History, royalty, world-class museums, bustling markets, cozy pubs, grand architecture, incredible food, and neighborhoods that beg you to wander. There is simply so much to experience in London. Consider this a collection of London essentials: iconic landmarks, unforgettable experiences, and a fabulous food and drink scene you simply can't miss.
Our first visit was a five-day whirlwind over Christmas and New Year's, complete with festive markets, twinkling lights, and a day trip to Bath, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle. More recently, I returned with friends and fell in love with London all over again.
Stonehenge: Just Two American Tourists Hanging Out with Some Very Old Rocks
And yes, visiting London's most predictable tourist attractions is part of the fun here. Places are typically touristy for a reason, so set your pride aside and go see and do all the things!
London Travel Tips:
Getting Around: London's Underground (the Tube) is fast, efficient, and easy to navigate. And bring comfortable shoes. London is a fabulous walking city!
Where to Stay: Covent Garden, Paddington, Marylebone, and South Kensington are excellent neighborhoods for first-time visitors, with plenty of restaurants, attractions, and convenient transport connections.
Reservations: Book popular attractions, West End shows, and afternoon tea well in advance, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Weather: Pack layers, a jacket/coat, and an umbrella. London's weather can change quickly, regardless of the season.
Entry Requirements: U.S. travelers generally need a passport and a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short visits. Check current requirements before you go.
See & Do
Big Ben & the Palace of Westminster
Few sights say London quite like Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster towering over the Thames. Walk across Westminster Bridge for the classic view, then wander around Parliament Square and neighboring Westminster Abbey. It’s tourist-central, without question, but sometimes places are famous for a reason.
Westminster Abbey
More than 1,000 years of British history are packed inside Westminster Abbey. Coronations have taken place here since 1066, along with royal weddings, funerals, and burials of some of Britain's most influential figures. Even if churches aren't usually your thing, this one deserves a spot on the itinerary.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace
You can't come to London and not at least stroll past Buckingham Palace. Time your visit with the Changing of the Guard if the ceremony is taking place, or simply wander through St. James's Park and up toward the palace. Certain areas of the palace are also open to visitors seasonally.
Kensington Palace
My Very Own Prince at Kensington Palace
If one royal palace isn't enough for your royal-loving soul, and in London, apparently it never is, head west to Kensington Palace. The palace has been home to generations of royals and sits beside the lovely Kensington Gardens. Pair it with a walk through Hyde Park or continue into Notting Hill.
Tower of London
Tower of London
Castles, executions, royal scandals, prisoners, ravens, suits of armor, and the Crown Jewels: the Tower of London has a little something for everyone. It's one of London's most fascinating historic sites and worth giving a couple of hours rather than simply admiring from outside.
Tower Bridge
Yes, you'll take the photo. Tower Bridge is one of London's most recognizable landmarks and especially striking from the riverfront. Walk across it, tour the upper walkways, or do what we did: admire it, snap the obligatory picture, and head toward the nearest pub, because #priorities
St. Paul's Cathedral
Views from St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul's was one of my favorite stops in London. The cathedral itself is spectacular, but the real adventure is climbing into its famous dome. The journey to the upper galleries involves hundreds of steps and, as I discovered, is also an excellent way to determine whether you've developed a fear of heights. I made it to the Stone Gallery. T continued to the top. And I have zero regrets about it.
British Museum
You could spend an entire day inside the British Museum and barely scratch the surface. If you're short on time, prioritize. The Rosetta Stone, Egyptian collection, ancient Greek sculptures, and treasures from Mesopotamia are among its most famous highlights. And one of London's greatest perks? Many of its major museums are free.
National Gallery & Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery houses an extraordinary collection of European paintings in the heart of Trafalgar Square. While we appreciate a great museum, we're not spend-the-entire-trip-inside-museums kind of people. Truthfully, I prefer saving museums for rainy days. And in London, there's a pretty good chance of those!
London Eye
London Shining Even Brighter from Aboard the London Eye
Is it touristy? Good God, yes. Would I still recommend it? Hells yes. The London Eye offers one of the city's great panoramic views. We rode it at night, when London was illuminated below us, and loved every wonderfully touristy second of it.
Stroll Through Regent's Park & Primrose Hill
Need a break from London's bustling streets? Regent's Park offers gorgeous gardens, tree-lined paths, and plenty of green space to explore. Continue north to Primrose Hill for sweeping views of the London skyline. This was the perfect way to spend the first day of my most recent trip, soaking up a quieter, more relaxed side of London.
Catch a West End Show
London's world-renowned theater scene rivals Broadway, and catching a show in the West End is an absolute must! Whether you're a theater enthusiast or an occasional showgoer, there's something magical about spending an evening at the theater in London.
Eat & Drink
High Tea at the Ritz
Whoever started the rumor that London has bad food clearly hasn't eaten in London lately. This is one of the world's great food cities, with everything from centuries-old pubs and neighborhood chippies to outstanding Indian restaurants, bustling food markets, afternoon tea, and some of the best fine dining anywhere.
Embrace London's Pub Scene
No trip to London is complete without experiencing its legendary pub culture. From centuries-old taverns and cozy neighborhood pubs to lively watering holes, there's no shortage of places to enjoy a proper pint. Grab a local beer, settle into a cozy corner, and soak up the atmosphere. Some of our favorite London moments have been spent doing exactly that. Cheers!
Eat Fish & Chips
Cheesesteaks: Philly.
Bagels: New York.
Lobster Rolls: New England.
Fish and chips: London.
You have no choice. Apparently this is the rule and you simply have to abide by it.
We went to Rock & Sole Plaice in Covent Garden, the city’s oldest fish and chip restaurant. Whether you eat there or find another favorite, make room for at least one gloriously fried meal.
Get Your Indian Food Fix
A Delicious Evening at the Cinnamon Kitchen
London serves up some of the best Indian food we've had anywhere in the world, and yes, that includes India itself!
On our first visit, we celebrated New Year's Eve at The Cinnamon Kitchen, set in a gorgeous former Victorian library. Years later, I discovered Ambassadors Clubhouse with friends, another fabulous spot serving incredible Punjabi-inspired cuisine. Both delivered outstanding food, lively atmospheres, and creative cocktails. An Indian twist on a margarita? Yes, please!
Afternoon Tea: A Quintessential British Experience
Holiday Magic and Afternoon Tea at The Ritz.
No trip to London is complete without indulging in afternoon tea! On our first visit, we went all out at The Ritz, an elegant, formal affair complete with finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, decadent pastries, and impeccable service. On our most recent trip, I enjoyed afternoon tea w at Sketch with friends, a more relaxed and whimsical experience, but every bit as beautiful and memorable. Both were fabulous in their own way and among the highlights of my time in London.
Explore London’s Famous Markets
If you've read any of my travel guides, you know I can't resist a good market! London has plenty to explore, but Borough Market was an absolute favorite. Come hungry! From savory sausages and Kappacasein's legendary cheese toasties to Turnips' famous chocolate-covered strawberries, Borough Market is a food lover's dream.
Eating and Drinking Our Way Through Borough Market
Beyond London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath
Bath: Roman History Meets Georgian Elegance in One Gorgeous English City
As if London doesn't offer enough to keep you busy, some of England's most iconic destinations are just a short journey away. On our first visit, we joined a multi-stop day tour that took us to Bath, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle. Ambitious? Absolutely. But it was a great way to experience three famous destinations with limited time.
Bath: A gorgeous city known for its elegant Georgian architecture, charming streets, and remarkably preserved Roman Baths.
Stonehenge: One of the world's most mysterious prehistoric monuments. A little underwhelming in person? Perhaps. But still an iconic sight I'm glad we experienced.
Stonehenge: A Little Mysterious, a Little Underwhelming, but Undeniably Iconic
Windsor Castle: A magnificent royal residence packed with centuries of British history, stunning architecture, and regal grandeur.
Windsor Castle: Where Centuries of Royal History Meet Grandeur Fit for a King
While the tour gave us a wonderful introduction to all three, I'd recommend spending more time in Bath if your schedule allows!
London is a city that keeps you coming back for more. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always another neighborhood to explore, a new restaurant to try, or a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Embrace the iconic sights, wander without an agenda, eat and drink your way around the city, and leave a little something for next time.
Because trust me, there will be a next time!
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