of the locals.

london travel tips and hacks

10. Take a day trip from London

  • There are several attractions that lie a short drive away from London. If you have a spare day, you should travel to these destinations.
  • Some of the top day trips from London include Stonehenge, Oxford, Bath, and Windsor Castle.

london travel tips and hacks

11. Visit London in the shoulder season

Best time to visit tip.

  • London is quite popular as a tourist destination and avoiding the peak tourist season will be paramount to your travel experience.
  • Shoulder season in London including the months of April, May, October, and November, are also incidentally the driest months.

london travel tips and hacks

12. Purchase an Oyster Card

  • Traveling within London can be inexpensive if you follow this simple tip and get an Oyster Card as soon as you land in London.
  • Since there are no cash transactions on London’s trains or buses, using an Oyster card lets you pay for just the distance that you travel compared to the higher flat rate.

london travel tips and hacks

13. Stand to the right of an escalator

Etiquette tip.

  • It might seem to be an oddly specific tip but it is quite important to the inhabitants of London, who are always on the go and need the left side of the escalator to walk.
  • If you are not in a hurry to get somewhere and can afford the time to stand on the escalator, do so on the right side and let the Londoners carry on with their routine.

london travel tips and hacks

14. Tips are not mandatory

  • Most restaurants in London add a certain percentage to your bill as a service charge that is meant to cover the services provided by the waiting staff.
  • Even so, if you feel particularly pleased by the service received at an eatery or do not see an added service charge on your bill, you may go ahead and leave a 10-15% tip.

london travel tips and hacks

15. Book tickets in advance

  • No matter what they tell you, London’s attractions are never quite completely devoid of tourists. Book the tickets in advance and online if you want to ensure your entry to the top London attractions.
  • If you are planning to head to the city during or around the high season, it is best that you book your tickets as soon as they are available.

Top Experiences in London

Frequently asked questions about london travel tips & hacks.

The best travel tips for transport in London are, always using the public transport system whenever possible, getting the Oyster Card, and walking to places that are a short distance away instead of taking the Tube.

The best travel tips for sightseeing in London are visiting the free attractions, leaving early if you want to go to one of the popular attractions, and taking a day trip from London.

The best travel tips for accommodation in London are picking the right locality to make sightseeing easier and picking the closest airport with respect to the location of your hotel.

The best tips for budget travel in London are booking your flight and attraction tickets well in advance, using the London Pass for sightseeing, and drinking tap water.

Avoid talking to random people who approach you asking if you speak English, Avoid the unsafe and non family friendly areas.

Avoid standing on the left side of the escalators, visiting the city during the peak tourism season, and going shopping on weekends.

Check if you have the right credit card, purchase a universal adapter for your electronic appliances, and book tickets for the major attractions before leaving for London.

In London, you should obey the traffic rules, carry an umbrella in case the weather turns bad, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Conversely, avoid standing on the left side of the escalators, visiting the city during the peak tourism season, and going shopping on weekends.

London’s eateries generally levy a service charge on the bill. Even so, if you feel inclined to tip, you may.

Try to stay as centrally as possible on your first trip to London. Covent Garden, Mayfair, and Lambeth are all great neighborhoods to stay in on your first trip.

Yes, London is a bit expensive to visit. The average daily cost for a person in London is £145. The weekly budget for a couple in London is about £2050.

Wanderlust Chloe

London Travel Blogs And Travel Guides (Trip Planning)

These london travel blogs will help you create the perfect itinerary for your trip to one of the world’s most exciting cities.

One of my favourite parts of being a travel blogger is showcasing my home city via my blog. I mean, I adore travelling the world, but where do I know better than the city I live in?

I’ve built up lots of London travel guides on my blog, sharing my favourite quirky things to do in the city, where to eat , and some weird and wonderful places to stay too.

Secret Adventures - Kayak London

First time visitors should tick off the obvious sights like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, Hyde Park, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. You’ll probably go on a free walking tour to see a few other sights too. But… after you’ve seen the obvious ‘in every movie about London’ landmarks, where’s next?

Well that’s where I come in! Once you’ve seen the top sights in Central London, it’s time to go local. Why not catch the tube north to beautiful, leafy Hampstead and mooch around Hampstead Heath or grab a bite to eat in one of the area’s characterful pubs?

How about heading west to Shepherd’s Bush , one of London’s vibrant areas, and enjoying neon crazy golf, tasty local food and some unique entertainment?

Puttshack, Westfield, Shepherd's Bush

You’ve probably heard about Camden and its famous market, but would you know the best places to eat once you get there? My London travel blogs will guide you to the most delicious treats in the area.

In fact, if you travel with your stomach, I’ve got guides to the best food markets in London , some great ramen joints dotted around the city, a list of bizarre themed restaurants , as well as a few hot tickets if you’re travelling on a tight budget .

Where to go for the best ramen in London

Find out about an amazing food tour of Borough Market, where Londoners go for cocktails in Covent Garden, and a few events at the Natural History Museum that are guaranteed to surprise you!

These London travel blogs are packed full of personal tips – things you’ll only learn from years of living in the city. Follow them and you’re guaranteed to plan a memorable, action-packed itinerary! 

London Travel Blogs And Travel Guides

After living in this incredible city for most of my life, it's time to share my top London travel blogs and guides with you!

If you have any questions, don't forget you can always email me or leave a comment below.

london travel tips 2022

48 Quirky And Unusual Things To Do In London 

From afternoon tea with a twist, to solving mysterious crimes and playing captain for the day, this is the definitive guide to the unique, crazy and downright unusual things to do in London.

london travel tips 2022

Quirky, Unusual And Unique Restaurants In London 

From watching circus performers as you tuck into your main course, to eating in the dark, in a prison or while watching some weird and wonderful entertainment, these unique restaurants in London all offer something very special.

london travel tips 2022

London’s Best Food Markets

From Borough and Brixton to Camden and Hampstead, it's time to reveal the best food markets in London.

london travel tips 2022

11 Quirky Hotels In London For 2021

Looking for quirky hotels in London? YES! From floating hotels, capsules and animal lodges, to arty rooms, old prisons and more, it’s time to find out about some of the BEST quirky hotels in London for this year.

london travel tips 2022

The Best Escape Rooms In London

The best escape rooms in London will have you cracking codes, solving puzzles, escaping from Mafia bosses, perfecting your wizarding spells and stealing millions of pounds.

london travel tips 2022

13 London Desserts You Have To Try

From super-duper freakshakes and croissant-donut hybrids, to the latest waffle sensation and ice cream filled macaroons, these are the top London desserts right now.

london travel tips 2022

Best Ramen In London

Time to share where to eat the best ramen in London. From Tonkotsu and Ippudo to Bone Daddies and Kanada-Ya, where should you go for your bowl of noodle soup?

london travel tips 2022

Amazing CHEAP Restaurants In Central London

This guide to the best cheap restaurants in London is perfect if you’re on a budget!

london travel tips 2022

Best Cafes To Work From In London

Searching for the best cafes to work from in London? No doubt you’ll need Wi-Fi, power, good coffee and a relaxed but focused atmosphere. Find out which places I'd recommend.

london travel tips 2022

Where To Go For Cocktails In Covent Garden, London

What are the best cocktail bars in Covent Garden? From secret and quirky bars to glam hotels, find out where to go for cocktails in Covent Garden, London.

london travel tips 2022

The Best Things To Do In Shepherd's Bush Right Now

From immersive experiences, shopping and escape rooms, to crazy golf, spinning and delicious food, these are the best things to do in Shepherd’s Bush, London.

london travel tips 2022

The Best Restaurants In Shepherd’s Bush

From cute cafes and romantic wine bars, to immersive dining experiences, delicious dim sum and tasty Middle Eastern cuisine, it’s time to reveal some of the best restaurants in Shepherd’s Bush.

london travel tips 2022

Best Places To Eat In Camden Town

The definitive guide to the best places to eat in Camden, featuring the best pub for a Sunday roast, top burger, tasty curry, plus some great cheap eats in Camden Market.

london travel tips 2022

A Helicopter Tour Of London

As bucket list activities go, a helicopter flight over London has to be one of them! Find out more about this once in a lifetime experience now.

london travel tips 2022

The Best East London Street Art Tour

From incredible murals and unusual graffiti, to colourful hidden messages, it’s time for London street art tour. 

london travel tips 2022

Top 10 Things To Do In Hampstead, London

With a great food market, adorable streets and of course Hampstead Heath, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Hampstead. 

london travel tips 2022

The Best London Food Tour

Flavoursome salami from Sussex and Wales, English sparkling wines that compete with the best champagnes, and traditional pies filled with indulgent fillings – this London food tour is a reminder that British cuisine shouldn’t be overlooked!

When Is The Best Time To Visit London?

England is a country obsessed with weather. Don’t know what to say? Comment on the weather! Us Brits talk about it a lot, but contrary to what you may have heard, we don’t have awful weather in London. It’s just a little unpredictable and varies from region to region.

You can expect average lows of around 5 °C in London in January / February, and highs around 25°C in July / August.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit England, I’d suggest planning a trip in May or June. The weather tends to be warm and sunny, rain is at a minimum and it’s out of peak season, so you shouldn’t be battling any big crowds either. The longest day is around 20th June every year, so it’s a time you can enjoy maximum daylight hours exploring!

I’ve never been a fan of November in London. It’s the wettest month of the year, and while December can be pretty cold, there’s a Christmas magic in London which always puts a smile on my face!

Planning your trip to London? Here are a few quick highlights:

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There are so many amazing things to do in London! What are you going to choose? 

Let me know if you have any questions about anything I’ve mentioned in my London travel guides, or any questions about public transport, safety or areas I’ve not mentioned already. If you want to check out any of my other travel guides about the UK, you can find them all here .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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London travel is extremely busy, but not impossible if you plan ahead

  • Add ample time to your plan for Heathrow arrival and departure.
  • Establish a strategic plan to visit popular sites to avoid crowds.
  • Snag discount passes, like the Visitor Oyster travel smartcard, to save money on attractions and transportation.

The international travel boon, after most countries lifted COVID-era restrictions, coupled with a favorable euro   have made London one of this season's hottest travel destinations.

As travel agents have told USA TODAY, those heading to Europe this summer should leave themselves plenty of extra time to account for lines and to avoid checking a bag if at all possible. 

Geoff Heal, professor of Economics at Columbia Business School said that while we're seeing a travel surge now – since people are desperate to get out – it will drop away later in the summer into fall. 

To navigate crowds and really explore London, here are four tips from travel experts to maximize your time in the city.

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1. 'Your best bet is London Heathrow'

Once you book your flight, make sure you book to Heathrow Airport.

"While London City Airport is the closest to the city’s heartthrob, you won’t find a ton of flights from the USA landing there," said Brandon Berkson, founder of Hotels Above Par. "Your best bet is London Heathrow – yes, they have been having some issues lately with overcapacity, but it’s night and day better than flying into London Gatwick, which, post-pandemic is an understaffed nightmare. When flying into Heathrow, you can get to Paddington Station in Central London in just 15 minutes via the Heathrow Express train, which, in turn, slashes a lot of time and money off your would-be taxi commute from the far-our airport in the city."

Heathrow, which says it serves 203 destinations in 84 countries, is limiting the number of daily departing passengers to 100,000 through Oct. 29 . Although the airport's operators insist that most existing bookings won't be affected, they acknowledged that some airlines probably would change flights to other days, move departures to other area airports and cancel some itineraries. 

2. Avoid crowds by planning ahead

Once you get into London, it's all about careful planning.

"Everything is packed, so the best way to reduce the time you spend waiting in long lines is to buy advance purchase tickets for attractions – such as the London Eye or Tower of London – and show up early for your time slot," explained Barbara DeLollis, co-founder and Editor of Travel Essential.

Another way to avoid the crowds? Visit the bigger attractions after hours.

"To visit London's amazing museums, your best chance to avoid the largest crowds is by visiting Friday evenings during extended opening hours when most people flock to the bars (pubs)," DeLollis added.

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3. Get a smartcard to get around the city

To get around the city, it's best to utilize public transportation to cut costs.

"To get around the city on London's iconic Tube lines and red buses, buy a Visitor Oyster travel smartcard (like a NYC subway card)," DeLollis said. "This lets you easily swipe to get your transport, instead of paying each time – and saves you money since you're buying a pass. It's perhaps the cheapest way to pay for journeys on the bus, Tube, DLR, tram, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Bus Service, most National Rail lines, and the London Overground." 

4. Head East to avoid the crowds

Berkson and DeLollis also recommend spending time in East London in areas like Shoreditch.

"Shoreditch is one of the city's coolest boroughs, with its bevy of millennial residents who want nothing to do with the cliché tourist sites with which London is most associated," Berkson explained. "The neighborhood and its neighboring areas are filled with itinerary-worthy attractions like Boxpark , a shopping spot watering hole with independent boutiques in old shipping containers;  Brick Lane , a thoroughfare with great thrift shops and authentic South Asian eateries; and Spitalfields Market , which hosts an eclectic variety of kiosks selling everything under the sun, from locally-crafted artwork to casual jewelry."

Contributing: Zach Wichter, USA TODAY

London Travel Tips: Top 10 Hacks For Travellers to London

So, you’re finally going to London! Need some London travel tips?

Right now, you might be a bit overwhelmed with all the preparations but fret not this guide will give you a couple of tips that may come in handy on your trip to visit London.

Table of Contents

10 Helpful London Travel Tips

There are a few things you need to know that could help you with your trip to London. Check some of the tips below:

1. Pack Appropriately

london travel tips: pack appropriately

The things you pack for your trip to London has EVERYTHING to do with the temperamental weather.

British fashion is predominantly revolving around the country’s highly unpredictable weather.

But, here’s the rule of thumb: never trust the weather forecasts. When they say it’s going to be warm and sunny all week, prepare for rain and cold anyway.

One item that you can confidently bring is a scarf because it is exceptionally versatile. When it’s sunny, you can use it to protect yourself from the sun or when it’s cold, it will keep you warm.

2. Fly into low-cost airports

One of the oldest tricks in the book to save money when booking flights is to fly into an alternate airport.

Don’t rule out the possibility of landing in slightly further away from the city center because even with the added cost of the train or bus, it might work out a lot cheaper than flying into major airports.

Use the “nearby airport” option available on most booking sites such as Skyscanner and Expedia to see the fare difference to fly into various airports.

Most budget airlines offer low-cost flights to alternative airports such as Gatwick and Stansted with cheaper landing fees.

3. Use an Oyster Card

The Oyster Card is a pay-as-you-go electronic smartcard which can be used to pay for all public transportation in London.

If you plan to stay in London for a couple of days, then this is your cheapest option to travel in and around the city.

Fares vary depending on the type of transport you use, the zone(s) you travel in, the time and day you travel. Just load your Oyster Card and your good to go.

You can buy it before you leave and get it delivered to your home address so you’ll be ready as soon as you arrive in London.

4. Learn the language

Sure you speak English but the question is, is it British? They have tons of words that mean completely different from what you might have known.

If you’re an Aussie, you might give them a laugh when asked to borrow a thing.

Also, don’t get into argument when they say it’s the autumn season during your visit but you actually insist that it’s fall.

It pays to read and learn a few words and phrases to be aware of the British terminologies.

Walking is a life in London. Besides, you will see much more of the city when you walk along with its multitude of streets.

Soon you’ll realize that places are a lot closer than they seem and you never know what you might stumble upon just wandering the streets.

For example, from Leicester Square to Covent Garden, the walk will take less than 3 minutes, which is a lot faster than going underground on the tube and most of all, it’s free! You’ll get yourself some exercise, too.

6. Drive on the left

Personally, I would not advise you to drive to London because the transport system is sufficient enough to visit the top attractions.

But, should you want to drive to visit the outskirts of the city or avoid the rush hour in the tube or bus, you can navigate the streets with a little insider knowledge: they drive on the left.

Not only that, they use roundabouts where traffic continually flows around a center island.

You won’t run into trouble as long as you remember that traffic in roundabouts always has the right-of-way while entering vehicles yield.

7. Take an umbrella

London weather is notoriously unpredictable. As the locals would say, it isn’t London if it isn’t raining.

But, people are genuinely delighted when the sun is out. Londoners get used to carrying both an umbrella and sunglasses to be prepared for rain and sunshine.

Save shopping for rain gears in London by bringing your own collapsible umbrella or raincoat.

At the very least, check the weather forecast on the BBC before you leave your hotel room every day.

If it starts raining cats and dogs (as they say in England), you can also duck into a shop, café or museum and get out of the rain.

8. Museums and art galleries are FREE

The best things in life are free indeed. The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum , The British Museum , and many more London museums and galleries are free for anyone to visit.

You easily spend all your days in London by visiting tons of popular attractions around the city.

Spend a day drifting through the many historical artifacts and enjoy the rich heritage the city has to offer. Of course, donations are most welcome, but in no way mandatory.

9. Buy your theatre tickets on the day

If you are looking for classic entertainment, London’s West End Shows are the best way to go.

Pay as much as half of the ticket price when you buy on the day or even a few hours before showtime. Just head over to Soho or Piccadilly Circus area and pick which show you want to see.

There are tons of registered, reliable ticketing agents that can offer you a good price for unsold seats.

This is one of those times where “late is better than early”. Contrary to flight sales, the closer to the showtime, the cheaper the tickets are.

You can even grab highly discounted front or VIP seats for a fraction of the price!

10. Watch out for 12.5% service charge

Most restaurants and bars in London add on a 12.5% service charge to your final bill, especially in the higher end or touristic areas. Although, this charge is optional but it’s expected to be paid unless you had the worst service.

When ordering food from restaurants or drinks from bars, always consider 12.5% on top of your order to avoid embarrassment especially when you are on a tight budget.

And Bob’s your Uncle! Or rather, there you have it!

With tons of amazing places to visit, a prospective trip to London can be seriously overwhelming. But with these London travel tips, I hope you will have a more enjoyable and convenient trip.

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The PERFECT 3 Days in London Itinerary [2024 Guide]

If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, this post is chock full of the best things to add to your 3 days in London itinerary.

Welcome to one of the world’s most important and influential cities.

At the height of the British Empire, 25% of the world was controlled by London.

Decisions made in the British capital have shaped history and created the world we know today.

For many London is the world’s most cosmopolitan city (sorry NYC ). It’s history a centre of economics, politics and the arts give the city a dollop of history and culture to which few other cities can even come close.

Founded as the Roman city of Londinium in AD 43, it was the Great Fire of London the gave us the city we see now.

And in more recent history, as the British Empire grew so did London’s power and prestige.

London’s rich history is present everywhere. From the city’s many excellent museums to the stories and tales that have been handed down from generation to generation.

Between museums, the arts, sporting events, parks, great food and plenty of pubs there is more than enough to keep you busy for 3 days.

In truth, you could be here for much longer as London is packed full of stuff to do.

However, our 3 days in London itinerary will give you all the best bits to see, do and eat in the UK’s cosmopolitan capital.

Table of Contents

Westminster Bridge 

Houses of parliament and big ben , westminster abbey , 10 downing street , horse guards and the household cavalry , the mall and st james’s park , buckingham palace, green park , fortnum and mason, piccadilly circus , trafalgar square and the national gallery, take a load off in leicester square and covent garden, take an early morning trip to tower bridge , admire one of the world’s most impressive historical collections at the british museum, the victoria and albert museum (v and a) and the natural history museum , enjoy a spot of afternoon tea , take a wander along the southbank, finish up in a proper british pub , st pauls cathedral , explore the guildhall, take a jack the ripper walking tour , get some shopping done at spitalfields market , take in some street art around shoreditch and brick lane, get a feel for music around camden, best budget accommodation in london – wombats city hostel, best mid-range accommodation in london – best western wembley , best luxury accommodation in london – blackbird, getting around london, fish and chips , markets/gourmet produce , pie and mash, how to spend a perfect 3 days in london itinerary.

Our 3 days in London itinerary is going to take you to many of the city’s most well-known sites and areas.

Charge your cameras and get your most comfortable shoes ready because it’s going to be a jam-packed 3 days!

Day 1 – London Must-See Buildings and Architecture

Our first day starts out at Westminster station and finishes at either Leicester Square, Holborn or Covent Garden tube stations.

This depends on which station is best for you to head back to your accommodation as they are all in the same area. 

You can think of this first day as one long walking tour.

Take as much or as little time as you want at each point of interest, but this a great introduction to London as a political and cultural centre.  

Head out of Westminster Station and take a short walk to Westminster Bridge for some lovely views along the Thames.

These will necessarily include some excellent views of the Houses of Parliament. 

Get here early though. From about 10 am the bridge becomes jam-packed with tourists, hawkers and people trying to commute. 

  • Nearest Tube Station : Westminster 

As of 2019 Big Ben is undergoing a rather major refit, so sadly you won’t get to see the famous clock in all its glory. 

The Houses of Parliament , on the other hand, is construction free at present.

The best views are from either Westminster Bridge or from Parliament Square. 

  • Nearest Tube Station : Westminster

Houses Of Parliament And Big Ben From Westminster Bridge

This huge cathedral is just off Parliament. It became most famous as the location of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s marriage back in 2011.

Built-in 929 AD, this stunning piece of architecture is a reminder of the importance of Christianity in England. 

Make sure you buy your pass for entrance into the Abbey .

  • Address : 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA
  • Opening Hours : 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sat. 9:30 – 6:00 pm on Weds. Closed on Sundays.
  • Cost : 16 GBP. However, at 5 pm, you can go to the evensong for free.

Westminster Abbey

From Westminster Abbey pull a bit of u-turn to walk past 10 Downing Street, the home of the British Prime Minister.

The architecture in this part of London is particularly lovely. But do remember that you cannot go right up the house for obvious reasons. 

  • Address : 10 Downing Street, London
  • Opening Hours : 24 hours, however, you will only be able to see the street entrance.
  • Cost : Free

10 Downing Street

Beyond 10 Downing Street, you will find the home of the Household Cavalry.

Cue the mandatory photos with a member of the Household Cavalry at their post. 

But do not get in their way. Although they perform mainly ceremonial duties, they are members of the British army.

Those that cross the line will be politely reminded of that fact. 

If you get here at the right time, you will be able to see the changing of the guard, which is well worth checking out.

If you are lucky enough you can catch the changing of the guard ceremony.

This ceremony begins here and then goes all the way up to Buckingham Palace , the sight of one of London’s most famous demonstrations of pomp and tradition. 

Book a tour with a guide to make sure you don’t miss it.

  • Address : Whitehall, London, SW1A 2AX
  • Opening Hours : You can walk through at any time, however times for the changing of the guard can be found through the link above.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Westminster or St James’s Park.

Horse Guards London

Passing through the Horse Guards brings you out into the gorgeous St James’s Park.

If you’re lucky enough you will spot a pelican on the pond as you head towards the Mall , the finish of the London marathon.

This straight road leads directly to Buckingham Palace. 

The entrance of the Mall from just North of the Horse Guards offers some stunning architecture, which is well worth checking out!

  • Opening Hours: 5 am – 12 am
  • Nearest Tube Station: St James’s Park.

St James Park

Any itinerary for 3 days in London will include a visit to Buckingham Palance.

One of the most famous sights in the United Kingdom is the Queen’s main place of residence.

To be fair, Queen Elizabeth II has a fair few other palaces, castles and stately homes dotted across the land. But this is the most famous. 

The highlight of any visit to Buckingham Palace is the changing of the guard .

As the procession moves from the Horse Guards to Buckingham Palace you will see the crowds getting ever larger.

Plan on getting to Buckingham Palace at least 30 minutes before the changing of the guard ceremony if you want the best views.

As a warning, it can be rather busy! 

If you’re not to fussed with pomp and ceremony then you can skip the changing of the guard.

Next to Buckingham Palace, you can find the Queen’s gallery which is home to some fantastic permanent exhibits with regular special exhibits throughout the year.

  • Address : Buckingham Palace London SW1A 1AA
  • Opening Hours: 24 hours to view from the outside. Changing of the guard usually takes place at 11 am.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Green Park

Buckingham Palace

Over the road from Buckingham Palace, you will find Green Park.

This park was originally an extension of St James’s Park and a rather unusual story surrounding its name.

Supposedly Queen Catherine, the wife of Charles II, caught her husband picking flowers in Green Park for his mistress.

Enraged at his betrayal she ordered all of the flowers in the park to be removed.

Before that, it was also apparently used as a burial ground for lepers. 

History aside this is one of London’s most popular parks during the summer months.

At lunch and dinnertime, the park swells with picnickers. 

  • Opening Hours : 5 am – 12 am

Green Park

Any 3 days in London itinerary usually includes a trip to Harrods, London’s most famous and ludicrously expensive department store.

A short walk from Green Park is the less well known (but certainly no less fancy) Fortnum and Mason .

The surrounding area is full of swanky shops so feel free to explore if this tickles your fancy. 

  • Address : 181 Piccadilly London W1A 1ER
  • Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday – 10 am – 9 pm. Sunday 12 pm – 6pm

Fortnum And Mason

Keep walking east from Fortnum and Mason and you will walk straight into Piccadilly Circus.

Whilst certainly not have the glitz, glamour or size of New York’s Time Square, this is one of London’s most iconic locations. 

There are plenty of pubs, restaurants and swanky shops in the vicinity with the close proximity of Bond Street, Oxford Circus, Leicester Squar e, and Covent Garden .

Get ready to get lost in the winding alleys and streets as you find your own little piece of London.

  • Opening Hours : 24 hours. Restaurants and shops in the surrounding area
  • Nearest Tube Station : Picadilly Circus

Picadilly Circus

Take a slight detour here and head down towards another iconic London location – Trafalgar Square.

For many years this stunning square was mainly famous for its pigeons.

Tourists delighted in feeding them, whereas the feelings amongst the locals were far less exuberant. 

Just behind Trafalgar Square is the National Gallery .

Like with many of London’s best museums and galleries it’s free to enter.

So take the opportunity to check off some of history’s most stunning pieces of artwork.

Alternatively, you can head before going to St James’ Park and Buckingham Palace as it’s right next to the Household Cavalry.

  • Address : The National Gallery Trafalgar Square London WC2N 5DN
  • Opening Hours : 10 am – 6 pm daily, with the exception of Friday when it’s open until 9 pm.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Charing Cross

Trafalgar Square

After a long day of sightseeing and walking through central London it’s time to put your feet up with a beer or two in the Leicester Square/Convent Garden area.

Those areas sort of roll into one. The Tube advises travellers to get off at Leicester Square, as opposed to Covent Garden, as the latter can get so crowded. 

But both areas are chock full of pubs, clubs and restaurants. So let your hair down in this rather happening area of London. 

The area also has lots of theatres. So if you fancy catching a show in the west end then this is the place to do it.

Incidentally, there are a number of ticket offices on the edge of Leicester that sometimes have some amazingly cheap deals on offer. 

  • Opening Hours : This is a 24-hour area, with restaurants, bars, live music venues, and comedy clubs jam-packed into this happening area.
  • Cost : As much or as little as you want.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Leicester Square, Convent Garden and Holborn.

Covent Garden

Day 2 – Museums and Parks

Our second day will be a bit more of a relaxed affair as we check out some of London’s incredible museums.

One of the best things about London’s museums is that they are free – which is a welcome relief for anyone who has ever visited museums in New York. 

We can start the day off with a visit to Tower Bridge. This is one of London’s most iconic sights, so it can be a little busy sometimes.

However, getting there early in the morning will give you some great photo opportunities of both Tower Bridge and the Tower of London (one of the few museums in London that isn’t free).

In addition, there will be some great views of the City of London’s more modern architectural wonders including the gherkin, the walkie talkie and the cheese grater . 

Book your ‘ Skip the Line’ ticket for the Tower of London here.

  • Opening Hours : 24 hours.
  • Cost : Free unless you want to go up into the towers.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Tower Hill.

Welcome to what many believe is the best museum in London.

The sheer size of the British museum is mind-boggling. You could be here for days and not see everything.

There is something for everyone here, so get stuck into this incredible museum.

  • Address : Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
  • Opening Hours : 10 am – 5:30 pm daily, with the exception of Friday when it’s open until 8:30 pm.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Russell Square

If the British Museum doesn’t tickle your fancy then head down to South Kensington and check out either the Victoria and Albert Museum (affectionately known as the V and A) or the National History Museum. 

Both museums offer extensive collections with the Natural History Museum being the more family-friendly option.

If you’re into architecture then make sure you at least check out the Natural History Museum. It is a particularly lovely building. 

Incidentally, if you are in London on the last Friday of the month they hold a phenomenal silent disco which is a must! 

  • Address : Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
  • Opening Hours : 10 am – 5:45 pm daily, with the exception of Friday when it’s open until 10:00 pm.
  • Nearest Tube Station : South Kensington

READ MORE: Plan a road trip around Ireland .

Hyde Park is probably London’s most famous park. This huge expanse of land is a world away from the chaos of central London.

At its centre is the Serpentine , a large body of water where rowboats can be rented to enjoy a summer afternoon.

Visit the iconic speaker’s corner, a site for speeches and debates since the 1800s when protests and demonstrations took place in Hyde Park. 

On Sunday mornings speakers come to share their views and follow in the footsteps of Karl Marx, George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin. 

  • Opening Hours : 5 am -12:00 am daily.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Hyde Park Corner

London in 3 days is certainly a squeeze. However, be sure to make time to enjoy afternoon tea at one of the many establishments offering such a service in London.

The most famous is The Ritz , very close to Green Park tube station.

However you will need to book in advance, and you will need to be smartly dressed. Jeans, trainers and t-shirts are a no go! 

The central piece of afternoon tea is scones with clotted cream and jam.

However, the debate about the order is rife.

Devon and Cornwall, two counties in the south-west of the United Kingdom are central to this debate.

In Devon, the clotted cream is spread first followed by a dollop of jam on top, whereas it’s the other way round in Cornwall.

I personally prefer the Devon way. 

This lovely section of the Thames stretching east from Waterloo offers some stunning evening views of London.

Weekend daytimes are filled with people selling books and paintings, locals going for a jog and some very talented skateboarders. 

You can follow this path all the way to the Tate Modern , which is also free!

  • Opening Hours : 24 hours
  • Nearest Tube Station : Waterloo

Sipping an ale in a pub is a quintessentially British activity that can be enjoyed from the moment the pub opens its doors.

Pubs start serving alcohol from 11:00 am and will usually finish up between 11:00 pm and 12:00 am. 

With 3 days in London you should have enough to check into a couple of pubs for a uniquely British experience.

There are a number of excellent old pubs in London that are well worth checking out.

The Mayflower near Rotherhithe overground station, the Cittie of York next to Chancery Lane tube station and the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese near Blackfriars tube station are 3 of the best, and oldest pubs in London.

The Mayflower sits right on the edge of the Thames and offers great food and some lovely sunset views.

Day 3 – London City Centre

Today we will head into the City of London.

Also known as the “Square Mile,” this is the financial heart of the United Kingdom. And, for a couple of hundred years, it was the world’s financial centre until New York City knocked London off top spot after World War I. 

The City of London also has a rather more gruesome history. It is here where Jack the Ripper operated uneducated in 1888.

There a number of excellent Jack the Ripper walking tours operating in this part of London. 

After the Great Fire of London in 1666 London lay in ruins. The renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren was charged with the re-building of the city.

Central to this was St Pauls Cathedral. 

This stunning Cathedral is truly breathtaking, and amazingly escaped severe damage from German bombs during World War II.

However, one of the clocks was destroyed and never replaced as a reminder of the horrors suffered. 

For amazing views of St Pauls and the surrounding area head to the shopping mall behind the cathedral and go to the top floor.

This will bring out onto an open-air platform where you can snap away to your heart’s content. 

Book your ‘ Skip the Line’ ticket online here .

  • Address : St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD
  • Opening Hours : 8:30 am – 4:30 pm from Monday to Saturday. The cathedral is open for worship on Sundays.
  • Cost : 20 GBP per adult
  • Nearest Tube Station : St Pauls

St Pauls Cathedral

This is an undiscovered gem in London. This stunning piece of architecture is a stone’s throw from St Pauls and is home to the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre.

Yes, you read that right a Roman amphitheatre in the heart of London!

Head inside and head downstairs and you will see it in all it’s glory. 

The Guildhall itself is home to a lovely museum and is well worth checking out if you have the time.  

  • Address : Basinghall St, London EC2V 7HH
  • Opening Hours : 10 am – 4:30 pm daily
  • Nearest Tube Station : St Pauls, Moorgate or Bank

Jack the Ripper was an infamous and unidentified serial killer who terrorized London in the late 1800s.

Due to the fact the killer was never identified and captured, legend and lore have grown over the years.

There are a number of excellent Jack the Ripper walks on offer in this part of London well worth checking out.

Sharing some of London’s most interesting stories these walks an awesome addition to 3 perfect days in London.

This huge market is home to almost everything and anything it seems.

It sits alongside Petticoat Lane , which is home to one of London’s largest clothing markets.

There is plenty to keep you occupied around here with a number of great food outlets inside Spitalfields Market itself. 

  • Address : 56 Brushfield St, Spitalfields, London E1 6AA
  • Opening Hours : 10 am – 8 pm from Monday to Friday. 10 am – 5 pm on Saturdays and 10 am to 4 pm on Sundays.
  • Nearest Tube Station : Liverpool Street

READ MORE: Plan the perfect 3 days in New York City

One of London’s most famous streets is the graffiti-laden area that is Brick Lane.

Expect to find plenty of other visitors embarking on walking tours and snapping photos of some of the funky artwork. 

The street is famous for curries, and amazingly every single one seems to be the best curry on Brick Lane, according to TripAdvisor. To be honest the curry here is average at best.

Your best off heading to the amazing bagel shop at the end of the street for one of the best bargains in London. 

  • Opening Hours : 24 hours. Sundays market can be especially busy
  • Nearest Tube Station : Shoreditch High Street (Overground)

If you still have the energy after a jam-packed three days then head on up the hedonistic area of Camden.

Expect the pubs to be packed and the music to be loud. 

There are some great live music venues around here offering up the latest unsigned wonders.

If you’re around Camden Locks on the weekend it is especially busy, but it’s a great atmosphere. 

Personally, I recommend booking into a pub crawl of Camden .

  • Opening Hours : Another 24-hour area where the party goes on well into the early hours
  • Cost : As much or as little as you want
  • Nearest Tube Station : Camden Town

London Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do for your 3 days in London itinerary, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best accommodations and places to eat in the city.

Accommodation in London

Accommodation in London is certainly not at the budget end of the scale.

However, there are some bargains to be found and with London’s excellent transport network as long as your close to a tube station you have easy access to all of London’s best bits. 

London is divided into concentric zones, ranging from zones 1 to 9 with zone 1 at the centre.

Zones 1, 2, 3 will be the most convenient areas for transport.

Naturally, zone 1 is often the most expensive. 

This awesome hostel is located a short walk from Tower Hill tube station, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

With a plethora of awesome stuff to do right on your doorstep, it’s understandable why so many travellers rave about this place. 

Dorms are very reasonably priced however the private rooms are certainly not in that category.

In addition, it’s only a short walk from the north bank of the Thames, a great location for an evening stroll.

It’s close proximity to the city centre, affordable dorms and excellent service make this a winner! 

In London, many of the best mid-range options are like this one, a major hotel chain.

Based up in North London it’s a little further away from things than the other two hotels listed.

However central London is still just a short tube ride away. 

Being up in North London gives you easy access to Camden and the chance to check out Highgate Cemetery.  

This luxury offering based in South Kensington , one of London’s swankiest districts, has all the pomp and ceremony you would expect from a top London hotel. 

It’s full English breakfast gets rave reviews and it’s a hop skip and a jump over to South Kensington’s highlights including the V and A, Natural History Museum, Kensington Gardens, and Hyde Park.

It’s also a short walk to both Earls Court, Gloucester Road, and South Kensington Tube stations, facilitating excellent transport links all over the city. 

London’s transport network is exceptional.

Pick up an oyster card at tube and rail stations which can be used to swipe on and swipe off the tube, overground, DLR and buses.

Best of all, there is a cap on the maximum you can pay.

  • Zones 1-4: 10.10 GBP
  • Zones 1-5: 12.00 GBP
  • Zones 1-6: 12.80 GBP

Everything in our itinerary is within Zones 1-4. 

But the tube can be quite confusing.

Download Citymapper to help you plan your trip appropriately.

Citymapper also provides live updates as to the current status of London’s underground lines, this can be an absolute lifesaver.

Fortunately, you do not have to deal with local and express services as you do in New York and Tokyo, for example.

However, sometimes trains will not go to the end of the line so just pay attention to their final destination. 

Get your 1-day unlimited travel card today on Get Your Guide .

Finally, stand on the right and walk on the left on all escalators.

Failure to follow this will lead to some very angry commuters who will not be shy about making their feelings known. 

Although London is a huge city it is a very walkable city within Zone 1, the very centre of the city.

Half the pleasure of any visit to London is getting lost exploring the many hidden gems the city has to offer. 

Alternatively, ride the famous hop-on-hop-off bus around the city .

Best Places to Eat in London

London is chock full of great eateries from the eye wateringly expensive to the pleasantly affordable.

Here are a few of my personal favourites that will hopefully tick a few boxes! 

Do not get a curry on Brick Lane unless you want overpriced, average Indian food. Incredibly every single restaurant claims to be the number 1 on trip advisor. 

Head up to Ravi Shankars on Drummond Street close to Warren Street Tube Station for some no-frills but awesome south Indian cuisine. 

The Bull Steak Expert on Red Lion street serves up amazing Argentinian steaks at a hefty price. But it is absolutely worth it. 

Good old pub grub is a hallmark of any visit to London. Your accommodation will probably be able to recommend a local one close by.

However, my favourite pub grub in London is served up at the Mayflower in Rotherhithe.

One of the oldest pubs in London it was from this location the Mayflower set sail for the New World in 1620, hence it’s named. 

The quintessential British dish. Any 3 days in London itinerary must include fish and chips somewhere.

The excellent Poppies near Shoreditch gets rave reviews. However this location is certainly not a secret, so be prepared for a wait. 

Head to the awesome Borough Market close to Tower Bridge for all manner of awesome options.

As with Poppies, you should expect it to be rather busy. 

Alternatively, if you’re in town on Saturday head Maltby Street market .

You will need to take a bus to get here. But it’s very rarely visited by tourists, much to the happiness of the locals.

Maureen’s Pie and Mash , up in Poplar is a huge hit.

If you’re not sure, this is pretty much exactly what it says on the tin, meat pies and mashed potato. A perfect winter warmer.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Headout Blog

The complete travel guide to London: What to see, what to eat & where to stay

Things to do in London London Travel Guide

With its roots in the Roman times, London has been every traveler’s delight for ages. A beautiful blend of history and modernism, London has glass skyscrapers surrounded by old cathedrals and tiny Victorian houses. Home to the royal residence of the monarch, London has always enjoyed the status of a princely state, capturing the fascination of millions across the globe. This diverse and spirited city is dotted with famous landmarks, architectural grandeur, and historical museums. Vibrant streets, open green spaces, art & theater, cultural events & festivals are all an integral part of London.

London essentials

Language English

Time zone GMT

Country Code +44

Socket Type G

Currency Pound sterling (£)

London trip planner

Best time to visit, daily budget, travel tips, the london itinerary.

Whether you're in London for 1 day or 3, there's always something to do.

london travel guide

Weather in London

Because of its mild climate throughout the year, London can be visited at any time. Though the official high season of London is from May to September, this city has something unique to offer in every season. You can check the weather here .

spring in london

London in Spring

You will find a pleasant weather with occasional mild showers. Longer daylight hours will give you lots of time to explore London. However, keep in mind that Easter weekend has several closures as well as celebrations.

summer in london

London in Summer

London is famous for fabulous summers. Fantastic weather and outdoor events & festivities make summer the best time to visit London. However, fair warning, expect a lot of co-tourists in this busy season!

autumn in london

London in Autumn

It is lovely to visit London in the mild weather of autumn, months after the busy summers. This time of the year also brings in many annual festivals and events which you can enjoy.

winter in london

London in Winter

Despite being colder in winters, London still enjoys a comfortable temperature ranging between 2°C-6°C (36°F-43°F). You can easily enjoy this beautiful city, which is a winter wonderland. Additionally, the Christmas festivities are in full bloom, followed by some amazing sales on Boxing Day (26 December).

When are you Planning to Visit London?

While London is a delight all year round, here's the complete guide on best time to visit London .

London in January

London in February

London in March

London in April

London in May

London in June

London in July

London in Aug

London in September

London in October

London in November

London in December

London Daily Budget Planner

You can choose to explore London on a budget, or take the luxurious route; both offer a great travel experience. Depending on how you'd like to go about your London visit, you can budget your trip. Here's a summary of an approximate per day expense in London.

London on a Budget - £56 per day Midrange spending in London - £149 per day Luxury vacation in London - £423 per day Use this tool to further budget your London trip .

London Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

  • Keep right on the escalators
  • Get yourself an Oyster card
  • London is the home of Hop On Hop Off Buses
  • Crossing streets are a task in London
  • Tipping in London is not customary

There are more London travel tips to make your visit a memorable one. Click here to know more.

Currency & ATMs in London

British Currency is pound sterling (£/GBP). There are 100 pennies or pence to the pound. Notes come in denominations of £5, £10, £20, and £50, while coins come in 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2. It is difficult to find change at many places, so smaller denominations are preferred for use.

Most credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in London's restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. However they incur an overseas transaction fee, which varies from card to card. It is a good idea to check with your card issuer beforehand. It is also advisable to keep some other payment options like cash at your disposal for any emergencies.

ATMs are popularly called cash points in the UK, and are quite easy to locate and convenient to use. It is always better to withdraw cash from bank-run ATMs located outside the bank as they are more secure and do not charge usage fees.

Here’s a trusted exchange calculator you can use to check the current exchange rate of GBP to your home currency.

London Visa

London visa guide.

If you are planning to visit UK for a short trip you, can apply for a Standard Visitor visa. The application includes the following:

  • Fulfilling the eligibility criteria, like your ability to pay for your cost of journey and stay, intent of leaving the country at the end of your visit, validity of the passport for the whole of your stay in the UK, etc.
  • Providing documents like a current passport or other valid travel identification, a page in your passport that’s blank on both sides for your visa, and other supporting documents mentioned here.
  • Applying online for the UK Visa and booking an appointment at a visa application centre. You’ll have your biometric information taken at your appointment, followed by their regular procedure of issuing the visa if all conditions are met.

Tipping in London

  • It is considered polite to tip for the services that you use in London and is like an unsaid norm.
  • Leaving a tip of about 10%-15% of the bill value is generally the norm in restaurants. However, if there is a service charge or self service, you are not supposed to leave any tip.
  • It is common to round off your taxi bill with a small tip for the driver.
  • The tour guides expect a tip for their service. Depending on how happy you are with their service, you can leave a tip in the range of about £5 for a half-day/day tour.
  • Tipping the porter in the hotel with a few coins is generally considered polite.
  • If you are using a pay to access public toilet, you are not expected to pay any tip. You may leave a coin elsewhere if there are attendants.

Top 10 attractions in London

Below are a compact list of 10 things to do in London , regardless of whether you're in the city for a day or a week. Tick these 10 things to do in London off your list and consider it all done.

Buckingham Palace

Getting around London

London transportation london underground

London is notorious for being a city that is difficult to drive around, with exorbitant parking charges. Renting a car is therefore not the best option. Cabs are also very expensive in London and there’s always a probability of getting stuck in traffic. The best way to get around London is using the excellent public transport or still better on foot. Public transit with multiple options such as the London Underground (tube) and modern double-decker buses are the most extensive, convenient as well as budget friendly. Buses give you a nice view of the vibrant city, although the tube is a faster means. You can download maps to understand the tube network here . If you are planning to cover a lot of attractions over a limited period of time, travel cards are a good option. Check out your travel card options here . You can also hire a bike to get around the city; this is especially fun in summer.

Places to visit near London

While there is much to see in London, the city is also close to some stunning towns and villages in the countryside. If you're in London for over three days, you must definitely check out these day trips from London and embark on the ones that suit your liking.

Best neighborhood to stay in London

London where to stay

We've rounded up the best neighborhoods to stay in London to suit all budgets. Book your stay in advance, especially if you're traveling around peak tourist season.

  • The West End , comprising of areas like Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Mayfair, Piccadilly, Soho, Oxford Street, etc., is a very central district. It is known for its nightlife and has most of the theatres, top art galleries, and high-end shopping places. It has many expensive 4 star and 5 star hotels.
  • Bloomsbury is just a walking distance from West End, and has relatively cheaper hotels.
  • Victoria , the transport hub of London, forms a good base for sightseeing and has a range of hotels that are not very cheap, but not too expensive either.
  • Kensington is well-connected, and has quite a few attractions, along with places to stay for all budgets.
  • King's Cross, St Pancras, and Euston are the areas ideal for a budget accommodation or a B&B.
  • Paddington and Bayswater are also pleasant areas with quite a few budget properties.
  • Haymarket Hotel
  • The Piccadilly London West End
  • The Nadler Soho
  • The Henrietta Hotel
  • hub by Premier Inn
  • Thistle Bloomsbury Park
  • SACO Holborn - Lamb's Conduit St
  • Smart Russell Square Hostel
  • Grange Lancaster Hotel
  • The Harrison Gastro Pub and Hotel
  • The Milestone Hotel and Residences
  • The Kensington
  • Adria Boutique Hotel
  • Number Sixteen
  • Acacia Hostel
  • Point A Hotel, London Paddington
  • Hilton London Paddington
  • Tudor Court Hotel
  • Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel

What to eat in London

London is full of delicious delights which you simply cannot miss enjoying! Here are some dishes you must try when in the city.

Fish and chips

The tasty combination of fried battered fish and hot potato chips/fries is the most common and staple takeaway food of London. There is a chippie in every other street of London. Some of the best places for this must have snack are The Chipping Forecast, Fish Lounge, Gilly's Fry Bar, and Golden Hind.

London Fish and Chips

Full English breakfast

A full English breakfast typically includes bacon, sausages, fried eggs, baked beans, and a beverage such as coffee or tea. It has everything to make the most important meal of your day delicious. Pellicci’s Full English, Hawksmoor Guildhall, Koya Bar, Parlour Kensal are some of the top places of London to enjoy a Full English Breakfast.

London full english breakfast

It is a traditional English dessert consisting of a mixture of strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped double cream. This delicious mess of a dessert is quite simple yet one of the most loved and satisfying desserts of London. Vivat Bacchus, Bob Bob Ricard, Tuttons Brasserie etc, are a few places best known for this popular dessert.

london eton mess

Sticky toffee pudding

A classic British dessert consisting of a moist dense sponge cake, the sticky toffee pudding is made with finely chopped dates, topped up with toffee sauce, and often served with a vanilla custard or vanilla ice-cream. Originated from the Lake District, this dessert is very popular all over UK. Hawksmoor, Bumpkin, and The Abingdon are some places that serve the best sticky toffee pudding in London.

London Guide sticky toffee pudding

Bangers and mash

It is a traditional dish of UK made of sausages and mashed potatoes. A variety of flavoured sausages made of pork, lamb, or beef are used in this dish. It is sometimes served with onion gravy, fried onions, or peas. Some of the best Bangers and Mash can be had at The Queens Arms, The Victoria, and Speedy's Sandwich Bar & Cafe.

london bangers and mash

London on a budget

London - the world’s top dream destination is also one of the most expensive cities. However, this aspect should not get in the way of your travel plans. Apart from looking online for discounts on best things to do in London , here are a number of hacks to support a budget traveller.

1 Do the free things in London

Do not get disheartened by the steep ticket prices of a lot of attractions of London. Apart from the paid attractions, there are scores of lush green parks, national museums, ceremonies, and other incredible sites that are entirely free to view and enter. British Museum, Tate Modern, the National Gallery, Hyde Park, changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, etc. are a few to name.

free things in London

2 Look for cheap accommodation

While hotels can be expensive, there are other stay options for you to check out. Hotels can be obnoxiously expensive in high season. Choose the off peak travel time to save on cost. There are also many hostel accommodations, as well as bed and breakfast options for those who are budget conscious.

3 Use public transport

Exploit the extensive public transportation network of London. With great connectivity and reach of metro, it is one of the cheapest way to commute in London. To save further, get yourself an Oyster card or a London Travel card.

4 Eat at cheap restaurants

While London has cuisine from all over the world, you may end up spending more than you want to if you're not careful about where you're eating! Food can make a huge hole in your pocket if you don't watch out. Besides the expensive cafes and fine dining places, London has many great budget-friendly options to eat like Pret a Manger, yo! Sushi, LEON, etc.

5 Explore the city on foot

One of the best ways to explore most of this beautiful city is on foot. Besides saving big bucks, moving at your own pace, stopping by to admire what you enjoy, sipping a hot cup of coffee at a nearby cafe, and rubbing shoulders with the locals, you get a first hand experience of this vibrant city.

Best tours in London

While London is a city best explored by foot, there are lots of guided and bus tours to help you make the most of your visit. Here's a quick list of the Top tours in London that you must definitely sign up for.

london travel guide

16 best tours in London

Know before you visit london.

London Guide

While visiting a country it is good to have an understanding of their culture or else unintentionally you may end up rubbing someone the wrong way.

  • The English, proud of their rich history and global status, are a courteous and reserved lot. They appreciate politeness and restraint. It is advisable to not be overly familiar with people you do not know. Though, despite their steely appearance, the British are friendly and helpful towards visitors.
  • They are not too demonstrative of their affection towards formal people in public so backslapping or touching is not appreciated. They like their personal space and expect you to maintain some physical distance at all public places.
  • At a restaurant, you summon a waiter by raising your hand not by waving or shouting. You are also supposed to watch your volume at public places as the British consciously speak softly.
  • They follow the Continental table manners holding the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
  • Use of last name with appropriate title is the way to address people in the UK.
  • A handshake is the common way to greet everyone including children. Women are expected to extend their hand first.
  • Always hold the door for the person behind you.

What are the best things to see and do in London?

There is so much to see and do in London that it can be difficult to narrow down the list! Some of the must-see sights include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. For those interested in history, a visit to the British Museum is a must. And no trip to London would be complete without seeing a West End show!

What are the best ways to get around London?

The London Underground is the most efficient way to get around the city, but it can be confusing for first-time visitors. If you don’t mind walking, London is a very walkable city. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the many black cabs or “minicabs” that are available.

What are some tips for visiting London on a budget?

There are plenty of ways to save money while visiting London. Purchase an Oyster Card to receive discounts on public transportation, take advantage of free attractions like museums and galleries, and eat your meals at less expensive lunch spots.

What are the best times of year to visit London?

It really depends on what you want to do while you’re in London. The summer months are ideal for outdoor activities, while the winter is perfect for Christmas shopping and holiday festivities.

What should I pack for a trip to London?

Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as you will do a lot of walking while sightseeing. Weather-wise, London can be unpredictable so it’s always best to bring layers that you can easily add or remove. An umbrella is also a good idea, just in case!

Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of while visiting London?

London is generally a safe city, but as with any major metropolitan area, it’s always best to exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you at all times. If you’re feeling unsafe, please don’t hesitate to ask a police officer for help.

What are some other helpful tips for visiting London?

Some other helpful tips include learning a few key phrases in British English, carrying small bills and coins for tipping, and being respectful of queue lines

All London guides

Day Trips From London

The Cotswolds

Attractions

Kidzania London

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Shakespeare Globe Theatre

British Museum

Stadium Tours

Wembley Stadium

Wimbledon Tours

Historical Landmarks

St. Paul's Cathedral

Tower of London

Westminster Abbey

Kensington Palace

Buckingham Palace

Hampton Court Palace

Windsor Castle

Royal Museums of Greenwich

Discover London

London airport transfers

London Hop On Hop Off

River Thames cruises

London city passes

London explorer passes

London Royal Palace pass

West End shows

London toolkit

Best time to visit London

Top things to do in London

Tours in London

Day trips from London

London travel tips

London culture

London festivals

London accomodation

What & where to eat in London

London transport

London New Year's Eve guide

London New Year's Eve fireworks

London through the year

London In February

London In March

London In April

London In May

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Manisha Choudhari

If there's one thing Manisha loves more than cake, it's travelling. While studying in London, she fell in love with the city, and decided that she wanted to combine her two interests - writing and travelling. Having made London her home, she now travels through Europe during summers, spends winters under ten blankets, and writes about her adventures in between.

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  1. London Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    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 ...

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    London Travel Guide. These days, a new Ottolenghi restaurant opening or a new show at the Tate Modern is reason enough to book a last-minute trip. ... December 30, 2022. The Best Places to Eat and ...

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    London is the L.A., D.C., and N.Y.C. of Britain — a living, breathing, thriving organism…a coral reef of humanity. Blow through the city on a double-decker bus, and take a pinch-me-I'm-in-London walk through the West End. Ogle the crown jewels at the Tower of London, gaze up at mighty Big Ben, and see the Houses of Parliament in action. Cruise the River Thames, and take a spin on the ...

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    There are scams and other nefarious things run by people using unmarked cars that you didn't book, so never get in one. 7. Map Out Your Day by Zones. Because London is so big, one of my best travel tips in London is to map out your day by doing attractions that are in the same area at the same time.

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    20 London Travel Tips & Hacks. Read on to find out some of the best travel tips and hacks that the British swear by. Summary London Trip Planner Guide More Reads. Explore London in 5 days with this ultimate 5-day itinerary. Insider guide to your weekend in London. Make the most of 3 days in London | A 3-day London itinerary ...

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    25 London Travel Tips to Help You Plan, Eat, Shop and Discover the Hidden Gems in London. For a First Time Visitor to London Travel Tips to help you enjoy the british city. ... 2022 Insider Tips & Tricks, London, Travel Tips. Tower Bridge London on a fantastic day! [updated March 2022]

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    5 Days in London - How To Spend Your Day. Day 1 in London : Hop On Hop Off Bus, London Eye, Covent Garden. Day 2 in London : Tower of London, Borough Market, Globe Theater. Day 3 in London : Harry Potter Studio Tour, Camden Market. Day 4 in London : Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, West End Show.

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    We are here to help you turn that dream into a reality! Our London travel tips, guides, resources and itineraries are designed to answer all your questions and make planning your trip an easy and fun process. We aim to remove the overwhelm from planning your visit and help you make the most of your time in London. > PLAN YOUR TRIP.

  16. London Travel Guide

    SD › London Travel Guide Updated: May 20, 2022. View across the River Thames to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. London is the capital and largest city in the United Kingdom, and chock-full of great attractions, from historic to ultra-modern. Though its reputation as a cold and rainy island is well-deserved, summer weather in London is ...

  17. 15 London travel tips & hacks no one told you about

    1 Tower of London. The Tower of London is a defining British structure that has served as an armory, royal residence, and jail throughout history. The tower today houses the Crown Jewels and the famous Beefeaters, who guard them. A visit to the Tower of London is essential for any first-time visitor to London.

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    Pack a few extra sets of clothes in case you are out in the snow. London Packing Checklist. 3. Walking can be faster than the Tube. Transport tip. London's Tube network is famed worldwide, and as a tourist, it is easy to be whisked by the hype and take the Tube everywhere.

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    It's just a little unpredictable and varies from region to region. You can expect average lows of around 5 °C in London in January / February, and highs around 25°C in July / August. If you're wondering when is the best time to visit England, I'd suggest planning a trip in May or June.

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    10. Watch out for 12.5% service charge. Most restaurants and bars in London add on a 12.5% service charge to your final bill, especially in the higher end or touristic areas. Although, this charge is optional but it's expected to be paid unless you had the worst service. When ordering food from restaurants or drinks from bars, always consider ...

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    Fish and chips. The tasty combination of fried battered fish and hot potato chips/fries is the most common and staple takeaway food of London. There is a chippie in every other street of London. Some of the best places for this must have snack are The Chipping Forecast, Fish Lounge, Gilly's Fry Bar, and Golden Hind.