The Best Time to Go to London
London Trip in every season, and I have to say that it is a great place to visit all year long. When you go to London really depends on what you want to do there. Spring (March to May) is a great time to walk outside since the parks are in blossom and the weather is moderate. Summer (June to August) is a great time to go to festivals because the days are long. Autumn (September to November) is the best time to go if you want fewer people and a cozier environment. The air is crisp and the leaves are colorful. Winter (December to February) is wonderful because of the holiday lights, Christmas markets, and less tourists. Rain is always a possibility, no matter when you travel. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella and a raincoat.
How Long Should You Stay in London
There are always more things to see in London. No matter how long you stay, you’ll miss something. It’s all about putting things in order of importance. I think that three days in London is the very least that first-time visitors should spend there. This gives you just enough time to see the main sights, like the Tower of London, Westminster, and Covent Garden. Five to seven days is better. It lets you learn more about some of London’s top areas, such Shoreditch, Notting Hill, and Kensington.
Making a budget for London
People say that London is costly, and let’s be honest, it is. But you can enjoy it at any price if you have the correct budget plan. The most expensive thing is likely to be where you stay, and there are hotels that range from cheap to expensive. At the end of this essay, I’ll give you a list of hotel options. Eating out can be expensive, but street food from areas like Borough Market and Camden Market is cheap and tastes wonderful. I also strongly suggest that you take the bus or train instead of a cab or Uber. Most of the time, it’s faster and cheaper. You can also save money by going to the city’s free parks and museums.
How to Get Around in London
It’s easy to go around London without a car because the city’s public transportation system is one of the greatest in the world. The London Underground (Tube) is the quickest method to travel about, but you may also take the famous red double-decker buses. Google Maps works perfectly with the transit system, so you can always look up your route and get the most up-to-date information. Also, it’s never been easier to buy tickets! You can pay for a ticket by tapping your phone or card at the bus or tube stations. You can still get oyster cards and tourist permits that are good for more than one day.
One of the finest ways to see old streets and hidden jewels is to walk about. Renting a bike from Santander Cycles is also a fun alternative. Take a riverboat along the Thames or a famed black cab for short trips to get a real taste of London.
Best Things to See and Do in London
Museums to See in London
Many of London national museums let you in for free to see their permanent collections. You usually have to pay to see special exhibits. Also, you should book your complimentary tickets a few days (or even weeks) ahead of time, because they do sell out. You can usually wait in line without a ticket, but the lines can be very long, and you might not be able to go in.
How to Book Royal Museums?
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Gallery of Portraits
The National Portrait Gallery, which opened in 1856, has more than 200,000 portraits that tell the stories of important people in British history. There are famous portraits of everyone from kings and queens to political leaders to cultural icons. Some of the most famous are the Tudor dynasty and Queen Elizabeth I, and others are modern stars like David Bowie.
The British Museum
One of the best museums in the world is the British Museum. It has a huge collection of over eight million pieces that tell the narrative of humanity. It is the UK’s version of the Louvre. Founded in 1753, the museum offers a voyage through time, with exhibits that span millennia of human history and culture. The museum has priceless items like the Rosetta Stone, the Benin Bronzes, and the Elgin Marbles that show off ancient cultures like Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
There is a modern social debate about whether or not these objects, most of which were stolen during Britain’s colonial history, should be kept at the British Museum. But for now, they are still in this museum. The museum can get very busy, especially on weekends, so go early in the day or on a weekday to avoid big crowds.
Museum of Natural History
The Natural History Museum is in a beautiful Romanesque edifice and has some of the most interesting specimens in the world. The main atrium has a huge blue whale skeleton that stands out the most. The collection of dinosaur fossils is likewise very spectacular. Some people think that this museum gave rise to the idea for the “Night in the Museum” movie series. The museum was founded in 1881 and is famous for its hands-on exhibits that teach about geology, evolution, and the wonders of the natural world. Get a ticket to the popular “Dino Snores” sleepover event for a one-of-a-kind experience. You’ll sleep under the dinosaur exhibits and have a night full of adventure and excitement.
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the oldest and most famous buildings in London. It has been around for around 1,000 years. William the Conqueror built this UNESCO World Heritage monument in 1066. It has been a royal palace, a prison, and a treasury. People can now walk around its old walls, hear stories about royal intrigue, and see the beautiful Crown Jewels. You can buy tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines and make sure your visit goes smoothly and is memorable.
I really liked getting a guided tour of the Tower of London with the famous Yeoman Warders, sometimes known as Beefeaters, even if it was “touristy.” Scott Kelly, who goes by the name Beefy409 online, was a great Beefeater guide. His tour was quite interesting and a great example of how to guide a theatrical tour. At one point during our tour, he had more than 100 people listening to his stories and interesting facts about the tower’s terrible past.
Churchill’s War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are located below the streets of Westminster and give visitors an in-depth look into Britain’s wartime history. During World War II, this underground bunker was where Winston Churchill and his cabinet made all of their important decisions. The rooms are precisely as they were in the 1940s, and they provide you a fascinating look at the strategic choices that changed the course of the war.
The museum also has personal items, photos, and a special display about Churchill’s life that show off his legacy. It’s important to use an audio guide to get the most out of your visit because it’s close to St. James’s Park. It is best to book tickets ahead of time, especially during busy tourist times.
Castles & Palaces to Visit in London
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace is a royal home full with history that situated in the middle of Hyde Park. It was the home of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana, and its exhibits and historical chambers give a unique view at royal life. Visitors can see the King and Queen’s State Apartments, which are full of royal artifacts and beautiful decorations that tell the history of the monarchy. There are also exhibitions of royal fashion at the palace, showing off beautiful clothes worn by members of the royal family. After visiting the palace, take a walk through the grounds, which are wonderfully designed and a great area to rest and think about the royal history that surrounds you.
Buckingham Palace
You can’t go to London without seeing Buckingham Palace, which is where the British monarch lives. This great palace, with its royal architecture and wide gardens, is a symbol of the British monarchy. Many people come to observe the Changing of the Guard ritual, which is a colorful display of military tradition and skill. When the King (or Queen) is in town, don’t forget to see the famous flag flown!
Tourists typically visit Buckingham Palace from the outside, however tours of the inside are sometimes provided. Make sure you buy tickets ahead of time if you want to see the inside. Many people want to see Buckingham Palace, and tours fill up fast.
Iconic Sightseeing in London
Bridge of the Tower
With its twin towers that are easy to spot, Tower Bridge is a genuine symbol of London. Completed in 1894, it remains one of the most recognizable bridges in the world, combining Victorian engineering with modern functionality. You can see the tower on both sides of the Thames River in East London. Potters Fields Park on the south bank has some of the nicest vistas.
Visitors can walk across the high-level glass promenade to see more. It has a great perspective of the Thames and the city around it. There is also an interactive exhibit on the bridge where you can learn about its interesting history and the steam engines that were used to open it.
The Houses of Parliament with Big Ben
One of London’s most iconic landmarks is Big Ben. It was first called the Clock Tower, but in 2012 it was renamed Elizabeth Tower to honor the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Its grand clock face, which stands tall next to the Houses of Parliament, has become a symbol of British history and culture. I think the view of Big Ben from across the Westminster Bridge and the Thames in front of St. Thomas’ Riverside Garden is one of the nicest. Be sure to go at night when the tower is lit up magnificently against the night sky.
Beautiful Parks in London
Hyde Park
One of London’s most famous and biggest parks is Hyde Park. Henry VIII built the park in the 1500s as a hunting ground. It covers 350 acres and has famous sights including the Serpentine Lake, Speaker’s Corner, and the Diana Memorial Fountain. Hyde Park is a great place to go for a walk, paddle boat, or enjoy seasonal activities like outdoor concerts and festivals. It’s a favored spot for both locals and tourists who want to rest, jog, or just enjoy the scenery.
Gardens at Kew
There are many ancient greenhouses in the garden, such as the Palm House and the Temperate House. The garden is 326 acres big. There are so many unusual plants from all around the world in this house. They even found a new kind of water lily a few years ago! Check out my Instagram Reels to see what it was like for me to visit Kew Gardens.
Park in Battersea
Battersea Park is a Victorian park on the south bank of the Thames that has a lot of history and is very well-kept. This 200-acre park opened to the public in 1858. It has a combination of formal gardens, beautiful walking routes, and great views of the river and the surrounding Battersea Power Station. The Battersea Park Zoo is in the park, which is great for families. There is also a nice lake where you may rent rowing boats.
The Park of the Regent
Regent’s Park is a beautiful 395-acre park in the middle of London. It is famous for its peaceful lakes and lush gardens. John Nash created it in the early 1800s. It has a mix of formal gardens, open spaces, and a huge rose garden that is one of the biggest in Britain. The London Zoo, which is one of the oldest zoos in the world, is in the park. The park also has great views of famous places like Camden and the famous London skyline.
Unique Things to Do in London
Studios on Abbey Road
Abbey Road Studios, which is in the St. John’s Wood district of London, is one of the most famous recording studios in the world. The studio is well-known for being the place where many famous albums, like The Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” were made. Music enthusiasts now make a pilgrimage to the studio. People can take pictures at the famous street crossing that was on the cover of the Beatles’ album. Make sure to leave your name on the wall in front of Abbey Road Studios. The gift shop has a lot of intriguing artifacts and replicas, even though tours of the real studio are not usually open to the public.
Tour of the Mini Cooper
With Small Car Big City, you’ll see London in a whole new way. They provide Mini Cooper tours of London’s most famous and secret places that you’ll never forget. I have been on two of these tours: the Panoramic London Tour and the Rock’n’Roll Beatles Tour. They were both a lot of fun! You will get into a classic, old Mini, each with its own name. Your knowledgeable local guide will take you around the streets, showing you major sites like Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge as well as hidden alleys and unusual districts.
Each tour is meant to be engaging, fun, and full of interesting anecdotes, thanks to a fleet of beautifully restored Minis. Seeing other people on the street notice the cute old cars is one of the best parts of the tour. You will feel like a star! Check out my Instagram Reel about the Beatles-themed tour to see what it was truly like. You may see London in a whole new way by going on a sightseeing trip, an art walk, or a themed activity.
The Globe Theater by Shakespeare
The Globe Theatre in London is a modern version of the historic playhouse where many of William Shakespeare’s best plays were presented in the late 1500s and early 1600s. This open-air theater situated on the banks of the River Thames and gives you a great idea of what it was like to go to the theater in the Elizabethan era. The Globe puts up both Shakespeare plays and modern plays. Visitors can go on guided tours to learn about the history of theater and the great playwright. Make sure to obtain your tickets ahead of time for an amazing show outside.
Tour of Street Art
People say that London is a great city for street art. The underground graffiti movement of the 1980s is where the street art scene got its start. It has a long and turbulent history. It has become one of the most exciting places in the world for urban art. What started as illegal tags and political stencils has become a well-known way to express yourself creatively. The East End, especially Shoreditch and Brick Lane, are two of the greatest places to see this colorful open-air gallery.
A street art tour in London takes you on an interesting journey through the city’s lively and always changing art scene. I used AirBnb experiences to organize a guided tour with a skilled street artist. Dean led us into Shoreditch, where murals and graffiti are used to send strong political messages and show off people’s creativity. Check out my Instagram Reels to see some of the murals we visited in Shoreditch. Dean told us about the tales and background of some of the most famous masterpieces as we strolled.
Skyline Views in London
Garden in the Sky
Sky Garden is on the 35th story of the “Walkie Talkie” building. It’s one of the best sites to see all of London from above. This indoor garden has a lot of green space, as well as observation decks, a café, and even a bar, all with great views of the city’s cityscape. You don’t have to pay to get in, but it’s a good idea to purchase a ticket ahead of time to prevent huge lines. From here, you can see important buildings including St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and the River Thames as it flows through the city.
The Shard
The Shard is the highest building in the UK and has one of the best views in London. It is 1,016 feet tall and has an observation deck on the 72nd floor that lets you see the whole city from all sides. You can see famous places like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and even the Surrey Hills on a clear day.
Best Markets to See in London
Flower Market in Columbia
The Columbia Road Flower Market is a lively, colorful market in East London that is famous for its beautiful range of fresh flowers, plants, and gardening tools. It’s a photographer’s dream because it’s open every Sunday. There is so much to see, from the rows of colorful flowers to the busy market traders who are always happy to help.
The market has been operating since the 1860s, and it still has a charming, old-fashioned vibe. The area is home to unique businesses, cafes, and vintage stores, but the flowers are the major draw. It’s a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon. On sunny days, expect a lot of people, but the lively atmosphere and beautiful flower displays make it worth it.
Market in the Borough
There are a lot of food markets in London, but Borough Market near London Bridge is the most well-known. Every time I go to London, I always go to Borough Market. A food lover’s dream come true! The area is both indoors and outside, with vendors tucked away in every nook and cranny around and under the train lines.
You can walk through more than 100 vendors of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, fish, juice, and delicacies from around the world every day from Monday to Saturday. Anything you could ever want! Before you buy anything, walk around the store and then follow your nose. Look for the longest lines; locals usually know best! If you want to really get into it, think about going on a food tour of the market.
Market on Portobello Road
There are a lot of food markets in London, but Borough Market near London Bridge is the most well-known. Every time I go to London, I always go to Borough Market. A food lover’s dream come true! The area is both indoors and outside, with vendors tucked away in every nook and cranny around and under the train lines.
You can walk through more than 100 vendors of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, fish, juice, and delicacies from around the world every day from Monday to Saturday. Anything you could ever want! Before you buy anything, walk around the store and then follow your nose. Look for the longest lines; locals usually know best! If you want to really get into it, think about going on a food tour of the market.
Best Day Trips from London
Hampton Court
Hampton Court Palace, a medieval marvel just outside London, lets you step into the Tudor realm of Henry VIII. You can take a train from Waterloo Station to get here, which makes it a good day excursion. This former royal home is full with history and has a majestic red-brick front. Visitors can walk through the beautiful gardens and maze, which many people love, and see the palace’s huge kitchens, which are noted for their size and beauty. The haunted exhibit, which is full of strange stories about ghosts, provides an air of mystery.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of the most fascinating prehistoric sites in the world. Its huge stone circle and unknown origins continue to fascinate visitors. This UNESCO World Heritage site is nearly 4,000 years old and is roughly 90 minutes from London. The interesting visitor center lets people learn about the site’s history and the speculations about what it was used for. To avoid crowds, go there early. You might also want to think about scheduling a special access trip to get inside the circle of stones.
How to Book Stonehenge Entry Tickets?
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Bath
Bath is a great day excursion from London since it has beautiful Georgian architecture and Roman-built spas. People who like Bridgerton will also like it because a lot of the show’s outdoor sequences were recorded in Bath. Visit the beautiful Bath Abbey , walk along the picturesque streets lined with honey-colored homes, and see the well-preserved Roman Baths. The Jane Austen Centre is a great place for book lovers to visit because it honors the famous author who resided here. It’s easy and fun to get away for a short trip by train from London.
How to Book Bath Day Trip?
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Tour of the Harry Potter Studio
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is where you can enter the wonderful world of Harry Potter . You can go behind the scenes of the famous movies and see the sets, costumes, and props that made the magical world come to life in this immersive experience. This is where they really filmed all the movies.
How to Book Harry Potter™ Warner Bros?
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Where to Stay in London
There are many places to stay in London, from fancy hotels with views of the skyline to small guesthouses and cheap hostels. It’s really important to choose where to stay. The tube makes it easy to go around London, but it can take a long time to get from one place to another. Based on what you want to see and do while you’re in London, you should carefully choose where to stay.
Covent Garden and Soho are fantastic places for first-time tourists who want to be in the middle of things. South Kensington and Notting Hill, on the other hand, are more pleasant and residential. Shoreditch and Camden are great places to go if you want to go to fashionable bars and clubs. Families might like the tranquil regions of Greenwich or Marylebone better.
Where to Eat in London
One of the most interesting places in the world to eat is London. There is something for everyone, from upscale restaurants with Michelin stars to street food markets full of cuisines from throughout the world. You should definitely eat fish and chips and Sunday roasts, which are classic British foods. But because the city is so cosmopolitan, you can also taste some of the best Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Italian food. It can be hard for first-time tourists to discover the proper locations to dine because there are so many different eateries to select from. In a different blog post, I list all the best places to eat in London.
FAQs
Q1. How many days are ideal for a London trip?
A 3–5 day trip is perfect to cover major attractions, museums, and neighborhoods.
Q2. What should I not miss on a London itinerary?
Top highlights include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Eye, and the British Museum.
Q3. Is the London Pass worth it for tourists?
Yes, if you plan to visit multiple attractions, the London Pass can save both time and money.
Q4. What’s the best way to get around London?
Using the London Underground (Tube) and Oyster card is the most convenient and affordable way to travel.
Q5. When is the best time to visit London?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
