The official residence of the monarch, Buckingham Palace is an iconic attraction in London. The palace provides a glimpse of royal British history and ornate architecture with its state rooms, ballroom, and garden. If you are fortunate, catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony during summer.
London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the south bank of the River Thames. It takes you for a 30-minute ride to showcase the city's skyline views from a bird's-eye perspective. It is London's iconic landmark.
An iconic 96-meter high tower with a clock above the entrance of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben is an unmissable attraction in London. The picturesque monument is at its best during nighttime when the clock face glows golden in color.
Notting Hill is a fashionable and vibrant neighborhood with many colorful buildings, stylish shops, and trendy restaurants. This is also home to the world-famous Portobello Road Market and the historic Electric Cinema, the oldest working cinema in the UK.
A must-visit attraction in London, the Tower Bridge is a magnificent structure featuring two towers and a drawbridge over River Thames. Visit the Engine Room to engage in interactive exhibits, experience the iconic glass floor, and stunning panoramic views of London.
London has a world-class transportation system, including buses, the Tube, and trains, mainly if you are on a shoestring budget. A Visitor Oyster Card or Contactless payment card offers the most cost-effective travel option to save time and money when using public transport in London. Additionally, walking or cycling between attractions is a popular option, with many cycle hire schemes and bike rental companies easily available.
If you have more time, you can consider visiting other free attractions like the British Museum, National Gallery, or Hyde Park. If you have less time available, you can skip Notting Hill, which is still a bit off the central area. Avoid taxis as they can be expensive and often stuck in traffic during the day.
London has six airports, with Heathrow (LHR) being the largest and most commonly used international airport. It is about 14 miles (23km) west of central London and well-connected by public transport, including the Heathrow Express train or the Tube's Piccadilly line. However, depending on your budget, you can choose other airports like Gatwick (LGW), Luton (LTN), Stansted (STN), or City airport (LCY), depending on your proximity, scheduled flights and budget.