London is a city where history interwines with modern innovation.
From Big Ben to the regal Tower Bridge, every corner of this city has a story. There are lively markets for shoppers, and for art lovers, there are world-class museums. And if you are among those with wanderlust, rest assured that the city’s neighborhoods can take your breath away. Over 30 million visitors come each year to take it all in, but where do you begin with timeless landmarks and dynamic experiences? Navigating the city, from the British Museum to Buckingham Palace, can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Don’t worry! This guide will address all your concerns, ensuring a comfortable trip to the Big Smoke.| Category | Cost |
| Lodging | £180 to £540 |
| Food | £180 to £360 |
| Transportation | £30 to £45 |
| Activities and Attractions | £45 to £590 |
| Total | £435 to £1035 (Approx) |
The Resident Covent Garden is a 3-minute walk from the main center piazza and a 5-minute walk from Covent Garden.
This traveler’s favorite has 57 contemporarily designed bedrooms with bespoke furniture.
They offer high-speed internet, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, housekeeping, and everything else to ensure a comfortable stay.
You can check in anytime, and the paid public parking is nearby.
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If you are looking for the best among the best, look no further than Hotel 41.
This 5-star accommodation has been rated number 1 in the UK for over a decade.
Its private entrance overlooks the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, and you will be absorbed in its signature scent as soon as you step inside.
You will check in like a celebrity and will be offered champagne.
The hotel has dedicated parking, meeting rooms, a business center, and a lounge.
And yeah, it is also pet-friendly.
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This hotel is affordable, family-friendly, and close to Covent Garden.
Its rooms have a relaxing ambiance, and they offer paid Wi-Fi for guests.
The rooms are air-conditioned and have flat TVs.
Travelodge London City hotel also has an on-site restaurant, where you can relax after a busy day.
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If you are interested in some West End sightseeing, the Premier Inn can be an intelligent choice.
This top-rated affordable option is in proximity to Hanger Lane and Park Royal stations.
It offers air-conditioned rooms, free internet, 24-hour security, and paid parking services.
The hotel also has a digital multiscreen where you can relax after a hectic day.
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All these hotels are top-rated and are carefully selected based on travellers’ experience.
If you want to know more about the best hotels in London, read our article here.
The flagship Strada offers beautiful views of the Thames from its outdoor patio area.
It is vegetarian-friendly and is famous for its freshly prepared Italian cuisine.
You should try their pizzas, pastas, and risotto.
Strada is open throughout the week from 11.30 am to 10 pm.
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Would you like to feast upon a juicy, tender steak while relaxing in a cozy yet vibrant setting?
Look no further than Flat Iron Waterloo, which is revered among patrons because of its flavorful steak and attentive staff.
This restaurant opens throughout the week from 12 pm to 10 pm.
If you visit here, try to complement your steak with popcorn or ice cream.
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This highly rated restaurant is well known for its Mexican food, amazing cocktails, and lively atmosphere.
One of its areas also hosts Latin music nights and taco fiestas that are often free to enter.
It opens from 12 pm to 11 pm every day and also caters to vegan and gluten-free options.
Mestizo Restaurant is an amazing place to dine after a thorough exploration of Sloane Square, King’s Road, and the Chelsea shopping district.
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If you are craving some asian flavors, this restaurant must be your ultimate stop.
It is situated in London’s financial district, and specializes in Indian and Bangladeshi dishes like the seekh kebab, samosa, chicken, and lamb tikkas.
The restaurant is close to the London Tower and London Bridge, and its staff is often praised for exceeding expectations.
Its pricing is affordable and it opens throughout the week between 11.30 am to 11.30 pm.
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Explore other top-rated and affordable restaurants in London here.
The yellow and crunchy London chips are everyone’s favorite.
Picture a white, flaky fish covered in bubbly batter and fried to perfection.
Add in a few mushy peas, malt vinegar, and tartar sauce, and you’ve got the ultimate British comfort food.
While in London, you should try starting your day with a full English breakfast.
It is filled with sausages, bacon, fried eggs, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
Black pudding and hash browns are also used to complement the taste and are best enjoyed hot.
For a perfect Sunday roast, you can choose between beef, chicken, or lamb.
This slow-cooked food is served with crispy potatoes that are soft on the inside, along with fresh vegetables and warm gravy.
The crowning jewel is the golden-brown, oven-baked Yorkshire pudding, which makes it so delicious that you would want to wipe up every last scrap of food.
For a satisfying treat, you should try the meat pies or the Cornish pasties.
These pasties have a flaky crust with a filling of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, which makes them a perfect grab-and-go snack.
Pies, on the other hand, are bite-sized treats overloaded with peppery richness, chicken, and mushrooms.
To know more about the best foods in London, read here.
Covent Garden is like a movie set with cobblestone streets lined with boutiques.
You can almost sense the music in your heart as you notice shoppers carrying lattes.
Here you will find handmade candles, unique art, and British brands you may not even have heard of.
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This shopping center is situated adjacent to the Victoria Station.
Victoria Place’s massive campus is home to top brands like Lush, Boots, and Superdrug.
Additionally, numerous shops offer excellent food at affordable prices.
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At first glance, you can mistake it for a corporate center, but shopping options at Canary Wharf are off the charts.
Brands like Zara, Whistles, Vinader, and Space NK can be found everywhere.
It also features bars and cafes where you can enjoy drinks and socialize like a local.
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Selfridges on Oxford Street is literally a cathedral of fashion and lifestyle.
It is home to top brands, emerging labels, and heavenly food.
And whatever you purchase, their hospitality is sure to blow your mind away.
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Want to know about all the shopping places? Read Here…
While in London, you cannot miss the London Eye.
It is located on the bank of the Thames, just across from Big Ben.
This observation wheel is the tallest in Europe, and here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city.
The London Eye is within walking distance of Waterloo Station and Westminster Station.
Buy a London Eye Ticket for £29($39)
The palace has been the British monarch’s residence since 1837 and remains a working royal palace.
This historic building has 775 rooms, and its state rooms are open to the general public in summer (July to September).
At its Royal Collection, you can admire art pieces by masters and the finest French and English furniture.
Visit the State Entrance Rooms for £32($43)
The Tower Bridge, with its twin towers, bascule design, and glass pathways, is an entire experience in itself.
You can walk on its glass floor, learn about its history, and Gothic architecture.
Kids will love its exhibits, and it has numerous insta-worthy moments.
Explore Tower Bridge for £16($22)
The British Museum is a time machine that will take you through a million years of human civilization.
It is the world’s first national public museum, and here you can explore exhibits such as The Rosetta Stone, The Benin Bronzes, the Elgin Marbles, and many more.
The museum is also conveniently located near Covent Garden, the West End, and Oxford Street.
Get priority access with an audio tour for £10($13)
Book in Advance: There will be long lines at famous attractions like the London Eye and the Tower Bridge, and booking online can help avoid long-minute disappointments.
Don’t miss the free museums: There are many museums in the city, like the British Museum, the Tate Modern, and the Natural History Museum, that can be enjoyed for free.
Wear Comfortable Footwear: London is packed with so many landmarks that can be best explored on foot. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes.
Explore beyond the Obvious: Apart from famous places, visit lesser-known spots like Little Venice, Eltham Palace, Epping Forest, and God’s own junkyard.
Keep these apps handy: Download City Mapper, Google Maps, Trainline, and Too Good to Go.
Prepare for changing weather: London’s climate can be unpredictable, and it is recommended to carry a small umbrella.
Be Respectful: Londoners are helpful people, but you should respect their personal space. Don’t break the queues and be polite.
