Things to Do in London

Looking for the best things to do in London?

We recently went to London, and it was my second time in the city (the last time I was in London, I was twelve). London totally surprised me, and it was a totally new experience visiting as an adult.

There’s so much history and culture in London, with an endless amount of things to do, like walking past centuries-old landmarks in the morning, exploring museums in the afternoon, and ending the day in a cozy pub or at a West End show. 

We only had two days in London, so we tried to make the most out of it. Because London is so large, it was kind of overwhelming planning a trip. If you’re planning the trip and you feel the same, don’t worry! I’ve broken down cool things to do in London by neighborhoods and experiences.

Once you do that, planning a trip to London becomes much more manageable. Many of the city’s top attractions are clustered together, which makes sightseeing easier than you’d expect.

This guide focuses on the best things to do in London, especially if it’s your first visit. 

Short on Time

If you’re short on time in London, the top three landmarks I recommend visiting are the Tower of London, seeing London on the London Eye (beat the lines and get your ticket here!), and visiting Buckingham Palace.

Get your Tower of London entrance tickets here, which includes a crown jewels and beefeater tour! The tour only lasts and our, it’s super entertaining and educational, and is a great addition to your itinerary. 

A trip to London isn’t complete without checking out Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, and this tour combines both, as well as an entry ticket to Westminster Abbey (Where, if you’re a fan of the British royal family, Prince William and Princess Katherine got married!). It’s a great tour that makes spending a day or two super easy and fun.

Iconic Landmarks & Attractions

London’s iconic landmarks are famous for a reason. Many of these sites are deeply connected to the British monarchy, religion, and political power, which gives them extra meaning once you understand the context.

You can wander around the city on your own and have a lot of fun, but honestly, the best way to explore these landmarks is with a guided tour. I recommend doing this for at least one landmark (highly recommend Tower of London) as there’s a lot of history to absorb in each spot.

This section covers some of the must-see landmarks that truly define London, and you should definitely add to your itinerary.

1. Tower of London

The Tower of London was one of the highlights of our trip and easily one of the most fascinating places to visit in the city. There’s a lot of history here. The city was once a royal palace, a prison, and the site of countless executions, which makes walking through the grounds really intense and memorable.

You can’t get the experience anywhere else, and the buffet is amazing! 

I highly recommend getting a ticket that includes The Crown Jewels exhibition. You get to see the crowns, scepters, and ceremonial objects up close, and the security and presentation are great.

Skip-the-line tickets are also good, especially in the summer months when there are more tourists. For the best use of your time, check out this guided tour that combines the Tower of London with Westminster and a river cruise! You really feel like you’re making the most out of your day, and you learn a lot through this tour.

It’s a good way to see more without feeling rushed.  

➡️ Book your Tower of London guided tour here!

2. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and an iconic photo stop, but walking across it is a completely different experience than just viewing it from afar. The glass walkways are kind of scary, especially if you’re even slightly afraid of heights. You can look down at the Thames and watch boats pass underneath. 

Grab your Tower Bridge admission tickets here! The exhibition inside the bridge explains how Tower Bridge was built and how it still operates today. It’s a great stop to pair with the Tower of London since they’re right next to each other.

➡️ Grab your Tower Bridge entry tickets here!

3. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is a classic London stop, and it’s a must-see, especially if it’s your first visit. You can’t always go inside, but you can usually see the exterior and the surrounding area.

The Changing of the Guard is iconic, but it can get extremely crowded. It’s hard to figure out when it happens, so for a hassle-free experience, explore Buckingham Palace and witness the changing of the guard via a guided tour like this one. It’s a more relaxed experience, and you get to see ceremonial uniforms and traditions up close. 

If you want to see more of the palace and also check off other London stops of your London must-see list, this tour helps you check 20 of London’s iconic spots in just a few hours, like the British capital, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Downing Street, Houses of Parliament, and more.

➡️ Click here to book your Buckingham Palace tour!

4. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most historically significant buildings in London, and walking inside is a must for anyone planning a trip to London. This is where British monarchs are crowned and where many famous figures are buried. The architecture alone is breathtaking, with soaring ceilings and intricate details everywhere you look.

A guided tour really enhances the experience here, and it’s great if you can combine the tour with other landmarks I mentioned above. Without context, it’s easy to miss how significant certain areas of the Abbey are.

Pairing Westminster Abbey with Big Ben and Buckingham Palace makes for a very well-rounded introduction to London’s royal and political history.

➡️ Book your Westminster Abbey tour here!

5. St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral stands out beautifully against London’s skyline, and the interior is just as beautiful as the exterior. If you’re up for it, climbing to the top of the dome is absolutely worth the effort. Once you reach the top, you’ll have amazing views of London, and it gives you a great sense of London’s layout.

Make sure you book an admission ticket to St Paul’s Cathedral before you go, which will help you avoid the lines, especially during peak travel months.

➡️ Get your St. Paul’s Cathedral tickets here!

6. London Eye

The London Eye offers some of the best panoramic views in the city, especially on a clear day. The ride itself is slow and smooth, which makes it easy to enjoy the views. You can spot landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace. 

Fast-track tickets are definitely worth it if you’re visiting during a busier month like spring and summer. The London Eye is a great landmark to combine with a Thames river cruise, which gives you an additional view of the city, and helps you learn some more history in a way where you can actually rest your feet! 

➡️ Click here to book your London Eye tour!

7. View from The Shard

The Shard is the highest viewing platform in London, and the experience feels very sleek and modern. Once inside, you can view the city through floor-to-ceiling windows, and it’s a beautiful spot at sunset.

It’s definitely more expensive than other viewpoints like the London Eye, but the experience feels polished and memorable, and it’s another cool way to see the city. 

Museums & Galleries

London’s museum scene is genuinely one of the best in the world, and it was one of the things I was most excited about when planning our trip. Many of the top museums are completely free, which reminded me of my home Washington DC/Northern VA area.

The collections are incredible, and seeing these museums via guided tours are incredibly helpful if you don’t want to feel overwhelmed and you love learning about local history.

8. The British Museum

The British Museum is one of those places that immediately makes you realize how global and far-reaching London’s history is. Walking through the galleries feels like traveling across continents and centuries in just a few hours. Highlights like the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies are even more impressive in person than you’d expect.

Because the museum is so large, it can feel overwhelming without a plan. I found that a small-group guided tour helped focus our time on the most important pieces while providing helpful context. It made the experience feel more intentional instead of rushed or chaotic.

➡️ Book your The British Museum guided tour here!

9. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is absolutely huge, and reminded me of the Natural History Museum in DC. The dinosaur skeletons are one of the most popular exhibits in the museum, and it’s overall a very family-friendly museum.

The building itself feels like a grand cathedral, and there are so many things to learn here. If you’re visiting with family or you’re want a more in-depth experience of this museum, be sure to check it out via this Natural History Museum London exclusive guided tour. Even if you don’t normally love museums, this one is definitely worth your time.

➡️ Click here to reserve your Natural History Museum tour!

10. Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum, or the V&A, has a big focus on art, fashion, and design. It feels very different from traditional history museums, with exhibits on fashion and decorative arts. 

There are sculptures, portraits, and all things design and creative-related, so if you’re a creative or into the arts, this museum is definitely worth a visit. 

If you’re looking for a more in-depth history of the museum, consider booking a private tour of the Victoria and Albert Museum. You learn about the history of civilizations worldwide, and you get to see some exclusive exhibits, from Da Vinci’s notebooks to the world’s oldest Persian carpet.

You also get some time to enjoy the museum’s unique Victorian period cafe, which is super cute and an experience in itself!  This private tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes. 

➡️ Book your Victoria and Albert Museum tour here!

11. The National Gallery

The National Gallery is a must-visit if you love classic art. There are famous works by Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci in person, and the museum’s location in Trafalgar Square also makes it incredibly easy to fit into your sightseeing day.

The gallery’s collection can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re trying to explore on your own. This National Gallery guided tour covers all of the highlights and explains more history about the pieces, and you can ask questions about how the museum was able to curate these pieces (which is also super interesting!)

It’s a smaller, shorter tour, and it allows you to focus on the most iconic pieces without wandering aimlessly.

➡️ Click here to book your tour to The National Gallery!

12. Tate Modern

Tate Modern is a modern art museum with a cool, edgy atmosphere. The exhibitions rotate often, which keeps things fresh in the museum. 

Some of the contemporary art can feel abstract or challenging to understand, but I think that’s what makes it an entertaining stop in London. If you’re into modern art or just art in general, I recommend visiting the Tate Modern with a guide who will explain more about the themes behind the artwork.

It definitely makes the experience more approachable, and even if modern art isn’t usually your thing, Tate Modern is worth checking out as a fun stop.

➡️ Secure your Tate Modern tour here!

13. Covent Garden

Covent Garden isn’t a museum, but it feels like a cultural experience in London. The area is lively and full of energy, with street performers, historic buildings, and bustling cafés. It’s a great place to wander around and go with the flow. 

I loved stopping here between sightseeing to soak in the vibe. If you’re into hidden history and more pop culture, check out this walking tour, which covers some famous landmarks like St. Paul’s Church and Neal’s Yard, and you can learn about the diverse communities that have shaped the neighborhood over the years.

The tour also takes you through Jubilee market, which is a super fun stop in London for all things arts and crafts. 

Another great way to explore this area is with a food tour like this one. Food tours in Covent Garden help explain more of the local history, and you get to sample local favorites like fish and chips, scotch eggs, and pork pies from an 800-year-old pub. You only pay for what you pick, so you can customize the experience based on your palate. 

➡️ Book your Covent Garden tour here!

14. Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms is a powerful experience in London, and a must for anyone interested in history. This tour goes into detail about what London was like during World War 2, and you walk through preserved underground bunkers. The whole experience is surreal and emotional, and everything is left exactly as it was during World War II. 

The exhibits focus heavily on Winston Churchill’s leadership and the daily realities of wartime Britain. It’s not a light visit, but it’s an important one, especially if you’re interested in history. 

➡️ Reserve your Churchill War Rooms tour here!

Parks & Outdoor Spaces

London’s green spaces were really lovely, and we had the pleasure of staying right near Kensington Gardens. I think a city feels kind of dull without some green spaces, and I was surprised at how many parks and gardens are in London.

Here are some of the best parks and outdoor spaces you should visit in London to help you slow down and soak in the atmosphere. 

15. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is open, lively, and very central. Cycling through the park is especially enjoyable if you want to cover more ground, and during the spring and summer months, check out this cycling tour, which includes Hyde Park! 

The park connects easily to nearby neighborhoods and attractions, and it’s also a great place for people-watching. 

➡️ Click here to book your bike tour!

16. Regent’s Park

Regent’s Park feels more refined and peaceful compared to Hyde Park, with beautiful rose gardens that are stunning in late spring and summer. The overall layout is elegant and well-maintained. 

The park is really close to Primrose Hill, which has some of the best views of the city, especially on a clear day. It’s a great spot for photos! 

17. Kensington Gardens

We stayed right near Kensington Gardens, and the area felt calm, elegant, and slightly more polished than other parks. Walking near Kensington Palace feels special and like a scene out of a movie, with wide paths and open lawns. 

When nearby, you should absolutely do the Kensington Gardens high tea. I still remember the experience from when I was twelve, and it was one of my favorite parts of our trip. It’s a lovely way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. 

➡️ Secure your spot for Kensington Gardens high tea here!

18. Green Park

Green Park is simple, quiet, and well-located. It’s not as decorative as other parks, but there are some beautiful tall trees that can help you cool off during warmer months. 

Because it sits between major landmarks, it’s perfect for short breaks between sightseeing stops. 

19. Richmond Park

Richmond Park feels like you’re exploring the English countryside. It’s huge, wild, and home to freely roaming deer. The views stretch far, and it’s definitely worth the trip if you want to escape the city feel without leaving London. Bring comfortable shoes and give yourself time to explore! It’s very peaceful. 

20. Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful green spaces in London. The gardens are carefully curated, with glasshouses that showcase plants from all over the world. Be sure to buy Kew Gardens entrance tickets before you go, as it can get crowded (especially on weekends).

It’s a great spot if you love nature or want a slower-paced afternoon after seeing a lot of major landmarks. The Kew Gardens self-guided audio tour helps explain what you’re seeing and adds depth to your visit! 

➡️ Book your Kew Gardens self-guided tour!

Markets & Neighborhoods

I was super excited to check out London’s market scene during this trip, and it didn’t disappoint. Each area feels completely different, and you can wander through them for an awesome blend of food, culture, and creativity. These are some of the best neighborhoods and markets to visit when you’re in London! 

21. Camden Market

Camden Market is a great spot for street food and vintage shops. It’s edgy, bold, and it’s never quiet. There’s a deep music culture here, and you can see a lot of alternative fashion as you browse the stalls. 

It can feel chaotic, especially on weekends, but that’s part of the charm, and it’s definitely a spot to check out as you explore the city. 

22. Borough Market

Borough Market is another amazing market in London. The smells alone are enough to pull you in, with fresh bread, sizzling meats, and sweet pastries everywhere. You’ll find a mix of traditional British food and international dishes here.

Because there’s so much to choose from, a food tour like this one can really help narrow things down and also help you get the most bang for your buck food-wise! If you love exploring places to try local dishes, you have to go to this market in London, specifically.

➡️ Click here to book your Borough Market food tour!

23. Notting Hill

Notting Hill is charming, colorful, and surprisingly peaceful, especially in the mornings. It’s a cute neighborhood with pastel-colored houses, and everything feels picture-perfect. 

For the best experience, explore Notting Hill via a walking tour. You’ll see the blue door made famous by the Notting Hill film, and browse the Portobello Road Market. The tour also goes deep into the neighborhood’s history and takes you through recording studios once frequented by Bob Marley and other famous figures. 

➡️ Book your Notting Hill walking tour here!

24. Portobello Road Market

Located right near Notting Hill, the Portobello Road Market has tons of antiques and vintage items, and you feel like you’re stepping back in time as you browse.

Saturdays are the busiest, so make sure you arrive early. The energy is fun but can feel overwhelming later in the day, so it’s a good stop to explore earlier in the morning, and pairing this market with a Notting Hill stroll works perfectly.

25. Old Spitalfields Market

Old Spitalfields Market is trendy and creative. Independent vendors sell everything from handmade goods to stylish clothes you can’t find anywhere else. 

The food stalls here are also excellent, with some classic British comfort food and international flavors. The space is also covered, which is a bonus, making it an easy spot to visit during any season. 

26. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market has flowers lining the street in every direction. The market is only open on Sundays, and it does get very crowded, so make sure you go early. 

Even if you don’t buy anything, walking through is an experience on its own, and you can take some really pretty photos here. 

There are so many markets in London that it can be hard to choose one to go to. It can be really fun to explore the markets with a Londoner via this tour. They can show you where to shop and get the best deals.

➡️ Join this London markets tour here!

27. Brick Lane

Brick Lane is energetic, creative, and constantly evolving. The street art changes often, so it never looks the same twice, and the smell of curry fills the street, with lots of curry houses with rich spices. 

This area feels especially alive in the evenings, and it’s a great place to eat, wander, and take photos. 

Food & Drink Experiences

I was also super excited about exploring London’s food scene.  London’s food scene completely exceeded my expectations. You can eat incredibly well at almost any budget, trying everything from traditional British dishes to some of the best Indian food ever. These are some of our favorite food and drink experiences from the trip.

28. Hjem Coffee

Hjem Coffee feels cozy, calm, and Scandinavian-inspired. It’s such a good cafe to work from, and the quality of the coffee really stands out, especially if you care about a well-made espresso.

We loved starting our days here, with slower mornings before sightseeing. The atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, and it’s a great reset spot in a busy city.

29. Old Shades Pub

The Old Shades Pub feels classic and historic, and is exactly what you’d expect from a traditional London pub. It’s a great place to stop for a quick pint after a busy day of sightseeing, and like a lot of pubs in London, their fish and chips are amazing. 

The interior feels cozy and authentic, and the location is pretty central, so it’s easy to fit into your day. The vibe is also local and not super touristy, which we really enjoyed.

30. The George Pub

The George Pub has a lot of character. It’s one of the oldest pubs in London, and you can really feel that history when you step inside. 

The food here is hearty and comforting, and I highly recommend their shepherd’s pie and fish and chips! It’s a great place to sit down and relax after a long day. 

31. The Grapes Pub

Another awesome pub, The Grapes, has good food along with beautiful riverside views, especially at sunset. The pub has strong ties to Charles Dickens, and the interior feels intimate and cozy.

It’s a small pub, but super memorable with the views of the Thames and the history behind the pub. Definitely a must-see! 

32. Brick Lane Curry Houses

Eating curry on Brick Lane is essential when visiting London. The flavors are bold, rich, and incredible. Portions are generous, and the dishes are great for sharing.

There are plenty of options to choose from, so it’s worth doing a bit of research as to which stall to visit. This area is especially lively at night, and everyone should visit when they’re in London!

33. Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a very British experience that’s super fun as a tourist.  A lot of hotels offer afternoon teas complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries. The vibe feels indulgent and fun, and the tea is usually a beautiful, elegant setting. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, wherever you decide to go! 

34. Sunday Roast

Sunday roast is another English thing, and a lot of places offer special dishes specifically on Sundays. Expect to find crispy potatoes, paired with meat and rich gravy. Many pubs take Sunday roasts very seriously, and you won’t be disappointed. 

It’s a cozy way to experience British food culture, and the meal feels like a ritual, honestly. 

Film, Literature & Quirky Experiences

London has inspired so many stories and films over the years, namely Harry Potter (huge fan here!). Even casual walks can take you through film locations you weren’t expecting to see, and it makes for a fun addition to your London itinerary. 

35. Harry Potter Studio Tour

I had the privilege of exploring the Warner Bros. Studio when I last visited London, and it was a great experience where you could see props from the films, try butterbeer, and snap some photos on Hagrid’s motorbike.

It really feels like you’re in one of the movies, and this tour makes it easy to add to your London itinerary. It picks you up from your hotel in London and makes the experience easy and stress-free. 

The tour is very well organized and detailed, and if you’re a Potterhead, it’s definitely worth the time commitment, even if you don’t see any other Harry Potter-related stops in London! 

➡️ Book your Harry Potter Studio Tour here!

36. King’s Cross Platform 9¾

Platform 9¾ is a quick but fun stop, especially for Harry Potter fans. You can take a photo with the trolley, and there’s a shop attached where you can browse themed souvenirs.

Lines move fairly quickly, even when it’s busy, so it’s an easy stop to pop in while passing through King’s Cross. 

If you want to catch more filming locations in London, check out this Harry Potter walking tour! It takes you to platform 9 ¾ (and makes handling the crowds a breeze) and also takes you to other film locations, such as the Ministry of Magic filming spots, and the real-life inspiration for Knockturn Alley. 

➡️ Click here to secure a spot to this Harry Potter walking tour!

37. Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is super elegant and has also appeared in several films, including Harry Potter (representing the entrance to The Leaky Cauldron and inspiring the look of Diagon Alley).

It’s much quieter on weekends, which makes it easier to explore, and it’s a super cute area to walk around! 

38. House of MinaLima

The House of MinaLima celebrates graphic design from the Harry Potter films, so if you’re a graphic designer or into design, you have to visit! The space feels creative and colorful, and there’s a lot of attention to detail here. 

39. Twist Museum

The Twist Museum is a fun, interactive museum with lots of illusions and puns. It’s a great spot for photos and for families, and is super entertaining. 

40. Word on the Water

Word on the Water is a floating bookstore on a canal (if you can imagine how that’s even possible!) There are narrow shelves filled with books of every genre, and it’s a super peaceful spot. 

Sometimes they host small events or readings in the bookstore, and overall, the spot feels very unique and very London.

41. Unique Views & Rooftops

There are quite a few rooftop bars in London, and you can get great views of the city. For the best views, visit during sunset! Honestly, any rooftop bar will be worth it for the views. Reservations are usually required, and weekends can get crowded, but it’s a fun way to see the city! 

42. Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper tour is kind of eerie but really well done. It goes through the historical context of one of London’s most notorious criminal cases. You follow your guide through the streets of East London and hear their insights into the serial killer’s life and crimes. 

Walking through Whitechapel at night is really chilling, and you get a lot of insight into what Victorian London was like. For a really chilling experience, do this Jack the Ripper guided tour at night and hear about another side of London!

➡️ Book your Jack the Ripper Guided Tour here!

Free Things to Do in London

London is an expensive city to live in, but it doesn’t have to be an expensive city to visit. There’s a lot you can see without spending a lot of money in London. 

Many of the city’s best museums and viewpoints are completely free. These are some of the best free things to do in London for those who aren’t looking to spend a ton and still want to have a good time. 

43. Science Museum

The Science Museum is interactive, engaging, and covers everything from space exploration to medical breakthroughs. This museum is very family-friendly, it’s completely free to visit, and it makes for a fun stop! I recommend spending about an hour or two here to get the most out of it. 

44. Museum of London Docklands

The Museum of London Docklands is one of the most overlooked and underrated museums in the city. The museum covers London’s history as a global trading port, and the exhibits are super detailed and informative. 

This museum is much quieter than the central museums that are more popular with tourists. The experience is relaxed, less crowded, and really cool to visit. If you have some extra time to spend and you want to learn more about London’s history, this is a great museum to explore! 

45. Queen’s House

The Queen’s House is a fine art museum that’s completely free to visit. The art displays are beautiful, and the setting is very historic. It was formerly a royal residence, built between 1616 and 1635, and now serves as a public art gallery.  

It’s easy to pair with other Greenwich attractions like Greenwich Park, Greenwich Market, and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. The surrounding area is very charming, and it’s a lovely cultural spot. 

46. Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum is very powerful and great for anyone interested in history or war history. The exhibits are immersive and tell personal stories alongside historical events. It’s a bit of an intense visit, but you really appreciate London’s history after a visit, and the history is presented very thoughtfully. 

47. Wallace Collection

The Wallace Collection is a historic home turned into a gorgeous free museum. It’s very different from large, open museums and feels more intimate and unhurried.

The collection includes paintings, furniture, and decorative arts. Because it’s smaller, the crowds tend to be less, and you have plenty of room to explore the collection.  

48. Sky Garden / Horizon 22

Sky Garden and Horizon 22 offer incredible city views completely for free. Both require advance booking, especially for sunset slots, but once you get to those viewpoints, the views are really beautiful. 

Horizon 22 is London’s tallest free viewpoint, but Sky Garden is more polished inside with plants and more of a relaxed feel. It depends on what you’re after, but I personally preferred Sky Garden for the beautiful interior.

Both viewpoints accept walk-ins, but availability is first come, first serve, so it’s better to make reservations for a specific time slot in advance. 

49. Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is a colorful, hidden secret inside central London. Bright buildings surround a small courtyard filled with cafés and shops. It reminded me of Leah’s Yard in Sheffield, but larger. It’s incredibly photogenic, and I highly recommend visiting in the morning when there are less people, and you can grab a nice cup of coffee to start your day.

It’s a nice break from busier streets nearby. 

50. Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park offers some of the best skyline views in London. The open green space is refreshing and calm, and it’s a great spot for a picnic! 

The park pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like Cutty Sark. It’s a great way to slow down after sightseeing! 

Music, Theatre, & Nightlife

London has a lot of options when it comes to nightlife and entertainment. The city is large, dynamic, and there’s everything from world-class Shakespeare theaters to intimate live music venues. 

51. West End Theatre Show

Seeing a West End show is one of the best things you can do in London. The performances are consistently world-class, and both musicals and plays are great. There’s always something new on rotation, and theater culture is big in London. 

If you can, book early for more options and better seats! 

52. Jazz & Live Music

There are a lot of places you can go in London for live music, but the jazz club scene is really popping here. Jazz clubs have a lot of talented performers, and many venues feel cozy and welcoming. Ronnie Scott’s is the most famous jazz club in London, but other good ones are Vortex Jazz Club and the cozy 606 Club.

It’s a great way to experience local culture. 

53. Boutique Cocktail Bars

London’s cocktail bars are creative and stylish with cool drink selections. Menus often feature inventive flavors and seasonal ingredients, and each bar has its own personality. Bamboo Door, The Royal Cocktail Exchange, and Astro Cocktail Bars are some of the best places to go in London! 

Where to Stay in London

Choosing the right place to stay in London can really shape your experience, especially given the city’s size. I recommend staying somewhere close to a lot of the attractions you want to visit, saving you a lot of time and energy walking around. These are solid options depending on your budget and travel style. 

• Budget: Charlotte Guest House – These are guest rooms and studios set across 5 buildings in a West Hampstead residential location. The area is quiet, and is a 5-minute walk from Tube, Overground & Thameslink West Hampstead Stations, making it comfortable, affordable, and well-located. It’s a great option if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the city. Book your stay.
• Midrange: DoubleTree by Hilton Hyde Park – We stayed here, and we had a great time. This is a great mid-range choice with a calm, polished feel, located right next to Kensington Palace. The rooms are comfortable and clean, the service is reliable, and the location near green spaces makes it easy to balance sightseeing with downtime. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Book your stay.
• Luxury: Claridge’s – This hotel is iconic, elegant, and feels like you’re staying in a movie. Many celebrities, statesmen, and even members of the royal family have stayed here, and the rooms are impeccable, with soaring views across London. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience of London, it doesn’t get better than Claridge’s. It’s a true splurge experience. Book your stay.

Conclusion

There are honestly so many things you can do in London that it’s hard to pack within a two or three day itinerary. Choose places that make the most sense with your interests, and you can plan a good mix of sightseeing and chill downtime in local parks and coffee shops.

Even if you’re just wandering around the city, it’s a really interesting experience, and you’ll never feel bored.

Happy travels!