Start off your trip with a free walking tour of London. Discover the historic and iconic landmarks and see the city's history unfold with a knowledgeable guide. Stops include the Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey.
The British Museum holds a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and mummies from Ancient Egypt. After the museum, head to Camden Market for some unique shopping and street food.
Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge and visit the Tower of London. Spend the rest of the day exploring the South Bank, with its street performers, bookshops, and stunning views of the city.
Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and stand on the Meridian line at 0° longitude. In the East End, explore the unique street art scene and grab a bite at one of the many street food markets.
Visit the colorful houses and charming boutiques of Notting Hill, made famous by the movie. Stop by Portobello Market for vintage finds and antiques.
Take a stroll through Hyde Park and visit Kensington Palace. In the afternoon, explore the street performers and shops of Covent Garden before catching a free show at the Royal Opera House.
Visit the beautiful Greenwich Park and enjoy stunning views of London from the hilltop. End your trip at the O2 Arena, with its range of affordable concerts and events.
London is well-connected with a comprehensive public transportation system. Consider purchasing an Oyster Card for travel within the city, as it offers discounted fares. Walking and cycling are also great options for exploring the city while keeping costs low. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are available but can be expensive during peak hours.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Bath or Stonehenge. For those on an even tighter budget, there are plenty of free museums and galleries to explore in London, such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery. To save money on food, opt for street food markets and grocery stores instead of restaurants.
London is served by several airports, including London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), London Luton (LTN), and London City Airport (LCY). Heathrow and Gatwick are the largest and most well-connected, with Stansted and Luton offering budget flights from low-cost airlines. London City Airport is the closest to the city center, but flights tend to be more expensive.