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About this guide
With a population of over eight million people, the capital city of London, England pulses with history, culture, and modern energy. Iconic landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, take travelers on a remarkable journey through time. From the trendy streets of Shoreditch to the historic charm of Greenwich, every corner offers a mosaic of global cuisine, farmers’ markets, and incredible nightlife. London invites travelers to explore endlessly, blending tradition with innovation in a city that never stops moving.
- Best time to travel: June to August and December (peak season), November to February (off-season), March to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- Currency: Pound Sterling, GBP (£)
- Noteworthy: Chelsea Flower Show (May), Taste of London (June), Notting Hill Carnival (August), London Literature Festival (October), Christmas Markets (November to December)
- Best for: British History Buffs, Literary Lovers, Family-Friendly Vacation, Arts and Music Festivals
Get Away: Getting To and Around London, England
By Air
London is served by several major airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City Airport. Heathrow is the busiest and best connected to the city center via the Heathrow Express or the Tube. Gatwick offers direct train connections to Victoria Station, making access to central London easy. London City Airport is an ideal entry or exit point for travelers staying in East London or visiting Canary Wharf.
By Car
As one of Europe's busiest streets, driving in London is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic and congestion charges in central areas. Parking can be expensive and limited, especially in tourist-heavy districts. If you plan to drive, consider using park-and-ride options on the outskirts. A car is most convenient for exploring areas outside central London, such as Windsor or the Cotswolds. Just remember that they drive on the left side of the road, so there’s a learning curve for those stateside.
By Public Transit
The Tube (subway) is the fastest way to get across the city, with 11 lines covering most major neighborhoods and attractions. Buses provide an easy way to see the city above ground while connecting areas the Tube doesn’t reach. Locals and visitors can use an Oyster card or contactless payment for seamless access to all public transit. Fortunately, trains and overground lines make trips to suburbs and nearby cities convenient for day trips.
Explore London, England on Foot
Central London is highly walkable, especially around Westminster, Covent Garden, and the South Bank. Walking allows visitors to discover historic alleys, street art, and local cafes that aren’t visible when taking the Tube. Many landmarks are within a short stroll of each other, making it ideal for sightseeing on a flexible schedule. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as cobblestone streets and long walks are part of the charm.
Quick facts
Good For
British History Buffs
Literary Lovers
Family-Friendly Vacation
Arts and Music Festivals
Keep in mind
- Chelsea Flower Show (May)
- Taste of London (June)
- Notting Hill Carnival (August)
- London Literature Festival (October)
- Christmas Markets (November to December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places to Eat In London, England
In London's Honor Oak, the Black-owned Grounds and Grapes restaurant comes to life with owners Lee and Latoyah at the helm. From morning flat whites to evening wine, this eatery offers top-quality food and drink to the community.
Founded by Timothy and Victoria Bosworth, Hoxton North bridges London and the North with a warm and artistic touch. The seasonal menu locally sources ingredients to create a classic English breakfast, Mexican Hoxton Huevos, and Greek yogurt parfaits.
For a true South London experience, check out Prince of Peckham for a genuine taste of a creative menu and local Black culture. With R&B Thursdays and Bottomless Brunch, the calendar events make this pub a must-visit in the neighborhood.
The vegan hotspot Deserted Cactus comes from the mind of Chef Esme who combines cultural recipes with inventive plant-based ingredients. From Southern fried jackfruit to jerk roasted cauliflower, the generous portions and laid-back dining experience make this a must-visit.
The exceptional fine dining experience at Akoko in London is a deep dive into founder Aji Akokomi’s West African heritage. The flavor innovation, live fire cooking and exotic spices create a culturally resonant menu with unique drink pairings.
At Uncle John’s Bakery, travelers should taste the traditional African recipes passed down by founder Mary Fofia Arthur. For 25 years, their Afro-Caribbean baked goods, like the signature ‘Sweet Bread,’ have been household staples.
With two locations in London, the multi-award-winning Hacha Bar is home to the renowned Mirror Margarita. As the only Agaveria in the city, there's a rotating selection of 25 agave spirits, creative cocktails, and Mexican cuisine.
Play
Play: Things To Do In London, England
The Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour shares London's eerie past with travelers who don’t mind a bit of spookiness. Guests learn about hidden legends from a local guide while seeing the city views on a Thames River cruise.
Memories and magic go together at the Harry Potter Tour Of Warner Bros. Studio with authentic Harry Potter film sets, costumes, and props. Travelers enjoy authentic butterbeer while immersing in one of London’s most beloved modern storybooks.
The Walking Food Tour in the Borough Market takes guests to six food spots with delectable treats that highlight the best of British cuisine. This hassle-free small group tour shares London's best food secrets with an expert local guide.
Marvel at breathtaking vistas of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and London's amazing skyline from the iconic London Eye. There are fast-track options available for queue-free access to the view above the Thames River.
This five-hour London Top Sights Tour is an adventure through Westminster and Southbank with 30+ attractions. Guests will enjoy the family-friendly tour with a lively local guide and plenty of photo ops.
For sports fans, Emirates Stadium Tour And Museum immerses them in the world of legends with an all-access pass to explore behind the scenes. Along with firsthand insight from matchday experiences, there is exclusive footage and tours available in ten languages.
There’s no better way to create a choose-your-own London adventure than on the CityDays London Scavenger Hunt. Choose from classic treasure hunts or immersive stories, while exploring new sights and learning the city's history.
Step into Old England at the historical Globe Theatre on the Shakespeare's Globe Story and Tour in London. This captivating exhibition led by expert guides delves into 400 years of history showcasing iconic shows and interactive costumes.
