Best tourist attractions in London
First-time visitors to London arrive with a variety of preconceived notions: men wearing bowler hats, poor cuisine, equally poor weather, rich history, and iconic landmarks.
However, these stereotypes often do not accurately reflect the true experience of London. While it’s still possible to discover them with some effort, you can uncover anything in London if you search diligently, as the city offers a vast array of experiences.
London The city is not only rich in multiculturalism but is fundamentally shaped by it. Individuals from 270 different nations communicate in over 300 languages. In this capital, which is akin to a United Nations setting, it is entirely possible to savor Ethiopian stew, take a salsa class, admire ancient Egyptian artifacts, enjoy Vietnamese pho, and listen to an oompah band in a Bavarian beer hall—all within a single day.
This doesn’t mean that London’s identity is solely comprised of international influences; it still boasts a remarkable level of uniqueness. The buses are genuinely red, the taxis are truly black, and the large clock by the river is indeed impressive. The key attractions are of world-class quality, often unmatched, and are essential stops for anyone visiting for the first time.
Before visiting London, it’s important to understand the city’s size and layout. Make sure to allocate additional time for travel within the city, and don’t forget to pack layers and an umbrella due to the changeable weather. If it’s your first visit, aim for 4-5 days to truly enjoy the main attractions and get a sense of the city’s unique atmosphere.
Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, there’s always something new to explore in London.
How to get to London
The majority of international tourists reach London by air, but train travel has become increasingly popular due to growing awareness of the environmental impact of flying. Long-distance buses provide a more affordable way to reach the city. Eurostar connects London with Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. Most long-haul flights arrive at Heathrow, while flights from Europe and the Middle East also use Gatwick and Stansted airports. Luton and London Southend cater exclusively to budget airlines. All airports are linked to central London by train, but only London City Airport and Heathrow are part of the London Underground system.
When is the best time to go to London?
Best neighborhoods in London
London is frequently referred to as a collection of various villages instead of just one unified city. While only a handful of its neighborhoods exhibit a village-like charm, especially maybe… Notting Hill and Richmond It’s definitely the case that various areas have distinct atmospheres, so organizing your sightseeing by these differences can be beneficial. The three main interlinked neighborhoods—the West End, South Bank, and the City of London—are located on either side of the River Thames and attract most visitors, particularly those exploring for the first time. However, there are many other neighborhoods that are also worth visiting.
Top neighborhoods to explore in London
Where to eat in London
It’s hard to picture a type of cuisine that’s not available in London. The city offers a comprehensive range of international dishes from A to Z. The greatest number of restaurants can be found in the West End, featuring everything from affordable Chinese food in Soho to exquisite dining experiences in Mayfair. The South Bank boasts numerous reliable chain restaurants and excellent gastropubs that take food just as seriously as drinks. While the City is bustling during the weekdays, it becomes deserted on weekends after the bankers and brokers leave. Throughout the capital, sandwich shops and chains offering burgers and noodles provide convenient options for a quick bite.
Must-try foods in London
For those visiting for the first time, there are two must-try dishes in British cuisine: fish and chips, and curry. You can find great servings of both in east London, with Poppie’s in Spitalfields offering exceptional fish and chips, while Brick Lane is the place to go for a generous serving of curry. Additionally, a traditional British favorite is the roast dinner, typically enjoyed on Sunday afternoons, which includes roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding (a baked batter cup), all smothered in gravy.
Other must-try dishes include:
Classic English breakfast: A classic English breakfast is a substantial meal that includes eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast.
Bangers and mash: This meal features tasty sausages resting atop smooth, creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with a delicious, rich gravy.
Pie and gravy: Similar to an individual pot pie, it features a flaky pastry crust filled with meat or vegetables and is accompanied by a generous portion of gravy.
Mushy peas: Mushy peas are a popular side dish that might appear unusual. While they may not sound very enticing, they are certainly worth sampling and bring a distinct flavor to the meal.
Where to have afternoon tea in London
A trip to London wouldn’t be truly complete without experiencing a traditional… afternoon tea A more straightforward version, known as ‘cream tea,’ offers a selection of tea (or coffee), scones, jam, and cream. In the UK, scones are similar to American biscuits, but they are less rich and are enjoyed as a sweet snack.
Consider visiting renowned places such as the Ritz, The Langham, or Fortnum and Mason for a more luxurious afternoon tea experience featuring finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones. In these venues, the ambiance is just as important as the culinary offerings, so expect to pay a premium.
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Where to drink in London
People in London enjoy drinking, and a quintessential experience for newcomers is having a pint in a pub. There’s no shortage of pubs, as they are found all over the city. However, some standout options are Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (a favorite of Charles Dickens), Ye Olde Mitre, and the Lamb Tavern. Leadenhall Market In terms of bars and clubs, the West End and East London offer the greatest variety. Soho remains the leading nightlife area, and together with Vauxhall, it features the finest LGBTQI+ establishments.
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Where to stay in London
With 19 million annual visitors and increasing numbers, London offers a wide range of places to stay, from affordable hostels to high-end boutique hotels. If you’re visiting for the first time, it’s best to choose a location in the city center. A great budget-friendly choice is SoHostel, which boasts a prime location. For a more moderate option, consider the Haymarket, situated in the vibrant West End. If budget isn’t an issue, you could treat yourself to a stay at the Ritz.
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Public transportation in London
London offers various transportation options for navigating the city. While walking allows you to absorb its rich 2000-year history, a visit isn’t complete without experiencing the London Underground, or Tube, which was the first of its kind when it opened in 1863 and remains the fastest way to travel across London. Buses provide a respite for your feet and showcase pleasant views, although they can be slower. Taxis can be pricey unless you share the fare with others. Additionally, boat services run along the Thames in central London and extend to Greenwich, offering a unique viewpoint of the city.
How to use London’s Oyster Card
Navigating London is simple with a contactless credit or debit card, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or an Oyster card. These options offer pay-as-you-go travel at a lower cost than paper tickets and include daily and weekly spending limits to help you avoid overspending. Just tap your device or card on the yellow reader at the beginning and end of your trip to ensure the right fare is applied. The only exception is the bus and tram services, where you only need to tap at the start of your journey.
The Oyster card provides easy access to London’s public transportation system, which includes the Tube, Docklands Light Rail (DLR), and London Overground. If you’re using a foreign contactless credit or debit card, make sure to verify any potential additional charges such as foreign transaction fees.
For those who prefer planning ahead, a Visitor Oyster The card is an excellent option, particularly for those watching their expenses. By simply presenting the card at participating restaurants, stores, and attractions, you can save up to £150. The Visitor Oyster card must be purchased in advance and will be sent to you by mail. In London, only standard Oyster cards are accessible. For a full list of discounts, download this brochure .
How to get around in London
Is London safe to visit?
London is recognized as one of the safest and most accepting cities globally, although, like any major city, crime does occur. Pickpockets can be found on the Tube and in crowded areas, so it’s important to keep your belongings in sight and secure in pubs, bars, and restaurants. Be cautious of phone snatching while texting or taking photos on the street. For emergencies, the contact number is 999, and for non-emergencies, such as reporting a lost bag, you can call 101.
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Etiquette in London
Tipping: A service charge is typically added to the bill for meals at dine-in restaurants. In the UK, tipping is neither required nor anticipated. If you wish to offer service staff a bit more, it’s best to do so in cash.
Escalators: Always keep to the right and walk on the left (a local is likely to “kindly” remind you if you overlook this).
Waiting in line: Like in the rest of the nation, waiting in line is an important social tradition, so make sure to line up.
Social interaction: It’s not common for strangers to strike up conversations on public transport. People in London usually prefer to mind their own business, but they are generally friendly and willing to help if you ask for directions.
London dos and don’ts
What to pack for a trip to London
Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t constantly rain in London, nor does it rain the majority of the time. Winters are typically cool and overcast (snow is rare), while summers are generally warm and somewhat sunny, with average temperatures around 72°F (22°C). Dressing in layers is essential for a successful wardrobe in London, along with having something waterproof, as there’s a chance of rain.
When it comes to going out, London maintains a blend of casual and elegant styles, adopting a generally laid-back attitude towards dress codes. While most places do not enforce strict clothing requirements, high-end restaurants or exclusive venues may expect men to don a jacket, and athletic shoes might not be suitable. Londoners typically prefer a refined yet comfortable appearance, so wearing sweatpants in public could seem somewhat inappropriate.
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Advance planning is essential
It’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time whenever you can to steer clear of long waits or potential letdowns. If there’s a specific restaurant you’d like to dine at, be sure to book a table—every night in central London feels like Saturday night. This also applies to popular paid attractions. London Eye , Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London Purchasing tickets online can frequently reduce the ticket price. While you might find last-minute tickets for some theater performances, there’s no certainty in that, so it’s advisable to buy them ahead of time through a reliable service. TKTS or the TodayTix app .
Essential attractions in London for newcomers.
With an abundance of sights and activities in this UK city, deciding where to begin can feel daunting. Nonetheless, if it’s your first visit to London, there are some essential attractions that you definitely don’t want to overlook. Among these are the historic… Tower of London which has a history of almost 1,000 years and is steeped in the royal heritage of the city, featuring the Crown Jewels. Close by, Buckingham Palace is another notable feature, particularly during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Next, check out the iconic clock tower, Big Ben , followed by the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. Make sure to stop by and explore. Westminster Abbey A stunning church featuring a mix of architectural styles, where numerous royal events have occurred, including royal weddings and the coronation of King Charles.
A stroll along the South Bank or a boat trip on the Thames takes you to the London Eye The massive observation wheel provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city. While a clear day enhances the experience, the aerial views are still remarkable even on overcast days. The lively South Bank area is bustling with street entertainers, food markets, and beautiful vistas of St. Paul’s Cathedral located across the river.
Art enthusiasts exploring the area will appreciate the Tate Modern. Additionally, those with an interest in historic art and culture will find plenty to enjoy at the… British Museum It should be a top priority on your list of things to do. With more than eight million artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, it offers a remarkable glimpse into world history, and the best part is, entry is free.
Once you’ve enjoyed these cultural attractions, take a walk to Trafalgar Square, a lively public area known for the iconic Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in the ambiance, often bustling with street performers and artistic exhibitions. If you’re an early bird, consider visiting the square around 7 a.m. on weekdays to witness the hawks and their trainers, who roam the vicinity to keep pigeons at bay.
Along with the remarkable features of these museums, it’s simple to save money and manage your budget with these no-cost attractions. Hyde Park One of the largest and most cherished green areas in London, it offers beautiful opportunities for leisurely strolls, paddleboat rentals on the Serpentine, or just unwinding while observing the people around you. After that, make your way to the Natural History Museum or the Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington for additional educational and cultural experiences.
17 of the best things to do in London
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