Even Londoners can't claim to know every corner of this vibrant, diverse, and sprawling city, that’s part of it's charm.
Every visit offers something new, every step brings a different experience!
What to Do?
To truly experience London, walk the streets just as Charles Dickens did. Visit his former home at 48 Doughty Street to learn about his fondness for milk punch (a mix of milk, lemon, and nutmeg) and the lively parties that stretched into the early hours. London is home to countless world-class museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum in South Kensington.
Underground, visitors can book tours of abandoned spaces on the Tube network or even walk beneath Trafalgar Square. Above ground, the National Gallery offers masterpieces from Monet, Rubens, Degas, and Picasso, while the bustling shops of Carnaby Street and the vibrant West End await nearby. In the refined streets of Mayfair, discover quiet galleries and stylish window displays. The royal parks, open to all, provide a serene retreat year-round.
Where to Stay?
Central London offers an incredible range of places to stay, ensuring you’re never far from the action. Nomad, located opposite Covent Garden Opera House, features a stunning, spacious restaurant and an artsy library bar, just steps away from the covered market and surrounding shops. In the heart of Leicester Square, The Londoner stands out with eight subterranean levels, including a spa and pool.
For a more intimate, townhouse vibe, consider the Lost Poet in trendy Notting Hill or Lime Tree in the elegant Belgravia, where people-watching is top-notch and dogs are impeccably groomed. If you're venturing out to Hampton Court or Richmond for a day trip, consider staying at The Mitre in Hampton Court, right by the river, or the Richmond Harbour Hotel.
Food and Drink
London offers an endless array of dining options, whether you're looking to grab a quick bite from a stall at Borough Market along the River Thames, enjoy upscale dining in Mayfair or Covent Garden, or relax at a cozy bar in Soho for tapas or a hearty pie.
For those who enjoy traditional British, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street offer atmospheric settings steeped in history. In Piccadilly, a grand Parisian brasserie awaits, while Chinatown dazzles with it's colorful lanterns and buffet-style dining.
Don’t Miss!
Start your Sunday with a visit to the charming Columbia Road Flower Market, then head to the Sir John Soane’s Museum, where the candlelit winter evenings make it a truly magical experience—don’t forget to check out the sarcophagus of Pharaoh Seti. Cross the Thames via the Tate Modern’s once-wobbly bridge or the romantic pink-painted Albert Bridge leading to Battersea Park.
For art lovers, don’t miss Walk The Line, an outdoor sculpture trail beginning with Anish Kapoor’s twisting tower in the Olympic Park and ending with Alex Chinneck’s upside-down pylon in North Greenwich. The Emirates Air Line offers a thrilling view of the city, similar to the London Eye but from a different angle.
Know Before You Go
The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, but spring is full of blossoms (Kew Gardens is a must) and autumn often has glorious days that carry the essence of summer well into September. August tends to be quieter as many Londoners go on holiday, making it a great time to secure a table at the city’s most popular restaurants.
Transport in London is simple to navigate. No need to buy tickets for the tube, buses, or overground trains, just tap in and out using a debit or credit card with contactless payment. Don’t worry about your journey from the airport, it may not be inspiring whether you arrive from Gatwick or Heathrow, but things improve as soon as you’re in the city.
Most places accept card payments, even at market stalls, so there’s no need to carry cash. Tipping isn’t as common as in the US, but many restaurants include an automatic 10-13% service charge. And contrary to popular belief, Londoners are friendly—just quick walkers, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions!
