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Best Things to Do in London: 20 Top Attractions
London is one of the world's most captivating cities — a place where centuries of royal history, world-class museums, vibrant street culture and cutting-edge culinary scenes collide in the most thrilling way. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for the tenth, there's always something new to experience. This guide covers the 20 best things to do in London, helping you make the most of every single moment in this extraordinary city.
Before you dive in, make sure you've sorted your accommodation. Book your stay through The Royal Horseguards for a truly iconic London experience right in the heart of the city, or browse a wider range of hotels and deals through touriDat to find the perfect base for your adventure.
1. The Tower of London
Few places in the world carry as much dramatic history as the Tower of London. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a royal palace, a prison, an armoury and a treasury. Today, visitors come to see the legendary Crown Jewels, meet the famous Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), and wander the medieval battlements overlooking the Thames. Arrive early to beat the queues — it's one of the most visited attractions in the entire country.
2. Buckingham Palace
No trip to London is complete without witnessing the grandeur of Buckingham Palace. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a quintessentially British spectacle and completely free to watch. During the summer months, parts of the palace open to visitors, offering a rare glimpse into the working rooms of the Royal Family. Stay close to the action by booking through The Royal Horseguards, a luxury hotel steps away from St James's Park.
3. The British Museum
Home to over eight million objects spanning two million years of human history, the British Museum in Bloomsbury is one of the greatest museums on earth. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles and the Egyptian mummies. Best of all, admission is entirely free. Plan to spend at least half a day here — and even then, you'll only scratch the surface.
4. The National Gallery
Overlooking the iconic Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses one of the finest collections of Western European paintings in existence. From Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' to da Vinci's 'Virgin of the Rocks,' the masterpieces on display are staggering in their scope and quality. Entry is free, making this one of the best-value experiences in the city.
5. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is arguably London's most recognisable landmark. Walk across the glass-floored high-level walkways for dizzying views over the Thames and explore the Victorian Engine Rooms to understand how this magnificent structure actually works. It's a must for first-time visitors and a favourite for photographers at any time of day.
6. The Tate Modern
Housed in a converted Bankside power station directly across the Thames from St Paul's Cathedral, the Tate Modern is the UK's national gallery of modern and contemporary art. Entry to the permanent collection is free, and the dramatic Turbine Hall alone is worth the visit. Temporary exhibitions often feature some of the world's most talked-about contemporary artists.
7. Hyde Park
When the pace of the city gets overwhelming, Hyde Park offers 350 acres of green breathing space. Stroll along the Serpentine, hire a rowing boat, visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, or simply find a quiet bench and watch the world go by. In summer, the park hosts outdoor concerts and events that draw locals and visitors alike.
8. St Paul's Cathedral
Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, St Paul's Cathedral, has dominated the London skyline for over 300 years. Climb the famous Whispering Gallery, the Stone Gallery and the Golden Gallery at the very top for breathtaking panoramic views across the city. The crypt below holds the tombs of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
9. The London Eye
The London Eye on the South Bank is one of the world's tallest observation wheels, offering sweeping 360-degree views that stretch up to 40 kilometres on a clear day. A full rotation takes about 30 minutes. It's especially magical at sunset or after dark when the city lights begin to twinkle across the Thames.
10. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of London's most vibrant and entertaining districts. The covered market is packed with independent boutiques, artisan food stalls and eclectic restaurants. Outside, street performers entertain crowds throughout the day. It's a wonderful area to simply wander, shop and soak up the electric atmosphere.
11. The Victoria and Albert Museum
The V&A in South Kensington is the world's leading museum of art and design, with collections spanning fashion, jewellery, ceramics, furniture and much more. The building itself is architecturally stunning, and the permanent collection is entirely free. Don't miss the stunning Cast Courts and the Fashion gallery.
12. Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market
Head west to Notting Hill for colourful painted houses, charming cafés and the world-famous Portobello Road Market. On Saturdays, the market buzzes with antique dealers, vintage clothing sellers and street food vendors. It's one of the most characterful neighbourhoods in the entire city.
13. Greenwich and the Royal Observatory
A short boat ride or Tube journey from central London, Greenwich is where time literally begins — stand astride the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory and be in two hemispheres at once. The area also offers stunning views back over Canary Wharf and the City of London from the top of Greenwich Park.
14. The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in South Kensington is one of London's most beloved institutions. The spectacular blue whale skeleton that greets visitors in the Hintze Hall sets the tone for an extraordinary journey through the natural world. Dinosaurs, gemstones, volcanoes and an earthquake simulator are just some of the highlights. Free entry for all.
15. Shoreditch and the East End
For a grittier, more contemporary side of London, head to Shoreditch in the East End. This neighbourhood is the creative heart of the city, lined with street art, independent galleries, hip coffee shops and some of the best restaurants in London. Brick Lane is particularly famous for its curry houses, vintage shops and Sunday market.
16. Hampton Court Palace
A short train journey from central London, Hampton Court Palace was once the favourite residence of King Henry VIII. Explore the Tudor kitchens, wander the magnificent formal gardens, and try not to get lost in the famous hedge maze. It's a fantastic day trip that takes you far beyond the tourist crowds of the city centre.
17. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
On the South Bank, steps from the Tate Modern, stands Shakespeare's Globe Theatre — a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse. Take a fascinating guided tour of the theatre, or better yet, book tickets for one of the open-air performances held during the summer season. It's one of London's most unique cultural experiences.
18. Borough Market
Foodies will be in absolute heaven at Borough Market, one of London's oldest and most celebrated food markets. Located near London Bridge, it offers an extraordinary variety of artisan produce, street food, cheeses, charcuterie, pastries and more. Go hungry and arrive early — by midday, it gets seriously busy.
19. Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens (officially the Royal Botanic Gardens) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful green spaces in all of England. Covering 132 hectares in southwest London, it houses the world's largest collection of living plants. The Victorian glasshouses are architectural wonders in themselves, and the treetop walkway offers a completely unique perspective on the gardens.
20. The Shard
For the most dramatic views of modern London, head to the top of The Shard — at 310 metres, it is the tallest building in the United Kingdom. The View from The Shard observation deck offers an unobstructed 360-degree panorama across the city and beyond. On a clear day, you can see up to 64 kilometres in every direction. Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Where to Stay in London
London's hotel scene is as diverse as the city itself, ranging from historic five-star luxury to stylish boutique properties and budget-friendly guesthouses. For a truly memorable and central stay, consider booking through The Royal Horseguards — the hotel is a landmark in its own right, located on Whitehall with views over the Thames and a stone's throw from some of the city's greatest attractions.
For the widest selection of hotels, apartments and deals across London, browse touriDat to compare options and find the best rates for your travel dates. Whether you want to be in the heart of the West End, close to the museums of South Kensington, or in the vibrant East End, touriDat makes it easy to find your perfect match.
Final Tips for Visiting London
- Get an Oyster Card — it's the cheapest and most convenient way to travel on the Tube, buses and the Elizabeth line.
- Book ahead for popular attractions like the Tower of London, the London Eye and Hampton Court Palace to avoid long queues.
- Walk between attractions where possible — London is a surprisingly walkable city and some of its best moments happen on the streets between destinations.
- Visit free museums on weekday mornings when crowds are thinnest.
- Carry an umbrella — London's weather is famously unpredictable, and a sudden shower can catch even the most prepared traveller off guard.
London is a city that rewards curiosity. Whether you stick to the iconic landmarks or venture into its lesser-known neighbourhoods, every corner of this great city has a story to tell. Start planning your trip today — and let every moment in London be one you'll never forget.
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