Things To Do
in London
London is a vast, dynamic capital where ancient landmarks sit beside cutting-edge design and world-class museums. Its neighborhoods pulse with history, culture, and creativity, from regal palaces to bustling markets and street-art-filled lanes. The Thames snakes through the metropolis, linking iconic vistas with modern architecture and green spaces.
Visitors can expect a cosmopolitan atmosphere, superb museums, theatre, and a food scene that reflects the city's global diversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touchdown at Heathrow Airport marks the start of your London adventure and you’ll glide into town by Heathrow Express or Heathrow Connect. Upon arrival in Covent Garden, drop your bags at a stylish boutique hotel and take a moment to freshen up. Step out and meander through the cobbled piazzas, lively street performers, and designer boutiques to set the tone for exploration.
Lunch at a classic British spot in Covent Garden energizes you for an orientation walking tour. You’ll wander past Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch, and the Carpenter’s Arms Pub before reaching the Mall. As you stroll along The Mall, you soak in the regal ambiance leading up to Buckingham Palace.
Savor a traditional pub dinner with fish and chips or bangers and mash at a historic gastropub in Soho. Cap off the night with a West End show under the glittering lights of Leicester Square. A nightcap at a hidden speakeasy rounds out the perfect first evening in London.
Begin your day witnessing the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Arrive early at the palace forecourt to secure a prime viewing spot as the guards march in full regalia. Listen to the fanfare and watch the precision drills that have defined royal tradition for centuries.
Head to Westminster Abbey to marvel at its Gothic architecture and royal tombs, exploring the Poet’s Corner. After that, stroll across the River Thames via Westminster Bridge for scenic views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Grab fish and chips or a gourmet street food dish at Southbank Centre Food Market for a riverside lunch.
Board a sunset cruise on the Thames to see London’s skyline glow from the water, passing under famous bridges. Disembark near Covent Garden and indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of the world-class restaurants in the Piazza. End the night with cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the illuminated London Eye.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two in mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🚇7-day public transit pass | $50-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class museums, galleries, and theatres
- Efficient public transport and iconic sights
- Vibrant, multicultural neighborhoods and diverse cuisine
- Strong safety standards and high-quality healthcare access
- Compact, walkable central zones with dense amenities
- Very high costs for lodging, dining, and experiences
- Crowds can be overwhelming in peak seasons
- Weather can be changeable and unpredictable
- Air quality and noise in busy areas can be factors
- Transit fares and congestion charges add up for visitors
Places to Visit in London
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic river views with the bridge framing the skyline, especially atmospheric at sunrise or blue hour.
Classic city silhouette with Big Ben and the river; best photographed from Westminster Bridge or along the South Bank.
Architectural drama with reflections on the Millennium Bridge and sweeping city views from the steps of St Paul’s.
Colorful, pastel houses and charming streets ideal for film-like street photography.
Tall glass towers and panoramic city views, especially at sunset from elevated vantage points.
Wide horizons over the river and city, with rolling hills and historic observatory architecture.
Food in London
London Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy battered fish served with thick-cut chips; a London staple best enjoyed at historic pubs or renowned fish-and-chip shops such as The Golden Hind or Poppies.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast—an iconic start to the day at many local cafés.
Roast meat (often beef), with roast potatoes, yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy—a beloved weekly meal in many pubs across the city.
Tea with scones, clotted cream, and jam, plus finger sandwiches and pastries—classic experiences at places like historic tearooms or luxury hotels.
A traditional East End comfort food—meat pie served with mashed potato and parsley liquor, found at longstanding shops and pubs across London.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market near London Bridge offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and street eats from around the world.
Eclectic stalls and street food from many cuisines, set in a vibrant, alternative neighborhood atmosphere.
A hub for street food, curry houses, and vintage finds, famed for its diverse and flavorful eats.
A famed market with antiques, fashion, and a range of street foods, especially lively on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British politeness extends to orderly queues; always queue and wait your turn, especially at bus stops, Tube stations, and shops.
Stand on the right on escalators; walk on the left if you need to pass or hurry.
Order at the bar in pubs; tipping is optional; modest casual dress is common, though some upscale venues have stricter dress codes.
A courteous demeanor goes far; introductions are typically informal, and direct but respectful conversation is common.
Safety
Tipping in London
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, service charges of 10-12.5% are common if included; otherwise a 10-15% tip is appropriate. In pubs and bars, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cards (including contactless and Apple Pay) are widely accepted; cash is still usable but many venues are increasingly cashless, especially in central areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, lively festival scene, and outdoor dining; occasional heat and showers; crowded popular spots, so plan ahead.
Milder temperatures, crisp air, and autumn foliage in parks; great for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Colder days with festive lights and Christmas markets; shorter daylight hours; warm cafes and theatres are popular retreats.
Blossoms in parks and gardens, gradually warming temperatures; ideal for outdoor strolls and city sightseeing.
London at Night
Hiking in London
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient woodland just outside central London offering extensive paths for hiking and cycling.
Scenic climbs and viewpoints within easy reach for day trips from central London.
Rolling chalk hills with sweeping landscapes and long-distance trails within a short train ride from the city.
Hilly walks and stunning views located in the Surrey countryside near London.
Airports
How to reach London by plane.
Major international hub connecting London to most destinations; excellent rail links to central London via Heathrow Express and the Underground.
Large international airport with frequent train and coach connections to central London; often used by budget airlines.
Popular with low-cost carriers; connects to central London by rail and bus services.
Another budget-friendly gateway with rail and coach links to central areas.
Compact airport close to Canary Wharf and central London; quick transfers via Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and taxis.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mosaic of cultures and languages, with large South Asian, African, Caribbean, European, and global immigrant populations, contributing to a rich, multicultural urban fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Premier League action at clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, and others; passionate fan culture.
Premiership rugby and international matches draw steady crowds; notable venues nearby.
Lord's and The Oval host major matches, including Tests and one-day internationals.
The Wimbledon Championships are a global highlight, held in southwest London each summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting London.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
London hosts abundant vegetarian and vegan options, with many menus clearly marking plant-based dishes and staff able to advise on substitutions.