London, England is steeped in history, art, culture, and still has a sense of hip, modern life for the young at heart. Your trip to London would not be complete without visiting the following attractions and historical sites.
• Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is home for Queen Elizabeth and her family. It is the center of everything royal in London. It is definitely worth a stop to see the changing of the guards and a tour of the state rooms in the summer months.
• Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the oldest buildings in existence. It was a prison for several hundred years and houses the Crown Jewels. Another must-see in London!
• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament is the Government building including the House of Lords and the House of Commons. This is also where the famous clock tower Big Ben stands and chimes every 15 minutes.
• Tower Bridge
The Tower Bridge is a majestic landmark that spans the Thames River near the Tower of London. It provides fantastic views of the city and a full tour is available.
• London Eye
To call the London Eye a Ferris Wheel is a huge understatement. It is the largest viewing wheel in the world and one of the best attractions in London. Your flight on the Eye is the best chance to get magnificent views and take some incredible photos of the city.
• Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is in the center of London and is a common meeting place. There is a huge fountain in the center of the Square where you usually see people cooling off in the summer months.
• Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is considered the royal church where royal weddings, funerals, and coronations are held. It is architecturally stunning and on the top of most tourists must-see list!
• River Thames
A trip to London would not be complete without a cruise on the River Thames. It gives you an entirely new perspective on this city with an audio tour onboard. You can see the London Eye, the Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.
• Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a beautiful park in London with green grass, nice walkways, monuments and statues throughout, artists’ wares displayed, and Speaker’s Corner where lively debates are held.
When you’re ready to enjoy a nice dinner, the locals have a few favorite restaurants that you won’t want to miss!
• The Ivy
An upscale restaurant and a celebrity hangout, The Ivy is a great restaurant with delicious food and wine, expensive prices, and a long waiting list, so be sure to reserve a table well in advance!
• Sherlock Holmes Pub
Some of the best fish and chips in London! This relaxed pub is a block from Trafalgar Square and boasts great food with inexpensive prices. Don’t forget to sneak a peek at Tony Blair’s residence at 10 Downing Street on the walk over.
• Belgo
A Belgian restaurant with must-try Belgian beer, Belgo’s is the place for a relaxed lunch or dinner near Covent Garden. Mussels and chips are the house specialty along with the beer or your choice. Did you know you can even get a fruit or chocolate beer!
Knowing how to get around London can save you valuable time and money when trying to pack as many tourist attractions in a day as possible. Here are the recommended ways to get around the city.
• The Tube
The London Underground subway system is perhaps the fastest and most efficient way to travel from place to place. There are 12 lines and they will take you almost anywhere you want to go in London. You can get a pay-as-you-go Oyster Card for travel on the Tube or the buses.
• Double-Decker Tour Buses
If you prefer to travel above ground, the famous London double–decker tour buses are the perfect way to see the city. Your tour bus tickets also include a walking tour so it’s a best-bet for first timers!
London has so many exciting and historic attractions, that one can hardly see everything in one trip. That’s why London is one of those cities that people enjoy visiting time and time again.
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