Short Answer: Don't Miss These 5
If you only have a few days in London, prioritize these experiences:
Tower of London & Tower Bridge
Book early entry tickets to see the Crown Jewels before crowds arrive, then walk across Tower Bridge for classic Thames views.
British Museum
Free entry to one of the world's greatest collections—focus on Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Parthenon sculptures.
Westminster Abbey + Big Ben Area
See where kings and queens are crowned, then walk past Big Ben and across Westminster Bridge for skyline photos.
Covent Garden + West End Show
Watch street performers, browse market stalls, grab dinner, then catch a West End musical or play.
Borough Market + South Bank Walk
Eat your way through London's best food market, then stroll the South Bank past Shakespeare's Globe and Tate Modern.
Exactly What to Do in London (Without Overwhelm)
London has 170 museums, dozens of markets, royal palaces, theaters and neighborhoods—you can't do it all on one trip. This guide is designed for first-time visitors who want a mix of history, culture, food, and local life.
Instead of dumping 100 ideas on you, we've curated the 21 best things to do in London, grouped by type, with honest notes on what's worth your limited time and what you can skip.
Top Rated Tours in London
1. Main Sights You Really Should See
These are London's icons. The key is visiting them smartly so you don't spend your entire trip waiting in lines.
Tower of London
A 900-year-old fortress housing the Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), and 1,000 years of bloody royal history.
How to Do It:
- • Book timed tickets online 1–2 weeks ahead to save £3 and skip ticket lines.
- • Arrive 15 minutes before your slot to clear security.
- • Head straight to the Crown Jewels before tour groups arrive, then join a free Yeoman Warder tour (depart regularly throughout the day, roughly every 45 minutes).
Tips:
- → The Jewel House queue peaks 11am–2pm—go early or after 3pm.
- → Beefeater tours are free with entry and full of dark humor—highly recommended.
- → Bring ID; security is airport-style.
British Museum
One of the world's greatest museums—Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, Greek Parthenon sculptures, and treasures from every continent.
How to Do It:
- • Entry is free but busy weekends can have 30-minute security queues—arrive early or book a free timed slot online.
- • Download the museum app or grab a paper map at the Great Court.
- • Focus on: Room 4 (Rosetta Stone), Rooms 62-63 (Egyptian mummies), Room 18 (Parthenon), Room 41 (Sutton Hoo).
Tips:
- → The museum is massive—don't try to see everything. Pick 3–4 highlights.
- → Friday late opening is quieter and atmospheric.
- → The Great Court café is overpriced; eat nearby on Coptic Street instead.
Westminster Abbey
Britain's coronation church for 1,000 years—where kings and queens are crowned, married, and buried.
How to Do It:
- • Book timed tickets online to save £2 and skip lines.
- • Rent the included audio guide—it's excellent and narrated by Jeremy Irons.
- • Don't miss: Coronation Chair, Poets' Corner (Chaucer, Dickens), Royal Tombs.
Tips:
- → No photography inside—security is strict.
- → Combine with Big Ben views and walk across Westminster Bridge after.
- → Closed Sundays except for services (free entry but no sightseeing).
Buckingham Palace + Changing of the Guard
See the official residence of the King, watch the ceremonial guard change, and tour the lavish State Rooms in summer.
How to Do It:
- • For Changing of the Guard: arrive at the gates by 10:30am for a front-row spot (ceremony starts 11am, lasts 45 min).
- • For State Rooms tour (July–September only): book timed tickets weeks ahead—they sell out fast.
- • Best view is from the Victoria Memorial steps in front of the palace.
Tips:
- → Guard ceremony is often canceled in bad weather—check schedule online before going.
- → If State Rooms are closed, the ceremony + nearby St. James's Park makes a nice 1-hour stop.
- → Skip overpriced cafés on The Mall; walk to Victoria Street for better options.
London Eye
London's giant Ferris wheel offers 360° city views from 135 meters up—you'll see Big Ben, St. Paul's, Shard, and the Thames snaking through the city.
How to Do It:
- • Book online at least a day ahead to save £5–£10 and choose your time slot.
- • Sunset slots are most expensive but most beautiful.
- • Arrive 15–20 minutes early for security and boarding.
Tips:
- → Skip if you're on a tight budget—free views from Primrose Hill or Greenwich Park are just as good.
- → Combine with a South Bank walk (free) for more value.
- → Fast Track tickets (£45+) are rarely needed except peak summer weekends.
2. World-Class Museums (All Free)
London's major museums have free entry—one of the best travel deals in Europe.
Natural History Museum
Dinosaur skeletons, blue whale, earthquake simulator, and a Victorian cathedral-like building that's stunning even if you skip the exhibits.
How to Do It:
- • Enter via Exhibition Road (shorter queue than main entrance).
- • Head straight to Hintze Hall for the blue whale skeleton, then Dinosaur Gallery.
- • If traveling with kids, don't miss the earthquake simulator and Darwin Centre.
Tips:
- → Peak times (weekends, school holidays) can feel like a theme park—aim for 10am weekday arrival.
- → The museum café is expensive; Cromwell Road has cheaper options.
- → Combine with V&A next door if you have 4+ hours.
Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
The world's greatest museum of art and design—fashion, furniture, sculpture, jewelry, and the most beautiful museum café in London.
How to Do It:
- • Download the V&A app for a self-guided tour or join a free daily tour (check schedule at info desk).
- • Don't miss: Cast Courts (plaster copies of famous sculptures), Fashion Gallery, British Galleries, Jewelry Gallery.
- • Have tea or a glass of wine in the stunning café in the courtyard.
Tips:
- → Less crowded than Natural History Museum—a hidden gem for adults.
- → Friday nights have DJ sets, drinks, and a younger crowd.
- → The shop has beautiful design books and gifts.
Tate Modern
Cutting-edge modern art in a converted power station—Picasso, Warhol, Hockney, plus the 10th floor viewing gallery with free Thames panoramas.
How to Do It:
- • Enter via Millennium Bridge for the dramatic Turbine Hall approach.
- • Start at Level 10 for free city views and work your way down.
- • Focus on Levels 2, 3, 4 for permanent collections.
Tips:
- → Skip if modern art isn't your thing—but at least go for the view.
- → The Turbine Hall usually has a large-scale installation—worth a quick look even if you don't tour the galleries.
- → Tate-to-Tate boat connects Tate Modern to Tate Britain (£9 one-way).
National Gallery
European masterpieces from 1250–1900: Van Gogh's Sunflowers, Da Vinci, Monet, Turner, Rembrandt—all under one roof.
How to Do It:
- • Enter via Trafalgar Square main entrance.
- • Grab a free map and focus on: Sainsbury Wing (Renaissance), West Wing (Impressionists), Room 34 (Van Gogh, Monet).
- • Free daily tours at 11:30am and 2:30pm—excellent for highlights.
Tips:
- → Less overwhelming than the British Museum—perfect if you only have time for one art museum.
- → The National Café has gorgeous views over Trafalgar Square.
- → Combine with a walk through St. James's Park or Covent Garden after.
3. Best Neighborhoods to Explore on Foot
London is a collection of villages that grew together. Each neighborhood has its own vibe.
Covent Garden
Covered market hall, street performers, boutique shops, and the heart of London's theater district.
How to Do It:
- • Start at Covent Garden Market (covered piazza with shops and performers).
- • Walk Neal's Yard (colorful alley full of indie cafés).
- • Browse Seven Dials for independent shops.
- • Check TKTS booth in Leicester Square for discounted same-day theater tickets.
Tips:
- → Restaurants in the main piazza are overpriced—walk one street over for better value.
- → Street performers perform continuously; tip if you stop to watch.
- → Pre-book West End shows online for 20-40% savings.
Notting Hill + Portobello Road Market
Pastel townhouses, antique market, vintage shops, and the setting of the rom-com Notting Hill.
How to Do It:
- • Take the Tube to Notting Hill Gate.
- • Walk Portobello Road from top to bottom (antiques at the north end, food at the south).
- • Explore side streets like Lancaster Road and Westbourne Grove for cafés and boutiques.
Tips:
- → Market is biggest on Saturdays but also most crowded—Friday is a good compromise.
- → Antiques are expensive; better for browsing than buying.
- → Grab brunch at Granger & Co or Farm Girl.
Shoreditch + Brick Lane
Street art, vintage markets, curry houses, craft beer bars, and East London's edgy creative vibe.
How to Do It:
- • Start at Shoreditch High Street station.
- • Walk Brick Lane top to bottom (vintage at the north end, curry houses at the south).
- • Explore side streets for street art (Hanbury Street, Redchurch Street).
- • Sunday: Browse Brick Lane Market and Spitalfields Market for vintage clothes and food stalls.
Tips:
- → Brick Lane is famous for curry—but quality varies wildly. Ask locals for current recommendations.
- → Best street art is constantly changing—wander side streets off the main road.
- → Bars and clubs stay open late; avoid if you want an early night.
South Bank Walk (Westminster to Tower Bridge)
A flat, scenic riverside walk that hits London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern, Borough Market, and Tower Bridge—all in one go.
How to Do It:
- • Start at Westminster Bridge (Big Ben views).
- • Walk east along the Thames: London Eye → Southbank Centre → Gabriel's Wharf → Tate Modern → Shakespeare's Globe → Borough Market → Tower Bridge.
- • Stop for food at Borough Market or grab a drink at a riverside pub.
Tips:
- → Totally free and hits 10+ major sights—one of London's best experiences.
- → Flat and paved—easy for all fitness levels.
- → Do it west-to-east so Tower Bridge is your finale.
4. Food & Markets
London's markets are where locals eat, shop, and hang out—skip chain restaurants and come here.
Borough Market
London's oldest food market—artisan bread, cheese, charcuterie, street food from around the world, and samples galore.
How to Do It:
- • Arrive hungry and with £20–£30 cash or card.
- • Wander, sample, and graze rather than sitting down for a full meal.
- • Don't miss: Roast pork sandwiches, Ethiopian stews, fresh oysters, brownies.
Tips:
- → Saturday is a zoo—Wednesday or Thursday mornings are more relaxed.
- → Many stalls give free samples—taste before buying.
- → Combine with South Bank walk or Tate Modern after.
Camden Market
Punk rock history, street food from 50+ countries, vintage clothes, and a chaotic, colorful atmosphere.
How to Do It:
- • Take the Tube to Camden Town.
- • Start at Camden Lock Market (canal-side food stalls).
- • Explore: Stables Market (vintage fashion, quirky shops), Buck Street Market (street food).
Tips:
- → More touristy than it used to be, but still fun.
- → Pickpockets target crowds—keep valuables secure.
- → Walk the Regent's Canal towpath toward King's Cross for a quieter vibe after.
Traditional Pub Experience
London pub culture is iconic—wood-paneled Victorian interiors, real ales, Sunday roasts, and locals telling stories.
How to Do It:
- • Choose an older, independent pub over a chain (avoid Wetherspoons for authenticity).
- • Try a classic London pub like: The Churchill Arms (Kensington), Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street), The Mayflower (Rotherhithe).
- • Order at the bar—table service is rare except for food.
Tips:
- → Try a cask ale or London Pride for the full experience.
- → Sunday roasts (served 12–6pm) are a British tradition—book ahead at popular pubs.
- → Pubs can be loud—find a corner if you want conversation.
5. Unique London Experiences
These aren't your typical sightseeing stops—but they're what makes London special.
West End Theater Show
London's theater scene rivals Broadway—world-class performances at a fraction of NYC prices.
How to Do It:
- • Book online 2–4 weeks ahead via official theater websites or TodayTix app.
- • For discounts: Check TKTS booth in Leicester Square day-of for 20–50% off unsold seats.
- • Popular shows: Wicked, Les Mis, Hamilton, Book of Mormon, Phantom.
Tips:
- → Balcony seats (£30–£50) often have better sightlines than expensive stalls.
- → Wednesday matinees are cheapest and less crowded.
- → Skip dinner in the theater—eat before in Covent Garden or Chinatown.
Harry Potter Platform 9¾ + Warner Bros. Studio Tour
See the actual film sets, costumes, props from all 8 Harry Potter movies—the most immersive fan experience in the world.
How to Do It:
- • Platform 9¾ (King's Cross station): Free photo op with Gryffindor scarf—queue early morning to avoid 1-hour waits.
- • Studio Tour (Leavesden, 30 min from London): Book timed tickets online weeks ahead; includes bus transfers from Victoria.
- • Allow 4 hours for the studio tour—Great Hall, Diagon Alley, Hogwarts Express, Butterbeer.
Tips:
- → Studio tour tickets sell out months ahead in summer—book ASAP.
- → Skip Platform 9¾ if lines are over 30 minutes—it's just a photo op.
- → Studio tour is expensive but worth it for big fans—skip if you're lukewarm on HP.
Free Walking Tour
Get oriented, hear stories behind the landmarks, and ask a local guide your questions—the best value in London.
How to Do It:
- • Book online with companies like Sandeman's New Europe, Free Tours by Foot, or Strawberry Tours.
- • Popular routes: Westminster (Big Ben, Parliament, Abbey), City of London (Bank, Tower), East End (street art, markets).
- • Tip your guide at the end (£10–£15 is standard for good service).
Tips:
- → Do this on Day 1 to get oriented and pick up tips from your guide.
- → Wear comfy shoes—it's 2–3 hours on your feet.
- → Westminster tour hits the most iconic sights; City tour is better for history nerds.
6. Best Day Trips from London
If you have 5+ days in London, consider one of these easy day trips.
Stonehenge + Bath
See the mysterious prehistoric stone circle and the stunning Roman baths + Georgian architecture of Bath.
How to Do It:
- • Option 1 (Easiest): Book a full-day coach tour from London—includes transport, entry tickets, and a guide (£90–£110 for Stonehenge + Bath combo tours).
- • Option 2 (DIY): Train to Bath (1.5 hours), explore Bath, then bus to Stonehenge (1 hour), return to London by train (total £45–£60).
- • Allow 1.5 hours at Stonehenge, 3–4 hours in Bath.
Tips:
- → Stonehenge is smaller than photos suggest—but still worth seeing if you're interested in ancient history.
- → Bath is stunning—Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent—could be a full day on its own.
- → Coach tours are long days (leave 8am, return 8pm)—bring snacks.
Windsor Castle
The King's weekend home and the world's oldest occupied castle—State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and Changing of the Guard.
How to Do It:
- • Train from London Waterloo or Paddington to Windsor (35–50 min, £12–£15 return).
- • Book castle tickets online for priority entry.
- • Allow 2–3 hours inside the castle + 1 hour to explore Windsor town.
Tips:
- → Check if the castle is open—occasionally closed for royal events.
- → Changing of the Guard happens 11am Tue/Thu/Sat (weather permitting).
- → Combine with Eton (across the river) for a longer day.
Oxford
Walk through 800-year-old colleges, see Harry Potter filming locations, and soak up one of the world's most famous university towns.
How to Do It:
- • Train from London Paddington to Oxford (1 hour, £20–£30 return).
- • Walk from station to city center (20 min) or take bus.
- • Visit: Christ Church College (Great Hall = Hogwarts), Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs.
Tips:
- → Colleges charge entry fees (£5–£10) and have varied opening hours—check ahead.
- → Some colleges close to tourists during exams (May–June).
- → Grab lunch at The Eagle and Child (pub where Tolkien and C.S. Lewis met).
Practical Tips for Visiting London
Transport
Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment on Tube/buses—it's capped at £8.90/day for Zones 1–2 (2025 prices). Avoid buying single paper tickets (triple the price).
Money
London is expensive—budget £80–£120/day (£50–£70 for accommodation, £20–£30 food, £10–£20 activities). Many museums are free, which helps.
Weather
Always carry a compact umbrella or light rain jacket—London weather changes hourly. Layers are key.
Safety
London is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets on the Tube and at tourist sites. Keep bags zipped and phones secure.
Tipping
Tip 10–12% in sit-down restaurants if service charge isn't included. No need to tip in pubs or cafés where you order at the counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
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About This Guide
Author: Jan Křenek
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
Published: November 20, 2025
Updated: November 20, 2025
Data Sources: Official tourism boards and visitor guides • GetYourGuide and Viator activity data • Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data • Google Maps reviews and ratings
Methodology: This guide combines expert curation, official tourism board data, user reviews, and real booking trends to provide honest, actionable recommendations for London.