Are you planning your first trip to London and feeling overwhelmed by all the incredible things to see and do?
I’m excited to share my top recommendations for an unforgettable London adventure.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak up the city’s unique charm, I’ve got you covered.
Get cozy, and let’s dive into the very best experiences that London has to offer.
Trust me, by the end of this post, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and hop on the next flight to the UK!
Iconic London landmarks
No trip to London would be complete without seeing some of the city’s most famous and iconic landmarks.
These historic sites are visually stunning and offer fascinating glimpses into London’s rich past.
Here are the top landmarks that should be on every first-time visitor’s must-see list:
1. Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
One of London’s most recognizable sights, Big Ben is the nickname for the giant bell inside the iconic clock tower at the north end of the Houses of Parliament.
For classic London views, snap some photos from Parliament Square or Westminster Bridge.
This was so cool to see!
We stood under it on the street, bending back to see all the way up.
The view from the London Eye was also an amazing way to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
2. Buckingham Palace
The official London residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a must-see.
Check the schedule to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
The Queen’s Guard, dressed in red tunics and bearskin hats, marches to military music in an impressive display of British pageantry.
3. Tower of London
Explore 1000 years of history at the Tower of London, a former royal palace, prison, and execution site turned museum.
You can see the Crown Jewels, meet the legendary Beefeaters, learn about Henry VIII and his ill-fated wives, and hear the myths and mysteries of this storied castle on the north bank of the River Thames.
4. Westminster Abbey
This gothic church is steeped in over a thousand years of British history.
It has hosted royal weddings and coronations and is the final resting place of famous Brits like Isaac Newton, Charles Dickens, and many kings and queens.
Admire the stunning stained glass windows and visit Poets’ Corner.
5. St Paul’s Cathedral
With its iconic dome, St Paul’s Cathedral is an architectural icon.
Climb up to the Whispering Gallery or, higher still, the Golden Gallery for panoramic views over London.
Visit the crypt to see the tombs of Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
6. Tower Bridge
Often confused with London Bridge, Tower Bridge is the more ornate bridge near the Tower of London.
It has two gothic towers connected by high-level walkways.
Walk across for great views of the Thames, and visit the engine rooms to learn how the drawbridge is raised.
Top museums (free admission)
London is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, and the best part is that many offer free admission!
Here are the top museums that should be on every first-time visitor’s itinerary:
7. The British Museum
Officially the country’s most popular tourist attraction, the British Museum houses an incredible collection spanning human history and culture.
From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon sculptures, the museum has over 8 million artifacts to discover. The museum is so vast that you could spend days exploring it, but luckily, the permanent exhibits are always free.
Plan, Plan, Plan your visit.
This museum isn’t as big as the Louvre, but it was very large and had lots to see.
8. The National Gallery
Art lovers must visit the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square.
This world-class art museum showcases over 2,000 Western European paintings from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century.
You can see iconic works by masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, da Vinci, and Monet—all for free.
9. Natural History Museum
Dinosaur fossils, a giant blue whale skeleton, and over 80 million specimens await you at the Natural History Museum.
This is a favorite London museum for all ages.
Walk beneath the skeleton of a Diplodocus in the grand Hintze Hall and explore the earth’s fascinating natural history in the museum’s expansive (and free) collection.
Remember to book tickets for special exhibitions.
10. Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum
Decorative arts and design take center stage at the V&A Museum.
This free museum houses an eclectic collection of over 2.3 million objects spanning 5,000 years of human creativity.
From ancient Chinese ceramics to cutting-edge contemporary fashion, the V&A has something for everyone.
11. Science Museum
Budding scientists and curious minds will love the hands-on exhibits at the Science Museum.
With over 15,000 objects on display, you can see everything from early steam engines to satellites and an Apollo 10 command module.
Most of the museum is free to visit.
12. Tate Modern
Head to the Tate Modern on the South Bank. for modern and contemporary art
Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, this free national gallery features works by Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko.
The Turbine Hall also hosts unique large-scale installations.
These are just a few of London’s many free museums.
With so much to see and do, these museums can easily fill several days of your London itinerary.
Since entry is free, you can spread your visits out and explore leisurely. Be aware that some special exhibitions may have an additional charge.
My top tip is to visit on a weekday if possible and start early or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
But these museums are worth braving the crowds for, even on a busy weekend!
Royal Attractions
Explore these iconic royal attractions in London to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the British monarchy.
From the birthplace of Queen Victoria to the famous fortress that houses the Crown Jewels, these historic sites offer a glimpse into the lives of kings and queens throughout the centuries.
13. Tour Kensington Palace
Discover the birthplace of Queen Victoria and home to young royals for over 300 years.
Explore the magnificent King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, stroll through the reimagined rooms of Victoria’s childhood, and uncover captivating stories of Kensington Palace’s residents.
Don’t miss the new exhibition, “Untold Lives,” which reveals the forgotten tales of those who worked at the royal palaces over three centuries ago.
14. See the Banqueting House
Step inside the last remaining part of the lost Palace of Whitehall, the Banqueting House.
Be sure to look up!
The ceiling frescoes are by Sir Peter Paul Rubens, commissioned by King Charles I.
15. Visit Hampton Court Palace
Experience the grandeur of Hampton Court Palace, King Henry VIII’s favorite residence.
Lose yourself in the famous hedge maze, admire the stunning Tudor and Baroque architecture, and explore the vast landscaped gardens.
Discover the palace’s fascinating history, from the stories of Henry VIII and his six wives to the grand celebrations held by William III and Mary II.
16. Stroll through Kew Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Once a royal residence, these sprawling gardens are now home to the world’s most extensive collection of living plants.
Visit Kew Palace, King George III’s former summer retreat, and explore the royal kitchens, Queen Charlotte’s cottage, and the iconic Palm House.
17. Explore Greenwich and stand on the Prime Meridian
Journey to the Royal Borough of Greenwich, where royalty once resided at the Old Royal Naval College and Queen’s House.
Visit the Royal Observatory, home to the Prime Meridian line, which divides the eastern and western hemispheres.
Discover the fascinating history of British maritime exploration and astronomy, and enjoy breathtaking views of London from the top of the hill in Greenwich Park.
City views & unique perspectives
London’s iconic skyline is a sight to behold, and there are plenty of unique vantage points from which to take it all in.
From soaring observation decks to lesser-known rooftop gardens, these spots offer breathtaking panoramas of the city’s most famous landmarks.
18. Ride the London Eye
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a ride on the London Eye, Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.
As you slowly ascend to a height of 135 meters (443 feet), you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of London’s skyline, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London.
Book your tickets in advance to skip the queues and enjoy a seamless visit.
Pro Tip:
The London Eye was one of the first things we did the day we stepped off the plane.
We bought our tickets in advance because we knew we would want to do something low-key after being on a plane for so long.
We had our backpacks with us because we hadn’t dropped them off at the Airbnb yet and were pretty stoked to find out that they had a completely separate line for people with bags.
This meant that we could skip ahead of quite a few people who didn’t have bags with them.
It was a nice surprise because we were getting pretty tired by then.
19. Visit the Sky Garden
Perched atop the distinctive “Walkie-Talkie” building, the Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden.
This lush indoor oasis features landscaped gardens, observation decks, and an open-air terrace with stunning views of the city below.
Best of all, entry is free, although you must book a time slot in advance.
20. Take in the view from The Shard
For the ultimate panoramic view of London, head to The View from The Shard, the highest viewing platform in Western Europe.
Located on the 72nd floor of the iconic Shard building, this observation deck offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, stretching up to 40 miles (64 km) on a clear day.
Splurge on a glass of champagne at the bar to toast the incredible vistas.
21. Climb The Monument
Built in 1666 to commemorate the Great Fire of London, the Monument is a 202-foot (62 m) tall Doric column that offers a unique perspective on the city.
Climb the 311 steps to the viewing platform at the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames.
Don’t forget to collect your certificate of achievement on the way down!
22. Go up to Primrose Hill
FHeadto Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park. for a more laid-back viewpoint
This grassy knoll offers a picture-perfect view of central London’s skyline, including the BT Tower, the Shard, and the London Eye.
Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon soaking up the scenery and people-watching.
The hill is particularly popular at sunset when the city’s landmarks are silhouetted against the colorful sky.
Markets & shopping
No trip to London is complete without experiencing the city’s vibrant market scene.
From centuries-old street markets to trendy pop-ups, London’s markets offer an incredible variety of goods, delicious street food, and a unique glimpse into local life.
Here are some of the top markets and shopping destinations to explore during your visit:
23. Browse Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden is a must-visit for any London shopper.
From Tuesday to Sunday, the covered Apple Market is filled with unique crafts, handmade jewelry, artwork, and antiques.
On Mondays, you’ll find one-of-a-kind collectibles at the East Colonnade Market, which offers a variety of stalls selling handmade soaps, sweet treats, and accessories.
After browsing the markets, explore the surrounding streets lined with high-end boutiques and well-known brands.
24. Shop at Camden Market
Camden Market is a haven for alternative fashion, vintage finds, and quirky souvenirs.
This sprawling market complex features several distinct areas, each with its own vibe. Don’t miss the Camden Lock Market for handmade crafts and unique gifts, the Stables Market for vintage clothing and antiques, and the eclectic mix of street food vendors throughout.
Come hungry and ready to explore.
25. Explore Borough Market
Foodies won’t want to miss Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and largest food markets.
This gourmet paradise is packed with artisanal producers, fresh produce, and mouthwatering street food from around the world.
Sample local cheeses, indulge in a freshly baked pastry, or grab a seat at one of the many food stalls for a delicious lunch. The market is open Monday through Saturday, with a limited selection of stalls on Mondays and Tuesdays.
This was a fun spot to stop. We got Turkish delights, cannolis, and gyros.
There were so many places to look at and watch them make the food, and it all tasted amazing.
26. Check out Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is a London institution famous for its colorful houses and eclectic mix of antiques, vintage clothing, and bric-a-brac.
The market is busiest on Saturdays when over 1,000 vendors line the street. Antique lovers should visit on Fridays for the best selection.
Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the iconic pastel-colored houses and refuel at one of the many cafes or street food stalls.
27. Visit Harrods department store
No London shopping trip is complete without a visit to Harrods, the city’s most iconic department store.
This luxury shopping mecca features over 300 departments, from high-end fashion and beauty to gourmet food and home goods.
Even if you’re not in the mood to splurge, it’s worth a visit to admire the stunning architecture, elaborate food halls, and whimsical window displays.
28. Shop on Oxford Street
Oxford Street is London’s main shopping thoroughfare, home to over 300 stores, from high-street favorites to designer flagships. T
his bustling street is always packed with shoppers, particularly on weekends. Check out the massive Selfridges department store, the flagship Top shop, and the Nike Town London store.
For a more relaxed shopping experience, duck into one of the many side streets, such as St. Christopher’s Place or Berwick Street.
Parks & outdoor spaces
London is filled with lush green spaces, offering a welcome respite from the bustling streets and iconic landmarks.
From sprawling royal parks to tranquil gardens and picturesque waterways, there’s no shortage of outdoor areas to explore.
Here are some of the top parks and outdoor spaces to visit during your stay in London:
29. Stroll through Hyde Park
As one of London’s eight Royal Parks, Hyde Park is a must-visit for any nature lover.
This expansive green space, which spans 350 acres, offers plenty of space for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities.
TStrollalong, the Serpentine Lake, visit the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or relax in the Rose Garden.
Don’t miss Speakers’ Corner, a historic spot known for public debates and speeches.
30. Visit Regent’s Park and the London Zoo
Regent’s Park, another of London’s Royal Parks, is a beautifully landscaped space featuring stunning gardens, a boating lake, and an open-air theatre.
The park is also home to the famous London Zoo, where you can spend a day observing over 19,000 animals.
Be sure to explore Queen Mary’s Gardens, which boasts over 12,000 roses of 400 varieties.
31. Explore St James’s Park
Situated in the heart of Westminster, St James’s Park is the oldest of London’s Royal Parks.
With its picturesque lake, resident pelicans, and stunning views of Buckingham Palace, this park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Stroll along the tree-lined paths, watch the daily pelican feeding, or enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns.
32. Walk along the South Bank
The South Bank of the River Thames offers a unique outdoor experience with a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, and scenic views.
Walk along the pedestrian promenade, taking in sights like the London Eye, the Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
You can stop at the Southbank Centre for live performances or grab a bite to eat at one of the many riverside restaurants and pubs.
33. Relax in Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden
Tucked away in the charming Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is a serene Japanese-style garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Admire the tranquil pond with a waterfall and colorful koi fish, and stroll along the winding paths lined with Japanese maple trees and stone lanterns.
Keep an eye out for the park’s resident peacocks roaming the grounds.
Unique & quirky experiences
London is a city full of surprises, with no shortage of unusual and offbeat experiences waiting to be discovered.
From immersive art installations to hidden speakeasies and macabre historical tours, these quirky activities will show you a side of London far from the typical tourist trail.
34. Take a street art tour in Shoreditch
The vibrant streets of Shoreditch in East London are a mecca for street art enthusiasts.
Join a guided tour to learn about the area’s rich history of graffiti and discover works by world-renowned artists like Banksy, Invader, and Roa.
Many tours are led by local artists who offer unique insights into the ever-changing landscape of London’s street art scene.
35. Visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
Explore iconic sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, marvel at the intricate costumes and props, and uncover behind-the-scenes secrets about the making of the films. Die-hard fans can even try riding a broomstick using green screen technology.
We did our own Harry Potter walking tour.
We walked all over London and saw Diagon Alley and Kings Cross Station.
Platform 9 3/4 is in the Kings Cross Station.
There was a huge line, so we skipped getting our picture, but we did get a picture of someone else running into the wall and then got a picture of our Jordan (brother-in-law) running into a different brick wall.
We found an online tour mapped out for us.
It was super simple to follow.
36. Explore the Churchill War Rooms
Delve into the secret underground headquarters where Winston Churchill and his staff directed the British war effort during World War II.
The Churchill War Rooms offer a fascinating glimpse into this pivotal period of history, with preserved rooms and interactive exhibits that bring the experience to life.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Map Room, which remains exactly as it was left when the lights were switched off in 1945.
37. Take a Jack the Ripper tour in Whitechapel
Uncover the dark history of London’s East End on a Jack the Ripper walking tour.
Follow in the footsteps of the notorious serial killer as you explore the atmospheric streets and alleyways of Whitechapel, learning about the gruesome murders and the various theories surrounding the killer’s identity.
Many tours use handheld projectors to display images and documents from the time, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience.
38. Have afternoon tea with a twist
Afternoon tea is a quintessential London experience, but why not try a quirky-themed version for something a little different?
There are plenty of unique twists on this classic British tradition, from a punk rock-inspired tea at the W London Hotel to a science-themed tea at the Ampersand Hotel, complete with dry ice and bubbling flasks.
39. Ride in a black cab
While not necessarily quirky, riding in one of London’s iconic black cabs is an experience in itself.
London cabbies are known for their in-depth knowledge of the city’s streets and their friendly demeanor, so strike up a conversation and see where the journey takes you.
You might just discover a hidden gem or two along the way.
40. Take a boat tour
We went on the most hilarious boat tour in London.
We had a comedian as the tour guide. They took us all the way down the Thames, and it was really cool to learn things about buildings and restaurants and see famous people’s homes.
We chose to do this on our first day.
It swayed us a little bit to sleep, but it was nice to sit down, take in London from the water, and take a deep breath.
Entertainment & nightlife
London is renowned for its vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene, offering an incredible array of options to suit every taste.
From world-class theatre productions and live music venues to trendy clubs and traditional pubs, the city comes alive after dark with endless possibilities for a memorable night out.
41. Go to a concert at the O2 Arena
Music lovers won’t want to miss the opportunity to see their favorite artists perform at the iconic O2 Arena.
This state-of-the-art venue hosts some of the biggest names in music, from global superstars to up-and-coming acts. With a capacity of up to 20,000, the atmosphere is electric, and the acoustics are top-notch.
Check the venue’s calendar to see who’s playing during your visit, and book your tickets early to secure the best seats.
42. Have a pint in a traditional British pub
For a quintessential London experience, head to a traditional British pub for a pint of ale and some hearty pub grub.
These cozy, often historic establishments are the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, catch up with friends, or mingle with locals.
Many pubs also offer live music, quiz nights, or other entertainment, adding to the lively atmosphere. Some notable pubs to visit include Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, The Mayflower, and The Churchill Arms.
We stopped at a couple of pubs.
They were not famous, but they were fun to stop at for lunch and a drink.
43. Attend a Shakespeare play at the Globe Theatre
Step back in time and experience the works of the Bard as they were meant to be seen at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
This faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse offers an immersive and authentic experience. It features open-air performances and groundling tickets that allow you to stand in front of the stage, just as audiences did in Shakespeare’s day.
From classic tragedies to lively comedies, the Globe’s repertoire showcases the timeless appeal of the world’s greatest playwright.
44. Enjoy the nightlife in Soho
For a night out on the town, head to Soho, the vibrant district in the heart of London’s entertainment scene.
This bustling area has trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to every taste and budget. Dance the night away at legendary clubs like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and The Box Soho, or sip cocktails at chic bars like The Blind Pig, Cahoots, or Opium.
With its eclectic mix of venues and lively atmosphere, Soho is the perfect place to experience London’s legendary nightlife.
Day trips from London
While London offers endless attractions and activities, venturing beyond the city limits can add a whole new dimension to your trip.
From historic towns to stunning natural landscapes, plenty of fantastic day trip options are easily accessible by train or bus.
Here are some of the top destinations to consider:
45. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle and a must-see for history buffs and royal enthusiasts.
Explore the opulent State Apartments, admire Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
The charming town of Windsor is also worth a stroll, with its quaint shops and riverside pubs.
46. Stonehenge
One of the world’s most iconic prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge is a mysterious and awe-inspiring sight.
Take a guided tour to learn about the theories surrounding its construction and purpose, and visit the excellent visitor center for interactive exhibits.
Combine your visit with a stop in the nearby city of Salisbury to see its magnificent cathedral.
47. Bath
Known for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman history, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for a day trip.
Visit the remarkably preserved Roman Baths, admire the honey-colored stone buildings of the Royal Crescent and Circus, and indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at the elegant Pump Room.
48. Oxford
Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world and is a city steeped in academic history and architectural splendor.
You can take a guided tour of the historic colleges, visit the Ashmolean Museum, and stroll through the charming Covered Market.
Harry Potter fans can also visit locations used in the films, such as Christ Church College.
Related post: Oxford Off the Beaten Path
49. Brighton
For a taste of the British seaside, head to the vibrant city of Brighton.
Wander along the famous pier, explore the quirky shops and cafes of The Lanes, and admire the exotic Royal Pavilion.
If the weather is nice, relax on the pebble beach or tide on the i360 observation tower for panoramic views.
Consider booking an organized tour with transportation and guided commentary to make the most of your time.
Alternatively, most of these destinations are easily accessible by train from London’s major stations.
Just be sure to check schedules and book tickets in advance to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute stress.
