What to do in London? Discover 20+ amazing places to see!

Why come and visit London

This must be my 4th or 5th time in London, and every single time I find different things to see, new activities, new little streets that are just great. It really is a (huge) city where wandering around is seriously enjoyable, a bit aimlessly, just to soak up the atmosphere and the architecture. Because it’s got everything going for it!

It’s an imperial city, like other European gems such as Budapest, Vienna, Paris (and Saint Petersburg), so it comes with the architecture to match: fantastic buildings, gorgeous neighbourhoods (Kensington, Belgravia, Notting Hill) or surprising ones like Camden. Loads of monuments, but also one of its great strengths: its museums, which are, for the most part, free. And that’s just brilliant!

I barely mention them (not being a huge fan), but you’ve also got the Harry Potter Studios and plenty of cool activities to do outside London.

Anyway, let’s see why London is a seriously enjoyable city, one you come to appreciate more over time, with each visit!

1. Visit the Palace of Westminster

This is only possible on Saturdays and honestly you should do it. You can visit the famous English parliament, where English laws are made and unmade. You should go first because it’s stunning, both outside (that part’s free) and inside. In a magnificent Gothic style, the palace was rebuilt in the 19th century after the great fire that destroyed everything (it’s actually a Unesco World Heritage site).

You get to visit legendary rooms! Well, the catch is that you’re not allowed to take photos in the most interesting rooms. But they’re stunning, with decor that’s “barely” over the top 😀

• Westminster Hall (a huge medieval hall, the oldest part).
• The House of Lords (very “royal”, gilding, throne).
• The House of Commons (more understated, but that’s where things heat up).

The visit lasts roughly 1h30, it’s really interesting, packed with history, and the audioguide is pretty good.

In low season, you can book a few days ahead, but in high season it’s several weeks! You book it on the Palace of Westminster’s website. Entry costs around €30.

• And you can also get a guided tour!

2. Discover the famous Westminster Abbey

This one is so big that I had to go twice to see it all! (I won’t hide it from you, your wallet takes a hit 😀 )

Because indeed, on top of being an enormous building, there are things to see just about everywhere and loads of traces of its very rich history. It’s a mix of Notre Dame, Reims Cathedral and the Basilica of Saint-Denis (to keep it super simple!).

Because since 1066 and the death of King Edward the Confessor, all the queens and kings of England have been crowned here, and on the very same throne! Which has therefore seen the backsides of William the Conqueror, Victoria, Elizabeth II and even Charles III. And that’s not all! Because it’s also hosted the weddings, including that of Queen Elizabeth II to Prince Philip, or William and Kate.

Then, you also go for the architecture because it’s insane, well… it’s exactly the kind of thing I love. A Gothic knockout, plain and simple. A monumental edifice, magnificent both outside and inside. I’ll let the photos do the talking, you’ll understand why! (also because I’m rubbish at descriptions).

I say it’s also the equivalent of the Basilica of Saint-Denis because all the greats (or nearly all) are buried here. For example Darwin, Newton or Stephen Hawking on the scientific side, Edward the Confessor, Mary Stuart or Elizabeth I for the royal family, or writers like Dickens. Anyway, there are too many, you’ll see their memorial plaques.

I’d also advise you to head upstairs to see the jubilee jewels. So yes, the collection is nice, but I mostly went to be able to see the interior of the church from the upper floor, and it really is impressive!

• you have to book your visit in advance, it’s essential. In high season, it’s even more than a week ahead
• the price is around €36
• there’s an audioguide but very honestly it’s rubbish

Book your ticket to visit Westminster Abbey!

3. Take a boat trip on the Thames

Whenever I visit a new city, I love taking a boat trip to discover it. Ok fine, only if a river runs through it, otherwise it’s not exactly easy 😀 But like Paris, like Rome or Budapest, the city is built around the river, its nerve centre, the Thames.

I love discovering the city by taking the boat, just as I love discovering it by getting lost in the little streets. It lets you sightsee without putting pressure on yourself, discover new things, a new point of view. Ideally I prefer to do this right at the start, that way it gives me loads of ideas for the rest of the trip and how to organise it.

And in London, it’s no exception to the rule, there are several options, but what’s amazing is that it’s not just the typical bateau mouche we know from Paris!

Because there are also the Uber boats, the boats that let you get around instead of the tube or the bus. Handy for avoiding traffic jams and the crowds on the trains, with its 24 stops along the Thames!

Otherwise, among the more classic trips, the cruise’s main route is between Westminster and Tower Bridge (which you can do as a round trip). You’ve also got the long version from Westminster all the way to Greenwich, passing through Canary Wharf!

And you’ve also got plenty of cool options like the day tour, the night tour, with a dinner… anyway, let’s take a look at all that!

WESTMINSTER – TOWER BRIDGE

• • Around 45min
  • Big Ben, London Eye, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge
  • Around €16
  • Ideal if you don’t have much time
    • Info and booking

WESTMINSTER – GREENWICH

• • Around 1h30
  • Add on top Canary Wharf, Greenwich (meridian, observatory, Cutty Sark).
  • Around €19
  • Cool for taking your time and doing a tour of Greenwich
    • Info and booking

TEA TIME ON THE THAMES

• • Around 1h30
  • It’s the (round trip) route between Westminster and Tower Bridge
  • Around €55
  • A special moment to see the city! Tea, scones, cakes
    • Info and booking

DINNER – THAMES CRUISE

• • Around 3h
  • It’s the (round trip) route between Westminster and Greenwich
  • Around €90
  • Ideal for discovering the city at night!
    • Info and booking

4. Get lost in the surprising neighbourhood of Camden

Camden Town is alternative London at its finest. Rougher, more creative, sometimes a bit chaotic… but never boring. Here, you come for the atmosphere above all. And it’s one of a kind.

What there is to see (and to do)

Impossible to talk about Camden without mentioning Camden Market. In reality, it’s several markets running one into the next around Camden Lock. Street food stalls from all over the world, vintage clothes, independent creations, offbeat souvenirs… You stroll, you nibble, you people-watch. Even without buying anything, it works really well.

On Camden High Street, the show goes on. Shops with completely wild façades, punk and rock references, Doc Martens, leather, piercings… Camden fully owns its grunge heritage. Some shopfronts are almost works of art in their own right.

You absolutely have to go to the Cyber Dog shop. Well, shop… it’s an experience and a visual shock 😀 You walk in, and bam! neon everywhere, electro music blasting, a club vibe in the middle of the afternoon. Dancers sometimes up on platforms. Screens. UV lights. You’re somewhere between a rave, a futuristic club and a sci-fi film set. It’s funny, madcap, and there’s bound to be something that catches your eye!

Another big highlight: the walk along the Regent’s Canal. In a few minutes, you go from the bustle of Camden to a much calmer atmosphere. It’s a great idea for linking Camden to Little Venice or simply to catch your breath a bit.

If you like music, Camden is a legendary spot. Venues like the Roundhouse or the neighbourhood’s gig-pubs have seen artists who went on to become legends. Even without a concert, you can feel that music is part of the area’s DNA.

Camden shows another face of London. Less polished. Less institutional. Here, things move, express themselves, mix styles. It’s alive, sometimes messy, but always authentic.

A little tip

Come rather on a weekday or early in the day if you don’t like crowds. On weekends, Camden is super popular.
But whatever happens, take the time to get a little lost. Camden is something you live more than you visit.

5. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral, obviously

6. And St Bartholomew’s Church!

You know me by now. I love wandering around a bit blindly, clicking on spots on Google Maps to see what they look like, and unearthing that superb square none of the other blogs mention. And there, bam! It’s the magnificent church of St Bartholomew the Great, dating from the 12th century and still in its original state! And that’s just wonderful because the moment you step inside, it’s a real plunge into the past. Little light, little restoration, the period arches, and absolutely no tourists. The entrance is also rather pretty and doesn’t look like much, it doesn’t face onto the street, so you have to search a bit. The contrast with Southwark Cathedral is striking!

On your way there, you’ve got the little square that’s also rather pretty, and Smithfield Market. In fact, there’s the little Smithfield district which has insane architecture, but is currently under restoration.

Also nearby, take a look at Holborn Viaduct, both underneath and on top, it’s surprising to find that there! Especially with the motto in French 😀

7. Visit the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels

The Tower of London isn’t “just a castle”. It’s a concentrate of English history right in the centre, sitting on the banks of the Thames, with a fortress feel that immediately sets the mood. You come as much for the places as for the stories (often not very cheerful ones) that unfolded here: intrigues, famous prisoners, executions… in short, some seriously intense London.

What there is to see (and not to miss)

The must-do is the Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels are displayed along a secured route, and it’s frankly impressive: crowns, sceptres, gigantic stones… Even if you’re not aficionados of the royal family, it makes quite an impression.

Then, head for the White Tower. It’s the historic heart of the site, the oldest part, with massive rooms and a very medieval atmosphere. Inside, you come across collections linked to weaponry and military life: armour, swords, defensive objects… It helps you understand what the place was really used for.

Don’t skip the ramparts: walking on the walls and passing through the towers is one of the best moments. Some rooms keep very concrete traces of the past, like inscriptions carved into the stone by prisoners (that’s sobering).

You’ll also see places heavy with symbolism, like Traitors’ Gate (the gate through which “important” prisoners arrived by river) and Tower Green, tied to the executions of famous figures.

And then there are the Yeoman Warders (the “Beefeaters”). Their guided tours are very popular, and for good reason: it’s lively, funny at times, and it tells the story of the Tower with anecdotes that stick with you.

Why it’s worth it

Because the Tower of London is a visit that mixes monument, museum, and historical storytelling. You don’t just do “rooms”: you walk through a real setting, with a genuine sense of the past. Small snag, photos are forbidden, notably for the royal jewels. But on the other side you get a royal view of Tower Bridge!

Practical tip: allow a minimum of 2 to 3 hours, and arrive early if you want to see the Crown Jewels with fewer people.

• Opening hours: watch out, it closes early! it’s basically open from 9am to 4:30pm
• Price: it’s €40 (all the same)
• Is it really worth it: yes!
• Info and booking

8. A guided tour of Tower Bridge at sunset

There are also some really nice views of Tower Bridge from London Bridge and the quays in between. From the Tower of London too, and also the Shard, which we’ll talk about later.

• Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm
• Price: €15

Book your ticket to visit Tower Bridge

9. See Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace is THE royal palace of London. You definitely know it, with that big tree-lined avenue out front that we’ve all seen dozens of times on TV. Well, here it’s for real, and it’s just as impressive!

Now, the one small catch is that you can only visit the inside during the 3 summer months. There are two types of visit:

The State Rooms (the “ceremonial apartments”)

This is the classic visit.
You walk through the rooms used for official receptions.
Inside, the “must-sees” are usually:

• the Grand Staircase (the entrance that sets the mood right away)
• the Picture Gallery (big paintings, an impressive display)
• the Throne Room (the most “royal” room, yes)
• the Ballroom (huge, used for banquets)

The Royal Day Out ticket

• Royal Mews: the royal stables + carriages (super cool if you’re into the ceremonial side of things).
• The King’s Gallery: temporary exhibitions (on the grounds, but not “inside” the palace itself).
• Royal Day Out: combo ticket State Rooms + Mews + King’s Gallery (often the best plan if you’re doing everything).

The Changing of the Guard

It’s the moment when the guard on duty “hands over” to the new guard to protect Buckingham Palace (and St James’s Palace too). You know those guards in red with the big furry hats who march without bending their knees?

Anyway, after a bit of digging, here in more detail are the “battalions” you get to see during the Changing of the Guard:

• soldiers in red tunics + bearskin hats (Foot Guards)
• a marching band (military marches… sometimes some very famous tunes)
• the guard arriving in procession from Wellington Barracks
• then the ceremony on the grounds in front of the palace (about 45 minutes)

Because yeah, I’d have loved to give you my own take on the ceremony but… it was always cancelled! Wind, rain, storms… You know the guy who’s a walking jinx? Okay fine, you’ll tell me that visiting London in the dead of winter, I’m kind of asking for it!

A few practical tips:

• it takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, but as you can see, it can be cancelled depending on the weather
• the changing in front of the palace happens at 11am, but it starts a bit earlier
• it’s best to arrive before 10am, keeping in mind the changing happens in front of the palace, where the crowds are thickest. But if you position yourself along the main avenue, there are fewer people and you can absolutely watch everyone go by

10. Visit some of the most interesting museums in the world

The British Museum and all its relics

This one is pretty wild. Vast but not too much, easy to visit because the spaces are well laid out. So yes, you’ll find the classic rooms devoted to Egypt, Antiquity, Greece… but there are some pretty mind-blowing pieces, and others that really got me thinking.

I absolutely wanted to go for the Rosetta Stone, that “missing link” for deciphering hieroglyphs. But in the end, where I spent the most time was with the Assyrians; their collection is pretty incredible, with loads of really well-preserved relics from Nineveh and Nimrud. There are the bronze Balawat Gates and the famous winged lion sculptures. We don’t hear enough about the Assyrians; what they left behind is fantastic!

But you’ll get plenty of beautiful pieces. A Greek temple, the Nereid Monument, then the Parthenon friezes bring us back to reality and remind us that many pieces were acquired with a certain notion of legality (for example, here it was the Ottoman administration that sold the Greek pieces to the English).

The museum is genuinely superb. You can truly spend hours there. And a big plus: it’s free!

You just need to book your time slot. In low season, you can book the day before. In high season, you’ll need to plan several days ahead, easily. The only downside is the opening hours, open from 10am to 5pm “only”.

• book your time slot

If you’d like a guided tour in English, that’s totally possible! Take a look here and select the language

In Darwin’s footsteps at the Natural History Museum

London’s other museums

I haven’t had time to visit others yet, but there’s really a whole bunch of interesting ones. Off the top of my head, here are the museums I’d suggest:

TATE MODERN

• contemporary art in a former power station, visually stunning (even if you “don’t like modern art”)
• Free, you need to book your time slot
• Open 10am to 6pm

THE NATIONAL GALLERY

• the great masters (Van Gogh, Monet, Turner…), right on Trafalgar Square
• Free, you need to book your time slot
• Open 10am to 6pm

You can take a guided tour of the National Gallery

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

• design, fashion, jewellery, objets d’art… the museum of beauty and decorative arts par excellence
• Free, you need to book your time slot
• Open 10am to 5:45pm

SCIENCE MUSEUM

• space, aviation, inventions, interactive experiments (great with kids, and just as good without)
• Free, you need to book your time slot
• Open 10am to 6pm

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

• modern wars, testimonies, striking objects… and a visit that stays with you
• Free, you need to book your time slot
• Open 10am to 6pm

MADAME TUSSAUDS

• It’s the most famous wax museum in the world, no less. The concept is simple: ultra-realistic wax statues of celebrities, historical figures, athletes, actors, musicians… You can go right up, pose next to them, take photos. That’s what it’s there for.
• Paid, around €33
• Hours between 9am–4pm or 10am–3pm
  • Info and booking

THE HARRY POTTER STUDIOS

• I’ll confess I’m not a big Harry Potter fan, so I didn’t go visit the studios. But apparently, for someone who loved the books or the films, it’s a must-do. You really dive into the sets, into the universe. Anyway, it comes at a price, but all the feedback is excellent!
• Paid, pricey, from €95 with transport (on the Harry Potter bus!)
  • Info and booking

11. See London’s iconic squares

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is one of the best-known squares in London. Big. Open. Monumental.
And almost impossible to avoid when you visit the city.

At the centre stands Nelson’s Column, over 50 metres tall. It commemorates the British victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (against Napoleon). Even if you’re not a history buff, you immediately sense the solemn side of the place. London loves to remember its past. Here, it’s very clear.

Around it, the fountains give the whole thing a bit of breathing room. When the weather’s nice (yes, it happens), Londoners settle down here, eat a sandwich, chat. The atmosphere is surprisingly relaxed for such a symbolic spot.

But Trafalgar Square is above all a meeting point.
Right behind it, you’ve got the National Gallery, one of the biggest art museums in Europe. And good news: entry is free. Even if you’re not a “museum” person, it’s worth a peek, if only to see a few masterpieces in an hour.

The square is also very often the stage for:

• demonstrations
• cultural events
• national celebrations

In other words, Trafalgar Square is alive. And sometimes very loudly so.

Why come here?
Because it’s an excellent starting point. You’re just a few minutes from Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Whitehall and the Thames. Everything’s walkable.

My tip: take the time to pass through, without necessarily staying long.
Watch. Sit down for a few minutes. Watch the city move around you.

Trafalgar Square isn’t just a square. It’s London in a nutshell. Historic, lively, and always a little impressive.

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus is often one of the first visual shocks you get in London.
A junction. Giant screens. Crowds, all the time. And that feeling of being “at the center of something.”

Let’s be clear: you don’t come here for the quiet, you come for the atmosphere.

The real symbol of the place is the illuminated screens, in place here since the early 20th century. They’ve evolved, of course, but the idea stays the same: catch the eye, create movement, bring energy. In the evening, when night falls, Piccadilly Circus clearly takes on another dimension. The lights switch on, the crowd thickens, and London looks almost like a European version of Times Square (smaller, but with more style).

Right next to it, you’ll see the famous statue of Eros (officially Anteros, but nobody calls it that). It’s a classic meeting point. “Let’s meet at Eros” is part of the local vocabulary. Again, it’s not London’s most impressive monument, but it’s part of the scenery.

So, why swing by Piccadilly Circus?
I’d say you’ll end up here whether you want to or not. Because it’s at the center of everything. You’re a stone’s throw from Soho, Leicester Square, the West End theaters, and Regent Street. This is often where London nights kick off, between musicals, lively pubs and restaurants from all over the world.

My tip: pass through twice:

• Once during the day, to understand the place.
• And once at night, to really feel it.

Piccadilly Circus isn’t a long visit. But it’s an almost unavoidable stop. And a good summary of the living, noisy London that’s always on the move.

12. Notting Hill and Portobello Market

So first of all, Notting Hill is a fairly big, quite posh and super cute neighborhood in northwest London. Portobello Road is its main street, running through it from north to south.
If you know me, you’re probably wondering why I’d go strolling through a neighborhood made famous by a rom-com and Julia Roberts. Well, because it’s actually really nice! I didn’t head there totally convinced, but rather curious to check out the Saturday market on Portobello Road.
Because yes, Portobello Road has its market on Saturdays, all along the road (so it’s long) which is pretty interesting, even if it sometimes looks like any commercial flea market. But don’t worry, the other days of the week all the shops on the street are open too and it’s always lively. You really find everything, from the Indian seller of silk scarves to the old antique map shop (you’ve got to stop there, it’s super lovely), honestly it’s great, especially since Portobello Road is very pretty.
To the north, you’ve got the vintage market, with loads of books, clothes, jewelry, slightly odd stuff and rock music. On the other side of the street you’ve got another paradise: tons of street food stalls. I caved for the Thai, super good!

Back to Notting Hill.
I recommend starting the visit by arriving at Notting Hill Gate tube station, to the south. And above all, start in the morning with Notting Hill Village (around Hillgate Place), a few super cute little streets with small houses in rather pastel colors. It’s not very touristy because everyone rushes to Portobello Road.

Then you can carry on the visit by taking Portobello Road, but you’ll need to wander around it to catch the prettiest and most iconic spots. Portobello Road is really nice, there’s a bit of a Camden vibe, but without the “anything goes” side, with lots of lovely different buildings. But the iconic London houses are in the side streets. Heading up, be sure to go through Westbourne Grove, Colville Terrace, the super cute little alley of St Luke’s Mews, and where you’ll find the most famous colorful houses, that’s on Westbourne Park Road and Lancaster Road.
And finally you reach the vintage market we talked about.

You wouldn’t think so, but it takes time! I figured I’d do it in 2 hours and boom, not at all. Okay, fine, especially with the missus and the shops, me and the shops (too, yes). On the other hand, if you come in winter, watch out for nightfall coming super early. At 4pm it’s dark! So not great for your photos and enjoying the colors.

13. See London from above!

London is a beautiful and, above all, sprawling city. There are things to see pretty much everywhere but they’re not next to each other, so getting some height is a good thing! Especially since there are loads of rooftops, loads of high vantage points. Some free, others (more often) paid. I’ll show you a few but there are even more, especially with bars 😀

The Sky Garden

The most sought-after view in London. Also up high, in the City area, the Sky Garden lives up to its name. It’s a genuine hanging garden where walking around is super pleasant. It’s a panoramic view over 2 floors and there are several ways to get in. First off, the Sky Garden is known for being free… when you can get hold of the tickets!

The main terrace has a few dozen free tickets per day but they get snapped up online. So you need to plan ahead! Since that wasn’t at all my case (you’re starting to know the rascal), I made a reservation for breakfast at the Darwin Brasserie.

The upside is that by booking at one of the restaurants, you get access to all the terraces (except when the outdoor one is closed because of the wind, again!) and on top of that you eat well.

The Sky Garden is really a place to try to visit, for the setting which is super nice with all the plants, for the view which is very good although not as good as the Shard’s (you’re a touch far from the windows, so there are reflections, and if the outdoor terrace is closed you miss a good part of the show). But if it’s free, that works out great!

While you’re there you can also grab something at the bar. And if it’s not free, like it was for me, it’s also worth it for the experience, I don’t regret it at all!

• for the free tickets, you book here but you need to do it at least a week in advance
• to get a table at one of the Sky Garden bars, you book here.

Once outside I recommend going for a wander around, between old and new buildings that make a nice contrast (notably the Gherkin tower right behind). I also really enjoyed the steampunk-style tower!
Then, you can head off toward St Paul’s Cathedral, not far from here.

The View from the Shard

The Shard is the tallest building in London and it delivers! Opened in 2013, it’s also the highest viewpoint in the city, from floors 69, 69 (easy) and 72 (outdoors, with the wind!). You get a 360° view, the whole city, and honestly it’s really great.

Before talking about how it goes up there, I’ll note the DeLorean-style speed of the elevators that cover 30 floors in about fifteen seconds. And you don’t even feel it!
The building is all glass, and on the panoramic floors, it doesn’t change, you see absolutely everything. You can grab a little drink to take on the view.

I think it’s the best view in the city, and you can see far too. The good news is that if the weather is rubbish, the view is guaranteed and you can come back another day.
Oh, I recommend a little trip to the toilets because you’ll have the view into the void. Well, at this height, nobody’s coming to look at you, but it’s a wee that gives you vertigo!

• Hours: 11am-7pm
• Price: €22
• Location: south bank of London Bridge
• Do you need to book in advance: yes
• Info and Booking

Since you can stay as long as you want (especially with the bar at the top), you can take the chance to watch the city light up. In winter, it happens super early, which is handy (for once)!

Because I then recommend heading off to Borough Market, which I found super nice, industrial style, under the railway, old-school (and the donuts from Bread Ahead, especially the crème brûlée one). Then, in a different vein, you can pay a little visit to Southwark Cathedral, quite lovely and done fairly quickly (unless, like me, you get caught by a sweet little old lady asking if I want to stay for the service).
Finally, on your way out, cross the bridge, with a lovely view of Tower Bridge and the warship turned museum HMS Belfast (which you can also visit).

From the London Eye

I think there’s a little curse. These last two trips, I must have spent a good 8 days in London. And not once was I able to go up in the London Eye even though I wanted to! Rubbish weather, too much wind, that kind of thing. Anyway. I’ll get there!

Set up since 1998 across from Westminster, the London Eye Ferris wheel is totally part of the London landscape and you could say it’s a must-do (well, when you can!). At 135m tall it’s probably the biggest Ferris wheel in Europe. But even though you feel like you’re flying over the city, the capsules are super stable! Okay, that’s because they shut everything down in case of wind (and just as well, let’s say).

It’s worth doing because during the 30 minutes the ride lasts you can see the whole city, including the main monuments. Obviously Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey which are literally right opposite. But also the curves of the Thames, with St Paul’s Cathedral, the new skyscrapers that are The Shard, the Gherkin and the others in the Canary Wharf business district.

Having done loads of rooftops lately in London, hunting for the perfect viewpoint, I’d say the ideal moment is late in the day, especially if the weather’s nice and you can catch a pretty sunset. Since night falls quickly, you might get to see the city light up little by little as the daylight fades. Super nice! There are also fewer people than in the middle of the day.

Well, in winter it’s not exactly packed anyway. But in high season, you’ll really need to book several days in advance.

• Duration: 30min
• Price: €33
• Location: opposite Westminster
• Info and booking

The rooftop of the One New Change shopping center

This is the rooftop of the One New Change shopping center. Well, you’re on the 6th floor, so not actually that high. The upside is that you’ve got a magnificent view of St Paul’s Cathedral, with the London Eye in the background too and the Shard. The downside is… that’s all you’ve got! But that’s already pretty good 🙂

14. Get your fill of nature in the various parks

The parks are an integral part of London, some are extremely well known (and rightly so) and famous, like lungs in the heart of the city. Well, I have to admit that since all my recent trips took place in winter, visiting the parks wasn’t necessarily a priority, notably because of the rain 😀 (what, who said that was a cliché?).

We really enjoyed discovering St James’s Park when we strolled around the neighborhood around Buckingham, seeing the ducks, the swans, the squirrels… super lovely.

St James’s Park

It’s the most central. And one of the prettiest. Right between Buckingham Palace and Westminster.

Here, you come for:

• the view of the palace
• the pelicans (yes, really)
• a quiet break between two visits
• Small park, but very elegant. Perfect for catching your breath.

Hyde Park

The giant, the most famous, and yet also in central London. You can easily lose yourself in it!

You’ll find:

• big paths for walking
• the Serpentine Lake
• cyclists, joggers, families
• It’s the “do-it-all” park.

Ideal to visit after Oxford Street or Notting Hill, or as a continuation of Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens.

Regent’s Park

More chic. More flowery. A real favorite in spring and summer.

Why it’s top-notch:

• superb, well-designed gardens
• a nice view from Primrose Hill
• London Zoo right next door
• Less touristy than Hyde Park. And more refined.

Greenwich Park

A bit off to the side in east London. But it’s worth the detour, especially if you’re going to Greenwich.

You come here for:

• the incredible view of London
• the prime meridian
• the more local vibe
• Perfect for mixing culture and nature.

Hampstead Heath

The wildest. Here, London almost disappears. And yet, it’s not that far away!

What makes it unique:

• big meadows
• magnificent views of the skyline
• a very “countryside” feel
• Ideal if you have a bit more time.

Bonus: discover London’s beautiful little streets

As in every historic city, what’s super lovely is to “just walk” and discover. Especially since central London is enooormous and has loads of great neighborhoods with completely different atmospheres.

I love walking in the City. Okay it’s an old business district, but it’s a superb mix of early-1900s buildings and others much more recent, for example the Gherkin tower which is right behind a lovely bit of old church. From there you can very easily reach the St Paul’s area.

There’s the ultra posh Westminster district, full of majestic buildings, little alleys where you find nice pubs. To then quickly move on to Buckingham, St James’s and head up to Piccadilly Circus and follow Oxford Street. With loads of little treasures all over the place.

And it works too in Kensington, Notting Hill or Greenwich! It feels like an endless walk!

Trips outside London

London is the capital, there are loads of things to see yes, but all around you’ve got soooo many sites and towns to see on a day trip! Archaeological sites, villages, pretty historic towns, and others. Let’s take a look at all that.

STONEHENGE

It’s the most famous archaeological site in the United Kingdom, and it remains a mystery.

• Located 2 hours’ drive from London
• Duration: 6h30
• Price: €75
  • Info and booking

OXFORD AND THE COTSWOLDS VILLAGES

Legendary colleges, a classic English university vibe, and charming little lanes.

• Located 1 hour by car or 1 hour by train
• Tour including a visit to Oxford and the Cotswolds villages
  • Price: €65
    • Info and booking
• Tour including a visit to Oxford and the Stonehenge site
  • Price: €90
    • Info and booking

WINDSOR CASTLE

An impressive royal castle, a quiet town, and a stroll along the Thames

• Located roughly 1 hour by train from London
• 2 options for the visit
  • You go straight there by train and buy your ticket on site
    • Price: €37
    • Info and booking
  • You take a guide from London who handles the tickets and transport
    • Price: €90
    • Info and booking

Where to stay in London

Whoa, big topic! London is huge and the neighbourhoods where you can stay are countless, especially since they’re really nice, so I’ll write you a dedicated article. So here, while you wait for that future bible of London accommodation, are a few recommendations. But the most important thing is to be close to a Tube station whose line takes you into the centre.

First of all, in the “not too pricey” and super handy category, I stayed at the Morningtown Hotel in Kensington, in Earl’s Court. Really efficient, very well located without being right in the heart of the centre. I highly recommend it even if the rooms are small. And Kensington is genuinely a lovely area.

The Z Hotel Trafalgar – Trafalgar Square A clever concept right in the heart of London: tiny but ultra-functional rooms, spotless, and the location is just perfect, a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square, the West End theatres and Covent Garden. The value for money is unbeatable for the area. From €90/night

• • More information about The Z Hotel Trafalgar

Citizen M Tower of London – Tower Hill Modern, laid-back design right next to the Tower of London. The communal spaces are gorgeous, perfect if you want a trendy vibe without breaking the bank. The upside: you’re a stone’s throw from the City and Borough Market. From €120/night

• • More information about Citizen M Tower of London

The Resident Covent Garden – Elegant apart’hotels, some with a kitchenette, on a quiet street 2 minutes from the buzz of Covent Garden. Ideal for a bit of independence while being in the middle of everything. The building has real character. From €150/night

• • More information about The Resident Covent Garden

The Strand Palace – Strand An iconic historic hotel on the Strand, with a magnificent art deco façade. The location is absolutely royal: Covent Garden a stone’s throw away, the West End theatres all around, and the Thames just a few minutes off. Comfortable rooms and impeccable service, excellent value for money for such an area. From €140/night

• • More information about Strand Palace Hotel

The Clermont London, Charing Cross – Charing Cross A majestic Victorian façade, décor that blends historic charm with modern comfort. The location is royal: Trafalgar Square a stone’s throw away, perfect for exploring all of London. A real architectural favourite. From €180/night

• • More information about The Clermont London

The Savoy – Now we’re moving upmarket. London’s legendary palace hotel, art deco, impeccable service, Thames views from some rooms. This is the address for (really) treating yourself. The location on the Strand is ideal, between Covent Garden and the City. From €500/night

• • More information about The Savoy Strand

4 recommended places to stay in the heart of London!

Find your dream accommodationin London

A 3-day itinerary to discover the essentials of London

I picked what seemed to me the most essential for a visit. So it’s totally subjective and it involves a bit of walking. So it’s adaptable, but you’ll see, the essentials are all there!

There’s a section dedicated to accommodation in London, but for this itinerary here are a few examples of really handy hotels.

• Mornington Hotel Kensington, in Earl’s Court, a touch out of the way but really well connected and the hotel is quite good, and cheap (more info)
• The Z Hotel Strand, superbly located in Covent Garden, the rooms are small but the hotel is good and cheap (more info)
• St Martins Lane, ideally located next to Leicester Square, dead centre, it’s an excellent 5-star hotel but surprisingly not that expensive (more info)
• The Royal Horseguards Hotel, right next to Trafalgar Square, the façade is magnificent, an excellent hotel without being ultra high-end. Excellent and convenient! (more info)

Day 1 – West London & the lively centre

Morning – Notting Hill & Portobello Road

• A stroll through Notting Hill.
• Colourful houses, postcard vibes.
• Then Portobello Road for the market.
• In the morning, it’s perfect

Midday

• Lunch there or on the go, there’s tons of street food at Portobello market

Afternoon – Piccadilly Circus & Soho

• Pass through Piccadilly Circus.
• Quick, but iconic.
• Then on to Soho.
• Shops, restaurants, pubs.

Evening

• Soho stays ideal in the evening.
• Otherwise, dinner around Leicester Square.

Day 2 – Westminster, culture & the great classics

Morning – Westminster

• Visit Westminster Abbey (info and booking)
• A must.
• Then Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster (from the outside or a full visit).

Late morning – St James’s Park

• Cross St James’s Park.
• View of Buckingham Palace.
• Changing of the Guard if the timing works out.

Early afternoon – Trafalgar Square

• Pass through Trafalgar Square.
• A big square. A very London atmosphere.

Afternoon – British Museum

• Visit the British Museum. Free. Impressive. Don’t forget to book your entry in advance.
• Mummies, the Rosetta Stone, Ancient Greece.
• Allow 2 hours minimum.

Evening

• Dinner around Covent Garden or Bloomsbury.

Day 3 – East London & the Thames

Morning – Camden

• Head to Camden Town. (you can take a guided tour)
• Market, street food, alternative spirit.

Early afternoon – Thames cruise

• Cruise on the Thames (info and booking)
• Relaxing and a smart way to get around.
• Westminster → Tower route.

Afternoon – Tower & Tower Bridge

• Visit the Tower of London. (info and booking)
• Then Tower Bridge (info and booking)

End of the day – The Shard & Borough Market

• Go up to The View from The Shard. (info and booking)
• Sunset recommended.
• Then dinner at Borough Market.

The interactive map of London

In this interactive map, created with Google Maps, discover:

• all the places to see in London*
• the tours and visits to do
• the interesting places to stay, by neighbourhood
• the monuments and parks
• the practical info

⭐️Discover the London Map in full screen!⭐️

Practical info for visiting London

How long to stay in London

Honestly, every time I go it’s for 3 or 4 full days, and I find that’s just right. It’s not too much, and there’s no “damn, that was too short” feeling because I know I’ll be back to keep exploring, London being super easy to get to.

But London is a big city, you have to organise your visits by neighbourhood, which is why 2 days feels a bit tight to me since the distances are huge. That said, staying more than 3 or 4 days is mostly worth it for getting out of the city, like the archaeological site of Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Oxford… anyway, check out the section on day trips outside London, it’s packed with ideas!

The best time to visit London

There’s no bad time to come, because every month, every season has its perks. You should know it’s touristy in every season. It’s just “touristy or very touristy”. But the moment you get a window, go for it. It’s nicer with good weather and mild temperatures, but you can never be too sure and above all that’s the most touristy period (and therefore the most expensive).

WINTER

• the days are very short, often rainy but it doesn’t pour non-stop
• it’s touristy all the same
• hotel prices are lower and that feels good
• opening hours are also shorter at museums and attractions

SPRING

• crowds especially over long weekends
• the parks get pretty swamped
• the days get longer, the weather is better even if it still rains

SUMMER

• It’s touristy!
• the days are very long
• temporary visits open up, like Buckingham
• it can even get hot!
• Hotels are expensive

AUTUMN

• the Indian summer is pretty nice
• there are always crowds
• after the October half-term holidays, there are far fewer people

How to get to London

It’s really super simple. Even though the UK left the European Union, that hasn’t made things any more complicated. There are still just as many options.

BY TRAIN

Thanks to the Eurostar, Paris is 2h30 from London. And it doesn’t necessarily cost much if you book ahead (super important). You can easily get a return for under £100 without much trouble.
Lille is also 1h20 away on the Eurostar, super handy!

BY PLANE

It’s also very simple. It would be hard to list all the French airports with direct flights to London, because with the 4 London airports you’re spoilt for choice. Whether it’s the main cities (Paris, Lyon, Marseille…) or smaller ones like Grenoble, Biarritz, Perpignan… especially thanks to the low-cost carriers. Now, the airports are further from London so it’ll take longer to reach the city centre. But it’s super handy! And it’s generally really cheap (unless you add checked bags).

BY BUS

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get to London, it’s by bus. From Paris there are 2 companies running the route: Flixbus and Blablacar bus. Okay, it’s cheap, starting at €25 for the trip, but it takes a while, around 9 hours on the road. So is it really worth it? I’d say yes if you have the time and you’re booking at the last minute (when Eurostar prices go through the roof).

Do you need a visa/passport to visit London

If you’re a European national, along with those of many other countries, you need the newly created ETA, which is an electronic authorisation, mandatory before crossing the border. You apply on the government website (watch out for fakes), or better, on the official app, it costs £16, takes 5 minutes with the app, and you’re done!

So yes, you also need your passport, it’s mandatory. ID cards are not accepted.

Getting around once there

It’s super simple. The Underground network is excellent and reliable. And it goes pretty far out. So you can fairly easily find a Tube station nearby.

And they’ve made things a whole lot easier for payment too, because you can tap through the gates with a card or your phone! It’s super handy, no need to buy an Oyster Card and top it up as you go. Now your card or your phone is enough! And if you’re wondering whether you pay more, well no. It’s the same, £2.90 per journey and a daily cap of £8.90, automatic, no need to buy a day pass, it sorts itself out!

And it works for the bus too.

Another way to get around while discovering the city is to take the sightseeing bus, the famous hop-on / hop-off bus. These are the red buses that stop at London’s most beautiful spots and let you hop on and off as often as you like, over as many days as you want. Handy!

• Discover London’s sightseeing buses

What do you eat in London

First off, you should know that you eat really well in London. Okay, English food is a bit peculiar. Chirac used to say that after Finland, it was the country with the worst food (he wasn’t entirely wrong about Finland). But there are still some good little things in their cuisine:

• the pies, I love their little pies, especially steak & ale pies, made with beer and beef bourguignon style.
• the English breakfasts, not exactly light, but they get your day off to a good start!
• fish & chips of course! if it’s not too greasy, it’s perfect

But above all, London has so many foreign restaurants that you’ll eat really well, especially Indian. If there’s just one I can recommend, it’s the Indian restaurant Paro, in Covent Garden. Simply a treat. Otherwise the pubs generally serve good food. Mind you, we weren’t too adventurous either 😀

As for pubs, there are so many (and I don’t go out much) that I don’t have much to suggest apart from something typical, The Churchill Arms, in Kensington, a bar dedicated to Winston Churchill with all the decor to match. Honestly not bad at all!

Shopping at Harrods

Harrods is a legendary London store. A bit like the Galeries Lafayette in Paris, it’s unique. No need to actually shop, you can go just to look around because it’s worth it, especially for its Egyptian theme. Its central escalator is pretty wild, an ode to ancient Egypt commissioned by its former owner Mohamed Al Fayed, an Egyptian. The sphinx, Egyptian statues, columns, hieroglyphs all over the place. Surprising, let’s say!

Beyond that, it’s also pretty good for shopping, but pricey. Downstairs in the food hall there are some great products, especially on the chocolate side. But go to Harrods, it really is an experience of its own 😀

Power adapter

Careful, in England the power sockets aren’t the same as in most European countries, particularly France, you need an adapter. Well, if you forget it, it’s pretty much the first thing you’ll see when you arrive at St Pancras, it’s the station’s bestseller because everyone forgets it!

In conclusion

There you go, now you know everything! Well, everything, no, because the amount of info on this city is infinite, you’re always discovering new places to see, things to do, new museums… in short, you don’t come to London just once, and you’ll soon understand that!

I mostly tried to make you want to come for a first visit, the essentials. Then, on the following visits, you try to discover more off-the-beaten-path places, new things, new little neighbourhoods, and also to venture a bit away from the city.

Here are the articles on the blog that cover London. More should follow soon!

• The tourist map of London – on this map, discover the places to see, the activities, accommodation… in short, the essentials for your stay!
• How to get to London from Paris – coming by Eurostar for the simplest option, by bus for the cheapest, by plane too, here are the different options with their pros and cons

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