Why go to London
London is several cities stitched together: royal pageantry in Westminster, markets in the East End, riverside walks along the South Bank and villages like Hampstead that feel miles away.
Best time to visit London
May to September brings the longest days and the most outdoor life, from Proms concerts to park picnics. Spring and autumn are cooler and quieter. Winter is damp, but December is festive, and London's indoor attractions are among the best anywhere.
Top things to see
British Museum
Free, vast and best tackled one gallery at a time.
Tower of London
The Crown Jewels and 950 years of history.
Westminster Abbey and Parliament
Coronations, poets and the Elizabeth Tower.
Tate Modern
Modern art in a former power station, free to enter.
Natural History Museum
Dinosaurs beneath a cathedral-like hall.
St Paul's Cathedral
Climb to the Golden Gallery for city views.
Things to do in London
- Walk the South Bank from Westminster to Tower Bridge
- Spend a Saturday at Borough Market
- See a West End show; check TodayTix for same-day deals
- Picnic in Hampstead Heath and swim in the ponds in summer
- Catch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Local experiences
- Have a Sunday roast in a proper pub
- Browse Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday morning
- Ride the top deck of a red bus through the centre
- Join a free late opening at a major museum
Where to eat in London
Dishes to try: Sunday roast, fish and chips, full English breakfast, curry, pie and mash.
DishoomIndian
Bombay café classics; the bacon naan roll is famous.
St. JOHNBritish
Nose-to-tail cooking in Smithfield.
Borough MarketMarket
Centuries-old food market by London Bridge.
RulesLandmark
London's oldest restaurant, founded in 1798.
Where to stay in London
The SavoyLuxury
Art Deco icon on the Strand.
Claridge'sLuxury
Mayfair glamour since the 1800s.
The Hoxton, ShoreditchBoutique
Laid-back base in the creative East End.
citizenM Tower of LondonMid-range
Compact smart rooms with river views.
Best areas to stay
Covent Garden and Soho
Theatres, restaurants and nightlife.
South Bank
Riverside culture and easy transport.
Shoreditch
Street art, bars and markets.
Kensington
Museums, parks and calm streets.
4 days in London
Day 1: Westminster and the West End
Day 2: Museums and the river
Day 3: Tower and markets
Day 4: Kensington and parks
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Trooping the ColourJune
The monarch's official birthday parade.
Notting Hill CarnivalAugust bank holiday weekend
Europe's biggest street festival of Caribbean music and food.
Bonfire Night5 November
Fireworks displays across the city.
Getting around
Use contactless or Oyster on the Tube, buses and trains; daily fares are capped. The Elizabeth line connects Heathrow to central London in about 30 minutes. Buses are cheaper and show you more of the city.
Practical information
- Plug types
- G (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 999 or 112
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
Tipping: 10–12.5% service is often added to the bill; otherwise leave about 10%. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Stand on the right on escalators
- Most major museums are free; donations are welcome
- Book popular restaurants and shows in advance
- Carry a light rain jacket whatever the season
London travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit London?
The best months are usually Apr–Sep. May to September brings the longest days and the most outdoor life, from Proms concerts to park picnics. Spring and autumn are cooler and quieter. Winter is damp, but December is festive, and London's indoor attractions are among the best anywhere.
How many days do you need in London?
Plan on 4–5 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in London?
The local currency is the Pound sterling (GBP). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to London cost per day?
Roughly US$120 per person per day on a budget, US$280 mid-range and US$750 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in London?
Local favourites include Sunday roast, fish and chips, full English breakfast, curry, pie and mash.
What plug adapter do I need for London?
London uses plug type G at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
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