Navigating London: A Few Pro Tips for Nomads
Before diving in, remember these key points to make your London stay smoother and more cost-effective:
Embrace Public Transport: The Tube (subway) and London's iconic double-decker buses are your best friends. Get an Oyster card or use your contactless payment card for the easiest and cheapest way to get around.
Book Key Attractions Ahead: For high-demand spots like the Tower of London or special exhibitions, booking your tickets online in advance can save you from long queues and disappointment.
Leverage City Passes: If you're planning a full-on sightseeing blitz, look into a city-wide attraction pass. It can offer significant savings if you plan to visit many of the 80+ participating locations.
Walk, Walk, Walk: Some of London's best discoveries are made on foot. The city's different neighborhoods are spread out, but exploring each one by walking reveals hidden gems you'd otherwise miss.
Free Museum Culture: A huge perk for any budget-conscious traveler is that most of London’s major museums offer free entry to their permanent collections. It's an incredible way to soak up world-class art and history without spending a penny.
28 Best Things to See and Do in London
1. Explore Bermondsey Street
Escape the city bustle with a stroll down Bermondsey Street, a short walk from London Bridge that feels like a village. It's the perfect spot for a weekend afternoon. Grab a world-class coffee at Watchhouse, a cafe set in a historic Victorian building, check out the contemporary exhibitions at the White Cube gallery, and if you can snag a spot, enjoy incredible tapas at José.
2. Glimpse Royalty at Buckingham Palace
A must for any first-timer, the official residence of the King is an iconic sight. Even if you just view it from the outside, the walk down The Mall is classic London. For a deeper dive, book tickets to explore the opulent State Rooms and gardens during the summer opening.
3. Get Lost in Camden Market
North of King's Cross lies Camden, an eclectic neighborhood famous for its sprawling markets. It's the perfect place to grab a diverse lunch from one of the many food stalls in the Stables market. For a classic British meal, head to Poppies for traditional fish and chips. You can also catch a live show at the legendary Camden Roundhouse.
4. Marvel at The Painted Hall
Often called the “Sistine Chapel of London,” this masterpiece is located within the Old Royal Navy College in Greenwich. The scale and detail are breathtaking. Pro-tip: Arrive right when it opens at 10 am to have the hall almost to yourself. While in Greenwich, try a traditional pie and mash at Goddard’s.
5. Walk Across Tower Bridge
Strolling across this iconic landmark is free and offers fantastic views. For a unique perspective, buy a ticket to go inside, where you can learn about its inner workings and walk along the suspended glass walkway high above the River Thames. The whole experience takes less than an hour.
6. Uncover History at the Tower of London
Just across from Tower Bridge, this historic fortress is a journey through centuries of royal drama and dark secrets. Inside, you'll find the dazzling Crown Jewels, the Medieval Palace, and the infamous Bloody Tower. For a truly unique experience, book the free (but highly sought-after) tickets for the Changing of the Keys ceremony, a military tradition that has happened nightly for centuries.
7. Wander Through Leadenhall Market
Dating back to the 1300s, Leadenhall is London's oldest market. This beautiful covered space in the City of London is filled with shops, pubs, and eateries. It's a great place for a quick 20-minute stroll, especially lively around lunchtime. Afterwards, book a free ticket for the Sky Garden for stunning sunset views from the top of the 'Walkie Talkie' building.
8. Indulge at Borough Market
This is the ultimate destination for foodies. Located near London Bridge, Borough Market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, street food, and gourmet treats. Grab lunch from a stall or sit down at renowned spots like El Pastor (Mexican) or Padella (homemade pasta). Don't leave without trying the cheese from Neal’s Yard Dairy or a coffee from Monmouth Coffee.
9. Discover the Natural History Museum
Home to world-class collections and the iconic blue whale skeleton, this museum is a fantastic (and free!) way to spend an afternoon. You could wander for days, but a few hours is enough to see the main exhibitions. It's conveniently located next to the Science Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum.
10. Get Inspired at Tate Modern
A 15-minute walk from Borough Market, the Tate Modern is a powerhouse of international modern and contemporary art. The permanent collections are free to visit, while the seasonal exhibitions are always thought-provoking. Check what's on before you go to see if a special exhibit catches your eye.
11. Celebrate British Art at Tate Britain
Situated on the banks of the Thames, Tate Britain is dedicated to showcasing the best of British art from the 1500s to the present day. It's another excellent free museum, perfect for a rainy London day, with stunning neo-classical galleries and incredible artworks.
12. Stand in Trafalgar Square
This iconic square is a central landmark every visitor should experience. Gaze up at Nelson’s Column and see the latest contemporary art installation on the Fourth Plinth. From here, it’s an easy stroll to the newly refurbished National Portrait Gallery and the lively streets of Covent Garden.
13. Climb the Monument to the Great Fire of London
Built in the 17th century to commemorate the Great Fire, this monument offers a challenge and a reward. If you're up for it, climb the 311 steps to the top for awesome panoramic views over the city. It’s a great workout with a historic payoff.
14. Taste the Flavors of Brick Lane
Head to East London on a weekend to experience Brick Lane. This street is famous for its authentic, family-run curry houses. After your meal, indulge in gourmet hot chocolate from Dark Sugars or hunt for vintage treasures at Beyond Retro on nearby Cheshire Street.
15. Get Trendy in Shoreditch
Shoreditch is the heart of cool in East London, with quirky stores, vibrant street art, and buzzing markets. Explore Spitalfields Market for fashion and food, or step back in time at the incredibly unique Dennis Severs’ House, an intimate museum experience that transports you to the 18th century.
16. Visit Eltham Palace
A little off the beaten path in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Eltham Palace is an overlooked gem. It's a fascinating blend of a medieval palace and a stunning 1930s Art Deco home. The unique history and design, including rooms once inhabited by a pet lemur, make it well worth the trip.
17. Experience the Buzz of Covent Garden
The famous market piazza of Covent Garden is always alive with street performers, shoppers, and diners. Browse the stalls, check out unique stores like the Moomin Shop, or visit the London Transport Museum. For an evening of culture, book a world-class performance at the Royal Opera House.
18. Journey Through Time at the British Museum
This colossal museum houses a staggering collection of world art and artifacts, from the Rosetta Stone to ancient Egyptian mummies and the Parthenon sculptures. Entry is free, and you can spend countless hours exploring global history. It's a place that sparks curiosity and debate in equal measure.
19. Window Shop on Bond Street
For a taste of luxury, take a walk down Bond Street. This is where you'll find the world's most high-end fashion brands, from Fendi to Louis Vuitton, alongside antique shops and jewelers. It's not for bargain hunters, but it's perfect for luxury window shopping.
20. Stroll Down Regent Street
Connecting Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus, Regent Street is another of London's premier shopping destinations. Here you’ll find flagship stores for iconic British brands like Burberry and Liberty London, as well as the world-famous toy store, Hamleys. Don't miss a stop at Fortnum & Mason’s for a quintessential British experience.
21. Catch a West End Show
No trip to London is complete without experiencing a show in the West End. From long-running musicals like 'The Phantom of the Opera' to the latest hit plays, there's something for everyone. Book tickets in advance for popular shows, or try the official TKTS Booth in Leicester Square for discounted same-day tickets.
22. Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Escape to this UNESCO World Heritage Site in West London for a half-day of tranquility. Kew Gardens is a vast expanse of beautiful landscapes, historic glasshouses like the Palm House, and thousands of plant species. Walk among the treetops on the Treetop Walkway and admire the restored 18th-century Great Pagoda.
23. Admire St Paul’s Cathedral
Sir Christopher Wren's architectural masterpiece dominates the London skyline. Buy a ticket to explore inside, from the intricate Quire to the famous Whispering Gallery. For breathtaking views, climb the 300+ steps to the Stone Gallery. Below, the crypt holds the tombs of national heroes like Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
24. Experience the Nightlife in Soho
When the sun goes down, Soho comes alive. This central neighborhood is packed with restaurants, theaters, and some of London's best bars. Find buzzing LGBTQ+ venues around Old Compton Street, catch a live set at the legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, or discover a hidden speakeasy like Opium for incredible cocktails in a 1920s Shanghai-themed den.
25. Spot Deer in Richmond Park
One of London's magnificent Royal Parks, Richmond Park feels like a true escape to the countryside. Created in the 17th century as a royal hunting ground, it's now a public space where herds of deer roam freely. It's a perfect spot for a long walk or a bike ride, especially after a visit to nearby Kew Gardens.
26. See the Houses of Parliament
The seat of UK politics, this iconic landmark (including the Elizabeth Tower, aka Big Ben) is a must-see. While UK residents can arrange tours, all visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture from Parliament Square or the south bank of the Thames. It's surrounded by other key sites like Westminster Abbey and the Churchill War Rooms.
27. Discover Chinatown's Hidden Gems
Nestled beside Soho, London's Chinatown is a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine. Walk under the ornate gates and explore the streets filled with authentic Asian restaurants, bakeries, and supermarkets. It's the perfect place to grab a delicious, affordable meal, especially for dim sum or roasted duck.
28. Take a Boat Trip on the Thames
See London from a different perspective with a boat trip on the River Thames. Various services run between key piers like Westminster, the London Eye, Tower of London, and Greenwich. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to travel between major attractions while getting a unique view of the city’s skyline.
