The British Museum is one of the top tourist destinations in London that has a remarkable collection of art and artifacts from across the world. A must-visit place for history enthusiasts.
The Tower of London is a historic castle on the bank of River Thames that has served as a royal palace, prison, and menagerie. The Tower Bridge next to it is an iconic symbol of London.
Buckingham Palace is the residence of the British monarchy and one of the most recognizable landmarks in London. Westminster Abbey is a historic church, burial place of monarchs, and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St. Paul's Cathedral is a magnificent church known for its world-famous dome, and it has been a site of significant historical events. Tate Modern is a modern art museum housed in the former Bankside Power Station.
Notting Hill is a trendy and upscale neighborhood that has stunning Victorian houses, charming restaurants, and quirky shops. The Portobello Road Market is a renowned market known for its antiques, fashion, and food.
Harrods is a luxurious department store with a wide range of items from international brands and exquisite food halls. Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in London with walking trails, boating, and cycling options.
The Shard is the tallest building in London that offers breathtaking views from the observation deck. Borough Market is a vibrant and historic food market with the best street food, fresh produce, and artisanal products.
Churchill War Rooms is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, and it includes the underground bunkers used during World War II. Big Ben is the iconic tower clock within the Palace of Westminster.
The Tate Britain is a museum with a vast collection of British art, including works by Turner and Constable. The National Gallery is one of the most prominent art museums in the world with over 2,300 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Covent Garden is a lively area with numerous shops, restaurants, and theaters. In the evening, catch a musical or play in one of the famous theaters in the West End area.
Victoria and Albert Museum is a museum dedicated to arts and design with collections from various cultures and periods. Kensington Gardens is a beautiful park with lovely landscapes, walking paths, and a tranquil lake.
Camden Market is a traditional and vibrant market with a variety of goods, food, clothes, and crafts. The Camden Lock is the historic and busiest lock system in London and a picturesque photo spot.
A traveler can use the London Underground, buses, and trains for the public transit options. The Oyster Card, a smart card that is refillable, can be used for easier and cheaper transportation. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are available in the city, but they can be more expensive. Total transportation costs vary based on the individual's choices and range from £5-20 per day.
If you have less than 12 days, pick your favorite locations or reduce the time spent at each site. If you have more time, consider exploring some hidden gems or nearby towns outside of London. You may also want to plan your itinerary based on weather conditions, and keep in mind that some attractions may require advance booking.
London has six international airports, but the two most commonly used by travelers are Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Gatwick Airport (LGW). Heathrow is located 14 miles west of central London and is the busiest airport in the UK, while Gatwick is located 30 miles south of central London and is the second busiest airport. Both airports are accessible by public transit or taxis.