The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic castle that has served various purposes throughout history. Visitors can explore the Crown Jewels exhibition or take a guided tour with a Beefeater to learn more about the site's history.
The British Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and art from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Families with children may enjoy the museum's interactive family trails or the family-friendly activities in the Great Court.
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter with a tour of the Warner Bros. Studio. You can see authentic sets, costumes, and props used in the films, and even sample Butterbeer! Make sure to book your tickets in advance.
The Southbank Centre is a cultural hub located along the Thames River. Here, you can find a variety of programs and events, including concerts, theater productions, and exhibitions. Families may appreciate the center's children's activities and workshops.
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for families interested in science and nature. Here, you can see dinosaur skeletons, wildlife specimens, and interactive exhibitions. Don't miss the museum's spectacular architecture, including the popular blue whale exhibit.
Hyde Park is a massive green space in the heart of London. Families can enjoy a picnic, rent a boat on the Serpentine, or visit the playgrounds and petting zoo. There are also several memorials and fountains throughout the park that are worth visiting.
The Science Museum is another must-visit for families interested in science and technology. Here, you can find hands-on exhibits, immersive experiences, and an IMAX theater. Make sure to check out the museum's Wonderlab gallery, which features interactive experiments and live demonstrations.
St. Paul's Cathedral is an iconic London landmark that has been the site of many significant events, including royal weddings and funerals. Families can climb to the top of the cathedral's dome for stunning views of the city, or take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral's history.
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city. Families can enjoy a 30-minute ride in the Eye's enclosed capsules, or book a special experience like a private capsule or a Champagne experience. Don't forget to take a selfie with Big Ben in the background!
The National Maritime Museum is located in Greenwich and tells the story of Britain's maritime heritage. Families can explore the museum's extensive collection of ship models, paintings, and navigational instruments, and even board a ship simulator. The museum is also home to the Prime Meridian line, where you can stand with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one foot in the western hemisphere.
The Shard is a modern architectural wonder and the tallest building in the United Kingdom. Families can visit the viewing platform on the 72nd floor for panoramic views of London and beyond. For a special experience, book a sunrise or sunset visit, or enjoy a drink at the Skybar on the 52nd floor.
The Churchill War Rooms offer a glimpse into the underground bunker where Winston Churchill and his team directed operations during World War II. Families can explore the rooms and exhibits, including the Cabinet War Rooms, the Churchill Museum, and the interactive Churchill's War Cabinet experience.
Madame Tussauds London is a famous wax museum that features lifelike figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. Families can take photos with the wax figures, including the royal family and Marvel superheroes. You can also enjoy special experiences like the Spirit of London ride or the Marvel 4D cinema.
Kew Gardens is a botanical garden that spans over 300 acres and features over 50,000 plant species. Families can explore the gardens' diverse habitats, including the Treetop Walkway and the the Princess of Wales Conservatory. You can also visit Kew Palace, the former home of George III and Queen Charlotte.
Public transportation is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around London. The city has an extensive network of buses, trains, and tubes that can take you to all of the locations in this itinerary. You can purchase an Oyster card or a contactless payment card to pay for fares, and consider downloading a transportation app to help you navigate the system. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but can be more expensive.
Estimated transportation costs: £50
Estimated travel time: 25 hours
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip outside of London to explore the beautiful countryside or visit nearby towns like Windsor or Bath. If you have less time, prioritize the locations that interest you the most and adjust the itinerary accordingly. Make sure to book tickets in advance for popular attractions and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.
London has six airports, but the largest and most convenient for this itinerary is Heathrow Airport (LHR), located 14 miles west of London city center. You can reach the city via the Heathrow Express train, the underground tube, or a taxi. Other nearby airports include Gatwick Airport (LGW), Luton Airport (LTN), and Stansted Airport (STN).