London is one of the world's most charming cities. Modern architectural marvels like the Shard Line's old lanes filled with historic monuments, upscale department stores, and award-winning theatres. Picturesque streets wind their way around popular attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul's Cathedral, causing visitors to be thrilled with their beauty and exhausting photo storage in their phones.
With so many great tourist attractions and attractions to do, it's no wonder that London is one of the most visited cities worldwide, receiving more than 20 million tourists every year. The bustling British capital offers something for everyone, including shopaholics, foodies, adventurers, historians and kids; But this can make it difficult to choose what to do first.
Should you visit one of the best museums (many of which are free to enter), enjoy a picnic in one of the expansive gardens, tour a royal palace, or wander through a picturesque garden?
Perhaps you'd prefer to do a show, ride a horse through an orchard, take a ride in the London Eye, or enjoy traditional afternoon tea at Harrods.
Use our list of the top attractions and things to do in London to help decide what to see and do in this amazing city that you'll want to visit again and again.
Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues.
1. Visit Buckingham Palace and Watch the Changing of the Guard
One of Britain's most iconic buildings, Buckingham Palace is also the scene of London's most famous show of pomp and circumstance, The Changing of the Guard. Draws crowds at 11:30 a.m. Regardless of the season, this colorful, free display of micro-parade and music also takes place at St. James's Palace, after which you can follow the band along the Mall as they walk between the sites.
Buckingham Palace was built in 1837 and has been the residence of the royal family in London since the accession of Queen Victoria. If you're wondering if the Queen is there, look for the flagpole on top of the building: if the Royal Standard flies day and night, she's at home. On special state occasions, she and members of the royal family may appear on the central balcony.
When the Queen is away at her summer palace in Scotland, visitors can buy tickets for tours of the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery and the Royal Mews.
2. See the Royal Jewels at The Tower of London and Walk Across Tower Bridge
From prison to palace, from treasure vault to private zoo, the magnificent Tower of London has played many different roles over the centuries. One of Britain's most iconic buildings, this amazing World Heritage site provides hours of magic for visitors who are curious about the country's rich history - after all, much of it happened here. Inside the massive White Tower, built by William the Conqueror in 1078, is the 17th-century Line of Kings with its splendid displays of royal arms and armor.
Other highlights include the famous Crown Jewels Gallery, Beefeaters, the Royal Mint, and gruesome exhibits about the executions that took place on the grounds. The Bloody Tower presents stories of ancient torture, and you can learn about the secret of two princes who disappeared many years ago.
The adjacent Tower Bridge, its two massive towers that rise 200 feet above the Thames, is one of London's most famous landmarks (great behind-the-scenes tours are available). Stroll through the tower for the best views of the tower, as well as a glimpse of London Bridge (which many mistakenly believe is Tower Bridge) further along the Thames. On the south side of the bridge, you'll find Butler's Wharf, a funky section of town with many restaurants.
To make the best use of your time, especially during the busy summer season, purchase your Tower of London Entry Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour in advance, to bypass ticket office lines. This pass guarantees the lowest price, helps avoid congestion, and saves time and effort.
3. Get Cultured at the British Museum
Showcasing one of the finest collections of antiquities in the world, the British Museum contains over 13 million artefacts from the ancient world. With priceless artifacts from Assyria, Babylon, China, Europe and beyond, it's hard to know where to begin in this vast attraction.
Most tourists head first to the museum's most famous exhibits: the controversial Elgin Marbles of the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone, the colossal bust of Ramses II, the Egyptian mummies and the spectacular Roman silver hoard. from the 4th century known as the Mildenhall Treasure.
As well as a well-stocked on-site bookshop offering an exhaustive range of ancient history, archeology and art history titles, there is a shop selling children's games and souvenirs, as well as 'one that sells replica sculptures and jewelry.
For those who can linger longer, the museum offers a variety of lectures and workshops, as well as a restaurant and cafe.
4. Get Captivated by Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
Nothing screams "London" more emphatically than the 318-foot tower housing the giant clock and its clanging bell known as Big Ben. It's as iconic a landmark as Tower Bridge, and Big Ben's tollbooth is known around the world as the BBC's time signal. Below, stretching along the River Thames, are the Houses of Parliament, the seat of British government for many centuries and once the site of the Royal Palace of Westminster occupied by William the Conqueror.
The best view can be obtained by crossing Westminster Bridge and looking back. Or, turn left after crossing the bridge and walk along the path to SEA LIFE London Aquarium (a fun place to take the kids). Gather your team along the wall for the perfect shot with Big Ben in the background.
Tours of the Parliament Buildings offer a unique chance to witness real-time debates and lively political discussions. From Parliament Square, Whitehall is lined with so many government buildings that its name has become synonymous with the British government.
5. Get Creative at the National Gallery
It is almost impossible to visit London without seeing the impressive National Gallery. This iconic columned museum sits on the edge of Trafalgar Square, home to incredible masterpieces that make it one of London's top attractions.
Ranked among the best art museums in the world, the National Gallery in London represents a nearly comprehensive survey of European painting from 1260 to 1920. The museum's greatest strengths lie in its collections of Dutch masters and Italian schools from the 15th century. and sixteenth centuries.
Highlights include a cartoon (preliminary sketch) of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, The Entombment by Michelangelo, Venus and Mars by Botticelli, Sunflowers by van Gogh and The Water Lilies. of Monet.
6. Tour the Sculptures in the Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum (also known as the V&A) is part of a group of museums based in South Kensington that includes the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum. Founded in 1852, the Victoria and Albert Museum covers nearly 13 acres and contains 145 galleries spanning nearly 5,000 years of related artwork and artifacts.
Exhibits include ceramics, glass, textiles, fashion, silver, jewellery, iron, sculpture, prints, and photographs, and are conveniently arranged in four main categories: Asia; Furniture, textiles and fashion. sculpture, metalwork, ceramics and glass; word and image.
It's impossible to walk around this vast museum in one visit, so the best plan for dealing with it is to decide in advance which sections you'd like to see more of. Taking a V&A tour is highly recommended, and is often free, with options that include everything from daily introductory tours to a specific exhibit or themed tours.
The main cafes and garden are more impressive than any museum restaurant I have seen. The intricate details on everything from the floor to the columns to the ceiling make them pieces of art worthy of themselves. In addition, the food is very tasty.
Also, do not miss the luxury of John Madejski Park, which is so beautiful and serene, you will forget that you are in the middle of one of the world's largest cities.
If you're around, check out one of the fun "Late Fridays" programs that take place on the last Friday of the month (except in March and December), popular for their food and drink experiences, along with their late-night exhibit openings.
Address: Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge, London
7. Wander around Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square
Two of London's most popular tourist spots, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square are not far from each other and mark the gates of Soho, London's theater and entertainment district. Walking from one to the other is really fun, as eclectic shops, delicious cafés, ice cream parlors, and winding lanes evoke a bygone era when horses and carriages roamed these historic streets.
Trafalgar Square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson's victory over the French and Spanish at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson's Column, a granite monument 183 feet high, overlooks the square's fountains and bronze reliefs thrown from French cannons. The square surrounds the Admiralty Arch, St. Martin in the Fields, and the National Museum.
Piccadilly Circus is the irregular intersection of several busy streets - Piccadilly, Regent, Haymarket and Shaftesbury Avenue - and overlooking this somewhat disorganized traffic jam stands a delicately balanced statue of Eros on one foot, its arch. "It's like Piccadilly Circus" is a common expression that describes a crowded, confusing scene.
8. Take a Trip to the Top of the Shard
Since its opening in 2012, The Shard has held its place as one of London's most famous and most visited landmarks. With a height of 1,016 feet and about 95 stories, this magnificent structure - so named because of its resemblance to a piece of glass - dominates the skyline yet, thanks to its exquisite design, does not look at all out of place when seen next to its neighbors like a bridge the tower.
In addition to his office space on the lower floors, The Shard is home to the stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three great restaurants, all featuring some of the most stunning views of London. For those not staying here, the upper levels consist of a range of viewing platforms: indoor and outdoor.
Address: 32 London Bridge Street, London
9. Get Inspired by The Two Tates: Tate Britain and Tate Modern
Art lovers cannot visit London without touring its most impressive art museum: The Two Tates. The Tate Britain and the Tate Modern are on both sides of the River Thames. The original gallery, which houses one of the world's most important art collections, opened in 1897 as the basis for a national collection of important British artwork, and has continued to make acquisitions, needing more space to properly display its collections.
The end result was the creation of Tate Britain, in Millbank on the north side of the Thames, to be home to its permanent collection of historical British paintings.
The magnificently converted power station across the Thames has become home to modern art collections. Art lovers can spend an entire day viewing both sites, which are conveniently connected by a high-speed ferry. Even better, you can walk across the Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that connects the two banks of the river near the Tate Modern. The views are amazing.
10. Walk the Hallowed Halls of Westminster Abbey
Another site with a long association with British royalty, Westminster Abbey has stood on a site associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as St Peter's Collegiate Church in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his burial place.
From his burial in 1066 until the death of George II about 700 years later, most kings were not only crowned here, but were also buried here. Recently, it has become famous as a preferred location for royal weddings.
Not only does this masterpiece of Gothic architecture contain the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, attracting over a million visitors each year. Highlights of a visit include seeing more than 600 monuments in the nave, including the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior; Poet's Corner in Transepts, with memorials to the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Dickens; Westminster Abbey Museum; and attractive gardens.
Address: 20 Dean's Yard, Westminster, London
11. Head Underground, to Churchill's War Rooms
Among London's most fascinating and memorable historical sites is the perfectly preserved nerve center from which Prime Minister Winston Churchill led the British military campaigns and defense of his homeland throughout World War II. Their austere simplicity and cramped conditions underscore England's desperate position as the Nazis tightened their grip across Europe.
You'll see the small cabin where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. Simple details, like the knitting of Clementine Churchill's wool marking the front lines on a map of Europe, bring life back to the times like no other museum can do. Audio guides are available (the comprehensive, self-guided tour takes about 90 minutes), and a café and library are located on the premises.
Two other London related attractions worth visiting are also operated by the Imperial War Museum. A short walk from the popular South Bank cultural district, London's Imperial War Museum could easily occupy the best part of a day with its wonderful exhibits and collections of military vehicles, weapons, and aircraft. The other must-see, HMS Belfast, is a well-preserved WWII-era cruiser that served during D-Day and can be explored as part of a guided or self-guided tour.
Address: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London
12. Walk with Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum
Founded in 1754, the amazing Natural History Museum in London remains one of the most visited attractions on the planet. Its massive Roman facade is easy to spot, and a visit is something you don't want to rush into. Arrive early as it can get very crowded.
Many of the museum's original exhibits are still on display centuries later, and together they hold a massive collection of more than 80 million items showcasing everything from botany to zoology, as well as just about everything in between. A highlight of the visit is seeing the preserved specimens that Charles Darwin collected on his epic voyages.
If you're not in a hurry, start your visit by joining one of the official guided tours, which run from 30 to 50 minutes. You'll get to know the highlights that you may want to come back to at a later time to explore them in more detail. A variety of fun events are held regularly, from workshops for the kids to the late-night opening. Shopping opportunities are located on site, along with a number of dining options.
Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London
13. Enjoy a Picnic in Hyde Park
At 350 acres, Hyde Park is the largest open space in London and has been a destination for visitors since 1635. A highlight of the park is the Serpentine Lake, an 18th century man-made lake popular for boating and swimming. Hyde Park is where you'll find Speakers' Corner, a traditional forum for free speech - and harassment.
Another Hyde Park landmark is Apsley House, the former home of the first Duke of Wellington and purchased after his famous victory at Waterloo. Now a museum, it houses Wellington's fine collections of paintings, including Veláquez's The Waterseller of Seville, along with gifts from grateful European kings and emperors. England's greatest champion is also memorialized at the Wellington Ark.
Another beautiful green space in London to explore is Regent's Park. Just a short walk from Westminster, this 410-acre attraction is a joy to wander.
If you are traveling with children, be sure to visit the London Zoo, which is located within the park grounds and is one of the most interesting things families visiting the city can do.
14. Climb the Dome of St. Paul's Cathedral
The largest and most famous of London's many churches - and undoubtedly one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world - St Paul's Cathedral sits atop the site of a Roman temple. The former church structure was destroyed in a fire in 1666, and Sir Christopher Wren designed the reconstruction.
Today, its twin Baroque towers and impressive 365-foot-high St Paul's Dome are a masterpiece of English architecture. If you feel like it, be sure to walk the stairs with its stunning views of the inner dome, including the Whispering Gallery - undoubtedly one of the best things to do in London.
15. Shop at London's Best Markets
Whether you're a fan of food, flowers, art or clothes, you'll find something to love in London's best markets. While most places are only open on weekends (including Fridays), some of the more eclectic places, such as the lively Camden Market (in North London), welcome daily shoppers.
Camden Market is home to more than 100 stalls, shops, and restaurants offering everything from gluten-free goodies to handmade jewelry to bohemian clothing. If you are looking for a distinct urban feel, you will find it here.
Borough Market is a must place for food lovers in central London. This famous place, located near London Bridge, is very crowded on the weekends, and you have to make your way through the crowds to get the best produce or sample a mouthwatering giant paella. Arrive early (we suggest no later than 10) to enjoy a little more elbow room. The coffee line can extend into the blocks, so head there first. While some stalls are open during the week, most don't reveal their merchandise until Friday morning.
Old Spitalfields Market is another beloved place that offers some of the city's most amazing flowers, interesting antiques, art, jewelry, and more. Built in 1876, it is one of the best examples of a Victorian Market Hall.
Other popular markets include Maltby Street Market, Brick Lane Market, and Portobello Road.
16. Get Entertained by Buskers at Covent Garden
The market halls of Covent Garden are only the beginning of a neighborhood that includes the shops and restaurants of Long Acre and other nearby streets, those of Nails Yard and Spin Dials, as well as Central Square with its super talented and unique, street performers.
The halls and arcades of Covent Garden Market are lined with specialty shops and stalls selling everything from tea to luxury handicrafts to tacky souvenirs. A few restaurants are sprinkled too, some of which offer patios for you to enjoy a delicious meal while people-watching.
Located in the former flower market, you'll find the London Transport Museum, a haven for kids who love all things cars. Filled with historic buses, trolleys, and trams, kids and adults alike will love this interactive transportation hub. "Driving" a London bus, driving a subway, or sitting on an old wagon. This area is also where you will find the Royal Opera House.
17. Take a Flight on the London Eye
Built to celebrate the Millennium of London in 2000, the London Eye is the largest observation wheel in Europe. Their single glass capsules provide the most spectacular views of the city as you embark on a circular tour that rises 443 feet above the Thames. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes, often faster than the time you spend lining up on your turn. If you can, book your time in advance.
The best option is to skip the line entirely with the London Eye: Skip-the-Line Ticket. This advance ticket allows you to take a flight at any time of the day you plan to visit. If you can afford it, rent one of the private capsules and share the experience with friends and family!
Another fun way to see London above is on the Emirates Line, a cable car system that crosses the Thames between Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Dock. The trip covers one kilometer and takes 10 minutes, which is long enough to enjoy the stunning scenery and take some unforgettable selfies.
18. Meet Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace
One of the most famous palaces in Europe, Hampton Court is another great attraction beside the River Thames and a really great place to visit in London. The Great Hall dates back to the time of Henry VIII (two of his six wives supposedly haunted the palace), when Elizabeth learned of the defeat of the Spanish fleet.
Meet Henry VIII himself or chat with Anne Boleyn, both of whom roam the grounds and engage guests in their interesting antics at random points throughout the day. Depending on the time and date you visit, you may be asked to participate in a court hearing.
Grab an audio guide when you arrive and choose a velvet cloak to wear as you roam the grounds, if you're hoping to feel more authentic. Get lost in the famous labyrinth of the palace, or grab a snack at the on-site cafe,
Other interesting features include the Clock Court with its splendid astronomical clock dating back to 1540, the State Apartments with the Haunted Gallery, the Chapel, the King's Apartments, and the Tudor tennis court. Don't miss the Tudor kitchens and huge fireplaces.
The gardens are also worth a visit—especially in mid-May when they are in full bloom—and include Privy Garden, Pond Garden, Elizabethan Knot Garden, Broad Walk, and an area known as the Wilderness.
Although a bit far from the city center, Hampton Court is a must-see sightseeing trip when visiting London. It's a long way on the tube, but taking a taxi, renting a car or even grabbing a car service will make this trip more than worthwhile.
19. Straddle the Meridian Line at Greenwich and Eat at Docklands
For centuries the center of British naval power, Greenwich is famous to tourists as the home of the Cutty Sark, the last tea clippers of the 19th century sailing between Britain and China. The ship is adjacent to the Discover Greenwich Visitor Center, which houses its exhibits displaying more than 500 years of maritime history, and the Palladian mansion known as the Queen's House.
The impressive collections of the National Maritime Museum, the largest of its kind in the world, illustrate the history of the Royal Navy. One of the most unusual things to do in London is to stand with one foot in each hemisphere, above the Meridian Line in the Meridian Building at the Royal Observatory.
The revitalized Docklands across the river have been transformed into a cosmopolitan place for business and recreation, filled with some of London's smartest new restaurants. The excellent Museum of London Docklands, in ancient Georgian warehouses, brings the river, port and its inhabitants to life from Roman times to the present through hands-on displays of particular interest to children.
20. Ride a Horse through Richmond Park
It's hard to believe you're in London (well, technically outside of London) when visiting Richmond Park. One of the eight most attractive Royal Parks, this stately natural wonder has everything you'd look for in an English garden: winding paths, lush woods, sparkling lakes, stables and horse trails, bike paths, and multiple picnic spots.
Enjoy unparalleled views of St. Paul's Cathedral from King Henry's Hill, a picturesque hilltop surrounded by wild deer. Enjoy warm tea and traditional scones in the Pembroke Lodge Tea Room, or rent a bike and cycle through this gorgeous 2,500-acre nature reserve.
If you're visiting during spring (especially in late April or early May), head to Isabella Plantation, a gorgeous Victorian woodland park located within the park. The vibrant 40 acres are filled with colorful rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias so sparkling, you'd think you were walking into a fairy tale.
21. Ogle the Flora and Fauna at Kew Gardens
Spending the day at Kew Gardens is one of the best things to do in London. A UNESCO heritage site, this gorgeous spot is home to over 50,000 living plants and some of the most beautiful gardens in England.
Officially called the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is located in southwest London on the south bank of the River Thames and offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of central London, and a welcome breath of fresh air. Located on a flight path, you'll spot several jumbo jets, but it adds to the oomph for the little ones.
Also suitable for the family is the spacious indoor and outdoor playground, which is completed with a sliding rope.
Visit on a sunny day, and you should prepare to flock to a picnic spot on the green lawns, as this is a popular place for families to enjoy lunch outside. Did you pack snacks? Visit one of the on-site restaurants for a delicious treat - they even offer dairy and gluten-free options.
The gardens were laid out in 1759, and became government property in 1841. In 1897, Queen Victoria added Queens Cottage and adjacent woodlands. A variety of tours are free with admission, and many music and cultural events take place here throughout the year.
Don't miss the towering temple; Japanese Gardens Treetop walkway and the splendid Palm House, an indoor rainforest with an aquarium in the basement. The stunning Rhododendron Dell is a breathtaking treat bursting with vibrant blossoms during spring.
Further Read: Explore Top Attractions At London's Kew Gardens
Where to Stay in London for Sightseeing
London's top tourist attractions are spread across several different areas of the city. If you want to spend some time sightseeing, it is a good idea to base yourself in a central location and use the city's excellent public transportation system to move between sites. Here are some highly rated hotels in central London:
Luxury hotels:
When it comes to luxury hotels, Grand Dams still ranks high on the list of the best hotels in London. Pampering guests for over a century is The Goring, a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, while The Langham, in the heart of the West End, has hosted royalty and celebrities for over 150 years.
Corinthia Hotel London is just a few steps from Trafalgar Square, with a rooftop terrace and fine afternoon tea. The Ritz London, also known for its tea, is within easy reach of the luxury stores of Mayfair.
Mid-range hotels:
The Fielding Hotel, a popular boutique hotel, puts you near Covent Garden, one of the city's most touristy spots. Useful for those arriving by train from Heathrow or Gatwick, The Clermont, Victoria hotel is located just above Victoria Station.
About a 15-minute walk from Covent Garden, Bloomsbury was once the literary center of London and is now home to one of the city's top attractions, the British Museum, as well as highly rated mid-range hotels such as The Montague on the Gardens and The Bloomsbury Hotel London. Both are also within walking distance of Oxford Street shopping.
Budget hotels:
If you're watching your wallet, the Premier Inn London Kensington is an affordable option minutes from museums and Earls Court Tube Station.
You can also head north and try the Alhambra or the Jesmond Dene Hotel, both near busy King's Cross tube station, a major transportation hub.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to London
- In-depth tours. It is difficult to choose the best sights to see in London; There are so many great places on offer. This nine-hour Best of London Sightseeing Tour ensures that you won't miss anything essential. In addition to taking you to some of the city's top sites (like Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace), guests receive pre-arranged tickets for a boat cruise, as well as comprehensive tours of the Tower of London and St Paul's Cathedral, plus stops to watch the Changing of the Guard. Upgrade for a cream tea at Harrods or a flight on the London Eye.
- See the viewer. One of the best ways to see the sights of London is on the traditional double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off London Sightseeing Tour. It's been a classic sightseeing tour for years, and it's popular for good reason: It's easy, convenient, informative, and ensures you'll see the top attractions. Tickets are flexible, with open dates, and are valid for 24 hours. Even if you're in London for several days, this is a great way to spend a day orientating, especially for first-time visitors to the city.
- Daily flights. Outside the city, there are some excellent sightseeing opportunities that can easily be done on a day trip from London. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath Day Trip from London is an 11-hour guided tour that takes visitors to these must-see destinations. It's a great way to see the surroundings without the hassle of driving, commuting and parking.
- Harry Potter experience. Harry Potter fans will surely want to take a Warner Bros. Studio Made - Harry Potter studio tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the movie's creation and walk through the amazing sets where the movie was made. Visitors can explore the site on their own, see costumes and props, wander the Great Hall, and learn about the entire shooting experience. The tour includes transportation to and from the studios from central London and an entry ticket.