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LONDON TRAVEL GUIDE
Planning a trip to London? This London Travel Guide highlights the top things to do in London, from iconic landmarks to must-visit attractions. Whether you're exploring historic sites, enjoying breathtaking views, or diving into British culture, this guide will help you make the most of your trip. Book your tours and experiences through the provided links for an unforgettable adventure!
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London Sightseeing & Attractions
Planning a trip to London? Explore the top London attractions and enjoy the best London sightseeing! From world-famous landmarks to unforgettable experiences, discover the best things to do in London and secure your tickets in advance to skip the queues. For more details on must-visit spots, check out our London Attractions Guide.
✅ Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
A symbol of London, Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower) stands beside the Houses of Parliament. While Big Ben access is restricted and tours run only on limited dates during the year, you can do guided Houses of Parliament tours which allow you to explore this historic site with an expert guide. Houses of Parliament tours must be booked in advance so get your tickets here before you visit.
✅ Tower of London & Tower Bridge
Visit the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the Crown Jewels. Join a Yeoman Warder (aka Beefeaters) tour for guided tours. To avoid the long waits get your Tower of London tickets in advance. Next to this you can do a Tower Bridge tour and walk across the glass walkway for amazing city views. Get Tower Bridge Tour & Exhibition tickets here.
✅ Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard
Experience royal London at Buckingham Palace. Get up close and witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony with our Changing of the Guard Tour for the best views of the Royal Guards. In the summer months, join a Buckingham Palace tour of the State Rooms and Buckingham Palace Gardens. Buckingham Palace tour tickets must be purchased in advance here.
✅ London Eye & The Shard
For the best views of London, ride on the London Eye and spot many of the best London attractions from up high. A good tip is to skip-the-queue and save money but you must buy your London Eye tickets in advance. Likewise, visit The Shard for 360-degree panoramic views. Booking in advance is recommended for the best timeslots. Book The View from The Shard tickets here.
✅ Westminster Abbey & St. Paul’s Cathedral
Visit Westminster Abbey, the 1000-year old site of royal coronations, funerals and weddings. This is a must-do so get your Westminster Abbey tickets here before you go. Another must-do is St. Paul’s Cathedral, site of the wedding between Prince Charles and Princess Diana, which offers incredible architecture and stunning views of London. Get your St Paul’s Cathedral tickets here.
✅ Madame Tussauds & Harry Potter Studio Tour
Grab a photo with lifelike celebrities at the famous Madame Tussauds London and enjoy its 4D interactive experiences and Marvel cinema. A must-do for all Harry Potter fans is Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Walk through real films sets and see Diagon Alley, the Great Hall and more. Booking is essential with return transport from London available with these Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets.
Day Trips from London
Looking for the best day trips from London? Whether you love history, architecture, or scenic countryside, there are incredible destinations just a short journey from the capital. Booking day trips from London in advance is essential and it is not possible to walk up and purchase tickets on arrival. For more information make sure to read our full guide to Day Trips from London.
🚌 Stonehenge Day Trip from London
Visit the world-famous Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is over 5,000 years old! Located just a 90 minute drive from London, this ancient wonder is a must-see attraction for history lovers and travellers alike. Experience the mystery, marvel at the towering stones, and uncover the secrets of the past. Don’t want to spend a full day? Half-Day Stonehenge tours are also available.
🚌 Windsor Castle Day Trip from London
Visit Windsor Castle, the world’s largest occupied castle, and a must-see royal landmark! Explore St. George’s Chapel, the site of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding and the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II. Discover centuries of royal history just outside London. This iconic landmark is available by full day tour, half-day tour, or go by yourself with National Rail train tickets!
A Must-See Historic City! Enjoy a full day trip from London where you can explore the Roman Baths, admire stunning Georgian architecture, and step into literary history at the Jane Austen Centre. Walk the iconic Royal Crescent and soak in this UNESCO-listed city. A perfect day trip from London, Bath is rich in culture, history, and beauty and a must-visit for any visitor to London.
Visit Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath all in one tour! Visit Windsor Castle, the royal residence, explore the mystical Stonehenge, and stroll through Bath’s Georgian streets and Roman Baths. This all-in-one tour offers history, culture, and stunning sights in one day! This tour is perfect for visitors or travellers to London who are short on time, or who want to do everything at once.
Tours of London
Discover the best London tours and experience the rich history, culture, and iconic landmarks of London. Whether you’re looking for a guided London walking tour, a thrilling Hop-on Hop-off bus tour, or a scenic River Thames cruise, there’s a perfect way to explore London for every traveller. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and the historic Tower of London to the hidden gems of Shoreditch street art and Jack the Ripper’s eerie haunts, these expertly guided tours bring London’s 2,000-year history to life. With insider knowledge, engaging storytelling, and top-rated experiences, these must-do London tours offer the best way to explore London. For more information check out our award-winning London tours.
🧍 London Walking Tours
Experience London on foot! Walking tours of London let you explore the city’s historic streets, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems while expert guides bring London’s 2,000-year history to life with fascinating stories. From following in the footsteps of royalty to discovering secret streets and famous neighbourhoods, a walking tour of London offers a unique, up-close perspective of the city.
🚎 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
Discover London with a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour lets you explore the city at your own pace while enjoying panoramic views of London’s most iconic sights and landmarks. With live commentary, multiple routes, and unlimited stops, it’s the easiest way to see London’s top attractions. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours can be booked either for one or multiple days.
🛥️ London River Cruises
See London’s most famous landmarks from a whole new perspective with a River Thames cruise. Glide past London’s best sights while enjoying a relaxing journey along the city’s iconic river. With live commentary, stunning views, and flexible hop-on hop-off options, it’s a must-do London experience. Whether by day or night, a London river cruise offers unforgettable sightseeing.
🏟️ Stadium Tours
Experience the ultimate London stadium tour and step into the heart of sporting history. A behind-the-scenes stadium tour offers exclusive access to stadiums like Wembley Stadium, Emirates Stadium, Stamford Bridge or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Walk through players' tunnels, explore VIP areas, and relive unforgettable sporting history and witness sporting greatness firsthand.
London Theatre Tickets
Experience the magic of the West End with London theatre tickets for world-class performances in the heart of the city. From dazzling musicals to powerful dramas, London's iconic theatres offer unforgettable entertainment for all. Secure your London theatre tickets today and witness award-winning productions, breathtaking sets, and stellar performances in historic venues like the London Palladium and Her Majesty’s Theatre. London theatre tickets are incredibly popular and the best shows often sell out well in advance so get the best (and often the cheapest tickets) before you travel. For more information read our full guide on How to Buy London Theatre Tickets.
Current West End theatre shows (as of March 2025)
🎭 The Lion King
Witness the awe-inspiring magic of Disney’s The Lion King in London’s West End. This critically acclaimed theatre show brings the beloved story of Simba to life with stunning visuals, unforgettable music, and extraordinary costumes. you’ll experience the Circle of Life like never before, as breathtaking puppetry and creative staging transport you to the heart of the African savannah.
🎭 Phantom of the Opera
Performed at Her Majesty’s Theatre, the timeless production of Phantom of the Opera tells the story of the mysterious Phantom who haunts the Paris Opera House and his love for the enchanting Christine. The show’s powerful performances and mesmerizing music has captivated audiences for decades, making it one of London’s most iconic theatre experiences.
🎭 Wicked
Discover the spellbinding world of Wicked. This award-winning musical reveals the untold story of the witches of Oz where you’ll witness the magical journey of Elphaba and Glinda, two friends turned rivals, as they follow separate paths to become the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch. Prepare to be enchanted by dazzling costumes and jaw-dropping special effects.
🎭 Back To The Future
The Back to the Future: The Musical is a must-see spectacle, blending the iconic story with incredible stage effects, high-energy performances, and an electrifying new score. Watch Marty McFly and Doc Brown race through time in a thrilling, nostalgia-packed adventure that will leave you cheering. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this show is pure entertainment.
🎭 Les Miserables
Experience the powerful story and unforgettable music of Les Misérables. You’ll be immersed in the journey of Jean Valjean as he seeks redemption while being pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. The show’s impressive set designs and emotional performances have made it the world’s longest-running musical promising a show filled with hope, sacrifice, and triumph.
🎭 Hamilton
Discover the revolutionary world of Hamilton. This award-winning musical tells the incredible story of Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant who shaped America’s future. Witness his rise through politics, love, and war, set to a groundbreaking soundtrack blending hip-hop, R&B, and history in a show that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Where to Stay in London
London offers a wide range of accommodation options, making it the perfect destination for travellers of all preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, charming boutique stays, or budget-friendly choices, there is accommodation in London to suit every need. Stay in vibrant areas like Covent Garden, Soho, or Notting Hill for a central location, or choose peaceful areas like Richmond or Greenwich for a quieter retreat. With excellent transport links from most London accommodation, you’ll easily be able to explore the city’s cultural attractions and hidden gems. Many properties offer modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, room service, and on-site dining. Whether visiting for business or leisure, booking the right accommodation in London ensures a comfortable and memorable stay. Read our full Guide to London Accommodation.
🛏️ Cheap London Hotels
Looking for cheap hotels in London? These cheap London hotels are located in prime areas like Camden, Shoreditch, and Paddington, offering easy access to the best London attractions. Enjoy clean, cozy rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, traditional breakfasts, and excellent transport links. Read our London hotels guide to find the best options for cheap London hotels.
🛏️ Budget Hotels in London
Discover top budget hotels in London, offering affordable comfort in prime locations like King’s Cross, Southbank, and Bloomsbury. These budget London hotels provide easy access to landmarks like the Tower of London and the London Eye. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, modern amenities, and great transport links. Book early to secure the best budget hotels in London for a cost-effective stay!
🛏️ Best Hotels in London
Discover the best hotels in London, offering exceptional comfort and prime locations in areas like Mayfair, Kensington, and Covent Garden. These best London hotels cater to all travellers, from luxury 5-star properties to chic boutique stays. Enjoy easy access to attractions like Buckingham Palace and the British Museum, along with amenities like gourmet dining and stunning views.
🛏️ Best Hostels in London
Find the best hostels in London, offering budget-friendly stays with comfort and quality. Located in vibrant areas like Camden, Shoreditch, and Southbank, these best London hostels provide free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and social spaces. Many also organize activities like walking tours and pub crawls, making it easy to explore top attractions like Big Ben and the London Eye.
Transport in London
Using public transport in London is the fastest, most efficient way to navigate the capital. The London Underground, or Tube, connects all major districts, ensuring seamless travel across the capital. With extensive National Rail services, commuters can reach destinations beyond London with ease. Airport transfers via trains, buses, and taxis provide hassle-free connections to flights to and from London, ensuring smooth travel for international and domestic passengers. Whether you're exploring landmarks or commuting, London's public transport network offers convenience, affordability, and reliability. The London Underground operates frequently, reducing congestion and travel times, while National Rail links the city to the rest of the UK. Airport transfers like the Heathrow Express and Gatwick Express provide quick access to terminals.With contactless payment and travel cards, using public transport in London is simple, cost-effective, and ideal for visitors.
🚇 London Underground
The London Underground provides fast, reliable, and eco-friendly travel across the city. With 11 lines and 270+ stations, it offers seamless connectivity to key locations. Frequent services and minimal waiting times make commuting efficient, while contactless payments simplify the experience. For more information read our Guide to using the London Underground.
🚆 National Rail
Using National Rail from London offers quick and easy access to top destinations across the UK. With frequent services to cities like Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, and Manchester, it’s the perfect way to explore beyond London. National Rail tickets are cheaper the further you book in advance so get your tickets as early as possible. Use Trainline for discounted National Rail tickets.
London Travel Guide: Related Articles
Want more tips and advice for your trip? Check out some of the articles we’ve written below to help you have the best time in London!
