Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch. You will have the opportunity to observe the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony and take a guided tour of the State Rooms, which are only open to the public during the summer months.
The Shard is a 72-story skyscraper that is currently the tallest building in the United Kingdom. You will enjoy a breathtaking view of London's skyline from the observation deck on the 72nd floor. There will also be a chance to indulge in high tea at the iconic Aqua Shard, which serves some of the best food and drink in the city.
London has a comprehensive public transportation system including buses, trains, and the Tube (underground). Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available throughout the city. Traffic can be a problem during rush hours, but using public transportation during these times can alleviate some of the stress. A one-day Travelcard costs £13.50 and covers unlimited travel on buses, train, and the Tube in the central Zone 1.
If you have more time, you may want to visit the famous London Eye, Big Ben, the Tate Modern art gallery, or explore the Harry Potter Studios. If you have less time, consider combining the itinerary by visiting Buckingham Palace in the morning and then going for the afternoon tea at The Shard.
London has six international airports. Heathrow (LHR) is the largest with 80 million passengers per year and offers flights to over 180 destinations worldwide. It is located 14 miles west of central London. Gatwick (LGW) is London's second-largest airport, located 28 miles south of London with links to more than 200 destinations. London City Airport (LCY) is the only airport in London to be located inside the city, making it the most convenient, but also one of the smallest. Other airports include Luton, Stansted, and Southend.