The 20 must-try experiences in London
From iconic landmarks to delightful parks, museums, and countless free activities, our guide to the best things to do in London will surely please. Regardless of the season you choose to visit this vibrant British capital, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy in London.
What are London’s top attractions?
In spring, the parks burst into color, and during summer, the city’s streets buzz with festivals and parades. Whether you’re keen to explore major art exhibitions, dine at the finest restaurants, or visit the capital’s legendary sights, London has something for everyone.
To simplify your trip planning, we’ve curated a bucket list of must-do experiences in London, ranging from the vibrant Notting Hill carnival to climbing the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
1. Discover the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum
The British Museum is the most popular attraction in the UK, drawing nearly six million visitors each year. Key highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Egyptian Galleries, and the Parthenon marbles.
Given the vast array of exhibits, joining an “Eye Opener” tour is highly recommended, as it will guide you through the museum’s essential sights. Be sure to enjoy the view of the Great Court from the building’s upper levels, along with the many blockbuster exhibitions held annually.
2. Embark on a shopping spree along and off Oxford Street
For shopping enthusiasts, Oxford Street is a must-visit destination. This iconic thoroughfare is home to several department stores, including the renowned Selfridge’s, featuring an array of designer fashion brands and home furnishings.
Familiar brands like H&M, Nike, and Ralph Lauren line the street, while a quick detour to Old Bond Street reveals luxury fashion giants such as Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and others leading the style scene.
3. Admire the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the home of the world’s largest diamond, the Cullinan diamond, nestled within the King’s stunning crown jewels. The exquisite collection is a major attraction, alongside the impressive displays of armor and weaponry in the White Tower.
To avoid long waits, it’s advisable to arrive early, as lines to view the royal jewels can be extensive. To enrich your visit, consider joining a Yeoman Warder’s tour for captivating insights into British royal history.
4. Indulge in delicious food at Borough Market
With a market presence dating back to the thirteenth century, every twist and turn at Borough Market allows you to savor a taste of history. Artisanal gourmet offerings lie at the heart of its philosophy, featuring stalls that sell everything from gourmet scotch eggs to kangaroo burgers.
You’ll also find all the classics, including premium British cheeses, cider, fruits, vegetables, and much more. For a truly vibrant experience, visit on Saturdays when nearly every stall and shop is open for browsing.
5. Enjoy a picnic at St James’s Park
As London’s most picturesque Royal Park, this is an idyllic spot to relax in the sun, read a book, or have a picnic. Once a marshy deer hunting ground for King Henry VII, it later became home to crocodiles and elephants under King James I.
Today, you can find squirrels frolicking among the beautiful flowerbeds, alongside the famous pelicans perched on rocks in the southern area of the park. Spanning 57 acres, there’s plenty of space to unwind, and from the Blue Bridge, you’ll catch one of the most picturesque views of London, including Buckingham Palace.
6. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
For a glimpse of royal tradition in London, make your way to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard. This longstanding tradition features soldiers in bearskin hats switching shifts.
The ceremony begins at 11 am, so be sure to arrive at the palace gates at least 30 minutes early for the best view. It’s free to watch and occurs daily in June and July, and from August to May, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
The experience lasts for 45 minutes—ensure your phone and camera are fully charged.
7. Spend a Sunday exploring Columbia Road Flower Market
London’s oldest flower market is a beloved East London fixture. Here, you’ll discover the finest blooms and great deals, along with some of the best artisanal coffee, cakes, and pastries the city offers.
To beat the crowds (which can get quite tight), it’s best to arrive right when the market opens at 9 am. Even if you don’t purchase anything, it’s worth stopping by to enjoy the fragrant flowers and capture plenty of photos for your Instagram.
8. Experience royal living at Spencer House
Few are familiar with this elegant residence. Situated next to The Ritz and Buckingham Palace, this house serves as the ancestral home of the Spencer Family and was opened to the public by the late Diana, Princess of Wales, during the 1990s.
A variety of notable figures, from Queen Elizabeth II to international leaders, have visited to admire its stunning state rooms and gardens. Its unique distinction? It was the first house constructed in the neoclassical style in all of Europe.
Tours are available only on Sundays, guided by knowledgeable Blue Badge experts.
9. Enjoy the sights (and the greenery) from the Sky Garden
Unfortunately, some of London’s finest views come at a price, but that’s not the case here. London’s tallest public garden offers breathtaking views of the city skyline free of charge on weekends.
Since timed slots can fill up quickly, it’s wise to reserve your spot weeks in advance (particularly for the golden hour and sunset). Situated on Fenchurch Street in the historic City of London, this 35-story public garden features a winding observation deck, an open-air terrace, two restaurants, and two bars.
For a special experience, the venue regularly hosts a variety of enjoyable events, including early morning yoga classes, so signing up for their newsletter is a great way to stay informed.
10. Catch the tennis action at Wimbledon
As the oldest tennis championship globally, it offers one of the most thrilling sporting experiences in London.
Nestled in the picturesque Wimbledon, this all-grass tennis festival occurs every July and has become a beloved spot for indulging in strawberries and cream while enjoying refreshing glasses of Pimm’s.
Tickets are highly coveted, so be sure to arrive at the famous “line” bright and early. For semi-final or final matches, tickets can only be obtained via a ballot.
11. Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea at Claridge’s
Nothing epitomizes British culture quite like an elegant afternoon tea, and Mayfair's esteemed Claridge’s is the perfect place for it. This delightful custom began in 1840 when the Duchess of Bedford introduced her fondness for tea and cake before dinner.
The concept flourished, evolving into a cherished national tradition (and a classic British stereotype). While Claridge’s exudes a Bridgerton-esque charm, you don't need to dress extravagantly to partake in this delightful experience.
Smart casual attire is perfectly acceptable, so there’s no need for apprehension. Prepare for delightful teas, an abundance of jam-filled scones, and a never-ending supply of finger sandwiches.
12. Wander through the stunning sights of the South Bank
For a taste of culture, the South Bank is a must-visit. This lively riverfront area is bustling with entertainment, featuring everything from mime performances to buskers and dynamic dancers.
In the summer, festivals and art exhibitions bring vibrant hues to the stark brutalist architecture, and during the holiday season, festive Christmas markets take center stage.
Beyond the excitement, you’ll discover some of the city’s most iconic attractions and landmarks here, including the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Center, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater.
13. Enjoy free modern art at the Tate Modern
The complimentary contemporary art museum serves as a global hub for artistic excellence. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, you can admire original pieces from renowned artists like Picasso and Matisse, along with frequently sold-out exhibitions and events.
After exploring the permanent collection, make your way to the Blavatnik Building for a free panoramic view of the city, featuring sights like St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard.
14. Discover the historical crypts of Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is an incredible site that justifies the ticket price, which ranges from free for kids under 5 to £27. It has been the center of the UK’s royal and religious history since William the Conqueror’s coronation in 1066.
Since then, the Abbey has hosted every royal wedding and coronation, with numerous iconic monarchs, from Elizabeth I to Edward the Confessor, laid to rest within its walls.
Other attractions include the UK’s oldest door, the Coronation Chair, and Poet’s Corner, the final resting place of many renowned writers.
15. Celebrate at Notting Hill Carnival
Europe’s largest street festival happens on the final weekend of August each year. This vibrant celebration showcases London’s Caribbean heritage with steel bands and colorful costumes parading through the streets on soca floats and more.
In addition to the parade, live DJ sets and performances featuring reggae, salsa, and dub music are major attractions. If you’re looking for more carnival vibes, visit Portobello Road for a selection of London’s finest antiques and to capture photos of the iconic colorful houses in the area.
16. Marvel at London’s skyline from the summit of St. Paul’s Cathedral
The Grade I-listed St Paul’s Cathedral is renowned for its prominent role in the wedding of the late Prince Charles and Princess Diana. This baroque masterpiece designed by Christopher Wren provides some of the finest views of London from its soaring dome.
Prepare to ascend over 500 steps to enjoy the view, but trust me, the effort is absolutely rewarding once you reach the summit. Don’t miss the crypt, where you can delve into the cathedral’s intriguing history and visit the tomb of Lord Horatio Nelson, the hero of the Battle of Waterloo.
17. Discover the wonders of the world at the museums in South Kensington
Known as Museum Land, South Kensington offers a fantastic free day out for families, especially on rainy days. The Science Museum features seven floors of engaging interactive exhibits that will captivate both adults and children for hours on end.
The world’s premier collection of decorative arts is housed within the Victoria & Albert Museum. Countless exhibitions and events take place here each month, so be sure to plan your visit well in advance.
Adjacent to it, the beloved Natural History Museum offers an excellent education on the marvels of our planet. The best part? All of these museums are free to explore throughout the year.
18. Enjoy a pint or two at a renowned London pub
In addition to afternoon tea, nothing is more British than enjoying a pint. With over 3,500 pubs across the capital, historic venues like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and Lamb & Flag are vying for your patronage.
If cocktails aren't your style, indulging in a Sunday roast at these pubs is definitely worth the extra calories. Prefer cocktails? French House and Bar Termini in Soho serve up all the classics, whether you like them shaken or stirred.
Dinogo top tip: If you’re a fan of Ted Lasso, don’t miss The Prince’s Head in Richmond — while the pub’s exterior was featured in the show, the location and its surroundings will feel instantly familiar.
19. Experience a theater show in London’s West End
One of the best things about London’s theater scene is that you can catch some of the world’s biggest productions even on a budget. Most major shows are located on Shaftesbury Avenue, the true heart of the capital’s Theatreland.
Don’t miss out on classics like The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, The Lion King, and the always hilarious Book of Mormon. The theater scene also features substantial plays, with major productions scattered throughout the city at venues like Soho Theater, Old Vic, and Donmar Warehouse.
These venues are fantastic for discovering emerging talent and typically cost half the price of a musical ticket.
20. Shop for vintage treasures in Shoreditch
Shoreditch is one of London’s most fashionable neighborhoods. Vintage shops thrive on Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market, so expect to see crowds on weekends as people hunt for designer deals.
After you've finished your shopping spree, head to a rooftop for stunning views (the Queen of Hoxton is a local favorite) or indulge in one of the area's diverse dining spots. Be sure to visit Padella and The Smoking Goat on Shoreditch High Street.
Want to see and do all these exciting things in London? Explore our themed guides to ensure you have the ultimate London experience.
If you're looking for more suggestions beyond our top picks for London, check out the recommendations below. For culinary delights, explore our favorite London restaurants. If you're curious about the LGBTQ+ scene in London, our comprehensive LGBTQ+ guide has everything you need for safe and confident travel.
How did we curate the selections for our 20 best things to do in London guide?
Having lived in London for nearly my entire life, I've explored every corner of its diverse boroughs. As a travel journalist, I've visited both the iconic landmarks and the lesser-known attractions, often getting a behind-the-scenes look.
These insider tips, along with Dinogo's expert guides from around the globe, seamlessly complement London's must-see spots, whether you're visiting the classic sights or uncovering hidden treasures in between.
Will I need a car while in London?
The quick answer is no. London's traffic can be quite congested, particularly during weekdays and peak periods like the morning and evening rush hours.
It's significantly quicker and more convenient to navigate the city using the London Underground, local buses, and on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance.
To access the entire network, you'll need to purchase an Oyster card, which can be obtained at stations and airports. Alternatively, if your bank card or smartphone supports contactless payments, you can use Apple or Google Pay for each journey.
What is the ideal time to visit London?
London stays bustling throughout the year. Typically, the peak season is from June to August when the weather tends to be better, major tourist sites like Buckingham Palace are open, and numerous events such as Wimbledon and various music festivals occur.
Spring and autumn are generally more tranquil, as is winter (excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays), making these periods ideal for families or those wanting to avoid crowds, as London is most accessible then.
What duration is ideal for a stay in London?
Seeing all that London has to offer in one trip is nearly impossible. There's so much to explore in the capital that even lifelong Londoners like me continue to discover new experiences.
If you're aiming to explore all the major tourist spots while fitting in some restaurants, bars, and elegant hotels along with a day trip, I recommend staying for a week. This will allow you to enjoy the highlights and leave you eager for your next adventure in the capital.
Is London a safe place to visit?
Despite its large size, London is a relatively safe city. However, it's wise to stay alert, as pickpockets can be active in busy areas and on public transport.
You might be surprised, but locals are typically quite friendly, and if you find yourself lost, people are usually eager to lend a hand.
Are there tourist passes available in London?
Absolutely! The London Pass grants you entry to 80 of the city’s premier attractions, such as The Tower of London and ZSL London Zoo.
Additionally, there are various London bus tours, and purchasing a weekly travel card can help keep your transport expenses in check. Visit the TFL website for more details and to find the best pass for your itinerary.
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