Discover London: Top Things to Do and Places to Visit
Best places to visit in London, London is one of the world’s most visited cities, blending rich history, royal heritage, and modern attractions. From medieval castles and royal palaces to world-class museums, vibrant markets, and stunning city views, the capital of the United Kingdom offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or a longer holiday, London’s landmarks and cultural experiences will leave you with unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top tourist spots in London—complete with highlights, locations, travel tips, and mus-see attractions—to help you plan the perfect it
Best places to visit in London
Tower of London
A medieval fortress and former royal palace, prison, and treasury. Home to the Crown Jewels and the famous Beefeaters.
Location: Tower Hill
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill
Tip: Visit early to avoid queues for the Crown Jewels.
Tower Bridge
One of London’s most iconic landmarks with glass walkways offering unique views of the River Thames.
Location: Southwark
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill / London Bridge
Tip: Sunset views from the bridge are spectacular.
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the King. Watch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony outside.
Location: Westminster
Nearest Tube: Green Park / St. James’s Park
Tip: Palace tours are available during summer months.
Houses of Parliament & Big Ben
A Gothic masterpiece and the heart of British politics. Big Ben is one of the world’s most recognized clock towers.
Location: Westminster
Nearest Tube: Westminster
Tip: Best photos from Westminster Bridge.
Westminster Abbey
A UNESCO World Heritage Site where royal weddings and coronations take place.
Location: Westminster
Nearest Tube: Westminster
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the queue.
British Museum
A world-famous museum featuring the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and treasures from every continent. Free entry.
Location: Great Russell Street
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road / Holborn
Tip: Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore.
National Gallery
Located at Trafalgar Square, it houses masterpieces by Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Monet. Free entry.
Location: Trafalgar Square
Nearest Tube: Charing Cross / Leicester Square
Tip: Visit the gift shop for unique art souvenirs.
Tate Modern
A modern art museum in a converted power station, connected to St Paul’s Cathedral by the Millennium Bridge.
Location: Bankside
Nearest Tube: Blackfriars / Southwark
Tip: Free entry to main galleries; check special exhibitions.
Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)
World’s leading museum of art, design, and fashion with a huge collection of decorative arts.
Location: South Kensington
Nearest Tube: South Kensington
Tip: Perfect for fashion and design lovers.
Hyde Park
One of London’s largest green spaces with boating lakes, gardens, and the famous Speaker’s Corner.
Location: Central London
Nearest Tube: Hyde Park Corner / Lancaster Gate
Tip: Rent a boat on the Serpentine for a relaxing afternoon.
Regent’s Park & London Zoo
A beautiful park with gardens, open-air theatre, and the world’s oldest scientific zoo.
Location: North London
Nearest Tube: Regent’s Park / Camden Town
Tip: Ideal family spot with plenty of activities.
St. James’s Park
A royal park with lakes, pelicans, and stunning views of Buckingham Palace.
Location: Westminster
Nearest Tube: St James’s Park
Tip: Great picnic spot near the palace.
Kew Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with exotic plants, giant glasshouses, and seasonal displays.
Location: Richmond
Nearest Tube: Kew Gardens
Tip: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit.
Oxford Street & Regent Street
London’s busiest shopping streets with global brands, department stores, and festive lights at Christmas.
Location: West End
Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus / Bond Street
Tip: Visit early to avoid the shopping rush.
Covent Garden
Known for street performers, boutique shops, and artisan food markets.
Location: West End
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden
Tip: Evening is best for street performances.
Camden Market
An eclectic mix of vintage fashion, crafts, and international street food stalls.
Location: Camden Town
Nearest Tube: Camden Town
Tip: Don’t miss the food market by the canal.
Harrods
London’s most famous luxury department store with designer goods and gourmet food halls.
Location: Knightsbridge
Nearest Tube: Knightsbridge
Tip: Visit during Christmas for the magical window displays.
The Shard
London’s tallest skyscraper offering panoramic city views from “The View from The Shard” observation deck.
Location: London Bridge
Nearest Tube: London Bridge
Tip: Book tickets in advance for sunset views.
London Eye
A giant observation wheel on the South Bank with breath-taking views of the city in a 30-minute ride.
Location: South Bank
Nearest Tube: Waterloo / Westminster
Tip: Evening rides are especially beautiful with city lights.
Sky Garden
A free indoor garden and observation deck at the top of the “Walkie Talkie” skyscraper.
Location: Fenchurch Street
Nearest Tube: Monument / Bank
Tip: Booking in advance is required, but entry is free.
Millennium Bridge & Shakespeare’s Globe
A pedestrian bridge linking St Paul’s Cathedral with Tate Modern. Next to it is the Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original playhouse.
Location: Bankside
Nearest Tube: Blackfriars / London Bridge
Tip: Globe Theatre tours and live shows are a must for literature fans.
Extra Tips for Best places to visit in London
- Use an Oyster Card or contactless card for cheaper transport on the Tube and buses.
- Visit major attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Many museums and galleries in London are free of charge.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top tourist spots in London—complete with highlights, locations, travel tips, and must-see attractions—to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Conclusion
London is a city where history and modernity live side by side. From the timeless beauty of Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey to the contemporary marvels of The Shard and Sky Garden, each corner of the city tells its own story. Whether you’re strolling through royal parks, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying breathtaking views of the skyline, London promises experiences that stay with you forever.
No matter if it’s your first visit or a return trip, this incredible city always has something new to discover. So pack your bags, grab an Oyster card, and get ready to explore the best that London has to offer!
