a trip to london video

The Best Time to Visit London

Weather & Climate

London's Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in London

Public Transport in London

London's Top Attractions

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

London's Best Parks

Museums in London

Theater in London

Live Music in London

Shopping in London

One Week in London: Itinerary

Day Trips From London

Beaches Near London

The Best Fish & Chips in London

London's Top Restaurants

Eating With Kids in London

London's Best Bars

Craft Beer in London

Your Trip to London: The Complete Guide

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London is a popular travel destination thanks to its culture, lively food scene, and royal ties. The British city attracts millions of visitors every year (more than 40.9 million in 2019! ), including many Americans, who find London easy to navigate (especially since the main language is English). Whether you're planning an extensive trip to explore London or including it as a stop on an itinerary of other European cities, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning. Consider what you want to see and do, and plan accordingly. And don't forget the umbrella.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: London welcomes travelers all year, but the best times to visit can be spring and late fall thanks to the mild weather . Summer can be especially crowded, so you may find fewer lines and throngs of tourists during more off-peak times. The winter holidays can also be a great time to visit London, which gets very festive and well-decorated in December.

Language: English is the primary language spoken in London and the U.K., however Londoners come from all over the world, so it's not surprising to hear multiple other languages spoken around the city.

Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling   , also known as GBP or just "the pound."

Getting Around: Transport for London has a vast network of public transportation options, including the Tube, buses, trains, and boats. It's recommended to avoid driving into the city center and use public transportation, or opt for a taxi or Uber. Black cabs are the official taxis in London and easy to hail anywhere around town.

Travel Tip: London is a very walkable city and one of the best ways to see different areas is to go by foot. Plan your days by neighborhood or general area, and stroll from attraction to attraction to make the most of your experience. For example, see Kensington Palace, Hyde Park and Notting Hill in the same day, or hit up the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tate Modern in one swing.

Things to Do

There's a lot to see and do in London, from historical sites like Buckingham Palace to cultural institutions like the National Portrait Gallery. A trip to London typically consists of a mixture of iconic attractions, including Big Ben and the London Eye, and neighborhood exploration in areas like Notting Hill. Consider purchasing a London Pass to make the most of popular attractions. Don't miss theater in the West End, shopping around Covent Garden and snacking in London's many outdoor markets, including Borough Market and Broadway Market.

• Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens
• The Tate Modern
• Westminister Abbey

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on what to see if you only have a few hours , what to do in the West End and things to do when it rains .

What to Eat and Drink

London's food scene is an eclectic mix of British and international eateries, with cuisine from all over the world available in the city's diverse neighborhoods. A classic experience is to dine (and grab a pint) in a local pub, which can be a great way to try British dishes like fish and chips and bangers and mash. London's ever-growing food scene isn't limited to just those well-known dishes, though: Look for hip spots like The Barbary, Barrafina and Caravan to experience a vibrant melange of internationally-inspired dishes.

London is also well-known for its impressive cocktail bars, many of which are nearly a century old. Don't miss a martini in The American Bar or Dukes, and consider exploring newer cocktail spots like Satan's Whiskers in Bethnal Green. Of course, you'll also want to book an afternoon tea somewhere classy. Look for high-end spots like Fortnum and Mason, The Savoy Hotel and The Ritz to make the most of your experience.

Explore our articles on the best restaurants with views , the best spots for afternoon tea and the best places for brunch .

Where to Stay

London is a large city, with many different areas, but most visitors find that it's convenient to stay centrally. Central neighborhoods like Covent Garden, Mayfair, Marylebone, Victoria and Kensington provide easy access to many popular attractions, as well as nearby restaurants and nightlife. Staying in adjacent areas like Fitzrovia, Pimlico, St. John's Wood and Southbank can be a good way to avoid crowds but keep the journey to the tourist spots quick and hassle-free. While many visitors elect to stay in a hotel, there are also many options for Airbnb and other vacation rental services. Those who want to splurge should look into iconic hotels like The Connaught, The Ritz and the Mandarin Oriental, which overlooks Hyde Park.

Explore our articles on the best budget hotels , the quirkiest places to stay and London's diverse neighborhoods .

Getting There

Most travelers arrive in London by plane, flying in to nearby airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton and City. Visitors coming from Europe can also arrive via the Eurostar, which comes into to St. Pancras Station, or via ferry. Trains link London with the rest of England, as well as Scotland and Wales, and cruise ships typically port in the nearby city of Southampton. Most travelers don't rent a car when visiting London, but a car can be handy if you plan to explore other areas of the U.K.

• Heathrow International Airport: Heathrow, located west of London, is the primary airport used by international travelers. It can be accessed by Tube, train, bus or taxi, and it's recommended to look into public transportation when arriving during rush hour. The Heathrow Express gets passengers from the airport in to Paddington Station in only 15 minutes (and is significantly cheaper when booked more than 30 days in advance online).
• Gatwick Airport: Gatwick, also known as London Gatwick, is located to the south of central London and can boast cheaper flights than Heathrow. It's also a hub for EasyJet, a budget airline. The airport is best accessed via the Gatwick Express from Victoria Station or a train from London Bridge Station.
• London Luton Airport: Luton can be found to the north of London and is frequently used for flights to the rest of Europe. Look for the Thames Link train or bus services to access the airport since a taxi can be quite expensive.
• London Stansted Airport: Stansted, also to the north of the city, is an international airport, but typically used for shorter flights rather than big international arrivals. Trains and buses are the best way to get to and from Stansted, which can be an inconvenient and disorganized airport experience.
• London City Airport: Located on the Royal Docks, London City is popular with short haul flights to Europe, but also services the U.S. via New York City. The airport is fairly central, so taxis or public transportation are both good options.

Explore our articles on how to get to Heathrow and how to get to Luton , as well as our guide to London's airports .

Culture and Customs

While London can feel similar to the U.S., there are a few differences, particularly when it comes to tipping. All restaurants and bars will include a service charge (usually 12.5 percent) on the bill, so there's not need to leave extra cash. If you do, 10 to 15 percent is customary   . Tip taxi drivers a few pounds if you appreciate their service, but unlike in the U.S. employees in the U.K. don't expect large tips.

One other important thing to be aware of is that British culture is fairly reserved. When using public transportation, especially the bus or the Tube, keep your voice low and be polite. Londoners also appreciate a good queue, so never skip the line or push your way to the front.

Money Saving Tips

• Take advantage of free museums. Many of London's museums are free to enter, including the British Museum, the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain. This can be a great way to see iconic spots without spending any of your travel budget.
• Get a free view. While high-up attractions like the London Eye and the Shard's viewing gallery can be pricy, the Tate Modern's 10th floor viewing deck is free, as is Sky Garden , which allows visitors to book a complimentary ticket in advance online.
• Picnic in one of the parks . On a sunny day, Londoners love a good park outing. Head to Marks & Spencer or Pret to stock up on sandwiches and drinks, and find a spot in one of London's many parks. Some of the parks, including London Fields, even allow portable BBQs.
• Purchase a London Pass. The London Pass includes entry to over 80 attractions, so can help save money if you plan to do a lot of sight-seeing. It also allows for fast-track entry at several of the attractions, which can be great when visiting during a busy time of year.

For more tips, explore our articles on the best free things to do in London , how to travel around London with your kids for free and the best free museums .

Visit Britain. "Inbound Tourism Performance: 2019 Snapshot."

Visit London Official Visitor Guide. "British Money."

Visit London Official Visitor Guide. "Tipping in London."

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Perfect london itinerary.

This is the perfect London itinerary for a week in London. See all the main sites and a few unique ones as well. 

The perfect one week in london itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links.

I’ve spent a lot of time in London over the last few years, and countless hours organizing itineraries to London for friends and families who visit. London is one of those places that you could live your whole life in and still not behold all its wonders. The best things to do in London England are not simply the main sites, but the hidden gems as well. 

I’ve tried my best to create this itinerary for one week in London for the first time visitor that will cover a broad range of interests while seeing the most iconic sites in London along with some lesser-known, more quirky sites. I’ve also included some of my favorite spots to eat. This itinerary for one week in London should allow you to walk everywhere you go, depending on where you are staying. You can arrange these however you want.

Here's a Short Cut

Where to Stay in London

Need more london inspiration, before you go to london, easy london itinerary, interactive london itinerary map, click here for the map, 1. full english breakfast at regency cafe, 2. westminster abbey, 4. london eye, 5. afternoon tea at the library lounge, 6. south bank, 1.  juice & public, 2. leicester square, 3. trafalgar square, 4. the wolsely, 5. buckingham palace and horseguards, 6. 10 downing street, 7. covent garden dinner, 8. catch a show, click here for map, 1. pret a manger, 2. kensington palace, 3. eat at wagamama for lunch, 4. victoria & albert museum, 6. wander through hyde park, 7. dishoom indian food, click here for map 1. simply tasty cafe & kitchen, 2. tower of london, 3. tower bridge, 4. lunch borough market, 5. shakespeare’s globe theater, 6. st paul’s, 7. rules.

•  1. Daylesford Organic

2. Notting Hill

2. portabello road.

• Click Here for MapHarry Potter Tour:

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios

1. biegel bake or cereal killer cafe, 2. explore brick lane, 3. dickens museum and/or british museum, 4. fryer’s delight, 5. piccadilly circus, 6. tea at the ritz.

If you’re planning your stay for a week in London and you want to minimize your traveling time, it’s important to stay in a good location. We have a few favorite places that we have stayed in, but it really depends on your group size and interests. 

We stayed in this beautiful house in London over Christmas and it was perfect for our family. 

Here is a list of some amazing and affordable apartment rentals in London

If you’re looking for more information on London, don’t miss my other great articles about my favorite city!

London Travel Guide London Transportation Guide: How to Get Around London 115 Amazing things to do in London A Guide to London with Kids Harry Potter London Vacation Paddington’s Guide to London The Best Day Trips from London Christmas in London

Before you go to London, you’ll want to purchase the London Pass. This will save you tons of money! It includes entry to over 80 attractions, including:

• Tower of London • Hop on Hop off Bus Tour • Thames River Cruise • Windsor Castle • Westminster Abbey • London Bridge Experience and London Tombs • Tower Bridge Exhibition • London Zoo • Kensington Palace & The Orangery • Hampton Court Palace • ArcelorMittal Orbit • Arsenal FC Stadium (Emirates Stadium) • Apsley House • Banqueting House • Beefeater Gin Distillery Tour • Benjamin Franklin House • Best LDN Walks tour around Royal London • Cartoon Museum • Chelsea Cinema • Chelsea FC Stadium Tour • Chelsea Physic Garden • Chislehurst Caves • Churchill Museum & Cabinet War Rooms • City Cruises • The Courtauld Gallery • Curzon Mayfair Cinema • Curzon Soho Cinema • Eltham Palace • Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art • Eton College • Fan Museum • Foundling Museum • Guards Museum • Handel House Museum • Household Cavalry Museum • HMS Belfast • Imperial War Museum London • Jason’s Canal Boat Trip • Jewel Tower • Kew Gardens • KIA Oval • London Bicycle Tour Company • London Canal Museum • London Motor Museum • London Museum of Water and Steam • London Legends Walk • London Transport Museum • London Wetland Centre • Lord’s Cricket Ground • Monument • Museum of Brands, Packaging, and Advertising • Museum of London Docklands (with guidebook) • Museum of Rugby • National Gallery • National Theatre Backstage Tours • Old Operating Theatre Museum • Pollocks Toy Museum • Queen’s Gallery • Queen’s Ice & Bowl • Renoir Cinema • Royal Albert Hall • Royal Mews • Royal Observatory Greenwich • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre • The British Museum (entry to one exhibition)  • The Postal Museum • Tour & Exhibition • Southwark Cathedral • Tate Britain • Tate Modern • Wellington Arch • Wembley Stadium Tours • Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House • Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum • Wimbledon Tour Experience

If you’re looking for an easy, stress-free way to plan your trip to London, this itinerary is a must! It walks you through what to do each day and provides interactive maps and detailed information along with tour and accommodation recommendations. This guide has helped thousands of people plan trips to London with ease.

I’ve created this interactive map for you to use. There are 7 layers or “routes,” with every day being a separate layer. You can open this up on your phone into Google Maps. 

Day 1: London’s Main Sights

Day 1 of this London itinerary will show you around London’s main sites so that you can be sure you see all the important things from the beginning! You may be tired and jet-lagged today, but it’s important to push through! If you sadly, only have one day in London, I recommend starting with this day’s itinerary and then fitting in as much as you can from day 2. 

It’s your first day in London, be sure to start it off right with a full English breakfast. What’s that you may ask? Well, besides a walking heart attack, it’s usually bacon, sausage, eggs, beans, tomatoes, mushroom and toast, and no one dishes out a great no-frills full English like the Regency Cafe.

After you’ve gorged yourself, you’ll have a half-mile to walk to Westminster Abbey. So much history is found here. If you are interested in British history or literature at all, you will love this!

Walk around the corner just one block away. There’s not a more iconic sight in London than Big Ben! “Big Ben” is actually the name of the bell inside the tower and the tower is called the Elizabeth Tower. But everyone lovingly refers to this part of the houses of parliament as “Big Ben” and it’s one of those iconic pieces of architecture that does not disappoint in real life. The best views are found on Westminster Bridge. Watch out for selfie sticks!

NOTE: Poor Ben is covered in scaffolding for the next 2 years! It’s expected that renovations will be finished in 2021, making this a 5 year project! 

Time to walk across the Westminster Bridge to the London Eye. You’ll get a fantastic view of the city from the top of this 443-foot tall Ferris wheel on London’s Southbank.

Just behind the London Eye you’ll find the Library Lounge in the beautiful Marriott County Hall. Enjoy a filling afternoon tea with fantastic views of the London Eye and Houses of Parliament.

Southbank is a fun area near the London Eye along the Thames with a  roller rink called BUMP, a skate park (seen on Sherlock) and a hot chocolate stand called Beltane & Pop (they “adult” hot chocolates too). You also get the lovely view of the London Eye and Big Ben across Westminster Bridge all lit up at night!

If you’d like the help of a local seeing the main sites of London, consider booking a tour with a true Londoner! 

Day 2: More Main Sights & a Show

After indulging on your Full English Breakfast yesterday, it might be time for something a bit healthier. Try a smoothie or juice at Juice & Public.

Then head over the short distance to Leicester (pronounced Lester) Square, where you’ll find tons of movie theaters, awesome street performers, the cheap theater tickets booth (stop here for tonight’s tickets), the M&M Store and more!

Head on over to Trafalgar Square and hang out with the pigeons in Trafalgar Square and don’t miss the world’s smallest police station!

Stop into the Wolsely for a fancy lunch at this iconic restaurant.

Walk off your delicious lunch to visit the queen at Buckingham Palace. If you time it right you can catch the changing of the guard. You can check the times here . If you’re lucky enough to be in London during the months of August or September, you can tour the staterooms of the palace. 

BOOK TICKETS HERE

Ever wonder the exact address of the Prime Minister? Walk by his front door here.

Walk to Covent Garden to take in the performers and ambiance. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from here. Hang out here until it’s time for your show.

Most of the theaters will be around this area. Be sure to get your cheap tickets in the morning at Leicester Square. SEE WHAT’S PLAYING HERE

Day 3: Palaces, Parks, Museums

Start your day off at Pret A Manger, which you can find all over the city and offer juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and prepackaged healthy food.

Immerse yourself in British history with this interactive Palace turned museum. You can try on Victoria era clothing and play a game of cards!

This modern Japanese inspired food will be a nice change to all the meat pies and fish and chips you’ll be eating this week. CHECK THE MENU HERE

Walk down the road to the world’s largest mueum of decorative arts and design. The best part? It’s free! If that’s not for you, try out the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum across the street.

Take a little shopping break at this luxury department store. Be sure to head downstairs to the grocery section for snacks. If you go at Christmas time this place is an expensive wonderland.

Wander through Hyde Park and work up an appetite on your way to dinner on the other side of the park.

Indian food is a staple in London. Hit Dishoom London for some beautiful and authentic Indian food! 

If you have time, take this Hidden London Tour with my friend Fabian. Learn interesting history of this amazing city. 

Day 4: Ancient History

It might be time for another full English breakfast, or try something new. This traditional shop serves breakfa st all day, so don’t worry if you get up late.

The Tower of London is not to be missed. See the crown jewels and hang out with the beefeaters! They’re not just tour guides, but decorated veterans and all-around awesome people!

This is one of the best views of Tower Bridge so be sure to get a picture when you’re done at the tower. You can also go to the top of Tower Bridge, which is really amazing. There is a glass floor where you can look down at the River Thames. My kids love this! 

Cross the river either on Tower Bridge or London Bridge next door and wander on over to Borough Market to grab some lunch! There are so many options here, you may have a hard time not trying them all! If you have time, take a market tour with a local and learn about all the amazing food in London! 

After filling up on tasties from Borough Market, waddle on over to Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. You’ll need to take a tour to see the inside of the Globe, or, even better, see a show if you’re there from April-October.

There has been a St. Paul’s church at this site since 300 AD. The church has been burned and rebuilt 3 different times. The current St. Paul’s was the tallest building in London for over 200 years. You can pay to go inside or just walk around the outside, either choice is impressive!

After a one mile walk, treat yourself to a fine meal at London’s oldest restaurant, Rule’s, established in 1798 and frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Charlie Chaplin. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance. BOOK HERE

Day 5: Notting  Hill

  1. daylesford organic.

If you’re looking for a healthy, organic breakfast, this place is fantastic! SEE MENU HERE

This affluent West London district will make you wish you could move into one of the adorable pastel terraced victorian houses and never leave. Wander the streets and take the perfect Instagram picture until you get hungry again. I recommend taking a fun photo tour that will show you all the most beautiful places in Notting Hill! 

Day 6: Harry Potter 

Day 6 of this London itinerary is ALL about Harry Potter! If you’re not a Potterhead, feel free to skip this day, but you’ll honestly still enjoy the tour even if you’re not. The guides discuss a lot of the connections between London and Harry Potter, but you’ll also get a lot of interesting history and information. 

If you’re really into Harry Potter, you may want to add an extra HP day to your London itinerary. Definitely read my guide to Harry Potter London! 

Click Here for Map Harry Potter Tour :

Today is ALL about Harry Potter! If you’re not a fan, you can skip this day, but you’ll still be seeing some awesome sights. Alternately, you can book a Harry Potter walking tour here . 

• Westminster Tube (Closest tube to the Ministry of Magic as seen in The Order of the Phoenix)
• Downing Street (Muggle Prime Minister’s Office and location of communication between the Muggle PM and the wizarding world)
• Horseguards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Staff Entrance as seen in Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Scotland Yard Place/Horse Guards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Visitors entrance as seen in the Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Trafalgar Square (Location of the final Harry Potter film premiere)
• Cecil’s Court (aka Diagon Alley)
• Godwin’s Court (aka Knockturn Alley)
• The Palace Theatre (home to the ‘The Cursed Child’ – the 8th story in the Harry Potter franchise)
• St. Paul’s ( Geometrical Staircase as seen in the Prisoner of Azkaban)
• Millennium Bridge (Rebuilt after the attack by the Death Eaters! (then a walk past Shakespeare’s globe)
• Leadenhall Market
• Finish your day off at King’s Cross Station for Platform 9 3/4 and the Harry Potter Shop . I you want to take pictures pushing your trolley through Platform 9 3/4, I HIGHLY recommend buying the VIP photopass, which will mean you can skip the long photo lines while also pre-paying for your photos. I think it’s so much fun and totally worth a stop on your London itinerary. 

Alternatively, you can also take a visit just outside London to the Harry Potter Studios where you’ll be treated to Butterbeer and be able to see some amazing things from the set of the movies! It’s a special place for sure! 

Day 7: Shopping & High Tea

Start your day off in Brick Lane. Once associated with slums and the scene of the crime for the Jack the Ripper murders, Brick Lane is now an edgy and artistic area. Start your day off with breakfast from either Biegel Bake (most amazing bagels ever) or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to Cereal Killer Cafe and have your pick from hundreds of cereals from around the world in any kind of combination you like. Or have both, I won’t judge!

After you’ve gorged yourself on bagels and cereal, wander around Brick Lane and do some shopping. You never know what you’ll find. Be sure to stop in at Dark Sugars, for some seriously amazing and different chocolate!

It’s up to you if you’d like to do both or just one. Both of these museums are fantastic. If you’re a major Dickens fan, go to the Dickens Museum. It’s small and will only take you about an hour.

This is a no frills chippy, but the fish is good and the chips are crisp!

The Times Square of London, Picadilly Circus is the crossroads of London.

If you want to finish off your trip to London with a bang, book yourself an afternoon tea at the Ritz London, where you’ll be treated like royalty! Make reservations ASAP as they book out quickly! Plan on this for dinner, because those little delicious sandwiches are endless! BOOK HERE

I hope this is the perfect London itinerary for you and that you fall in love with this city as much as I have! What else would you add to this to make it perfect? Email me at [email protected] and let me know!

Be sure to follow my London Pinterest Board for more ideas!

Wanderlust Crew

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The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your First Trip to London

Are you planning your first trip to London?  

This global city is endlessly popular with travelers from all over the world. With its famous landmarks and iconic sights, the number of things to see and do in London can easily excite and overwhelm first-time visitors.

In this post, you’ll find a cheat sheet compiled over 3 separate visits to London packed with information about how to get to London from the airport, where to stay in London, how to get around once you arrive, and best of all,  mapped-out London itinerary planning tips .

Are you ready to make your first trip to London a success? 

How to Plan a Trip to London

It can seem daunting to get started on your London trip plan. It’s a huge city with lots of iconic sights and experiences. In fact, I think it’s often underestimated by travelers who often write to tell me what a great time they had in London and that the city was such a surprise…in a good way!

So, as any good teacher will tell you, start with an outline. In this case, you want to break down each step you’ll need to do to plan a trip to London and then work on filling in all the details.

Start with deciding when you want to visit London and how many days you’ll stay. (I recommend at least 3-4 days.)

Once you know this, you can work on booking your London accommodations. (I recommend staying in a central-ish area within walking distance of a Tube station. Keep reading for more below) The further out you book your London hotel, the more available options you’ll have with competitive pricing.

ProTip: If you have flexibility, you might even look at London flights and hotels first to find the cheapest combination of dates and rates. In this way, you’re letting the deals decide when you travel versus looking for a deal on the dates you need/want to travel.

Once you’ve got the major logistics set, it’s time to work on your London itinerary. (I’ve got specific itinerary ideas below so keep reading!)

At this point in your planning a trip to London, you’ll want to make a list of the London sights and attractions that are your must sees and dos. Then, using the maps below (or Google Maps), start grouping them by area.

One really important thing to know as you plan your London trip is that the city is huge. The distances between places can be far, and with limited days, you don’t want to backtrack or plan activities on opposite ends of the city on the same day.

From here, figure out what can be booked ahead…and actually book it ahead! London is a popular destination. It’s normal for there to be lines at top sights and restaurants that are completely booked.

You can use sightseeing passes like The London Pass (my complete review) to pre-plan and save money. Or you can book individual tickets through a platform like Get Your Guide .

Once you know where you’re staying and what you’ll be doing each day, you can round out your London trip planning by looking at the Tube Map to orient yourself and decide how you’ll get from the airport to the city center. (More tips on this below!)

What to See and Do on Your First Trip to London

This London trip planner is set up in different sections to help you plan a trip to London from start to finish. The first part helps you get ideas about how to plan your days in London with landmarks, attractions, museums, markets, and activities in a logistically sensible way.

You want to maximize your time in London without backtracking or zigzagging around the city. These ideas can also help you piece together a complete day because not all of them require a full day.

You also note that I’ve included the Tube stops for individual attractions. This is to help you in case you visit these places outside of the order I’ve suggested in the Google Map for each itinerary idea.

After these itinerary ideas for planning your trip to London, you’ll find tips and helpful information so you can navigate the city confidently.

Are you ready to plan your trip to London?

London Itinerary Planning Idea #1 – History Buffs and Foodies

Tower of London – Tower Hill Tube Stop – Circle and District Lines

The  Tower of London  with its crown jewels is an absolute must with its thick, ominous walls, dark past, resident black ravens, and informative Beefeaters. The Tower and the nearby Tower Bridge sit stalwartly as a link to the past when Kings and Queens sent prisoners to “think” about their choices and to wait for the inevitable… execution.

The Tower of London was the inhospitable home to infamous gangsters, spies, Dukes, Bishops, Princes, and even Queens!

Undoubtedly the most famous Queen of them all was the ill-fated Anne Boleyn. The Tower of London is where Henry the VIII’s executioner beheaded her on charges of adultery and conspiracy, however, Henry actually blamed her for not producing a male heir.

Today, visiting the Tower of London is like stepping back in time. The daily traditions involving this historic castle have continued for hundreds of years. The resident Beefeaters live at the Tower of London and maintain the rituals and routines of the past. But they also offer free tours (once inside) and comically share their vast Tower of London knowledge.

These tours begin every 30 minutes starting at 10:00 a.m. and finishing with the last tour at 2:30 p.m.

Pro Tip:  Arrive in the morning when the Tower first opens. It becomes quite crowded later in the day. Use your  London Pass  to get Fast Track Entry and bundled savings when compared to buying attraction tickets individually.

Tower Bridge & Borough Market – London Bridge Tube Stop – Northern and Jubilee Lines

After a morning at the Tower of London, time your escape for lunch at  Borough Market . It’ll be easiest to walk from the Tower of London. Walk across Tower Bridge instead of London Bridge as shown on the map above. The walk is a bit longer than crossing London Bridge, but historic Tower Bridge is a sight in its own right.

You can tour the Victorian-era engine rooms, as well as climb to the bridge’s upper walkways for gorgeous views over London and the River Thames. Get your Tower Bridge ticket in advance or use The London Pass to visit the bridge.

You can also cross the River Thames with a river bus using your Tube Oyster Card (more on these below) from Tower Pier to London Bridge City Pier.

Once at Borough Market, the market lanes are lined with food and grocers selling every imaginable food item. It’s a great place to sample a variety of foods from all types of global cuisines. Not to mention, no London trip is complete without taking advantage of the city’s amazing international food scene!

From famous falafel to perfectly spiced Indian food, huge skillets of paella, and savory British pies from Pieminster, you’ll be thankful to visit with an empty stomach on your first trip to London and every time you return like I do!

Restaurants and cafes fill the upstairs level and the surrounding streets (in case you’d prefer to sit rather than sample and roam) making this Southwark neighborhood a foodie’s delight.

ProTip: From Borough Market, you’re just a 5-minute walk to The Shard , London’s tallest glass skyscraper to see the highest views over the city. If you have it, you can use your London Pass for access. Be sure to follow the pass instructions to pre-reserve a time.

London Itinerary Planning Idea #2 – Royalty and High Tea

Westminster Abbey – Westminster Tube Stop – Jubilee Line

Coming out of Westminster Station, you’ll immediately be in the shadow of Big Ben and London’s iconic Parliament Building. You can walk back onto the Westminster Bridge to capture fuller photos of these London landmarks. If you’re lucky, you just might get a classic shot with a red doubledecker bus!

Continue on to  Westminster Abbey , just a couple of minutes walking from Big Ben. Westminster Abbey is open to visitors Monday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m until 3:30 p.m. The Abbey is closed on Sundays so keep this in mind when planning your London trip.

Use your  London Pass  to gain access to Westminster. Once inside, admire the architecture and the Abbey’s gorgeous choir room. Westminster is also the final resting place of numerous kings, queens, and dignitaries. You can see the monuments in their honor, as well as learn about their place in history.

If you’re a fan of the Royals, you’ll be visiting the spot where Kate and William were married.

Pro Tip:  If you want to take a ride on the London Eye , it can be included with the stops you make in and around Big Ben because it’s just a short walk over the bridge you see in the photo below. Avoid the lines by choosing the fast-track ticket option. It’s also quite popular to depart from the Westminster Pier for a cruise along the River Thames to take in the sights of London from the water.

History buffs won’t want to miss the Churchill War Rooms. They’re not far from Westminster Abbey, along the edge of St. James’s Park. These rooms served as the secret headquarters for Churchill during WW2. The rooms have been preserved just as they were during the war and give a fascinating look at how Churchill operated and made decisions during this dark time in history.

If your trip to London is 3 days or less and it’s your first visit, this WW2 museum may not be a top priority. But if you or a travel companion is interested in visiting WW2 sights and museums in Europe, The Churchill War Rooms are a great way to divert from the typical first time in London sights.

Buckingham Palace-Green Park Tube Stop-Jubilee, Victoria, & Piccadilly Lines

Next, make your way to  Buckingham Palace  where the  Changing of the Guards  happens.

The ceremony is all pomp and fanfare. The King’s Guard outside the castle has been on watch for hours and the new guard comes to take over in grand style! A marching brigade of guards along with a mounted cavalry and a marching band head up The Mall and through the palace gates.

This ceremony draws a crowd so it’s best to arrive ahead of time so that you can get yourself in a position to see the fanfare. I’ve watched from both the gates of Buckingham Palace and the Queen Victoria Monument directly opposite the palace gates.

You’ll have to choose the location you want because it’s typically too crowded to move from place to place. To get a spot along the fence at Buckingham Palace, be prepared to arrive up to an hour early and wait.

If this is the case, you also may need to reverse the order and visit Westminster Abbey after so that you can stake out your Changing of the Guard spot in the morning.

Pro Tip:  Check the  Changing of the Guard schedule  before you go to make sure the ceremony is planned for the day you intend to visit.

Hyde Park – Hyde Park Corner Tube Stop – Piccadilly Line

When the ceremony is finished, keep those royal juices flowing for a stroll around  Hyde Park . It’s one of the largest parks in London, as well as one of the Royal Parks. Enjoy its monuments, bridges, fountains, gardens, and lake, including the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

Finish up with a classic afternoon tea experience at  The Dorchester Hotel .

No doubt, it’s a luxurious splurge, but after having experienced life as a royal, it’s the perfect way to properly finish the experience. From finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, sweets, and of course, tea, you’ll have had a quintessential London outing.

Alternatively, if you plan afternoon tea for another day, you might want to visit London’s Natural History Museum or Kensington Palace on the other end of Hyde Park.

The latter has been a royal residence for hundreds of years and was where Princess Diana lived with Princes William and Harry. Today, you can tour the apartments and staterooms and see the sunken gardens where there is a statue of Princess Diana commemorating the 20th anniversary of her death.

While the Natural History Museum displays animal specimens, dinosaurs, and exhibitions about the history of the natural world and the people who evolved in it.

If you intend to walk into Hyde Park and casually make your way towards Kensington Palace or the Natural History Museum, the walk will be broken up by the time spent in the park.

Otherwise, if your aim is to get to either of these sights without a long walk, use the London underground. The Queensway stop along the Central line is the closest to Kensington Palace and the South Kensington stop along the Circle and District lines is near to the Natural History Museum.

London Itinerary Planning Idea #3 – Architecture, Theatre, & Art

St. Paul’s Cathedral – St. Paul’s Tube Stop – Central Line

Start off at  St. Paul’s Cathedral  to admire this Anglican Church’s architecture. You can explore the crypt or head in the opposite direction and climb the dome’s 528 steps for spectacular panoramic London views.

If you have it, entry is included with your London Pass .

Take your time crossing the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge on your way to the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. This is a great spot to watch boat traffic along the River Thames.

Tate Modern & The Globe Theatre-Blackfriars Tube Stop-Circle & District Lines

These 2 London attractions are just next to one another.

The  Tate Modern  has a vast permanent collection of modern art by the likes of Henri Matisse and Jackson Pollock, as well as temporary exhibitions. There are beautiful views looking back on St. Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames, as well.

It’s free to enter the museum and there’s no need to book ahead, unless there is a specific exhibit you’d like to see that requires a reserved space.

The nearby  Globe Theatre  is a replica of Shakespeare’s original which burned in a fire many years ago after the thatched roof was ignited during a production of Henry VIII.

For your first trip to London, you’ll want to use your  London Pass  to tour the theater during the day and hear about its historic past. The Globe also has evening performances during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The ambiance of the open-air theater makes for a fantastic night out!

Pro Tip:  Check times to coordinate visits to both the Tate Modern and The Globe in a way that lets you see one after the other. The Globe performance tickets sell out so purchase them in advance, especially if you want to see a play on a specific date.

London Itinerary Planning Idea #4 – Artifacts, Landmarks, and Shopping

The British Museum – Tottenham Court Tube Stop – Central & Northern Lines

No trip to London is complete without a stop at The   British Museum . The art and artifacts on display are open free to the public beginning at 10:00 a.m. each day. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, sculptures from the Parthenon, and a vast Egyptian collection including mummies.

It’s worth checking for any special, limited-time exhibits during your stay. If there’s one you’d like to see, it’s worth buying tickets online or at the museum when you first arrive.

After the museum, spend the afternoon strolling through  Covent Garden  or head over to  Soho  and  Oxford Street  for a shopper’s paradise. Covent Garden is in London’s West End, home to theaters, restaurants, and shops. You’re sure to find anything you’d want to buy from the numerous chain stores, boutiques, and markets.

Pro Tip:  There are many classic London pubs in these neighborhoods. If you haven’t had a plate of fish and chips yet, now’s the time. You can also join a historical pub walking tour to visit some of London’s most iconic pubs.

Leicester Square – Leicester Square Tube Stop – Piccadilly & Northern Lines

Make your way to  Leicester Square  and the heart of London’s Theatre District. It’s super touristy here. Think Times Square-esque…a place where you take a few photos before moving on.

But if you plan to see a musical or a play later (and you certainly should!),  get your discounted tickets at the TKTS booth right in the square for performances that day or night.

There’s crossover between shows in London and New York’s Broadway district. Sometimes, you can even catch a performance in London before it heads to New York City.

Trafalgar Square – Charing Cross Tube Stop – Bakerloo & Northern Lines

Finish your walk at  Trafalgar Square . This iconic London crossroads has monuments, historic buildings, museums, and street performers. It’s an absolute beehive of activity and perfect for taking more classic London photos complete with red double-decker buses passing by on the streets in and around the square.

With any luck, you’ll have time to check out the  National Gallery  right in Trafalgar Square which houses famous paintings by the likes of Vermeer, Monet, Rembrandt, Cezanne, and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Best of all, it’s free to visit, and you can use your  London Pass  Hop On Hop Off double-decker bus ticket to reposition yourself closer to your hotel when you’re done.

London Itinerary Planning Idea #5 – Harry Potter Fans

Harry Potter Studio Tour Meeting Point – Victoria Station – Circle, District & Victoria Lines

Are you traveling with a wannabe wizard dying for a Hogwarts adventure?

Plan a visit to the  Harry Potter and Warner Brothers Studio . Buses leave from Central London and travel to the magical sets of the famed movie and book series. The closest tube stop to the meeting point is Victoria Station. From there, it’s just a few minutes on foot.

You’ll have 4 hours to see places like the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s Office, Diagon Alley, and more! Plus, get to see some of the most famous props and the costumes worn by Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

If you’ve wanted to visit Platform 9 ¾, ride the Hogwarts Express, and attempt to ride a broomstick, then you definitely don’t want to miss escaping the world of Muggles for just a bit on your visit to London!

ProTip: If you want to sprinkle some Harry Potter into your London trip but don’t want to commit a full day to the experience, this Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour is a popular alternative.

Out-of-Town Must-Sees on your First Trip to London

From London, many parts of Britain and the U.K. are easily reachable by train. This makes it possible to visit a couple of popular sites with even just a half day’s worth of time.

Trains run from London to both  Windsor Castle  and  Hampton Court Palace . From their respective train stations, it’s just a few minutes on foot to reach the entry points.

The exquisite staterooms at Windsor Castle are open to the public when the King is not in residence. These rooms are some of the most spectacular castle rooms you’ll see anywhere in the world.

St. George’s Chapel, within the grounds of Windsor Castle, is the final resting spot of Henry VIII and several other Kings and Queens. It’s also where Meghan and Harry were married and the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II.

Hampton Court Palace is full of Tudor history, as it was a regular stop for Henry VIII and his royal court. The palace creates a historical experience by revealing the inner workings of how the palace operated in its heyday. It’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting and well-preserved looks at Tudor history, as well as what life was like during this period.

Look out for King Henry VIII himself, as visitors can watch the King interact with Anne Boleyn or flirt with his soon-to-be next wife, Jane Seymour. Leave some time for the palace’s gardens and maze.

Pro Tip:  Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace are both included with the  London Pass . Get Fast Track Entry at Hampton Court to maximize your time and avoid any entry line.

If you have extra days in your itinerary, consider a London day trip to:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath
• The Cotswolds
• Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) & the Filming Locations

If you’re planning a trip to England, rent a car and drive into the English countryside when your time in London is done. I’ve done this to spend time exploring places like Stratford-Upon-Avon , the Cotswolds villages , and Warwick Castle .

It’s a perfect way to add on to an England itinerary and explore more of what the country has to offer beyond London.

Best Area to Stay in London

Where to stay in London is one of the most frequently asked questions for anyone planning a trip. It’s understandable. You want to be somewhere conveniently located, safe, and within your travel budget.

London’s neighborhoods and districts each have their own unique charm and flavor. And while some might say you should absolutely stay in the heart of the most touristy areas of the city, I think the most important thing when choosing where to stay in London is to  stay somewhere with convenient access to the Tube. 

You shouldn’t be hesitant to book a hotel or rental accommodation that’s a few Tube stops away from popular attractions. You can truly get nearly anywhere in London very quickly by using the underground train system.

That being said, you don’t want to stay too far from the heart of London, either. The city is big and the Tube rides from London’s outer neighborhoods can take upwards of an hour back to the center.

Ideally, you want to find a London hotel that matches your travel budget, close to a Tube station, in a relatively center-ish location. Example neighborhoods include Seven Dials, Covent Garden, Westminster, Soho, and near Southwark along the south bank.

Below, I’ve shared a couple of hotels where I’ve stayed. They’re in different budget categories and neighborhoods, and they have convenient Tube access.

I’ve had excellent hotel points and paid stays at several London hotels including the ones listed below.

Radisson Blu Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel  – The hotel is located in the Seven Dials neighborhood near Covent Garden, the West End’s Theatre district, pubs, and my favorite Indian restaurant, Dishoom. Rooms are a classic modern boutique style for which Radisson Blu hotels are known.

Holiday Inn Express London-Southwark  – Just a 10-minute walk to Borough Market, the Tate Modern, or the Globe Theatre, with a Tube station nearby. This hotel is on the south bank of the city not far from the Southwark Tube station.

London Rental Accommodations

During my travels, I’ve also opted for apartment and home rentals. You feel more like a local and oftentimes can save money because you’re able to prepare your own breakfast or share the overall cost with family members or friends. Not to mention, you can find truly unique places to stay with awesome views or even discover a new neighborhood!

London is the perfect destination to consider a rental accommodation over a hotel because hotels aren’t cheap(!) and London is well-connected with its underground trains.

My go-to place to search for rental accommodations is Plum Guide . They vet the properties on their site using “Home Critics” and only select the best properties in a variety of price brackets. Plum Guide even offers phone support 24/7 should you need any help or have questions.

How Many Days to Spend in London

As with most places, you can spend an extended period of time and still not see and do everything a fantastic city like London has to offer.

If it’s your first time in London, you likely will focus on the most popular attractions and experiences that interest you. For this, you’ll need 3-4 days to explore and make use of the London itinerary ideas in this guide.

With 4+ days in London, you can also use a day to visit a popular sight just outside of London or even  get off the beaten path .

London is a great city to explore. It’s also the perfect jumping-off point for future trips to Europe. It’s not complicated to add a couple of days in London as a stopover before continuing on to another destination in Europe.

Arrival into London

The  Heathrow Express  is a quick and efficient way to get into the city from London Heathrow Airport. The train leaves every 15 minutes and arrives in just about the same time to Paddington Station.

You can book your tickets online or using the Heathrow Express App. Not only will this save you any hassle at the airport, but you’ll also save money. Heathrow Express prices are lower the further you book in advance.

Gatwick Airport also has an  express train  which arrives at Victoria Station. Trains run every 15 minutes and take a half-hour to reach London.

Similarly, the express train from Gatwick offers considerable discounts for booking online and ahead of time.

The airports also have commuter trains, buses, and taxis to get you into London. Except for the taxis, these options are less expensive than the express trains mentioned above but do take more time.

You can check prices and schedules for  Southern Railways  from Gatwick to compare.

In addition, from London Heathrow, you can take the Tube. Trains along the Picadilly and Elizabeth lines connect terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. The ride takes between 45-50 minutes to reach central London but is less expensive than the Heathrow Express.

From Paddington and Victoria Stations in London, you’ll have access to the  London Tube  with lines spreading across the city, as well as a taxi queue at ground level. Most taxis take credit cards but be aware of the occasional cash-only sign in a taxi’s window.

Pro Tip:  My recommendation is to use an express train or the Tube (from/to Heathrow), for a quick and easy trip to London’s city center or even directly to your hotel. Avoid London traffic and expensive taxi rides.

If you’d prefer to arrange transportation and/or avoid taking the trains, consider booking a car with Welcome Pickups  to transfer to the city. Although I’ve only used the trains to get from Heathrow to London, I’ve used Welcome Pickups in several other European cities and always had a great experience.

This will be a much more affordable option compared to a London taxi. The price will be a flat rate, as opposed to paying based on the taxi’s metered fare which can get quite high with even the smallest amount of traffic

How to get around London

London is very pedestrian-friendly and you’re bound to do a good amount of walking during your London trip. Remember, cars are on the opposite side of the road compared to the U.S., so you need to LOOK RIGHT when crossing the road. When in doubt, just look both ways before crossing.

Along the Thames, the riverwalk is a clear path connected with several bridges to help you cross to the other side as frequently as you need.

In addition, London’s Tube (subway) is reliable, easy to navigate, and stretches across the city. The announcements are clear and the lines are identified with colors and names, like Central, District, and Piccadilly. Given how big London is, you’ll need to rely on public transportation to maximize the time you have rather than always walking long distances.

As with getting to London from the airport, taxis are expensive in London and get even pricier when traffic is heavy. It’s best to go underground to save time, money, and patience.

Visitors staying for a few days can get an Oyster Card for easy use and refills in the Tube. Your Oyster Card is good for your first trip to London and every return trip thereafter!

London Pass  purchases come with the option to add a visitor’s Oyster Card. I would skip this option because the card takes several weeks to be physically mailed to you. You can also save more money by simply using a regular Oyster Card or the Tube’s contactless payment system because it will cap how much you’ll pay each day automatically.

Use a contactless credit card to pay to enter the Tube, as well as a mobile device like a smartphone with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. Just be sure you’re using a card with no foreign transaction fees.

A few things to keep in mind when paying to access the Tube.

• Use the same card or device when you touch in and out at the yellow card readers. The London Tube caps how much you’ll pay. So, you can ride as much as you want in a day or a week and you’ll never pay more than the capped price.
• If you don’t use the same card or device, the Tube card readers won’t be able to accurately cap the amount you pay.
• If you’re using a device like a smartphone, be sure you have enough battery power. You need to touch in and out of the Tube. You also need to use your phone all day otherwise the system can’t cap the amount you pay.
• You can pay for another person if you are traveling together. (They will need to touch out of the Tube and can’t do it without your card or device.) You’ll need to pay for yourself with a separate card or device.

London Tips for Your First Trip

As you plan things to do in London and where to stay in London, also take into consideration the tips below. They’ve come from 3 separate trips to London and a lot of travel experience overall.

The best time to visit London is during spring and fall.

Visiting London in the shoulder/winter season months, April-June and September-November, are the perfect combination of moderate to cool temperatures and fewer visitors. January to March can also be a good time to visit if you’re not bothered by colder temperatures and prefer to visit during the least busy time of year.

Summer can be very busy, making the next London travel tip even that much more important.

Book as many things as possible in advance.

Not only will things like the London Pass or advance fast-track tickets help you save time and money, but it’ll eliminate indecisiveness about what to do while you’re in London and who to trust when you eventually buy the tickets, tours, and passes you want.

Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

London isn’t a budget destination. The last thing you want to add to the currency exchange are fees from your credit card once you get your bill back home.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout London and also remove the necessity to convert and carry large amounts of dollars to British pounds.

ProTip: When paying by credit card or using your debit card to withdraw money at an ATM, always pay in the local currency (Pounds) and/or decline the currency conversion. This is a sneaky way to convert your money at a less-than-desirable rate.

Wear comfortable walking shoes.

I know this seems obvious but it truly can’t be understated. As someone who lives in New York City, I can always recognize a visitor who’s regretting his/her shoe choice.

These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. I wear them walking around New York City and they’re a staple I pack for nearly every trip I take. You can walk miles without any irritation or blisters.

Check for service charges.

Tipping isn’t obligatory in London. In fact, service charges are often added to bills at restaurants and pubs. That being said, if you’re happy with your service, you always leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.

Pack the right electrical converters.

Most commonly, you’ll need a Type G converter to plug into the outlets throughout the U.K. I’ve encountered one place where this wasn’t the case. So, it’s smart to also have a universal adapter with USB ports, too.

London Trip Planner FAQs

How do i start planning a trip to london.

To plan a trip to London, first, decide how many days you’ll spend in the city. Then, book your hotel. You’ll find more options and competitive pricing the further in advance you book. After this, plan your London itinerary. Make a list of the sights and activities you want to see and do. Then, group them by area to logically plan what to do without backtracking. Be sure to book ahead as many things as possible to save time and to ensure you can visit places on the days that make sense for your London itinerary.

How many days should I plan for London?

As you plan a trip to London, you’ll need at least 3-4 days to comfortably see the city’s top sights and attractions. London is a very large city with an endless number of things to see and do. You can easily plan a trip to London for a week and have plenty to fill your itinerary.

What time of year is best to go to London?

The absolute best months for a perfect combination of weather and number of visitors is from April to June and September through November. January to March can also be a good time to visit London because fewer people are visiting during this time. Summers come with big crowds and long lines.

What is the best area to stay in London?

The best area to stay in London is in the heart of the city, especially if you’re visiting London for the first time, and within walking distance of a Tube station. These include neighborhoods like Seven Dials, Covent Garden, Westminster, Soho, and along the south bank near the Southwark area.

Where should I go on my first trip to London?

For your first London trip, plan to see the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the British Museum, Covent Garden, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and the iconic view of Big Ben and Parliament from Westminster Bridge. You should also plan to have afternoon tea, eat at Borough Market, go to a play or musical, and glimpse London from above at the London Eye or the Shard.

First Trip to London – Bottom Line

You have chosen a fantastic city to visit, full of important landmarks, historic sights, good food, and fun experiences. With some advance planning, you’ll arrive in London prepared with your itinerary and know-how to navigate the city confidently for an unforgettable trip.

So, what questions do you have about your first trip to London or about planning a London itinerary?

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76 thoughts on “the ultimate cheat sheet for your first trip to london”.

I have been to London several times, but I found your guide and itineraries very helpful!

I’m so glad, Chrysoula! Thanks for reading. 🙂

Such a great guide! I’ve been to nearly 50 countries and still not the UK, so I’ll have to remember to come back to this article when I finally make it to London 🙂

Thanks, Tamara! 50 countries is quite an accomplishment! Awesome. Glad the guide will be useful when you make it to London. 🙂

Somehow I wish I’ve read this post before my first trip to London. Then I wouldn’t have skipped many experiences listed here) Thank you for putting this up! I’ve pinned it as well (maybe I’ll visit London again, then I’ll need it for sure)

Thanks for reading and sharing on Pinterest, Natalia. 🙂 Here’s to hoping you make it back to London soon!

Love the Pro Tops plus how you broke each day down into categories. What a great way to see London! I also like how you included things to see if it is your first time there. Going anywhere for the first time can be so overwhelming!

Especially in a big place like London, Bryanna. It’s nice to break it up and make the most of your time.

You made me want to visit London again! Love the way you divided the itinerary with themes and suggestions for good food. London is such a huge city and planning a trip there for the first time can be overwhelming, you just make it so easy! Cheers,

Thanks, Natalie! Sometimes, it’s just easier to work on trip planning in small chunks. 😉

I’ve been to London a few times, but I’ve never made it to the Windsor Castle or the Hampton Court Palace. There is just so much to do in the city and its surroundings, but you’ve highlighted the must-sees in a very comprehensive and informative post. I’d love to go back and take more advantage of the free museums, especially the National Gallery!

Next trip, Erika, take some time for Windsor Castle and/or Hampton Court Palace. They’re well worth your time. 🙂

Wish I had your cheat-sheet on m first trip to London! You certainly covered all the hot spots and then some. I can’t wait to go back and hit the places I missed.

Thanks, Sue. A return trip to London is always a good idea. 🙂

Loved your tips! I’ve pinned and will reference during my London trip planning. Can you share a bit more about the oyster card?

Thanks, Amanda! I’m so glad the post is helpful for planning your London trip. The oyster card is a plastic card you can use for quick and easy entry to the London’s metro, buses, and many commuter trains. The card is 5 pounds to buy, after which you load some money onto it. The fare you’ll pay for a metro ride with the oyster card will be cheaper than if you had simply purchased a single ticket for the ride. The Oyster card also caps off what you’d pay in a day making sure you never pay more than had you bought a day pass travel card. Hope that helps! 🙂

I love the addition of the pro tips, especially times of day best to visit. I do love London, but timed a few things wrong, ending up in bigger crowds than I like.

Thanks, Rhonda. I certainly know that feeling of being in a crowd and wanting to be anyplace but there! Glad the pro tips will help for your next London trip. 🙂

Hi Jackie! Any tips for going to London with a toddler? Going to London this Wednesday and I’m going to use your cheat sheet! Thanks!

Hi Jen! So exciting to hear about your trip. 🙂 I’d definitely do the London Eye, but book tickets ahead of time online to skip the line. The Changing of the Guard with its parade, music, and horses are also toddler-friendly. He’ll get in free to the London underground, but if you don’t want to do that, go for the Hop on Hop off Bus Tour. The pirate-themed Princess Diana Playground in Hyde Park is also supposed to be a big hit. Not sure if he’s too young, but the I’d also look at the Natural History Museum, the National Maritime and/or Transport Museum, and maybe a show like Lion King. If that show is too long, how about The Gruffalo? It’s based on the kids book and is less than an hour long. Let me know if you have any more questions and have a great trip!! 🙂

Awesome, thank you for this! I printed out your cheat sheet & 8′ using it for our guide! Thanks!

Great! Hope you have a fantastic trip, Jen!

I’m actually from London, yes all these places are great, but you haven’t mentioned how expensive they can be. Most museums and art galleries are free and fantastic but eating at fancy hotels is only for the rich! Try to go to restaurants and pubs that are not in the tourist areas and you’ll be much better value for your money. As for traditional fish and chips, there is a great place in Waterloo road called Superfish. It’s the best around and very reasonable. Lots of London Taxi drivers eat there, so you know it’s good!

Hi, Joanne and thanks for the tip about Superfish! It’s so great to get that from a local. Totally agreed about eating in hotels, too expensive. I only splurged on the Dorchester Tea because we wanted to have a fancy afternoon. Thanks again for reading. 🙂

Hi, thank you for your tips. We’re going to London ne te may, my husband and I. Do you recommend Stonehenge ?

Hi Helene, Thanks for reading and commenting. You know, as many times as I have been to London, I have not made it to Stonehenge. To help you, I’m linking to another blog post all about visiting Stonehenge written by a blogger friend of mine. She’s got some great tips. Hope that helps! 🙂

There are some great tips here. I’m planning a trip to London during the high season with a variety of ages from grandmother, 4x 30 year olds, 4 kids between the ages of 8-3, and 2 newborns. Aiaiai. Just trying to get a place to eat together will be challenging. I loved your tips about the Oyster card, and pre-booking tickets, It saves lots of time to book in advance so that you are not waiting in line for tickets, and then waiting in another line for entry. Depending on how early you book it also puts that block of tickets on separate credit card bill instead of all at once. Just a tip from how I travel with all the children and trying to be budget concsious, I usually stop in a local grocery store and grab the 3 (pound, I don’t have the symbol on my keyboard) meal deal, Its filling and usually healthy. If you have any more kid friendly tips I’d love to hear them. Thanks for the guide, I found you on Pintrest, and will make sure to repin.

Thanks for reading, Erin, and for repinning on Pinterest. I appreciate it. 🙂 Sounds like your trip is set to make some amazing multi-generational memories. Thanks for sharing your food tip. London has great parks to make use of when the kids need a break. Hyde Park has paddle boats for rent and a great playground and fountain. St. James Park also has a popular playground. Enjoy your trip!

Do you have more ideas? We will be in London for 10 days. We will do all you mention but we need more?

Hi June, Thanks so much for reading and so exciting about your upcoming trip to London! 🙂 A couple other sites/places I’d recommend is Kensington Palace and if you’re at all a history buff, the Churchill War Rooms. If you’re doing all of that plus these last 2, check out the London Pass to save some money. Also, check out Free Tours by Foot and Sandeman’s free walking tours. If you’re interested in street art and/or learning more about London’s ethnic food scene check out a tour in the Shoreditch neighborhood. With 10 days, you can also plan day trips out of the city if you want. The Cotswolds Warwick Castle , and/or Stratford upon Avon are just a couple of hours drive, as are Stonehenge and Bath. Even Paris is a doable day trip with the Chunnel train taking just 2ish hours. Good luck and enjoy your trip!

Thanks for the tip about the London Pass! We went last year and no one told us about it, and we are going back in October and still want to do many of the activities included in the pass. Sounds like a great value!

Fantastic, Dana. I hope your trip is fantastic and enjoy the London Pass! Thanks so much for reading. 🙂

The best North Indian food is in southall (West London), trains run from Paddington. Brilliant Restaurant highly recommended..

Thanks Preetvan for the tip! 🙂

It’s ravens that you find at the Tower of London, not crows!

Thanks for that! I have no bird ID skills! 🙂

Thanks for your post; definitely adding it to my Pinterest board. I’m heading there for Spring Break with my husband and three teenage girls. We have eight days (flying into Gatwick and out of Paris-CDG). How do you suggest we split the days between London and Paris? And what would your top recommendations be?

Thanks for reading, Sheath. So exciting about your upcoming family trip to London and Paris. Both cities have so much to see and do, it all depends on your interests. You can easily split your time in half, although the Francophile in me says to give yourself an extra day in Paris. Not sure if you’re into theatre, but a night out to see a show in London’s West End is unforgettable. Tower of London, Shakespeares Globe, Borough Market, high tea are all at the top of my London first time list. For Paris, visit the top of Notre Dame in the morning, Arc de Triomphe at dusk, Sainte-Chappelle, Musee de l’Orangerie, and wander through 4th, 5th, and 6th arrondissements for tucked away shops and cafes as a start to your Paris visit. Hope that helps and have soo much fun! 🙂

Thank you for this cheat sheet. Great tips and ideas. My best friend and I are traveling to Europe for our 40th birthdays in March. We are spending about 2 1/2 days in London. It seems you were recommended traveling by way of the tube for most everything. I had been looking at the Hop On and Off Bus before reading your cheat sheet. Would you recommend skipping the bus and just using the tube?

Hi Heather, Thanks for reading. London is such a great city for a friends birthday trip! I would still recommend the Tube. The traffic in London can be horrible and Hop on Hop off buses can get stuck in it with the rest of the vehicles. With 2 1/2 days, getting underground will help you maximize your time getting from place to place. Enjoy your trip! -Jackie

Do you have any recommendations for visiting in December (just prior to Christmastime)? My family and I will be arriving on a Monday and departing on Thursday (for Germany), flying in and out of Stansted. It will be myself, my husband, and our 2 kids, ages 20 and (will turn while we’re in London) 17 year old (boy and girl). My husband is normally into things like the museums, but he’s the type that would need several days in any one museum (he literally reads each and every plaque, and doesn’t miss a display, LOL). So, because we’re limited on time, we’ll probably skip museums until another time. My husband and I are doing Harry Potter/WB Studios on Tuesday (I’m a big fan, kids not so much) and we’re letting them go off on their own. Will definitely be getting Oyster Cards.

Any other recommendations, especially since will will be cold weather? Thanks!

Thanks for reading, Cammi. I’d definitely try and see a show, be it one in the west end or a special Christmas themed show or concert. I’d also like to see the seasonal attractions like the winter wonderland in Hyde Park and all the lights around the city. I’m a cold weather gal so I love to get outside. But just in case of super cold weather, I’d have 1 museum in mind just as a back up if you need to warm up. Not sure if your hubby has seen the Churchill War rooms not far from Westminster, but I highly recommend. Enjoy your trip!

My husband and I leave for our first ever trip abroad, London, in less than a week! The ironic and very strange thing is that as soon as I read the title of our article was that the authors last name is Sills. That is MY maiden name and some of my father’s family still lives in England! Dad himself, Charles Sills, was actually born in London! We will be visiting some Sills relatives in Suffolk on our trip!

Anyway, thanks for the great articles!

Sincerely, Elizabeth (Sills) Hurd

Hi Elizabeth, Thanks for reading and omg! My maiden name is Sills as well! I have done a ton of family research but always run into a dead end trying to figure out more about the George Sills who came over from England to the U.S. back in the 1800s. That’s so amazing you’ll be combining your tip with some ancestry travel. I hope you have a great trip and enjoy meeting your relatives! Thanks again for reading the blog. 🙂 Jackie

Nice tips overall. Anyway, thanks for the great articles!

Thanks for reading, Brandy. 🙂

I must say this is an ultimate post for travelers who are looking for trip to London at affordable cost. You have covered everything in your post such as best places to stay, which is really helpful.

Thanks for reading, Sandeep. Happy travels to London!

Your blog is amazing – thanks for all the incredible ideas. We are considering going to London for Spring Break (March 8-17, 2019). Would you recommend going at his time ….will the weather be agreeable? Thanks, Stacey

Thanks for reading, Stacey, and for your kind words. So, it’ll likely still be chilly, but I’d say yes, go! Take this with the knowledge that I live in NYC and walk around in all kinds of weather and that I love visiting Europe in the off-season. I’d rather have cooler temps and fewer crowds. Plus, with London’s Underground/Subway, you can so easily pop underground and get around if you needed to escape the weather for a bit. Not to mention with delicious tea, scones, English pies, and Indian food, there’s plenty to warm you up! 🙂 Thanks again for reading.

very informative blog love to read it. i got so many new ideas about London. Thanks for sharing and it will help me during my visit to London. [LINK EDITED OUT]

Thanks for reading, Mickey. Enjoy London. 🙂

Love this guide and the one for Portugal also. Now if I could print it and store it in my travel file folder for easier access when I go to London. Thanks for writing these detailed trip reports – they are extremely helpful

Thanks do much for reading, Jane. You can download the London cheat sheet to help with your travels. 🙂

Going to the Harry Potter Studios by bus from Central London is the silliest thing to do. It takes too long AND you can only stay at the studios until the time your bus would take you back (about 4 hours) – not enough time for a true Harry Potter fan. It is fastest and easiest to go by train from Euston Station to Watford Junction (Oyster can be used) and takes about 30minutes. The studio has buses at Watford Junction to take you there – it takes just about 10 minutes. We stayed over 7 hours at the studios – my kids would start a riot if we had to leave after some 4 hours only!

Thanks for reading, Deesi! And great tips! Appreciate you sharing. 🙂

Your blog is amazing. How do I download the cheat sheet??

Thank you ~Alison

Thanks so much for reading, Alison. All you need to do is fill in the fields on the cheat sheet sign up box. It’ll get sent to you. 🙂 So glad the blog has been helpful for you.

If you have enough time you should certainly consider Kew Gardens and Greenwich. You can take the clipper down the river to Greenwich. Also Kenwood is free to visit and set in beautiful grounds on Hampstead Heath. Don’t pay to go up the Shard. Book the free tickets for Skygarden three weeks ahead. Or go up the tower at Tate Modern. Children like all these places but as other people have said the parks are lovely and all different. It’s lovely to see this thread still working and growing after such a long time. Well done!!!

Thanks for reading and sharing your London tips, Marian! I didn’t know that about the Shard!

The Dorchester is indeed a great hotel, but the very best Afternoon Tea has to be the Ritz.

Thanks for reading and sharing, David. I have heard great things about the afternoon tea at the Ritz. I’ll have to try it next time I’m in London. 🙂

Thank you for sharing this info about London. I am planning to visit in a neaxt month.

Thanks for reading, Alina. Have fun in London. 🙂

Amazing. you have told very easy and splendid ways for exploring London. London is my favourite place to travel and for food too. I love the food Enjoy!

Thanks for reading, Amy. Glad you had great travels to London. 🙂

My niece and I want to go to London. We’ve considered a tour group, but the itinerary is limited, I enjoyed reading your cheat sheet. It was interesting, and we got very excited at the thought of actually visiting the sites, Have you ever traveled there in December? I am a teacher and my big break is in the month of December, I don’t want to go and freeze! The travel dates would be between December 14th and December 24th. Any tips would be appreciated. Thank you.

Rebecca and Brooke

Thanks for reading, Rebecca and Brooke. I haven’t been to London in the winter but I’ve been to many other cities in Europe in winter like Paris, Prague, Budapest, Munich, and more, also during my winter school breaks! I’m probably not the most objective person on this as I live in NYC and walk around outside all winter long. But I love European cities around Christmas. Yes, it’s chilly. But if you dress right the charm and the ambiance is unforgettable. I’d highly recommend a London Christmas visit! If you want some freedom to explore mixed with a few organized activities, plan a couple of day tours instead of something more comprehensive. The London Pass is also a great way to see what’s popular while saving money by bundling sightseeing costs. Hope this helps and you have a great trip! 😉

Thank you so much. We are moving ahead with our plans. I agree, if you dress appropriately, the weather will not be a factor.. Again, I really learned a lot from your cheat sheet and have read it many times.

Thanks for reading, Rebecca and Brooke. 🙂 So glad to hear the cheat sheet was helpful. I hope you have a wonderful trip to London.

Heathrow express!! Saved me so much time! So glad I read this.

Thanks for reading, Scott. Yep, the Heathrow Express makes things super easy! 🙂

Thanks for informative sharing. I must say that your shared information is very useful for me as well as other readers.

Glad to hear it, William. Thanks for reading.

Hello Jackie, I am at the beginning of planning a second Girls Trip to London, and the country side of England. The first was with a group of high school girls friends,(tons of fun) and this one will be with all my sister in laws. Both groups are in their early 60’s. I appreciated the link to the GO transportation site. I like the idea of a van to haul us all to the hotel from Heathrow. There will be six of us in this up coming trip. There were only four on the high school trip. We all squeezed into one cab, and shared the cost. I don’t think we can squeeze six ladies and luggage into a cab, so the van idea sounds good. I suggested a cab for the HS group, knowing it is the more expensive way to get from the airport. I knew we would be sharing the cost AND also with the age of the group, didn’t think we (or I ) would want to be dragging our luggage in and out of tube trains. They were all ok with the idea of a cab. Also one thing I tell anyone I know who is on their way over, WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!!! I know they aren’t always the most fashionable, but gee, your feet will thank you at the end of the day. No new shoes that haven’t been wore in yet either. One last thought– the HS trip was a full week in London, so we all decided that the London Pass would be a good idea– and it was! The Shard visit alone would have cost 50 pounds for one person to enter. The payable sites do add up. All worth seeing, but can get pricy. Not so sure it will be worth it for this sister in law trip, we won’t be spending as much time in London. Thanks for the time and research you put into this travel blog. Very enjoyable read. 🙂

Thanks so much for reading, Deborah! So exciting to be planning another trip (and a Girls Trip, even better!) to London. Thanks for sharing your experiences, too. Totally agree on comfortable shoes! My go-to’s for lots of walking (live in NYC) and traveling (one pair is with me on every trip) are Allbirds . In fact, I just bought 2 new pairs (Tree Runner & Wool Runner) since I’ve worn my others out. If anyone in your group or you are looking for something comfy, definitely give these shoes a look. Enjoy your trip to London and come back if there are any questions I can answer. Thanks again for reading. 🙂

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The perfect 4 days in London

How much of London can you really cover on a long weekend? Quite a lot, actually. Explore art and artifacts at famous museums, marvel at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sample food at the city’s oldest street market, and drink plenty of pints at historic pubs. Throw in a few lines of Shakespeare (at the Globe Theatre, no less), a red phone booth (they’re everywhere), and a rainy day (almost a given), and your London checklist will be complete.

Our itinerary packs in as much as possible without running you ragged, grouping activities together by location. Plus we’ve added lunch and dinner stops, so you can sightsee with your fork (think classic English food like fish and chips). And to make sure you don’t waste a single second, we’ve used Tripadvisor reviews and ratings to hit the London hotspots that real-life travelers love most.

MORNING: A taste of royalty

Prioritize an essential London experience by heading to Buckingham Palace first thing to watch the changing of the guard , which typically starts at 10:45 a.m. (It’s every other day in some seasons and can be earlier on the weekends, so be sure to double-check the schedule online.)

The best vantage point is from the Buckingham Palace Gates, but you’ll need to get here some 90 minutes early (especially in busy summer months) to score a good spot. If you’re running late or not feeling the wait, locate an easier-to-come-by spot along The Mall. After the guards march past, follow them over to Buckingham Palace to catch what you can of the ceremony through the crowds.

AFTERNOON: Iconic London in a Gothic mode

By 11:45 a.m. the changing of the guards is complete, so snap pics of the palace and then head out with the crowds to amble your way through St. James Park , the city’s oldest royal park, toward Two Chairman Public House , a charming 18th-century pub with classic English dishes. You’ll get there around noon, right when it opens. (Tripadvisor users rave about the steak and ale pie here.)

Once you’ve rested your legs and refueled, take the five-minute walk to Westminster Abbey , a stunning gothic cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage Site (together with Westminster Palace, which is right around the corner). The Abbey gets busy, so book a timed ticket ahead to ensure a spot inside. For a small extra fee, you can also visit The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries , a small gallery that gives you a bird’s eye view of the abbey. Expect to spend at least 45-minutes marveling, though some visitors spend as much as two hours scouting out the famous figures buried here (e.g. Charles Dickens, Stephen Hawkins, Henry VII) and taking in all the ornamental sculptures and stained glass.

Exit the Abbey, and walk around the corner to Westminster Bridge, which extends over the Thames River and offers an epic view of several top attractions. We’re talking the London Eye , an enormous Ferris wheel with city views, and Westminster Palace (the House of Parliament) with its attached clocktower, aka Big Ben (though technically , Big Ben is the bell inside). Get there at the top of the hour to hear it chime.

If you managed a quick trip to the Abbey, you might even squeeze in an extra attraction. We recommend either taking a spin on the London Eye for an epic—if pricey—view of London or a visit to the Churchill War Rooms , once the underground command center for World War II and kinda literally one of London’s hidden gems. (Arrive by four, and you can still get in a solid two hours before the museum closes at 6 p.m.) Both are a quick walk from Westminster Bridge. As with other London attractions, the safest bet is to book tickets ahead online.

Travelers say: "I was so excited to finally get to see the [Queen’s Diamond Jubilee] Galleries, and was NOT disappointed! It’s kind of amazing to see the structural ‘insides’ of the Abbey, and the view ‘down below’ is spectacular… you also get unique views of the gargoyles on the buttresses. It was well worth the extra fiver!” — Kris M

WESTMINSTER TOURS OPTIONS

• Don’t want to shell out extra money for a guided tour? The Westminster Abbey audio tour, included with your entrance, is well-produced and packed with info. Download the app ahead of time, and BYO headphones.
• If navigating via Google maps exhausts you, this three-hour Westminster walking tour is basically a survey course on London attractions and includes entry into Westminster Abbey.
• History buffs who would prefer ending their tour of Westminster with Churchill than in a church will enjoy this walking tour, which closes out with a trip to Churchill’s War Rooms .
• The London Landmarks & Secret Gems Bike Ride + Historic Pub + Graffiti Session bike tour is fantastic and fun, taking riders all over Westminster and beyond. It also features a key pub stop in Covent Garden and some (legal) graffiti-making in a tunnel beloved by street artists.

EVENING: The show goes on

Take the 15- to 20-minute trip by tube or bus to Scarlett Green , where of course you’ve already booked a reservation for a 90-minute seating. This beloved Aussie restaurant balances a chic atmosphere with famed “bottomless” meals, including a stuff-yourself-silly dinner of either Aussie BBQ or vegan favorites, plus a cocktail and dessert.

Now, it’s show time! The West End Theater District is London’s answer to Broadway, and it delivers with plays, dance performances, opera, and hit musicals (expect new shows along with long-running classics like Lion King and Phantom of the Opera). If theater isn’t really your thing, 100 Club is an iconic basement venue where bands like the Kinks and Metallica have rocked out, plus it’s just around the corner from Scarlett Green. Make sure to book tickets in advance.

Worthy detours along the way

MORNING: English breakfast and two million years of human history

Fill up before a day of sightseeing at Salt & Pepper , which serves up a classic English Breakfast (bacon, eggs, and, yes, baked beans). It also has a handy location just a five-minute walk from The British Museum , your first stop of the day. This museum of human history, art, and culture is arguably London’s best, which means getting there early is a good strategy for heading off the crowds. (The museum opens at 10 a.m. daily; tickets are free and can be booked ahead, though you may be asked to donate.) Even half a day here isn’t enough to see it all, so make a beeline to the Rosetta Stone, then pick and choose which exhibits to explore. If deciding which of 80,000 artifacts to look at is overwhelming, just take a tour—many are free, though booking ahead is recommended.

Travelers say: "The British Museum is an absolute treasure box! What do you want to see? Ancient maps, Egyptian mummies, sculpture from Greece, the first printed Bible, original handwritten words to Beatles song, Shakespeare, the Magna Carta? All this and MORE! There is never enough time to see it all." —@ Dream6793

AFTERNOON: Light lunch and 700 years of European art

Bottomless meals and heavy English food weighing you down? Hop across the street for lunch at Bloomsbury Street Kitchen (open Wednesday through Saturday) which serves up outstanding Mediterranean and Japanese small plates.

Once you’ve refueled, pop on the Northern Line at Tottenham Court Road or take the 15-minute walk to Trafalgar Square , London’s most photographed square, thanks in part to the 145-foot-high Nelson’s Column.

Next up is The National Gallery , a free museum right on the square. It’s easy to spend two or three hours losing yourself in 2,000-plus Western European paintings from the 13th to the 20th century. Keep an eye out for Vermeer, Cezanne, van Gogh, Rembrandt, and other famous painters.

TRAFALGAR SQUARE TOUR OPTIONS

• Trade in an afternoon at The National Gallery for an afternoon exploring London’s under-the-radar attractions in the Secret Walking Tour of Central London , which starts and ends at Trafalgar Square and covers spots like a teeny, tiny police station.
• The Pub Tour of London’s West End: Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Soho is a neighborhood tour with a side of beer. The tour leads you to several historic pubs, passing major attractions along the way. We love that they cap the tours at 15 people, so you can get chummy with your drinking buddies.

EVENING: Fish, chips, and British pubs

There are plenty of dinner options near The National Gallery, but to really recover from a day of culture we recommend The Marquis , which serves up quintessential cozy pub charm and equally quintessential British dishes, like fish and chips. If it’s good enough for Charles Dickens, who was once a regular there, it’s good enough for us.

From here, amble your way around Covent Garden , a charming neighborhood that’s home to shops, street performers, pubs, and cafes. (Note that most stores in the area close at 8 p.m., so if shopping is a priority you may want to amble first, then eat.) Make your way north to Soho , the city’s nightlife neighborhood, which is home to the Red Light District and is also LGBTQ+ central. We love The French House , an authentic no-frills bar that was once a gathering point for the French Resistance during World War II.

MORNING: Tour some British treasures

If you picked up the tab on a few pub rounds last night, you’ll be happy to hear the Victoria and Albert Museum is 100 percent free. Even better, it doesn’t require booking ahead, so just wander over when you’re ready. (It opens at 10 a.m. if you want to avoid the crowds.) The V&A is the world’s largest museum of the decorative arts, home to prints and paintings, costumes and ceramics. Highlights include one of the world’s oldest and largest carpets and Tipu’s Tiger, an almost life-size statue of a tiger with a mechanical organ that mimics the cries of the person it’s attacking (though you may want to read up on its controversial history ).

AFTERNOON: Afternoon tea and a walk in the park(s)

Take the 10-minute walk to Harrods , London’s world-famous department store, situated in one of the city’s fanciest shopping districts. Here you can cross off another square on your London Bingo card with tea time— Harrods’ version is exceptional —complete with the required tiny sandwiches and scones. If you forgot to make a reservation or can’t pull off “smart casual” on a day of sightseeing, Harrods has plenty of other bars and restaurants for a pit stop. While you’re here, you may want to check out the wonderfully bizarre Egyptian Escalator, pick up some souvenirs, or visit the toy department, where you can nab the official Harrods’ version of a Paddington Bear plushie.

After tea, it’s just a five-minute walk north to Hyde Park , once Henry VIII’s hunting reserve. With dirt paths and grassy fields, it’s the perfect place to stroll, picnic, or people-watch, especially on sunny days. You might want to pass through Speakers’ Corner , which has quite the dramatic history. This used to be an execution spot where the condemned could say their last words. Later, figures like Karl Marx, Marcus Garvey, and George Orwell demonstrated here. Now it’s a monument to free speech—especially on Sunday, when anyone can pull out their soapbox.

Stroll over to the Serpentine Bridge to cross into Kensington Gardens , a carefully landscaped park, formerly the private gardens of Kensington Palace. While here, you can stop by Albert Memorial , a show-stopping monument to Prince Albert complete with a gilded canopy. Or opt for something a little less grand and more whimsical and visit the Peter Pan Statue , a tribute to author J.M. Barrie, who lived nearby.

KENSINGTON AREA TOUR OPTIONS:

• The Victoria & Albert Museum has loads of free tours daily. Look out for specialty tours (like one geared toward LGBTQ+ art), as well as the excellent Highlights Tour, which covers the V&A’s most popular exhibits in just 45 minutes.
• If your feet are tired, let your quads pick up the slack with this London Royal Parks Bike Tour . It covers major London attractions along with Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
• Trade out the usual tour bus for a 1960s double-decker bus with the London Vintage Bus Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods . Not only does this thorough half-day tour drive by a ton of major attractions, it includes a Thames River cruise and ends with tea and scones at Harrods.

EVENING: A meal with a side of history

Cut back across the park to Dinner by Heston Blumenthal , one of London’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Blumenthal’s big draw is a five-course set menu, which changes seasonally and highlights dishes from different eras in British history. If dining this fancy isn’t quite in the budget, scope out the la carte menu or opt for lunch instead. And if this spot is all booked up, try Marcus , another Michelin-star British restaurant, which is practically next door.

Extend the night at the Library Bar , a classy club-like cocktail bar famous for its cognacs. Bonus: It’s less than a 10-minute walk from dinner and sits right next to the Hyde Park Corner Underground station, making it convenient for end-of-night travel, especially if your hotel is on the Piccadilly Line.

Travelers say: “There are three meal 'experiences' you can select [at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal], which are essentially the following: Don't tell me anything about the food I want to be surprise;, tell me a little about what's in the dishes; or tell me everything—where the inspiration for the dish came from, where the ingredients came from, etc. We did the third because we were intrigued by the time periods that inspired the chef (recipes and meal pairings from thousands of years ago)…which made the night a magical evening.” — travelingss

MORNING: Ghosts from the past at the Tower of London

Word of warning: The Tower of London gets mobbed, so arrive right when it opens (9 or 10 a.m., depending on the day) to avoid the crowds, for a little while, anyway. This fascinating 11th-century fortress castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site is where, among other things, 16th-century queen Anne Boleyn was locked up and beheaded. (Supposedly, she is one of many ghosts that haunt the grounds.) While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the Crown Jewels.

TOWER OF LONDON/THAMES RIVER TOUR OPTIONS

• Beefeaters, aka the Tower of London guards (famously pictured on bottles of Beefeater Gin), give tours that are the stuff of legend —not to mention free with entry. Tours run every half hour; no need to book ahead.
• If you want to spend more time on water, the Thames Hop-On-Hop-Off River Cruise is an excellent option. Note that it stops at several sights already on this itinerary, so you’ll double up on some attractions.
• No way around it: The Tower of London gets packed. If it’s your priority, consider getting a skip-the-line, early access pass to the Tower, which also includes a tour and tickets for a river cruise.
• Lovers of true crime and the spooky stuff will enjoy this 60-75 minute Ghost Bus Tour of London . Bonus: You’ll be cruising around in a 1960s black double-decker bus as it passes by Tower of London, Fleet Street, and other iconic spots.

AFTERNOON: From a historic market to modern art

Head over to Tower Millennium Pier and take the RB1 “River Bus” to London Bridge City Pier, with the added benefit of a built-in (if brief) river cruise. From here, it’s a seven-minute walk to Borough Market , where food has been sold for over a thousand years. Today, along with fresh produce, there’s also street food in every direction. Check out the meat pies and paella, the bao buns and fish and chips, then choose whatever looks the most delicious.

Travelers say: “Borough Market is a prime destination for food lovers, and it has been in continuous operation since 1014 near London Bridge. […] From French cheeses, olives and bread to traditional English pies, Spanish paella, French confit duck, Asian curries… it perfectly reflects the melting pot identity of the city.… Don’t miss it.” — LonderGuide

Once you’ve filled up, take the five-minute walk to The Shard , which has the highest viewing deck in London. While entry is pricey and often sold out in advance, the views are epic, especially on sunny days when you can see out as many as 40 miles.

Next, take public transit or walk 15 minutes to the Tate Modern , known for its art from the early-1900s to the present. Entry to the regular gallery is free; no need to book ahead. But definitely take a sec to read up on the special exhibits. Yes, they cost extra and may require advanced booking, but their spectacular shows will earn you London bragging rights. Expect to spend at least an hour here hunting down Picassos and Dalis and discovering new artists, and add another hour if you’re touring a special exhibit.

EVENING: All’s well that ends well

Start your evening off with a dinner at Swan at the Globe , a chic modern restaurant offering seasonal British dishes and classy cocktails, just a few minutes’ walk from the Tate. An added bonus: It has a great view over the Thames and St. Paul’s Cathedral , which means you’ll cross yet another attraction off your London sightseeing safari.

Then head next door for a play at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre , a full-size reproduction of the famous playwright’s original open-air theater. (When you book tickets ahead, make sure they’re for The Globe; it’s easy to accidentally book tickets to The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse instead.) Standing room tickets on the floor are super cheap and super fun—it’s like you’re watching a production back in the 1600s. But after a full day of sightseeing, we understand if you want to rest your feet and sit on a bench. (If you do, spring the extra pound for a cushion.) Even in an open-air theater, the show must go on, as they say, so if the weather looks iffy bring a raincoat (umbrellas aren’t allowed) and enjoy a truly British experience: Shakespeare in the rain.

Know Before You Go

London is bright and bustling June through August, with weather in the mid-70s (though heat waves are getting a bit more common). While May and September are a bit cooler, their budding flowers or falling leaves are a bonus, plus there are fewer crowds. November through February are cool, dark, and even rainier than usual, but travel and hotel rates can be at their cheapest. Dark days are a bit cheerier from mid-November through December, when the city is dotted with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and epic holiday lights.

As a global capital, London tends to keep open hours the whole week long. Most museums are open regular hours seven days a week, though church-related sights are often closed on Sundays. Shops tend to open a little later Sundays, around noon, and some restaurants are closed Sundays and/or Mondays.

Museums and shops in London open around 10, with museums typically closing at 5 or 6 and shops at 7 or 8. Restaurants tend to be open from noon to 9 p.m., though some close between 3 and 5 to make the transition from lunch to dinner. Despite the fact that most Londoners aim for afternoon tea in the hours of 2 to 4 p.m., high-end venues will take reservations for tea time anywhere from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to max out reservations. Pubs tend to open around noon. And don’t expect to do a pub crawl into the late hours—they actually close “early” compared to cocktail bars, usually around 11 p.m.

Covent Garden : Smack-dab in the middle of the action and featured at the end of our Day Two itinerary, Covent Garden is one of the most central locations in London. The Claremont, Charing Cross is an elegant 1865 hotel with chandeliers, marble columns, and a chic cocktail bar, just a few minutes’ walk from tube stops and Trafalgar Square and a 15- to 20-minute walk from both The British Museum and Westminster Abbey.

Westminster : You might not realize how close you are to London hotspots when you’re lounging in St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel ’s classy courtyard with its own fountain, but it’s located right between Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. With both the District Line and Circle Line a few minutes’ walk away at St. James Park, even the sights not right outside the front door will feel pretty close.

East End : OK, it’s not as central or scenic, but hotels in the East End are cheaper and closer to attractions like The Tower of London. Travelodge London City Hotel isn’t fancy, but it gets high ratings for covering the basics for a cheap price. Plus, it’s just a four-minute walk to the Circle Line, which means most of London is easily within reach.

Public transportation : The tube, aka London’s underground transit system, is wide-reaching, relatively simple, and always running, with 24/7 service on major lines. That said, trips can add up. A Day Travelcard includes unlimited trips on the tube, trams, and buses within most of central London, and it’s worth it for travelers making three or more trips a day. If you like to linger over your hotel buffet breakfast, an Off-Peak Travel card, which can be used after 9:30 a.m., is an even better deal. The Oyster card is also an option but requires a deposit fee so may not be worth it for shorter visits.

By bike : London is not as bike friendly as other European cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen, though there are designated bike lanes in some areas, like the three-mile cycle route running along the river from the Tower of London to Big Ben. If you’re looking to pedal your way around the city, guided bike tours are a good option, such as one that covers London’s Royal Parks or another to see major attractions with stops for art-making and beer .

By taxi : London’s iconic black cabs are super cute, but a word of warning: They tend to be pricey, with fluctuating rates that depend on traffic. And that traffic can also inch along. As of this writing, the ride-share app Uber was running in London, but Lyft was not. London taxis also have their own app: Gett.

Airport transfers : London has six international airports, including City, Luton, Stansted, Southend, and, the two largest, Heathrow and Gatwick.

From Heathrow, the Piccadilly Line on the tube runs directly to Piccadilly Circus in 50 minutes. The faster option is the Heathrow Express rail line , which runs to Paddington Station in just 20 minutes. It’s more expensive than the tube, but it still beats taking a taxi, the priciest option by far and—thanks to traffic—often the slowest. Some hotels also offer hotel bus service—the Heathrow Hotel Hoppa, for example, makes trips to 25 hotels around the city and is as cheap as public transit.

From Gatwick Airport, the 30-minute Gatwick Express is by far the fastest option, running direct to Victoria Station. The ThamesLink train costs half as much but takes twice as long, though it runs to more stations, including Blackfriars, St. Pancras International, and London Bridge. Both depart every fifteen minutes during the day. Buses are the most time-consuming choice, departing hourly and taking at least 90 minutes depending on the stop and time of day. Through easyBus , the National Express runs a bus from Gatwick to Victoria Station for as little as two pounds, but be sure to book ahead online or it could cost as much as the train.

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Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To London: A 5D4N Itinerary Of What To See & Eat In This Capital City

Ahh … London. My love for this city has grown with every visit and while I’m by no means a Londoner just yet, I’ve spent a solid year exploring this exciting capital of the United Kingdom.

There are so many new things to do all the time that it’s just impossible to cover everything in one visit. If you’re planning your first-ever trip to London, I’m here to help you cover the basics with this 5D4N itinerary for gung-ho travellers .

And even if you’re already a serial repeat-visitor like me, you might still find something you haven’t ticked off the list yet. Either way, pack some comfy shoes and a seize-the-day attitude.

I crafted this itinerary with a Wednesday-to-Sunday trip in mind to make full use of the weekend, but you can customise it however you please. You ready?

Getting Around

Once you land at the airport (I’m guessing Heathrow), you can easily find your way to central London by either taking the normal Tube a.k.a MRT (longer journey time but only approx. £3.10 each way), or by getting a Heathrow express train (very fast, One-way ticket; £22 – £25 , Return ticket ;  £37 ).

Whatever you decide, it’s pretty straightforward to find out how to get tickets when you’re at the airport. If you’re taking the Tube, get an Oyster Card (which is essentially an EZ-Link card) and top it up since you’ll need it to ride the London Underground, or see what Tube travel passes are available.

If you plan on having access to mobile data, download an app called Citymapper  (this isn’t an ad, it’s just really useful!) which will make your life super easy. It also works in Singapore and basically gives you detailed routes, live bus timings, train timings etc. in getting from point A to point B.

— Day  1 (Shopping) —

1. oxford street/ regent street/ marble arch.

Now that that’s out of the way… SHOPPING! Taking into account jet-lag, time spent finding your accommodation and general travel lethargy, you’ll probably want to take it easy on the first day, so go about some own-time-own-target shopping.

Hit up Oxford Circus, Regent Street and the Marble Arch area for pretty much every brand under the sun, and don’t forget a stop at Primark.

Primark: 499 – 517 Oxford St, Mayfair, London W1K 7DA | Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon – Sat), 11.30am – 6pm (Sun) | Website

2. Afternoon Tea at Sketch (Mayfair)

Afternoon tea is a must when you visit London (scones!) and while you’ll be spoilt for choice, I recommend treating yourself to the one at Sketch because the restaurant is just so beautiful. Reservations are very important, so check out the website before your trip.

The Gallery in Sketch where afternoon tea is served is decked out with quirky artwork by David Shrigley and makes for a very Instagrammable experience. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the toilets before you leave (trust me).

Prices: Afternoon tea sets start from £59 per person

Sketch (The Gallery): 9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG | Tel: +44 20 7659 4500 | Opening Hours (Afternoon Tea): 11.30am – 4.30pm (Daily) | Reservations | Website

Harrods is a classic stop on any London itinerary and a shopper’s paradise. The upscale department store is known for its variety and home brand offerings, with an elegant interior and store design.

Wander the food halls and sample quality ingredients or splurge on that designer handbag you’ve wanted for the past five years.

Harrods: 87 – 135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL | Tel: +44 20 7730 1234 | Opening Hours: 10am – 9pm (Mon – Sat), 11.30am – 6pm (Sun) | Website

4. Dinner at Burger & Lobster (Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge)

Once you’ve had your fill of Harrods, it’s time to tick off another London staple. Head next door to Harvey Nichols (another department store) but go straight to the fifth floor and get ready for some lobster at Burger & Lobster .

Prices have increased over the years so it’s not that value-for-money anymore, but the Original Lobster (Steamed) (£31) still hits the spot with the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.

Burger & Lobster (Harvey Nichols): 109 – 125 Knightsbridge, Level 5 Harvey Nichols, London, SW1X 7RJ | Opening Hours: 12noon – 10.30pm (Mon – Sat), 12noon – 10pm (Sun) | Website

5. Cocktails at Mr Fogg’s Residence

Your eyes will probably be heavy by now, but if you can keep yourself going past dinner, squeeze in a stop at Mr Fogg’s Residence for a nightcap. Themed after Jules Verne’s ‘Around The World In 80 Days’, the bar itself will transport you into a different world altogether.

The whimsical cocktails here were inspired by fictional adventurer Phileas J. Fogg’s travels around the world. Rep’ Singapore by ordering the  Jungle Flora (£14) which was created as a nod to our little red dot.

Mr Fogg’s Residence: 15 Bruton Lane, Mayfair, London W1J 6JD | Tel: +44 20 7036 0608 | Opening Hours: 4pm – 2am (Mon – Fri), 1.30pm – 2am (Sat), 3pm – 12midnight (Sun) | Website

— Day 2 (Sightseeing) —

6. breakfast picnic in hyde park.

Given your inevitable jet-lag, you’ll probably be up bright and early the next day. Make the most of your British morning by getting breakfast and chilling in Hyde Park . I recommend getting takeaway from Pret a Manger (a cafe chain that you’ll pretty much see everywhere ).

Even if you’re there in the colder months, just wrap up warm and you can still slowly stroll through the park with a hot cuppa and a bagel.

Pret a Manger: Outlets

7. Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour from Hyde Park Corner

Day Two is all about sightseeing, so once you get your breakfast and some chill-time in, prepare for a busy day. London is home to sooo many iconic sights, and unless you’re visiting for 10 days, you’ve got to be strategic about what you actually want to see.

Your best bet would be to get a day ticket for a hop-on/hop-off sightseeing bus tour. There are many companies offering tours, but I recommend Big Bus Tours because they offer a ‘RED Tour’ that gets you around most of the main sights for a first-timer.

The first bus leaves from Hyde Park Corner at 8.30am, and you can just buy tickets from the guide at the bus or online in advance (save 10%). Try to score a seat at the top!

Prices: 1 Day (Bus-only) tour starts from £34 (online price)

Big Bus Tours: Website

8. Trafalgar Square

You’re on a hop-on/hop-off bus so you can get on and get off as many times as you like from the official bus stops (look at the map given to you) for however long your ticket lasts.

Like I said, have a think about what’s worth getting off to explore further, or what you’re happy to just see from the bus. Trafalgar Square is a good example of a stop you can see from the bus and then decide to return to if you have time over the next few days.

Trafalgar Square: London WC2N 5DN

9. Coca-Cola London Eye

The famous London Eye (now known as the Coca-Cola London Eye ), is an iconic part of the London skyline and worth a visit if you fancy paying for a bird’s eye view of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

It’s right next to the River Thames and if you know in advance that you want to ride this Ferris wheel, get tickets online.

Prices: Standard ticket online starts from £27

Coca-Cola London Eye: Lambeth, London SE1 7PB | Opening Hours | Website

10. St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is a beautiful structure that’s worth a visit if you’re the kind of person who likes marvelling at church architecture and history.

It’s been around for more than 1,400 years and has been built and rebuilt five times! Visitors are welcome but it’s still a church, so be mindful of visiting hours and decorum.

Prices: Online admission rates start from £17

St Paul’s Cathedral: London EC4M 8AD | Opening Hours: 8.30am – 4.30pm (Mon – Sat, Last entry at 4pm), Open on Sundays for worship only | Website

11. Tower Bridge & Tower of London

Loads of people mistake Tower Bridge for London Bridge (the latter is much less impressive) and it’s worth getting off here to get a good picture or explore the bridge itself (yes you can go in and up for a fee).

The Big Bus stops at the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is right next to it. The Tower of London is a historic castle, former prison and former grand palace that used to be surrounded by a moat. It’s now open to the public and also houses the Crown Jewels.

Prices: Online ticket for Tower Bridge is £8.70; Tickets for Tower Of London start from £22.70

Tower Bridge: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP | Opening Hours & Website

Tower of London: St Katharine’s & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB | Opening Hours: 9am – 4.30pm (Tue – Sat), 10am – 4.30pm (Sun & Mon) | Website

12. Lunch at Coppa Club (Tower Bridge)

If you’ve gotten off the bus to explore the Tower of London/Tower Bridge area, stop by the Insta-worthy Coppa Club for lunch. The restaurant has become known for its Paradise Pods (Summer)/ Igloos (Winter), and bookings for a seat in those sell out months in advance.

Still, normal seating is available right next to the pods where you’ll be able to get a great picture and a view of The Shard. Walk-ins can sometimes also score a seat in the pods/igloos so try your luck!

Coppa Club (Tower Bridge): 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames Street, London EC3R 6AH | Tel: +44 20 8016 9227 | Opening Hours: 7.30am – 11pm (Mon – Thu), 7.30am – 12midnight (Fri), 9am – 12midnight (Sat), 9am – 10.30pm (Sun) | Website

13. Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminister Abbey

Interested in British politics? Then a stop at the Houses of Parliament is a must. Visits are allowed but remember to check the opening hours. You’ll also be able to see Big Ben , the famous clocktower, which is currently undergoing refurbishment* so it’s sadly surrounded by scaffolding.

Still, the Westminister area and pier is worth exploring and you’ll get a great view of the London Eye from this side.

*Note: Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower tours are suspended due to refurbishment. They are scheduled to resume in 2021.

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben: Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA | Opening Hours & Website

Westminister Abbey: 20 Dean’s Yard, London, SW1P 3PA | Opening Hours & Website

14. Buckingham Palace & The Royal Mews

Everyone wants to go to London to meet the Queen and while that’s probably not going to happen, you can see where she lives (in a non-creepy way). Buckingham Palace tops the list of very-touristy-things-to-do-in-London and is worthy of a hop off the bus.

You can even enter certain parts of it and watch the changing of the guard.  Or you can visit The Royal Mews beside the palace where the royal carriages are kept, and where one of the finest working stables in existence operates.

Buckingham Palace: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA | Visit – The State Rooms | Visit – The Queen’s Gallery |  Visit – The Royal Mews

15. Dinner & Drinks at Duck & Waffle (Heron Tower)

After a super long day of sightseeing, you’ve earned yourself a good meal with a view to remember. Head back to your hotel to freshen up and don’t worry about taking your time, because Duck & Waffle is open 24-hours every day.

Situated on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the city, and you can take it all in because of the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Book a visit at sunset and order the Duck & Waffle (£18) which is a delicious medley of crispy duck leg confit, fried duck egg and mustard maple syrup over waffles. Stay on for drinks because the cocktails are equally yummy.

Duck & Waffle: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY | Tel: +44 20 3640 7310 | Opening Hours: 24 Hours (Daily) | Website

— Day 3 (Museum & Musical) —

16. brunch/nibbles at borough market.

If you go to London for the first time and you don’t go to Borough Market … you’re missing out. One of the oldest and largest markets in London, I recommend getting there early to sample some really fresh produce.

The oysters from Richard Haward’s Oysters are to-die-for as well as the coffee from Monmouth Coffee.

Borough Market: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL | Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm (Mon – Thu), 10am – 6pm (Fri), 8am – 5pm (Sat), Closed on Sun | Website

17. Lunch at Padella (Borough Market)

The key word at Borough Market is to “sample”, because you’ll want to leave room for some pasta from Padella . It’s a small restaurant located at the edge of Borough Market, serving up affordable and delicious handmade pasta.

There’s always a queue, but it moves pretty quickly so just hang in there. When ordering, don’t miss out on the  Pappardelle with 8 Hours Dexter Beef Shin Ragu (£10) and the Pici Cacio & Pepe (£6.50) .

Padella: 6 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TQ | Opening Hours: 12noon – 3.45pm & 5pm – 10pm (Mon – Sat), 12noon – 3.45pm & 5pm – 9pm (Sun) | Website

18. View Of The Shard From Sky Garden (Walkie Talkie Building, Free Entry With Booking)

This next stop is still pretty unknown to Singaporeans – did you know that you can get an awesome view of The Shard (the tallest building in London) FOR FREE from a “Gardens by the Bay”-type setting?

The Sky Garden is on the 43rd floor of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building and offers 360-degree views of London.

It’s free to enter but you’ll need to book a visit online in advance. There are several eateries housed in the garden as well so you can always have a meal or coffee while admiring the view and the indoor greenery.

Sky Garden: 20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 8AF | Opening Hours (Public Ticketed Visits): 10am – 6pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 9pm (Sat & Sun) | Book free visit | Website

19. National History Museum/ Tate Modern/ British Museum (All Free Entry)

Another thing that London is known for is its museums. There are quite a few to choose from, so I recommend just picking the one that will interest you most and save the others for your next visit.

The Natural History Museum , Tate Modern and British Museum have all stood out to me, and are also all free to enter (for general exhibits).

National History Museum:  Cromwell Rd, Kensington, London SW7 5BD | Opening Hours & Website

Tate Modern: Bankside, London SE1 9TG  | Opening Hours & Website

British Museum: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG | Opening Hours & Website

20. Covent Garden

Covent Garden is always bustling with activity and tourists and it’s no surprise since there’s quite a bit to do here.

From a variety of shops, to markets, restaurants and random opera singing in the basement… it’s worth spending a bit of time taking it all in. Oh, and there’s also a Shake Shack .

Covent Garden: The Market Bldg, 41, London WC2E 8RF | Website

21. Dinner at Flat Iron (Covent Garden)

If you can tear yourself away from Shake Shack and save some space for dinner, head to the nearby Flat Iron for an affordable meal – by London standards anyway.

Flat Iron serves up £11 steaks that are grilled to perfection and has become a successful chain in London. Only the Covent Garden outlet gives out free salted caramel ice cream after your meal though, so… you know what to do.

Flat Iron (Covent Garden): 17 – 18 Henrietta Street, London, United Kingdom WC2E 8QH | Opening Hours: 12noon – 12midnight (Mon – Sat), 12noon – 11.30pm (Sun) | Website

22. Musical & Drinks

No virgin London trip is complete without a musical and you’re in the best place to watch one. There are so many to choose from, but my recommendations would have to be: The Book Of Mormon, Wicked, The Lion King and Kinky Boots .

Try to get cheaper tickets in Leicester Square (you’ll see many shops offering discounts) but just make sure you don’t end up with an obstructed view. Every theatre has a bar so get there early for a bevvy .

London Musicals: Schedules & Tickets

— Day 4 (Markets & Central London) —

23. portobello road market (notting hill).

Start your weekend bright and early by travelling to Notting Hill to check out Portobello Road Market . It’s the world’s largest antiques market and you’ll find loads of the stalls literally by the road.

The main market day here is Saturday, so that’s when you’ll find the most variety of stuff. There are also a few quaint cafes where you can have breakfast ( GAIL’s Bakery , Lowry & Baker ) or if you fancy a cupcake, stop by The Hummingbird Bakery .

Portobello Road Market: 306 Portobello Road, London W10 5TA | Opening Hours: 9am – 7pm (Sat), Other Days  | Website

24. Pretty Pastel/Colourful Houses (Notting Hill)

Since you’re in the area, Notting Hill is also known for its beautiful pastel and colourful houses. In fact, a scene from the movie ‘Love Actually’ was actually filmed here.

Try to look for it ( *hint St Luke’s Mews hint* ) and get a photo for the ‘gram !

25. Camden Town & Market

Camden Town is like a whole different world in London; the streets are lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs to punk-rock and gothic outfits.

There are a few markets in the area and the main one ( Camden Market ) is home to many stalls selling food from all over the globe. If you’re up for a crazy shopping experience when you’re there, stop by Cyberdog  (fair warning).

Camden Market: Camden Lock Place, London, Nw1 8AF | Opening Hours: 10am – Late (Daily) | Website

26. Lunch at The Cheese Bar  (Camden)

If you can’t decide what to have and love everything cheese-related, have lunch at The Cheese Bar . The super-melty Mozzarella Sticks (£7) make for a great Boomerang and if you visit in winter, you won’t want to miss the fondue.

The Cheese Bar (Camden): Unit 93 – 94 Camden Stables, Camden Town, Chalk Farm Road, London, United Kingdom NW1 8AP | Opening Hours: 12noon – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 10pm (Sat), 11am – 8pm (Sun) | Website

27. Piccadilly Circus

From Camden, make your way back to central London and experience the crowds at Piccadilly Circus . Sit on the steps of the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and watch a nearby busker while soaking in all the magical city vibes.

Just remember to watch your stuff as this capital isn’t immune to pickpockets (same goes for any busy area).

Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain: Piccadilly Circus, London W1J 9HS

28. Leicester Square

If you only stopped by Leicester Square to get discounted musical tickets, head back to explore the many shops. There’s a four-storey M&M’s World store that’ll make any chocolate-lover go crazy!

Leicester Square: London, WC2H 7LU |  Website

29. Chinatown

Yes, you just came from an Asian country but trust me, wandering the streets of London’s Chinatown is still pretty enjoyable. It’s right next to Leicester Square and naturally, you’ll find lots of amazing Chinese food to be had.

Save space for dinner though and just grab a small snack if you’re hungry – Bubblewrap does delicious Hong Kong waffles that you’ll want to share so you don’t spoil your appetite.

Bubblewrap: 24 Wardour Street Chinatown London, W1D 6QJ | Opening Hours & Website

30. Dinner at Dishoom (Carnaby)

Why save space for dinner? Because you need to squeeze Dishoom into your itinerary. The Bombay-inspired chain has become a hit amongst Londoners, serving up palatable Indian-Irani food that’s great to share.

All the outlets are beautifully designed and decorated, but you should head to the one in Carnaby so you can check out the area after. Reservations are highly recommended (but only allowed if you’re >6 pax), so go early unless you don’t mind waiting.

Whatever you do, order the House Black Daal (£6.20) with some Roomali Roti (£2.90) .

Dishoom (Carnaby): 22 Kingly Street, Soho, London W1B 5QB | Tel: +44 20 7420 9322 | Opening Hours: 8am – 11pm (Mon – Thu), 8am – 12midnight (Fri), 9am – 12midnight (Sat), 9am – 11pm (Sun) | Website

31. Drinks in Carnaby/ Soho/ Fitzrovia

Carnaby Street is a popular shopping street in Soho, but you need to visit purely because of the street decorations and how pretty everything is when lit up at night.

You’ll find many places in Soho as well to get a cocktail after dinner, or you can head to Berners Tavern in The London Edition hotel (Fitzrovia) for a fancy drink in a fancy setting.

Berners Tavern: London Edition Hotel, 10 Berners St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NP | Tel: +44 20 7908 7979 | Opening Hours & Website

— Day 5 (Sunday Roast & Shoreditch) —

32. columbia road flower market.

Want to feel like a London local? Wake up early on a Sunday and find your way to Columbia Road Flower Market (Citymapper to the rescue!).

The market is only open on Sundays and is a sight to behold, filled with rows and rows of plants and flowers looking for a home.

While you probably shouldn’t buy anything green to bring back, you can still soak in the atmosphere and pop into one of the many neighbouring shops selling quaint knick-knacks and vintage clothes.

Columbia Road Flower Market: Columbia Road, London E2 7RG | Opening Hours: 8am – 3pm (Only open on Sundays) | Website

33. Sunday Roast Lunch at Marksman Public House

Bet you were wondering when I was going to get to the Sunday Roast. If you go to Columbia Road Flower Market, it’s a short walk to Marksman Public House , a Victorian pub selling one of the best Sunday Roasts in the city.

The menu changes occasionally, but the Sunday Roast Lunch is always featured and you can get that and a starter for £29 (two-course) or throw in dessert as well for £33 (three-course) . Reservations are highly recommended.

Marksman Public House: 254 Hackney Road, London E2 7SJ | Tel: +44 20 7739 7393 | Opening Hours: 12noon – 4pm (Sun) | Reservations |  Website

34. Old Spitalfields Market

Since you’re already in Hackney, walk off your roast lunch and pop by the Old Spitalfields Market in Shoreditch.

I’m guessing you’ll be full by this point but you could always get an artisanal brownie or shop vintage at one of the many stalls set up.

Old Spitalfields Market: 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW | Opening Hours: 9am – 5.30pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 5pm (Sat), 9am – 5pm (Sun) | Website

35. Afternoon Snack at Poppie’s Fish & Chips (Spitalfields)

If all that walking and browsing has made you a bit peckish ( #yolobecauseholiday ), stop by Poppie’s Fish & Chips for the best of a British classic.

Popular amongst tourists, the Fish & Chips here is pretty consistent and while not exactly cheap ( £12.20 for Cod/Haddock ), the portion is huge and can easily feed two not-so-hungry people.

Poppie’s Fish & Chips (Spitalfields): 6 – 8 Hanbury Street, London E1 6QR | Tel: +44 20 7247 0892 | Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Mon – Thu), 11am – 11.30pm (Fri & Sat), 11am – 10.30pm (Sun) | Website

36. Vintage Shopping at Brick Lane

If you’ve heard of London, you’ve probably heard of Brick Lane . Located a short walk from the Old Spitalfields Market, this area is worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for more of a cool-London-street-vibe.

Lined with vintage shops, quaint cafes, bookshops and curry houses, Brick Lane will make for a chill Sunday stroll as you wind down your holiday.

Brick Lane Sunday Market: 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QR | Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm | Website

37. Hot Chocolate from Dark Sugars

As you walk along Brick Lane, you’ll probably spot a shop called Dark Sugars selling wooden bowls of artisanal chocolate. This chocolate heaven has also been hailed for whipping up what’s apparently “the best hot chocolate in London”.

I guess you’ll only know if you try it for yourself, and at £4 – £5.50 a cup, you’ll get your money’s worth because it’s topped with an abundance of chocolate shavings. Hello, diabetes.

Dark Sugars Cocoa House: 124 – 126 Brick Lane, London, E1 6RU | Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Daily) | Website

38. Take Away Dinner at Beigel Bake

Okay, I think we can establish that your Sunday is basically going to be spent eating. If you’re in Brick Lane, it would be such a waste not to drop by Beigel Bake for an affordable Salt Beef Bagel (£4.50) .

The Jewish bakery serves up this hearty “sandwich” 24/7, and I’d get one to go if I were you.

Beigel Bake: 159 Brick Lane, London E1 6SB | Tel: +44 20 7729 0616 | Opening Hours: Open 24/7 |  Website

39. Drinks at Queen of Hoxton Rooftop Bar

It’s sad whenever a holiday comes to an end, but you can go out with a bang and knock back a few at a cool rooftop bar.

The Queen of Hoxton is in the area and beckons with fun, themed decor and a buzzing atmosphere amidst some London skyscrapers.

Queen of Hoxton: 1 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3JX | Opening Hours: 4pm – 12midnight (Mon – Wed), 4pm – 2am (Thu – Sat), 2pm – 10pm (Sun) | Website

40. Sunset Stroll along Southbank

If you have time, race to catch the sunset from Southbank where the city is extra pretty when bathed in an orange glow. Take one last look at the skyline and say goodbye till next time, because you’ve only just scratched the surface.

Southbank Centre: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

— Bonus Recommendation —

41. warner bros. studios tour london – the making of harry potter.

AND YOU THOUGHT IT WAS OVER. No friends and fellow wizards, I did not forget the wonderful world of Harry Potter.

The  Warner Bros. Studios Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter just would not fit into a 5D4N itinerary (and let’s face it, some muggles may not be keen), but if you have another day to spare, you must go!

Hop on a train (not Tube) to Watford Junction and follow the signs to the tour where you can visit the Great Hall, walk through Diagon Alley and drink Butterbeer.  The latest addition, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, is opening 6 April 2019, so brooms at the ready everyone?

Warner Bros. Studios Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden WD25 7LR | Opening Hours: 9.30am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 8.30am – 10pm (Sat & Sun) | Website

Written By Marissa Mir

I got 99 problems and wondering what to eat for lunch is 98 of them.

New in town: Oni Kimbap x Obba Jjajang — Korean bunsik from S$3.90!

Koung’s wan tan mee opens 2nd outlet in bedok north, taylor swift ushers in a new ‘tortured poets’ era with a surprise double album drop, 16 best dessert spots in singapore to turn your frown upside down, restoran mega ceria: affordable nasi padang with over 10 sides like eggplant sambal, beef rendang & sambal ijo, 11 best places in raffles place to grab a satisfying meal during working hours.

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

I Heart Britain

25 of the Best Travel Shows About London, England

Whether you're researching a possible trip to London or you just want to do a bit of armchair travelling, there are loads of great travel shows to help you get a sense of what it's like. We're firm believers in doing your research and figuring out what YOU want to see, not what old guidebooks say you should see – and watching a variety of travel shows can definitely help you narrow it down.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Shows About London, England

Our top pick.

Footloose in London: All the Best Sights of Our Capital – 2016 – Presented by native Brits Dave and Debra Rixon and clocking in at 1 hour 46 minutes long, this is the video we recommend to anyone who's only planning on watching one. It includes all the major sights plus tips on how to get around more affordably – because anyone who's done much travelling will know London is not going to end up on any “cheapest cities to visit” lists.

Over on our British TV site , we've showcased even more of their European travel videos. You can read our interview with them HERE and explore more of their work. Their videos really are the next best thing to actually making the trip yourself.

Love London – 2015 – A London taxi driver and a young Londoner travel the city to learn its secrets. Through six 30-minute episodes, the pair explore a variety of locations around the city. They include: Mayfair, Southwark, Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Holborn, Bloomsbury, Clerkenwell, and Covent Garden.

Rick Steves's Europe – 2000 to 2019 – As far as many Americans are concerned, Rick Steves is the gold standard for travel shows. Though we wouldn't go that far (his videos are far too short and surface-level), they ARE a great way to get an overview of a location. Season 7, Episode 9 visits London. Others of interest for planning a UK trip include: S7E9 Northern England, S9E8 Western England, S9E9 Southeast England, S9E10 Cornwall, s10E1 Heart of England, S10E10 Scotland's Highlands, S10E11 Scotland's Islands, and S10E12 Glasgow.

Slow TV – 2018 – This unique series has no host or narration. It's just footage of various things in London – each season covers a different sort of experience:

• Season 1 – Wildlife in London
• Season 2 – The River Thames
• Season 3 – City Walks
• Season 4 – The Tube
• Season 5 – City Bus Rides

If you're the sort of person who likes to people watch, or the sort who likes to know what they're going to see in advance, these videos are great. For others, it's like watching paint dry. We like it, but we totally acknowledge it's not for everyone.

The Best of the Rest

Not enough armchair travel for your tastes? No worries – there are plenty more London travel videos to choose from. Below, we've rounded up quite a few more videos for your viewing pleasure.

Crown and Country – 1998 to 2007 – Edward Windsor (son of Queen Elizabeth II) takes us on a tour of some of Britain's most famous landmarks. A number of episodes are devoted to landmarks in and around London.

London: A City in Time  – 2015 – This programme mixes live footage with historical documents and photos to tell the story of London. Though listed as 2015 on Amazon, it feels significantly older so that date may not be accurate.

London: A Tale of Two Cities  – 2015 – This hour-long documentary looks at the highs and lows London has faced over the years.

London Guide: Roberts London  – 2017 to 2018 – Originally produced as a YouTube series, these videos take you on a tour of England's capital city. 

Curious Traveler – 2015 – This American travel series takes us to a variety of locations around the world, but there are a few episodes specific to London. Look for Season 1, Episode 2 (London) and Season 3, Episode 9 (London Shops).

Travel in Style – Though few are lucky enough to indulge in luxury travel, we can all enjoy a bit of vicarious luxury travel with this series. Two episodes include London: Season 1, Episode 9 and Season 2, Episode 13.

Anthony Bourdain: A Cook's Tour – Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain visits cities all over the world to explore what their people eat. Season 1, Episode 22 sees him in London, attempting to dispel the myth that all British food is bland and overcooked. There's also a Scottish episode just before it.

Smart Travels with Rudy Maxa  – 2002 to 2006 – Although not exclusively about Great Britain, this series includes episodes in London, the London countryside, Dublin, Ireland’s West Coast, Bath, South Wales, Edinburgh, and St. Andrews (not to mention a lot of other lovely cities around the world).

Passport – London – This one's fairly short, but it's well-made and it offers some less conventional destinations (like a perfume maker).

Rudy Maxa's World – 2010 – This series follows a similar format to many travel shows, and the episodes include destinations all over the world. For London (and some nearby day trips), check out Season 2, Episode 3.

Travel with Kids: London – 2011 – This London travel video is not for everyone. If you like calm, adult things free of bouncing, rambunctious children…definitely watch something else. On the other hand, if you're planning a family trip to London with kids, you may find it useful. 

A Taste of Travel – 2016 – This is kind of an unusual travel show in that it has a number of hosts and they each visit different places within a single episode. For London, check out Season 1, Episodes 9-11. Episodes 12 and 13 venture elsewhere in England.

Places to Go – 2018 – This is another series that visits locations all over the world, with two episodes of interest to those looking for London footage. Check out Season 1, Episode 5 for a dedicated London episode, then skip ahead to Episode 9 to see the “overflow footage” that didn't make it into their other British episodes.

Discovering the World – 2019 – This series visits a variety of cities around the world, including London. Episodes are roughly 50 minutes long, so it's a little more in-depth than some travel shows. You'll find the London episode in S2E5, but you may also enjoy the Scotland episode (S1E2).

Legendary Cities – 2014 – This series focuses on the history, architecture, and cultural heritage of some of the world's finest cities. Episode 2 takes a look at London.

Oxford Street  – 2017 – This series takes an in-depth look at one of Europe’s largest shopping districts and its day-to-day activities.

London and Paris Vacation – 2016 – This is not a typical, well-polished and heavily-researched travel series. That doesn't mean it's without merit, though. It's casual, it's honest, and it's full of great tips on saving money and maximising your time in the city. At 1 hour 40 minutes long, it's also reasonably in-depth, with a lot of scenes you won't see in most travel videos.

Portrait of a City – 2010 – Tour guide Liam Dale hosts this series about world-class cities. Episode 3 visits London.

Welcome To – 2019 – This is another one of the many travel series that visit lots of different locations around the world. Season 1, Episode 3 covers London.

Greatest Cities in the World – 2010 – Welsh actor and comedian Griff Rhys Jones hosts this grand tour of some of the world's greatest cities. Episode 2 visits London.

The Story of London   – 2014 – Six episodes walk us through different sites in London.

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Everything you need to know before you go to London in 2024

Mar 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of your trip to London with these expert tips © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Even though I was born and raised in London, I’ve been caught out without a brolly (umbrella) in the rain countless times. I’ve felt the scorn of others when not noticing there’s a queue, and I’ve made the costly error of driving into the city. But as a local, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to; I hope my experience and top tips help inspire a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital.

1. Know your Tube etiquette

One easy way to annoy commuters is to not follow these very easy rules when traveling around on London’s Underground. Get your ticket, bank card or smart phone ready before you reach the ticket barriers so you don’t create a queue. Stand on the right when using escalators so passengers wanting to walk can pass. Let passengers off the train first (stand to either the right or left of the doors) before you board. Offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as a pregnant person, an elderly person, someone who is disabled and so on. And definitely don't try to strike up conversations with the locals (if you want to blend in). 

2. Skip the car

London ’s roads are small, its traffic is chaotic, and there’s hardly anywhere to park. Plus, you’ll be charged for driving your car in to the center of London – the congestion charge is £15 a day, while the separate ULEZ charge starts from £12.50 and only certain energy efficient or electric cars are exempt. The best way to get around is on public transport (although check on the TFL website or app for information on industrial action and weekend engineering works). Use the Tube, hop on a bus, or rent a bike or e-bike if in the center of the city; cycle maps, highlighting designated paths for bikes, can be downloaded online.

3. Bring layers (and a raincoat)

London’s weather is changeable – temperatures have been known to rise and fall by 20°C in a matter of days. Showers can happen any time of year so pack a brolly (umbrella) or raincoat in your day bag and wear layers that you can easily take off. In summer, always carry a bottle of water on the Tube (the deep tunnels were built before air-conditioning). And while the climate may be mercurial, don’t let bad weather put you off going about your day – simply switch to more indoor-based activities, there are hundreds of them to choose from.

4. Opt for comfort over fashion when it comes to shoes

Most people cover a lot of ground when exploring London, plus different terrains: grass in the many green spaces, long Tube escalators, slippery pavements and even cobblestones. Museums require leg work, as do bridges, boats and parks. Heels are pretty pointless in London, unless you are getting a door-to-door cab to a venue. 

5. Make reservations for top restaurants

While there are plenty of terrific places to eat that welcome walk-ins (although be prepared to queue for the best joints), many of the best restaurants are booked up weeks in advance, especially new ones or those run by celebrity chefs. More restaurants have adopted booking policies and deposits since the pandemic, so if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you will need to book ahead.

6. Do as the Londoners do and go to a supper club

Embed yourself in London life with a dinner party with locals; a supper club is a superb way to try home-cooked local food from London’s diverse community. These are locally run endeavors, taking place in people’s homes or taking over whole restaurants – try The Bridge Club  serving British eats made with French cooking techniques in South London, Dinner Ladies putting on immersive food experiences, or Indian street food run out of local chef Dhruv Mittal’s flat.

7. Know how to order at a pub

There are unspoken rules when visiting a pub. One person – not a whole group – should go to the bar. Stand anywhere and wait your turn. If someone was waiting before you, it’s polite to signal for the bar staff to serve them first if they come over to you. When you go back to your table with the drinks, you just bought "a round". Now everyone at the table owes you a drink throughout the evening, each person has a turn at buying a round. Last orders are when the bell rings, and from this moment you have 20 minutes to finish your drink.

8. Go to a football game

Football rivalries run high in the city, with 17 football clubs, including seven Premier League teams and four Women’s Super League Teams. Giant temples to "The Beautiful Game" sit around London and are great places to feel the collective energy of the city, as locals congregate (come rain or shine) to watch their heroes on the field. You'll need to book tickets far in advance for Premier League Games, but women’s and lower league men’s games are usually easier to come by – and arguably far more fun to watch. Visit local team websites to book.

9. Be polite and embrace the art of queueing

Londoners (and British people alike) are big on manners, and not having any will get you into trouble. Say "please" and "thank you", and apologize if you bump into someone. Don’t stare at people on the Tube, and hold a door open for people behind you when you walk through one. Let people pass, and be sure to help people in need (people with buggies at the top of stairs, older people crossing the road etc). If there is a queue to the attraction you want to visit or a stall you want to buy from, join it – you’ll might not get into a confrontation if you skip the line, but you will be judged. 

10. Make a plan, but don't go overboard

London is massive, so getting from one side to the other takes a couple of hours in a car (and that's if there is light traffic). Riding the Tube is quicker, but journey times can still be long if attractions are on either side of the city. Minimize travel times by exploring by neighborhood – do a day in Central London, another day in West London and so on. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the big museums and galleries, as there is so much to see. Take many breaks, grab lunch at a cafe or pub and pause to take in the views. It’s easy to get carried away with the energetic pace of London, but sights are more enjoyable if you adopt a more leisurely approach.

11. Don’t leave your stuff lying around

Don’t leave your bags unattended at public venues like stations, buses, theaters or museums, as this is likely to cause alarm and your bag may be removed – or stolen. Only take with you what you are able to carry for several hours. Luggage storage is generally rare in London, but hotels will likely store bags once you check out. Avoid carrying mobile phones in back pockets or where they can be easily swiped from your hand in the street. Never leave your phone or purse on a cafe table, opportunistic thieves will distract you and it will be gone before you realise what's happening. 

12. It's an election year in London

The incumbent mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will face an election race in May 2024 (he's been in the top job since 2016). This might not be particularly noteworthy for travelers, but it does mean there's greater incentive to make sure London is working well. Policing, housing and public transport are high on the agenda for all the candidates. Services have been expanded to support the rising number of "rough sleepers" in the city, with the visible issue of homelessness a concern for locals and visitors alike. Tube strikes, which brought the city to a standstill in 2023, have been averted but industrial action on national rail services in and out of the city continue. The city goes to the polls on Thursday 2 May, 2024. 

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

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What to Do on a Quick Trip to London

By Christine Ajudua and Elizabeth Winding

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With a quick trip to London , a city we visit time and again, comes a dilemma: How do we hit those emerging neighborhoods and have a long, boozy lunch at a restaurant like Gymkhana , whose duck dosa has been all over Instagram, while not forgetting about the museums and hotel bars that made us fall for the city in the first place? We definitely want to check out the gallery scene of South London, and to spend a Saturday or Sunday shopping out east while hitting the new Design Museum just west of Hyde Park. But we’re not over Central London’s storybook charms—a scotch at the newly renovated Blue Bar at The Berkeley, London in The Berkeley hotel, a stroll down Savile Row , an afternoon in Marylebone. In short, we want a way to do it all, or at least do as much as we can in the time we’re in town. To that end, we canvassed a network of our most-in-the-know natives and frequent visitors—chefs, editors, mixologists, and gallerists—to help us come up with a game plan that balances the classic and the emerging, the afternoon tea and the of-the-moment cocktail. And all without spending the whole day on the Tube or in a black cab.

A QUICKFIRE GUIDE TO CENTRAL LONDON

First, get a room.

We say stay in Central London—the hotels here are the most convenient if heading both west and east, and the most iconic, like The Savoy , The Connaught , and Claridge's , the 1856 stalwart with several suites by Diane von Fur­stenberg (think marble fireplaces and bold patterns) and elaborate afternoon teas, where you can sip a slightly sweet Ma­lawi Antler brew (one of just two places on earth that serve it). This year, the center of gravity may shift east with the opening of The Ned and the Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square near Tower Bridge, but for now we love the traditional-style suites at An­dré Balazs’s Chiltern Firehouse , with its velvet-covered armchairs and beveled mirrors. (Same goes for chef Nuno Mendes’s chipotle corn bread at the hotel restaurant.) Just off Hyde Park, the Art Deco–style The Beaumont has 73 rooms that channel the early twentieth century. Over in Soho, Firmdale’s Ham Yard Hotel feels like a village with its 13 specialty shops and 190-seat fuchsia-curtained cinema.

Where to Eat Near Your Hotel

From the brilliant team behind Portland (awarded a rare five stars by the late, great A.A. Gill in 2015), the more casual Clipstone opened last summer in still-no-signs-of-stopping Fitzrovia, with house-made charcuterie and nose-to-tail classics like calf’s brain meunière. Meanwhile, the appetite for counter dining continues: Kiln , on Soho’s Brewer Street, has smoky Thai dishes cooked on an open flame or over charcoal in ceramic tao pots, paired with standout French and German natural wines. In Covent Garden, The Barbary is a rowdy counter-only spot inspired by the bold, bracing flavors of North Africa’s Barbary Coast.

The Central Essentials

The Pub Soho’s Coach & Horses pub for a London Glory ale.

The Neighborhood Marylebone, for lunch at Carousel , shopping on Chiltern Street, and drinks at the The Zetter Townhouse Marylebone .

The Drink The aptly named Spritz Termini at Bar Termini , Soho.

Central London Shopping List

Aram , Covent Garden For Eames lounge chairs and U.K.-made furnishings.

Browns , Mayfair For the top selection of ready-to-wear labels like Simone Rocha and Stella McCartney.

Kilgour , Mayfair For bespoke two-piece wool suits right on Savile Row.

Mouki Mou , Marylebone For raw Japanese denim, Dosa dresses, and gifts like Welsh paperweights.

Trunk Clothiers , Marylebone For Felisi briefcases and Mackintosh trenches right across from Chiltern Firehouse .

The courtyard at Chiltern Firehouse.

MUSEUMS ARE BIGGER AND BETTER

There’s a strip in Kensington south of Hyde Park, along Exhibition Road, that almost trumps N.Y.C.’s Museum Mile for its concentration of major museums. Try to arrive by 10 a.m. so you have some alone time (for at least an hour or so) at the always-impressive Victoria and Albert Museum . 

If going this summer, you’re in luck: The new subterranean gallery—with exhibitions on everything from design to opera—and an entrance off Exhibition Road opened in July. The Design Museum , which had its first show at its new location in November, is a 30-minute walk west on Cromwell Road (stop at the Natural History Museum en route; it’s free, and you can see the colossal T. rex). The exhibits are great—the 2012 Olympic Torch, Louboutin heels, and a futuristic Tube train—but John Pawson’s reworking of the interior of this post-war building that had been empty for a decade can’t be missed.

Have Lunch in Hyde Park

The Magazine restaurant inside the Serpentine Sackler Gallery was designed by Zaha Hadid (you’d probably guess as much once you saw those undulating glass walls), and it’s where well-dressed Chelsea socialites gossip between bites of roasted halibut.

No Place Does a Hotel Bar Quite Like This

When it’s cocktail hour and you’re not sure where to go, head for the grandest hotel bar. Some of the best are near Hyde Park, like the Connaught Bar . Grab a seat at a table instead of standing at the bar, so a white-gloved mixologist can roll his martini trolley on over and stir up a perfect pre-dinner drink using rare Gancia dry vermouth. Three blocks north, opt for a glass of Ruinart Champagne at the Art Deco Claridge’s Bar . Or go to Knights­bridge, where The Berkeley’s Blue Bar has been expanded, restoring its “Lutyens Blue” wood-paneled walls. Order a Smoke & Mirrors—a blend including rye, Benedictine, and Sacred Rosehip Cup that also makes for a perfect nightcap.

The New Classics

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

“Chef Karam Sethi’s clever use of Brit ingredients (venison naan, wild boar vindaloo) makes this my choice for London’s best Indian restaurant in a city full of great ones.” –Peter Jon Lindberg, contributing editor Shikumen

“Slightly farther west, in Shepherd’s Bush, this dim sum spot has been hot among London foodies since opening a few years back.” –Fiona Golfar, editor at large, British Vogue

The Wolseley

“I love this European restaurant like an old friend. Order the native oysters, steak tartare, and veal Holstein.” –Tom Parker Bowles, food editor, British Esquire

WHERE TO “WEEKEND”

Here’s the deal with Londoners. If they haven’t escaped to, say, the Cotswolds after work on Friday, they’ll often spend Sunday decompressing in the East End. It’s where the seriously cool all-British boutiques are, and the food and flea markets have everything from gastropubs to Asian-street-style joints (the Ethiopian wraps and Thai curries on Brick Lane alone are worth the trek here). To get things started out east, head to the 148-year-old Columbia Road Flower Market , which is ten minutes on the Central line and a bus hop from the city center (the market officially opens at 8 a.m., but aim for a 9 a.m. arrival, as stalls tend to set up late, especially in the cooler months).

Even if you’re not in the market for blooms, come to witness the Notting Hill vibe: deep rows of yellow, purple, and orange fresh-cut hydrangeas, peonies, and banana plants, all foghorned by vendors with chirpy eastern Essex lilts (“Two for a fiv-ER!”). We recommend starting south and working your way up the street so that you arrive at the Marksman pub around 10 a.m. This will guarantee that you’re the first in line for the Sunday-only special: a pillowy Tamworth bacon–stuffed steamed bun, served with a dollop of tangy homemade ketchup.

Shop the Design Boutiques on Redchurch Street

Aimé This French fashion concept store is credited with introducing Isabel Marant to London.

Klaus Haapaniemi & Co. Head here for bold, whimsical patterns on rugs, textiles, and tableware by the Helsinki-born Haapaniemi.

Labour and Wait For souvenirs, we’ll load up on tea cozies from west Wales and blue-enamel Japanese kettles at this home- ware shop (they’ll even ship your purchases back to the States for you).

Modern Society This café cum street-fashion shop has a rotating roster of brands from all over the world, including Desmond & Dempsey and L.A.-based Anine Bing.

Monologue Alistair P floor lamps and Origami marble desks are two of the standouts at this modern furniture concept spot.

New Yorkers Do Brunch, Brits Do Sunday Lunch

Out east, it’s still all about Fergus Henderson’s 20-year-old snout-to-tail institution,

St. John Bread & Wine

in Spitalfields. The unequivocally tender ox cheek is the dish to get.

Chef James Lowe, Off the Clock

The chef and co-owner of Shoreditch’s popular modern British spot, Lyle’s , on his day in East London.

Morito , Hackney Road “I love to get huevos rotos for breakfast here and sit at the bar, which gives you a good view of the open kitchen.”

Regent’s Canal “I’ll stroll the canal path toward Mile End, and walk through Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, which is covered in wildflowers. It’s like escaping the city.”

P. Franco “This wine shop also has a small menu. On my last visit, I had a bottle of Emidio Pepe Trebbiano d’Abruzzo with a sea urchin toast that was absolutely brilliant.”

A Moment of Zen

Londoners love their gardens (47 percent of the city is green space), but for a real oasis out east, skip London Fields and head to the Barbican Conserva­tory , open to the public only on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It’s an enormous greenhouse with over 2,000 species of tropical plants. It takes just half an hour to see it all, but stay for afternoon tea for smoked salmon with dill grown on-site (reservations are essential).

SOUTH IS A MUST FOR ART LOVERS

If Kensington is the epicenter of institutional culture, South London is becoming the equivalent for indie fine-art and multi-disciplinary galleries, which are cropping up in hip neighborhoods like Peckham and Clapham (the large-scale exception: South Bank, where the Tate Modern has just added its new Herzog & de Meuron–designed Switch House ). It’s worth coming to Vauxhall for an afternoon—the grounds of the seventeenth-century Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens just became home to the contemporary five-story Cabinet gallery with exteriors by artists like L.A.-based John Knight. Later on, hit Damien Hirst’s RIBA Stirling Prize–­winning Newport Street Gallery , displaying his personal collection, which includes works by Gavin Turk and Jeff Koons. Stay for dinner at Pharmacy 2 , where superchef Mark Hix’s spiced pheasant curry and phenomenal soft-shell-crab burger are served in a space with bizarro clinical lighting and site-specific “Medicine Cabinets,” a nod to Hirst’s famed “Pharmacy” exhibition from the ’90s.

Where to Eat Before You Do Your Gallery Crawl

South London has two outstanding food markets: tourist-packedm Borough Market (it’s worth braving the crowds) and local favorite Maltby , in hip Bermondsey. Both are five minutes from the London Bridge Tube station.

Borough Market Where: It’s been in London Bridge for over 1,000 years and has more than 100 vendors (it’s closed Sundays). We Love: Bread Ahead’s sourdough loaves; chicken pies from Pieminister; plump beef empanadas at Porteña . And a Tipple: Go for an ale at the Globe Tavern , better known as the home of Bridget Jones. But if You Want a Sit-Down Meal: Padella has pappardelle with slow-cooked beef-shin ragù, counter seating, and lines out the door.

Maltby Street Market Where: In an alley between railway arches, it’s one of the few London street markets open Saturdays and Sundays. We Love: Stacked-high Reubens from Monty’s Deli ; toasted sandwiches at the Cheese Truck . And a Tipple: Grab a pink-grapefruity Little Bird Gin cocktail at the snug Little Bird Gin Arch. But if You Want a Sit-Down Meal: At 40 Maltby Street , look for oft-changing dishes like smoked Yorkshire ham with English mustard.

Insider’s Rec

“To see artists before they make it big, pop by Studio Voltaire in Clapham. I saw Phyllida Barlow’s work there—before she went on to show at Tate Britain and the Venice Biennale .” –Victoria Siddall, director, Frieze Fairs

The After-Dinner Drink

If you find yourself in South London at night, treat yourself to a cocktail at Dandelyan , in the Sea Containers London on South Bank. We always get the Heir­loom, with Auchentoshan Three Wood Scotch and raspberry cordial.

Recommended

The Berkeley

The Dorchester, Dorchester Collection

London Travel Guide

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Visit London

London travel guide video.

Take a trip in the London Eye, the giant wheel that sits on the banks of the River Thames, to get a sense of what makes London such an amazing city. Look below you to see immediately recognizable landmarks and streets bursting with life. As well as offering unparalleled sightseeing and culture, London today also promises a thriving foodie scene and peaceful parks, for when you need to escape the restless rush of the city.

Visit the Museum of London to find out about the fascinating story of Britain’s capital city. Learn about its origins at the Roman settlement Londinium, as well as the invasions and occupations that shaped the city in the following two millennia.

One of the best ways to spend your time in London is hopping between its numerous world-class museums and galleries, most of which are free to enter. The British Museum and the National Gallery are two of the most famous, but there are dozens more to discover. Learn about the history of healthcare in the Wellcome Collection or chart the story of design in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Saatchi Gallery also offer hours of entertainment.

The U.K.’s capital has no shortage of iconic landmarks, from Trafalgar Square to St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Houses of Parliament. Meet the silent, stoic soldiers that stand outside Buckingham Palace and encounter the crown jewels at the Tower of London.

Modern London hosts a thriving arts scene that every visitor needs to experience. Amble along Southbank to pass the Tate Modern, the British Film Institute and the National Theatre. Book tickets to see world-famous musicals in the theatres of the West End. Alternatively, seek out something more classical at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden for a night of extravagant entertainment.

Travel to London at any time of year, although wrap up in waterproofs if visiting in the rainy winter months between November and February. While the London Underground makes getting around easy, the city center is also an exciting area to explore on foot.

Where to stay in London

London City Centre

Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus are a few top attractions in London City Centre. Hop around the city on the metro at Charing Cross Underground Station or Leicester Square Underground Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, stunning river views, and acclaimed art galleries.

City of Westminster

Home to iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, this bustling borough offers world-class shopping on Oxford Street and Regent Street, as well as vibrant nightlife in Soho. With 27 Underground stations, it's well-connected and walkable for residents and visitors alike.

The City of London

The financial hub and ancient center of London, this area boasts historic sites like St Paul's Cathedral and Tower of London, and its iconinc bridges, including Millennium Bridge and Tower Bridge, make exploration easy.

Covent Garden

Discover a lively district with the Royal Opera House, street performances, and shopping at Apple Market. Explore historical sites like Theatre Royal Drury Lane and dine at renowned international restaurants.

Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square are a few top attractions in West End. Hop around the city on the metro at Bond Street (Elizabeth Line) Station or Oxford Circus Underground Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops, and acclaimed art galleries.

Boasting a bustling commercial center at Kensington High Street, this area is home to renowned institutions like Imperial College London, Royal Albert Hall, and various museums. Well-connected by public transport, it offers diverse shopping options near South Kensington tube station.

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Check London hotel availability

Getting around london.

Travel all over the city on the vast London Underground subway system. For certain attractions and areas, making use of the comprehensive public bus network may get you there more quickly. Various above-ground rail options are also available throughout the city, including the Overground, the DLR, National Rail trains and TfL trains. You can pay for all transportation with a reloadable Oyster card. Visit the Transport for London (TfL) website. Browse London rental cars .

Best time to visit

The sun is at its hottest in London from early June to early September. This can be a good thing, but temperatures can sometimes get uncomfortably high, and the lines to get into popular attractions will often be very long at this time of year. Aim to travel in spring or fall for a quieter visit. In these seasons, pack for moderate temperatures during the day but bring a coat for the cooler evenings.

Popular places to visit

Once the private hunting grounds of a king, London's most famous park is today a place where everyone can enjoy gardens, monuments and music performances.

• Buckingham Palace

Britain’s most famous home, the luxurious personal residence and workplace of Queen Elizabeth II, is open to all.

Attend music and sports events, see a movie or go bowling in one of the busiest arenas in the world, situated inside this iconic dome by the River Thames.

• Piccadilly Circus

Often billed as the British version of Times Square, this iconic traffic hub is the perfect starting point for your London adventure.

One of London’s most resounding landmarks is a treasured emblem of England.

• Tower Bridge

An engineering marvel, this London icon spans both the River Thames and the ages.

Things to do

London eye experience tickets, westminster abbey tickets, warner bros. studio tour - the making of harry potter from central london, reviews of london, 5/5 - excellent.

I Love London it's my favorite city to visit, I would live in or near there if I was ever given the chance!!

This is a very beautiful country. The gateway to Europe.

I love London as a city. I grew up near New York City and it reminds me a lot of New York. We have direct flights from Orlando to London so Its not too much of a hassle to get there. Love it and looking forward to returning!

Go with someone special to you. it makes all the difference :)

If you are using tube/underground for getting around be prepared for a lot of stairs!

This was our first time in London and we loved it. It was unfortunate that it was just before the COVID-19 shutdown, but that worked to our advantage since it was less crowded than usual. We loved staying in Trafalgar Square and loved the sites.

Read travel guides and advice on visiting London

Most vegan-friendly cities for a delicious vacation, virtual tour of london: museums, landmarks & culture, 12 new places for your 2020 bucket list, the top 10 museums in london, top 5 babymoon getaways, surprising words in british english, top wellness hotels, how to ride the london tube, expedia announces partnership with helsinki-based finnair.

• Cities near London

Other places like London

• Places of interest
• Wembley Stadium
• London Bridge
• Tower of London
• Trafalgar Square
• The British Museum
• ExCeL Exhibition Centre
• Oxford Street
• Leicester Square
• Marble Arch
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Westfield London Shopping Centre
• Westminster Abbey
• Natural History Museum
• Finsbury Park
• Russell Square
• Kensington High Street
• Covent Garden Market
• Hampton Court Palace
• Liverpool Street
• Emirates Stadium
• Royal Albert Hall
• Chessington World of Adventures
• Westfield Stratford City
• London Stadium

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Free English Lessons

Tour of london in english – video.

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In this lesson, you’ll go on a tour of London in English.

Have you been to london before if so, what did you do if not, what would you most like to see, in this lesson, you’ll go on a tour of london. you’ll learn useful language to deal with common tourist situations, like buying tickets , going to museums or talking to taxi drivers., quiz: tour of london in english.

Now, test your knowledge of what you learned in the lesson by trying this quiz.

You will get your score at the end, when you can click on ‘View Questions’ to see all the correct answers.

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Well done! You got more than half the questions right. Keep practising, and if you’re visiting London soon, we hope it’s blinding!

Excellent! You’ve learned the language from this lesson really well. Check the questions you didn’t get right and, if you’re off to London soon, we hope it’s an absolutely blinding trip!

Top marks, well done. You certainly know your way around the language of London, and if you’re visiting soon, have a blinding trip!

1 . Question

Rearrange the highlighted letters to find three London landmarks:

The ushoes of Parliament = The of Parliament The retow of London = The of London St Paul’s cheatlard = St Paul’s

2 . Question

Match the two parts of these London landmarks:

Sort elements

3 . question.

Write the five-letter word to complete this question which you might ask before you get on a tour bus:

Could you tell me more about the and the things we’ll see along the way?

4 . Question

Which is the correct question to ask about the duration of a tour on a bus?

• How long does it take?
• How long does it have?
• How long does it come?
• How long does it make?

5 . Question

Rearrange the words into the correct order to form a question you might ask at a museum:

View Answers:

6 . Question

Write two five-letter words in the gap for something you might use on a tour bus.

There’s an to listen to as you go round.

7 . Question

Which expression refers to a tour bus that you can use to do the journey in sections as many times as you like during the duration of the ticket?

• hop-on/hop-off
• hop-up/hop-down
• hop-in/hop-out
• hop-forward/hop-back

8 . Question

Write a two-letter word to complete the question which you might ask at the cinema:

What films are at the moment?

9 . Question

Which of these things would you expect to see at a museum? Choose one option.

• an exhibition

10 . Question

Which of these questions could you ask at a hotel? Choose as many as you think are right.

• What kind of rooms are available?
• What type of rooms are available?
• What sort of rooms are available?
• What genre of rooms are available?

11 . Question

Write the four-letter word that could replace the highlighted word in the question:

Excuse me, do you accept euros? Excuse me, do you euros?

12 . Question

Write two words (4 and 6 letters) for cheap tickets that you might buy immediately before a theatre show starts.

Let’s see if there are any – tickets for a show this evening.

13 . Question

What seven-letter word is a play at the theatre (or a film at the cinema) that contains singing and dancing?

14 . Question

A matinee is a theatre performance that normally takes place at what time of day?

• First thing in the morning
• The afternoon
• Late in the evening
• The middle of the night

15 . Question

Which words refer to parts of a theatre? Choose as many as you think are right.

16 . Question

What is the informal question tag, used at the end of sentences in London slang?

• The weather looks nice, innit?
• The weather looks nice, izzit?
• The weather looks nice, arnit?
• The weather looks nice, avvit?

17 . Question

‘Blinding’ and ‘dodgy’ are slang words that mean opposite things. Write one of them in the gap, so that it makes sense in the context:

I wouldn’t go south of the river if I were you – it’s right down there.

18 . Question

Which London slang expression means that something is really annoying?

• This really does my nut.
• This really does my peach.
• This really does my biscuit.
• This really does my head.

19 . Question

‘The old bill’ refers to Londoners who work in which profession?

• The health service
• The government
• The fire brigade

20 . Question

Complete the four-letter slang name for pounds, which you might be asked to pay in a London taxi:

That’ll be ten q !

1. A Bus Tour of London in English

Gina: Hi, good morning.

Olivier: Hi. Can I help?

G: My friends and I are thinking of doing your bus tour tomorrow. Could you tell me more about the route and where we’ll go?

O: Actually, we offer many different routes. Is there anything in particular you’d like to see?

G: Well, I think we want the classic London experience: Big Ben, the Tower of London, and so on.

O: In that case I’d recommend our original route. It starts and ends at Grosvenor Gardens, just near Buckingham Palace. You’ll cross the river by the Houses of Parliament, then back again near the London Eye. You’ll also go past the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and several other London landmarks.

G: That sounds good. How long does it take?

O: The whole route takes about two hours, but it’s a hop on-hop off tour, so you can get off wherever you want.

G: And how much are tickets?

O: If you book online, they’re 25 pounds each, or 35 if you buy from the driver.

G: Do you do any kind of group discount?

O: We offer a family ticket, which includes two adults and two children.

G: I’m travelling with friends, so I guess that’s no good. I just have one more question: is there a guide, or an audio guide?

O: There’s a live guide, who speaks English. If any of your group want a tour in another language, we have audio guides available in 11 different languages at no extra cost.

G: That sounds great. Thanks for your help!

First question for our tour of London in English: can you name five famous London landmarks? If you don’t know, ‘ landmarks ’ means famous places. For example, the Eiffel Tower is possibly the best-known Paris landmark. So, can you name five London landmarks? You heard several examples in the dialogue. Here are the examples you heard before: Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. You could mention others, like Marble Arch, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, or famous football stadia like The Emirates or Wembley.

In the dialogue, I was asking questions about a bus tour of the city. Can you remember any of the questions I asked? You heard:

• Could you tell me more about the route and where we’ll go?
• How much are tickets?
• Do you do any kind of group discount?
• Is there a guide, or an audio guide?

You could ask these questions in many common travel situations; they aren’t only useful when booking a bus tour of London in English! For example, you could make questions like this:

• Could you tell me more about the tour, and what’s included?
• How much is the transport?
• Do you do any kind of students’ discount?

The bus tour we were talking about is ‘hop on/hop off’. This means you can get off the bus to visit places on the way, and then get back on another bus later.

Let’s make our first stop on our tour of London, and go to one of London’s famous museums.  

2. Going to a Museum

Olivier: Good morning, welcome to the Tate Modern.

Gina: Good morning. I’d like four tickets please.

O: Actually, general admission to the Tate modern is free; you just have to pay separately for the exhibitions.

G: Oh… Great! I didn’t realise that. What do you have on at the moment?

O: We have a wonderful Picasso exhibition, which I’d highly recommend. We also have exhibitions by Franz West and Dorothea Tanning.

G: I’d love to see the Picasso exhibition. How much are the tickets?

O: They’re eighteen pounds for adults and five pounds for children under 18.

G: We also have a 7-year-old with us. Do we need a ticket for him?

O: No, under-12s get in free.

G: OK, so two adults and one child then, please.

O: What time would you like the ticket for?

G: Excuse me?

O: With exhibitions, especially popular ones like the Picasso, your ticket is for a specific time. There’s a 30-minute slot, and you have to enter the exhibition hall within that time.

G: You mean, I only get 30 minutes to look around?! That’s not long enough!

O: No, no! You can stay as long as you like; it just regulates when you can go in.

G: I see! In that case, what times are available?

O: Well, it’s 10.45 now. I could give you tickets for the eleven to eleven-thirty entrance slot.

G: That’s fine.

O: That’s £36, please.

G: Do you take euros?

O: I’m afraid not.

G: I’ll pay by card, then.

Do you like going to art galleries or museums? Which London museums have you heard of? The Tate Modern, which you heard about in the dialogue, is a famous modern art museum. There are many other well-known London museums, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, or the Natural History Museum. For now, let’s look at some useful language from the dialogue in our tour of London in English.

Near the beginning, you heard this question: ‘What do you have on at the moment?’ Do you know what this means? ‘On’ refers to an event, performance, or exhibition which is happening now. You can use it in different situations; for example, at the cinema, at the theatre, or in a museum:

• What films are on at the moment?
• At the theatre: ‘Are there any good plays on?
• There’s a really interesting exhibition on at the Science Museum.

You also heard some more useful questions related to buying tickets; for example:

• Do we need a ticket for him?
• What times are available?
• Do you take euros?

Like much of the language in this lesson, you can adapt these for different situations, like this:

• Do we need a ticket for my son?
• Do you take dollars?

3. Buying Theatre Tickets

Olivier: Hi, how can I help you?

Gina: Hello! We haven’t planned this very well, but we decided this morning we wanted to see a show while we are here, and thought it might be possible to get some cheap last-minute tickets.

O: Any idea of what you want to see?

G: No, I don’t even know what’s on right now, actually.

O: Well, were you thinking a musical, or a play?

G: I think… a musical. It’ll be more fun for the kids.

O: Here, take a look at this. These are the musicals we have on at the moment.

G: I really don’t know. Can you recommend something?

O: How old are your children?

G: Five and nine.

O: I think the Lion King would be perfect. It’s one of our longest running shows, and it’s good fun.

G: That sounds perfect! How much are the tickets?

O: Well, first of all, what time would you like to go? We have matinee and evening tickets available. The matinee tickets are slightly cheaper.

G: What time is the matinee?

O: It’s at two-thirty, so in about an hour. The evening performance is at seven-thirty.

G: Two-thirty is too soon. I guess it’ll have to be the evening.

O: OK, evening it is. The second question is: where would you like to sit? You can choose from stalls, Royal Circle or Grand Circle. Take a look at this seating plan.

G: Hmm… We’re kind of on a budget. Which tickets are the cheapest?

O: You could sit in the Grand Circle, near the back. We have four seats together, just here. [point to imaginary screen]

G: How much would they be?

O: Normally, they’re eighty pounds each, but because it’s last minute, they’re down to forty-five.

G: Is it cheaper for children?

O: No, I’m afraid not. All tickets are the same price.

G: Alright, I guess we won’t get another chance anytime soon. I’ll take them!

Look at five words and phrases which you heard in the dialogue. They’re all connected with going to the theatre.

• last-minute tickets

Do you know what these words mean? How would you explain the meaning?

If you’re on a budget, you might want to look for ‘last-minute tickets’. You buy last-minute tickets close to the time of the show you want to see. Last-minute tickets are often cheaper. You can use ‘last-minute’ to talk about other things as well; for example: ‘last-minute plane tickets’, or ‘a last-minute hotel booking’.

Learn more with this Oxford Online English lesson: Hotel English .

A ‘musical’ is a play—or a film—which includes songs and dancing routines. Can you think of any other famous musicals?

A ‘matinee’ is a performance which starts earlier in the day, usually in the afternoon. You can also use the word ‘matinee’ to talk about films at the cinema.

A typical theatre has two types of seating: ‘stalls’ and ‘circle’. The stalls are the seats in front of the stage, and at the same level. The circle is higher and further back, so seats in the circle tend to be cheaper.

Now, you’ve been on a tour of London all day, and you’re feeling tired. It’s time to talk about transport . Let’s jump in a taxi and go back to your hotel.

4. Taking a Taxi

Olivier: Where to?

Gina: Excuse me?

O: Where are you going?

G: Oh, sorry. Trafalgar Square, please. Do you know how much it will be?

O: It’s all on the meter, but should be around £25.

G: OK, that’s fine. How’s your day going?

O: Typical Saturday, innit? Very busy, but can’t complain. Are you just here visiting?

G: Yes, I’m from the US. Are you from London originally?

O: Yep. Proper Londoner. Born and bred here.

G: So, you like it here?

O: It’s a blinding place to live.

G: Oh, right.

O: Obviously there a few places that are a little dodgy, but I think you get that in any big city.

G: Of course.

O: I mean, it just does my nut when people talk about how dangerous London has become.

G: Well… Yes…

O: I mean you’ve got to say the old bill do a good job around here.

G: The old who?

O: The old bill. That’s what we call the police here.

G: Ah… actually could you drop me off here? I’d like to walk down The Mall.

O: Yeah, no problem. That’s 25 quid please.

If you didn’t understand all of that, don’t worry. We included some colloquial words and phrases that are typical in London, and you might hear when you go on a tour of London in English.

• does my nut

Have you heard any of these before? ‘Innit’ is used instead of question tags like ‘are you?’ or ‘doesn’t it?’ For example, instead of ‘The weather looks nice, doesn’t it?’ you might hear ‘The weather looks nice, innit?’ This is colloquial, and as an English learner you probably shouldn’t use it, but you might hear it in the UK.

‘Blinding’ is a slang word which means ‘very good’. On the other hand, something which is ‘dodgy’ is not good at all.

‘Dodgy’ means that something is wrong. If you describe a person as dodgy, you mean that this person shouldn’t be trusted. If you talk about a dodgy area of a city, you’re talking about an area which isn’t always safe to walk around.

If something ‘does your nut’, it annoys you. For example, you could say ‘This music really does my nut.’ Again, this is very colloquial! Use it for fun if you want, but expect people to give you some strange looks. The ‘old bill’, as you heard, are the police. This is London-specific slang.

Finally, ‘ quid ’ is another word for ‘pounds’. This is common, and you’ll probably hear it if you visit the UK. So, if something costs ten pounds, you can say that it costs ten quid instead. ‘Quid’ is too colloquial to use in writing; also, ‘quid’ doesn’t change in the plural: one quid, two quid, three quid…

Anyway, we hope you feel ready for a trip so you can take a tour of London in English! Do you have any recommendations for things to do in London? Please share your ideas in the comments! Thanks for watching!

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