Things to do in London

All about London

When to visit

There’s no better place in the summer. The capital’s parks swell with picnickers and festivals celebrating music from every genre. And the best things to do in London during the winter include drinking mulled wine and visiting holiday light displays in Oxford Street and Carnaby Street. Whatever the season, bring an umbrella, as downpours can strike at any moment.

Getting around

The capital’s public transport system is world-famous and has been operating since the 1800s. It’s a surefire way to navigate the city and beat the notorious traffic jams aboveground. The London Underground (also known as the Tube) and the super-speedy Elizabeth Line are cost-effective ways to explore. And the Overground helps you explore the other points of the compass—make sure you mind the gap.

Traveler tips

Once you’ve sampled the street art of Shoreditch and bagels of Brick Lane, one of the best things to do in London is visiting the city’s coolest borough: Hackney in East London. Here, you’ll find leafy parks such as Victoria Park and Haggerston Park. There are gastropubs serving pints of beer alongside British classics such as Scotch eggs and pork pies. And Hackney boasts some of the capital’s best nightlife, from LGBTQ bars hosting drag shows to R&B nights in underground nightclubs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should you not miss in London?

There are so many unmissable things to do in London. Begin with UNESCO-listed attractions such as Westminster Abbey, Maritime Greenwich, and Big Ben. Go on a River Thames boat or hop-on hop-off bus tour to glimpse the highlights. You’ll save time to visit icons like the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye on the South Bank.

What is the most famous attraction in London?

Arguably the most famous attraction in town is Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (home to the House of Commons and House of Lords), which overlook the Thames River. The city boasts many other iconic attractions, from Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey. Don’t forget the Natural History Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge.

What do Londoners do for fun?

There are many ways Londoners like to let loose. They visit in-demand restaurants in Soho and unwind over pints in one of the city’s historic pubs. Centrally located attractions like Borough Market and the Tate Modern are ever-popular. Residents also head to East London to discover the city’s hippest neighborhoods.

What attractions can I see outside of London?

Many attractions are just a short distance outside of town. Discover royal landmarks such as Windsor Castle, Blenheim Palace, and Hever Castle. Alternatively, plan a seaside excursion to Brighton, Whitstable, or Margate. Other highlights within day-trip distance include Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge, the Cotswolds, Bath, and Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s birthplace).

Is 2 days enough for London?

Yes, two days is enough to discover the city’s highlights if you sightsee efficiently. Embark on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, a Central London walking tour, or a Thames boat trip to see more of the sights in less time. Explore leafy Hyde Park and St. James’s Park, plan a West End theater outing in Covent Garden, and shop in South Kensington.

What attractions are free in London?

The city offers a wealth of free attractions, including cultural destinations such as the British Museum, Tate Modern (home to boundary-pushing modern art and visionary performance art), Victoria and Albert Museum (known for decorative art). The city’s Royal Parks are also free to explore, as are highlights like Trafalgar Square. Don’t miss the free-to-view Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

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