Begin your day with the iconic Buckingham Palace, home of the Royal Family. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11 am. Next, head to the nearby Westminster Abbey, a historic church where many British monarchs have been crowned, married, and buried. Admission to the Abbey costs £23 for adults.
In the morning, explore the British Museum, housing collections of art and artifacts from around the world. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. Afterward, head to Camden Market, a vibrant shopping and food district, for lunch and souvenir shopping.
Start at the Tower of London, a fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and armory. Admission costs £28 for adults. Take a walk on the nearby Tower Bridge, an iconic London landmark, and enjoy the panoramic view of London. End your trip with a leisurely stroll along the Thames River.
London has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Purchase an Oyster card for easy and affordable access to transportation. A single bus or train ride on Oyster costs £1.50, while a day pass costs £6.80. Taxis and car rentals are also available but are more expensive options.
If you have extra time, explore other popular landmarks such as the London Eye, Hyde Park, or St. Paul's Cathedral. For those with less time, prioritize sights according to your interests, and don't hesitate to take advantage of free entry at many of London's art galleries and museums.
London has several airports, but the most common one for international travelers is Heathrow Airport (LHR). Located 14 miles west of central London, it is easily accessible via the Heathrow Express train service, which takes 15-20 minutes and costs £22. Alternatively, take the Piccadilly line on the Underground, which is cheaper at £6, but takes longer (45-60 minutes) and tends to be more crowded.