11 Things to do in London – the absolute highlights for your city trip
The city of London – known as the home of the royal family and the countless red busses and black taxis in the streets of the city. London has various faces and the numerous attractions make sure, each visit is unforgettable. For some travellers, London is on the Top of the best cities in Europe. Why? Because London attracts every traveller. You can take a budget trip to the city and explore the city with your backpack but you can as well spend a luxurious stay in the royal capital. London is for those, who love a little urban adventure, for the romantic traveller and those who like to get lost in the millions of city lights. Despite it all, London is one of those cities, each traveller should visit one day. With this ultimate travel guide you make sure to experience the absolute Must-Dos of London and get the best insights into the capital of England.
Visit the Tower Bridge
One of London´s iconic attractions is the Tower Bridge. If you fly into London Heathrow, you might as well see the bridge from above, which is a unique sight of the city. The Tower Bridge is located by the river Thames and connects both parts of the city. You will find the bridge close to the famous Tower of London. The best way to experience the bridge, is to come in the late afternoon. During that time, you will be able to see the Bridge in the day light and as well witness it by night. Both are spectacular views that should not be missed. Walk over the bridge, take some pictures when a red bus drives by and have a look at the bridge from the river side. Usually, the bridge is crowded by tourists, but still it is an absolute Must-Do while you are in London.
Watch the change of guards at the Buckingham Palace
Yes, this might be the most tourist thing to do in London. Still it is a must-do. The time of the change of guards does vary each month, so it´s best to check this out before you go there. It is also advised to be as early as possible, as there is usually a huge crowd gathering in front of the palace. This attraction might not be spectacular to every traveller, but still it is a huge part of the culture in London and should be on your list for the trip!
Spend the night at the Picadilly Circus
If you want to experience the real London spirit, you should come to the Picadilly Circus by night. As soon as the sun sets and it gets dark, the Picadilly Square turns into one of the most magical places of the city. You can listen to the music or watch the dances of the street artists or just stroll around the area. Most people stop by and watch the small shows happening next to the road. You will hear HipHop and Rap and as well some romantic songs. The lights of the ad board in the back and the red buses in the background – for some this is what London really is about.
Have an afternoon tea
It wouldn´t be a trip to England or London without a break in the afternoon. The locals love to have their tea around 4 pm and in order to experience London in the traditional way, you should look out for a cute café. There are special tea places where you can get an exclusive tea time with good snacks. If you prefer the budget version, you will find countless cafés in the city center with a great variety of different teas.
Visit the Sunday Flower Market
Another local Must-Do is the picturesque Flower Market on Sunday. During every season of the year, you will find a huge selection of all different flowers and plants. The Londoners are shopping cute plants for their apartment and you can stroll through the street and enjoy the view. For those travellers, who are searching for a little escape from the normal sightseeing, this is the right choice. Combine it with a stroll through the neighborhood and experience a more hidden area of the city.
Stroll through Brick Lane
One of the absolute best things to do in London on a weekend, is strolling through Brick Lane. Brick Lane is a road located near the Shoreditch Underground Station and known for its vintage goods and the street art. During the weekend, there is a huge market with lots of local sellers. You could spend a whole day walking through Brick Lane and stopping at every stall. From unique jewelry, to small souvenirs – and not to forget: the most delicious street food in London. Coming to Brick Lane is a small journey to the culinary side of the city. Take your time to taste the different foods and snacks. Some are British but some as well take you to totally different cultures.
Visit the St. Paul ´ s Cathedral
Another famous attraction in London is the St. Paul´s Cathedral. The church is mainly known amongst the photographers. Take a walk across the nearby bridge to the Tate Modern and enjoy the view on the church. If you want to get one of the best shots in London, follow these guidelines:
Next to the St. Paul´s Cathedral, you will find a small shopping center located in the Cheapside Street.
Walk into the middle of the shopping center, where you will see the Cathedral again. The windows of the shopping center will mirror the cathedral just perfectly and you will be able to get a unique shot from a less known place in London.
For another view, take the stairs to the first floor and then take the elevator down. Ideally for short videos while the elevator is slowly moving downstairs.
Explore Notting Hill
By far one of the most picturesque parts of London is Notting Hill. It is located north-west of the Hyde Park and famous due to the Notting Hill Movie with Julia Roberts. The area is characterized by beautiful houses and luxurious streets. Take your time and stroll through the streets, enjoy the view and take some beautiful pictures. Notting Hill is, compared to the rest of London, a relatively quiet and calm area. For some travellers, this attraction is ideal to escape the rush of the city and get a break in the quiet streets of Notting Hill. The area can best be explored by simply strolling around and going from one street into another. One street looks better than the last one. Close to Notting Hill you will find the well-known Portobello Road Market. If you are into shopping, this is the right destination to explore another market of London. Compared to Brick Lane, this area is much more local and travellers love the feeling of the “local London lifestyle”. Definitely worth to check out!
Take a break in the St. James ´ s Park
One of the most beautiful parks in London is the St. James´s Park. It is located directly in front of the Buckingham Palace and close to the Big Ben and therefore easy to reach. Travellers and other tourists love to take a break in the park and enjoy the view into the green. Especially during summer, the park is the heart of London. Have a picnic, watch the animals and enjoy a different side of London. But even in winter, the park has a unique atmosphere and invites to long walks.
Catch a photo of the Big Ben
And last but not least, the Westminster Area should be on your list. Most importantly: the Big Ben. The famous attraction of London is one of the best photo spots you need to visit. The whole area is mostly filled with tourists and cameras. Catch the view of the river Thames, walk around the Parliament Building and if you´re interest visit the church of Westminster Abbey. This is the main tourist area of the city and therefor often very crowded. But still, you will experience the unique London Flair.
Other fun things for the ultimate London Travel Guide
Apart from the main attractions in this guide, there are countless more opportunities waiting for you in London. You can have a beer in a local pub, take a tour on a famous “Hop On Hop Off” Bus, visit the National Museum or the Tate Modern. You can as well take a classic Sherlock Holmes Tour through the city and visit Baker Street 221b. Other travellers prefer to visit a fancy bar with a unique view over the whole city.
London can be experienced in multiple ways – and each one will make you fall in love more and more with the city!
For more information on travelling London, check out the 5 things you did not know about London but should and the Travel Guide to London.
