London

Musicals, pubs, parks, a queen and a tall clock.

Explore London's rich history at landmarks like the Tower of London, enjoy traditional British food at Borough Market, and visit top museums.

4.3
out of 5

London, the capital city of the United Kingdom is a city with deep history that you can experience in places like the Tower of London or the British Museum. The city is also known for the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, as well as markets of Camden and Borough and many other iconic landmarks.

Historical Landmarks: The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey

The Tower of London, a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames, has played a prominent role in English history. Initially built by William the Conqueror in 1066, it has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Visitors can view the Crown Jewels, armor, and the Royal Mint within its walls. Equally captivating is Westminster Abbey, a coronation church since 1066 and the final resting place of seventeen monarchs. This Gothic church is not only a site of worship but also a vivid tapestry of the nation's history.

British Cuisine: Borough Market and Traditional Pubs

British cuisine is more than just fish and chips. Borough Market offers a plethora of local and international food choices. It's one of the city's oldest food markets and a great spot for sampling artisan cheeses, freshly baked breads, and other delicacies. For a more traditional dining experience, visit one of London's historic pubs, like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire; it presents a cozy atmosphere for enjoying classic British dishes like pies and mash alongside a pint of ale.

Local Customs and Events: Changing of the Guard

Delve into local traditions by experiencing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, an event that embodies the pomp and ceremony of the British monarchy. This quintessentially British display of precision marching and music by real soldiers takes place on select days and is free to watch. Check the schedule in advance due to varying seasons and times.

Museums and Galleries: The British Museum and Tate Modern

The British Museum is one of the preeminent museums in the world, showcasing works from every continent. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. Admission is free, making it accessible to all visitors. Art lovers should not miss Tate Modern, housed in a former power station on the Southbank. This modern art gallery displays works from Picasso to Pollock. Rotating exhibitions mean there's always something new to see.

Parks and Green Spaces: Hyde Park and Kew Gardens

Green spaces offer a respite from the city's hustle and prompt reflection on nature's presence in an urban landscape. Hyde Park provides walking paths, a boating lake, and the famous Speaker’s Corner. Kew Gardens in West London is a sprawling botanical garden with the world's largest collection of living plants. It's an excellent location for those interested in botany or simply seeking a peaceful walk among beautiful flora.

Everyday Life: Shoreditch and Soho

To get a feel for life as a Londoner, explore neighborhoods like Shoreditch for its street art, independent shops, and vibrant nightlife or Soho for its theaters and multicultural food scene. These areas offer an authentic taste of London's contemporary culture.

Public Transport: The London Underground

London has one of the most extensive public transport systems in the world. The London Underground, commonly referred to as 'the Tube', connects most areas of the city with a reliable network of trains. Oyster cards provide a convenient way to pay for travel across the Tube, buses, and other forms of public transit. Cycling and walking are also popular in London due to well-established bike lanes and public walkways that make exploring on two wheels or foot both safe and enjoyable.

Average temperatures during the day in London.
February
7°
Mar
10°
Apr
12°
May
16°
Jun
19°
Jul
21°
Aug
21°
Sep
18°
Oct
15°
Nov
10°
Dec
8°
Jan
7°

What people say about London

4.3
People
4
Food
4
Spaces
4
Value
3
Safety
4

What to do in London

All World Expo locations since 1851

Article from November 2024 with 23 places

London, the capital of England, has played host to the World Expo twice. Its first endeavor was the inaugural 1851 event held in the iconic Crystal Palace, a remarkable cast-iron and plate-glass structure. As it was known, the Great Exhibition showcased technological advances from across the globe, drawing an impressive six million visitors.

The city's second stint came in 1862 at a different venue - the South Kensington Museum, now known as the Victoria and Albert Museum. It expanded on its predecessor's theme of global innovation, placing emphasis on the arts and design. An estimated six million people were again drawn to London to witness the marvels of modern technology and culture.

In terms of World Expos, London set a precedent, not just as the inaugural host but also as an example of how to successfully bring together nations under one roof for cultural exchange and showcasing human advancement. It's a city where every corner tells a story, making it a fitting location for such global gatherings.

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The 10 most expensive cities in the world

Article from November 2024 with 10 places

London is the fourth most expensive city in the world, with high property prices, expensive public transportation, and high food and drink prices contributing to the cost of living. As the capital of the United Kingdom, it is home to many cultural and historical landmarks which attract millions of tourists each year.

What to visit when you get there yourself? Try the British Museum, which houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts, the Tower of London, a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. Or the Houses of Parliament, an iconic symbol of London and another must-visit site.

The city also offers shopping opportunities, with Oxford Street being a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offers visitors a bird's eye view of the city.

Traditional English food, such as fish and chips or a Sunday roast, is available in many pubs and restaurants. But visitors should note that eating out in London can be expensive.

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The 30 best food cities in the world

Article from November 2024 with 30 places

10,000 restaurants from all over the world

London is a great food destination even though British cuisine is perhaps not what the rest of the world crave for. This is because the city offers an incredible variety of cuisines from all over the world. With over 10,000 restaurants, you can find anything from traditional British dishes to exotic international flavors. For local fare we recommend the pubs that offer great casual meals, nice beer, and an opportunity to hang out with locals.

What to eat in London

For a classic British experience, visitors can try fish and chips, an iconic dish of deep-fried fish and thick-cut chips, served with tartar sauce. For something a bit more exotic, try a full English breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, and fried bread. Other must-try dishes include the classic bangers and mash, a pub staple of sausages and mashed potato, and a classic Sunday roast with roasted meat, potatoes and vegetables. Indian food is also a staple in London, and a visit to one of the city's many curry houses is a must. Top dishes include chicken tikka masala, a creamy tomato-based dish, and bhaji, a deep-fried vegetable fritter. London is also home to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the world, with dishes such as dim sum, crispy duck, and prawn chow mein. For a sweet treat, try a traditional English afternoon tea with scones.

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The best places for women to travel alone

Article from October 2024 with 16 places

Activities and spaces designed for female travelers

London provides a safe environment for women tourists, with its low crime levels and efficient public transport system. Moreover, London offers many attractions and activities. Whether it be a chance to explore the city’s rich history, visit Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, get on the London Eye Ferris wheel, take a long walk in Hyde Park, or an opportunity to experience the vibrant nightlife, there really is something for everyone.

Many tourist initiatives are available specifically for women, such as guided tours led by female guides and even special female-only safe spaces. All of this makes London an excellent destination for female tourists and no wonder London is always named one of the most popular places for travelers around the world, woman or not.

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