Planning your first trip to London can be overwhelming, with numerous questions swirling in your mind. Where should you stay? Is the London Pass worth it? How much time do you need? What activities should you prioritize?
One of the first decisions you'll need to make is choosing the right accommodation. When deciding where to stay, consider the fox & anchor, a charming and well-located option that can offer a true sample of London's hospitality.
If you are venturing to London for the first time, it's crucial to acquaint yourself with some essential information before embarking on your journey. A smart approach is to prioritize based on location, convenience, and reviews to ensure a pleasant stay.
Within this comprehensive guide, we aim to address all your inquiries regarding visiting London and, perhaps, provide answers to queries you didn't even realize you had. If there's anything we inadvertently overlook, feel free to raise your questions in the comment section at the end of this article.
First Time in London: Important Things to Know
Top Activities for Your Debut Visit to London
Your inaugural London adventure sees a plethora of noteworthy sites, premier museums, and quintessential UK activities patiently waiting to be checked off your itinerary.
If you're venturing to the UK's capital city for the first time, we recommend the following memorable activities:
Exploring the vast cultural collections of the British Museum
Immersing yourself in the medieval history of the Tower of London
Walking across the Westminster Bridge to catch striking vistas of Big Ben and the government's functioning headquarters, Parliament
Marveling at the grandeur of St. Paul's Cathedral
Stepping into the historic and iconic Westminster Abbey
Indulging in a quintessentially British pastime — afternoon tea
Climbing to lofty vantage points in either the Shard, the Sky Garden, or onboard the London Eye for panoramic cityscape views
Visiting the architectural masterpiece that is the Tower Bridge
Experiencing the bustling marketplace, eateries, and cultural performances of Covent Garden
Witnessing the royal splendor of Buckingham Palace
London's vast expanse offers an overwhelming array of attractions. Beyond this list, you'll find an abundance more museums, diverse neighborhoods, authentic pubs, retail havens, and verdant parks to explore. Ideally, allocate at least a week's time to appreciate London's charm comprehensively, although even then it might prove challenging to cover everything!
If you're looking to expand your bucket list, our detailed London Bucket List caters to your adventurous spirit.
Tower Bridge
What Is a Suitable Duration for a London Visit?
If you're aiming to capture the essence of London in a single trip, a three-day stay is an appropriate starting point. With London's plethora of exciting landmarks and activities, you'd need an entire bustling week to scratch the surface.
A three-day excursion gives you the opportunity to explore our curated selection of top 10 must-visit spots in the vibrant city.
For newcomers to London, allowing a five-day sojourn tends to be the sweet spot. These five days can be solely dedicated to delving into London's allure, or you might choose to spend one day adventuring to famed sites such as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath, the Cliffs of Dover, or the academic haven of Oxford.
I have been fortunate enough to visit London twice in the past. The first time was back in 2012, when my stay lasted for 5 days. During that trip, I made sure to include a day excursion to Stonehenge and Bath, which added an enchanting touch to the experience. My second visit took place in December 2022, where I had the opportunity to spend a delightful 7 days in London. This time, I decided to revisit some of my favorite places, engage in day trips to Windsor Castle, and explore new hidden gems within the city. Combining both visits, I have accumulated a total of 12 memorable days in London, and yet, I still have an extensive list of new places I am eager to discover on my next visit.
If you are planning your own trip to London, I highly recommend considering these fascinating destinations and experiences. Don't forget to visit Stonehenge and Bath as part of a day trip, which will undoubtedly leave you awe-inspired. Additionally, explore the breathtaking beauty of Windsor Castle and dedicate ample time to uncovering the lesser-known corners of London. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, London offers a limitless array of captivating adventures and discovery, ensuring that each visit is as unique as the last.
The Ideal Time to Explore Beautiful London
To make the most of clear skies and enjoy the warmest weather, plan your visit to London between June and August. However, keep in mind that these months tend to be bustling with tourists. For a more comfortable experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in May or September, when the crowds are slightly smaller.
SPRING: As spring blooms in London, temperatures start to rise, the skies clear up, and the chances of rainfall decrease. March sees an average high of 12°C (53°F), but by the end of May, the temperature climbs up to a delightful 19°C (67°F).
SUMMER: London experiences its warmest and driest period during the summer. With an average high of 23°C (73°F), you can enjoy the pleasant climate. However, be prepared for occasional heatwaves that can push the temperature even higher, as London has witnessed record highs of up to 38°C (100°F) in recent years.
Immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of December in London, as the city comes alive with Christmas lights, markets, and a festive atmosphere. It offers a unique experience, making it a delightful time to visit.
Autumn: As summer transitions into autumn, London experiences a shift in weather. Temperatures begin to cool off and the likelihood of rain increases. Expect average high temperatures ranging from 19°C (67°F) to 12°C (53°F) during this season. One notable aspect of autumn in London is the higher chance of rain, with October being one of the rainiest months of the year, bringing around 9 days of precipitation.
Winter: When winter arrives in London, it brings cool temperatures, overcast skies, and drizzly conditions. The average high temperature during this season is 9°C (48°F), while the average low drops to 4°C (40°F). Winter in London is known for its frequent rainfall, with around 8 to 9 rainy days per month, making it one of the wettest times to visit the city. Although snowfall is rare, if you're fortunate, you may witness the magical sight of London covered in a light dusting of snow.
December's Frost
EXPERT TRAVEL ADVICE: If feasible, steer clear of the school vacations as London tends to be more congested during these periods. You can find a rundown of these dates here.
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Arriving in London: The Best Airports to Choose From
In and around London, there are a total of six international airports, providing plenty of options for travelers.
The two primary airports serving the city are London Heathrow and Gatwick.
Heathrow is renowned as one of the world's busiest airports, favored by a multitude of international travelers. To reach central London from Heathrow, there are several convenient options available. Visitors can opt for the affordable Underground, which takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, or take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station (a mere 15-minute ride), followed by a transfer to the Underground for the final leg to their hotel. Alternatively, they can choose a taxi or private driver, although these options tend to be more expensive and can take between 45 minutes to an hour and a half based on traffic conditions.
Coming in as the second busiest airport, Gatwick offers a swift journey to central London via the Gatwick Express train, taking approximately 35 minutes.
London City Airport, conveniently situated near central London, allows for shorter travel times to hotels. It is typically the airport choice for business travelers embarking on short flights within Europe.
Further from the city center, visitors can find Stansted, Luton, and Southend airports. These airports are smaller in scale and tend to have fewer international flight options, resulting in longer travel times to and from the city.
It's important to consider the various London airports' proximity, travel times, and flight choices when planning your visit.
The London Eye
Navigating London's Vast Cityscape
Exploring the sprawling city of London requires an efficient mode of transportation, considering the city's size and numerous attractions. To get around, you have the option to utilize the Underground, public buses, trains, taxis, or even Uber.
The Underground, known as the tube, is London's iconic metro system. In fact, it holds the distinction of being the world's first metro, with its inauguration dating back to 1863. Stretching over an impressive 400 kilometers, it is also the second longest metro system globally, placing behind Shanghai's remarkable 800+ kilometer network.
Notably, the Underground's extensive network seamlessly connects the city center, conveniently linking you to London's top attractions. Offering a combination of speed, efficiency, and affordability, it truly is a preferred mode of transportation. Typically, the trains run on such a precise schedule that you seldom have to wait longer than 5 minutes for the next one to arrive; however, they often operate even more frequently than that.
If you're interested in delving into London's rich history or indulging in cultural experiences, make sure to visit the renowned British Museum or catch a captivating play at the historic Globe Theatre.
Underground at Charing Cross station
When you set foot in London for the first time, navigating your way can be made simpler with Citymapper app. All you need to do is feed in your starting point (for instance, your hotel) and your desired destination (for instance, the British Museum) and you'll have various route suggestions at your fingertips courtesy of this app, which is all the more handy if you're unfamiliar with London's layout.
Moreover, Google Maps and an Underground app are our trusted companions in charting routes. In a recent journey, I utilized the complimentary version of an app called 'Tube Map'. There's another well-liked app for devising public transport routes in London called 'TfL Go'.
The Underground transits are our go-to option when we're out and about in London. From time to time we might resort to a taxi or use Uber, especially when we want to save time on walks to and from tube stations, which is contingent upon the energy threshold of our accompanying group. Rest assured, taxis in London honour credit cards.
The entrance into Piccadilly Circus Underground station
Securing Your Oyster Card: Essential Travel Tool
An Oyster Card is an integral part of London's transport system. It's a savvy piece of plastic that allows you to pay for various modes of transit in London, ranging from the iconic Tube to trams, buses, and beyond.
Planning your journey to London? You can conveniently purchase an Oyster Card in advance online, sent right to your doorstep. Alternatively, Oyster Cards can be picked up from Underground Stations, Gatwick Airport, and Heathrow Airport upon arrival. There's a nominal £5 charge for the card. Our first stop is usually an Underground station to procure our Oyster Cards.
Looking for a comprehensive guide on the Oyster Card, find all the details here.
To use the card, you'll need to top up with funds (pay-as-you-go). With each swipe of the card when using the Underground or hopping on a bus, the respective fare gets deducted. But here's a bonus – there's a daily cap! Once you reach the daily limit, you're free to travel as much as you want for the rest of the day as the maximum fare is capped. This makes an Oyster Card not just convenient, but financially smart too.
When visiting London for the first time, it's helpful to have a budget of around £30 on your card for a four-day stay. This amount should be sufficient to cover your transportation expenses in the city, and you can always top up your card with more money if necessary, which can conveniently be done at Underground stations. The best part is, if you don't end up using all the money on your card, you can easily request a refund on the last day of your visit.
An alternative option to consider is loading the Oyster Card with a 7-day Travelcard, particularly if you plan to be in London for five, six, or seven days. The Travelcard offers great value for longer stays, providing unlimited travel within certain zones. On the other hand, if your stay in London is shorter (four days or less), it's recommended to opt for pay-as-you-go and add money to the Oyster Card as needed. A pro tip is to avoid loading excessive amounts of money onto the card, as any unused funds can be refunded upon the conclusion of your trip.
In addition to managing your transportation expenses, it's essential to make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Consider exploring iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, immersing yourself in the rich history and culture. Don't forget to indulge in traditional English cuisine by trying fish and chips or experiencing afternoon tea. London offers a plethora of world-class museums, including the British Museum and the Natural History Museum. Be sure to plan your itinerary in advance to maximize your London experience!
When using the Oyster Card, simply scan it at the entrance gate to access the Underground, and repeat the process when exiting to complete your journey.
While the cost of a single journey on the Underground varies from £3 to £4, depending on the time of travel, utilizing the Oyster Card can help you save money, especially if you plan to ride the Underground at least three times per day. Moreover, having an Oyster Card also saves you the hassle of queuing at ticket machines each time you wish to use the Underground.
It's important to note that the Oyster Card streamlines your experience, making it more efficient and convenient. With just a simple scan, you can easily navigate the Underground system and explore all that London has to offer.
Maximize Your Savings with a London Pass
Consider getting the London Pass, a cost-effective pass that covers admission into numerous popular attractions in London. If you're planning to explore extensively, this pass will certainly come in handy.
The pass covers attractions like the iconic Tower of London, the enthralling View from the Shard, the historical Westminster Abbey, a versatile hop-on-hop-off bus tour, the renowned Tower Bridge, the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral, the nature-rich Kew Gardens, and the engaging tour of the Chelsea FC Stadium. To get a comprehensive view of all attractions covered, check out the official website.
You can optimize the value of the London Pass by planning to visit the covered sights over two to three days. Places with no admission fees such as most museums should be scheduled for another day. Remember, London is a city steeped in history and diverse cultural attractions, which makes it a paradise for history buffs and art enthusiasts. Every dollar saved can be used towards enhancing your experience, like sampling traditional English cuisine. The London Pass aims to make your visit financially comfortable and culturally enriching!
EXPERT ADVICE: To optimize your London visit, follow our 5 Day London itinerary as it cleverly compiles must-see attractions for days 2, 3, and 4 using the London Pass for optimum savings.
The London Pass can be a game-changer during your visit, eliminating the need for pre-booking your attractions. This allows you to make significant savings, both in terms of time and money. London is a city rich in history, with many iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and The British Museum, all of which you can access effortlessly with the London Pass.
Concerning the Oyster Card, we advise buying it separately rather than as an add-on with the London Pass. It's a smarter move financially, offering you a marginal decrease in cost.
Westminster Abbey
Be Mindful of Street Crossings
One important thing to remember while exploring London is being extra cautious when crossing the streets. This may seem like an obvious tip, but it takes on added importance for those accustomed to driving on the right side of the road.
Thankfully, London has made it easier for visitors by painting instructions on the ground near crosswalks, indicating which way to look. This thoughtful approach helps prevent any confusion and ensures a safer experience for pedestrians.
Remember, while crossing the street in London, always pay attention to the ground markings and look in the specified direction before stepping off the curb. Safety first!
For a visual representation, you can refer to this image which demonstrates the street markings for pedestrian safety.
At each intersection, there are instructions painted on the ground for which way to look.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip
When visiting London, it's essential to make your reservations in advance to make the most of your time in this bustling city. Rather than wasting precious moments waiting in line for tickets, simplify your experience by purchasing the convenient London Pass or booking your tickets online beforehand.
If you have a specific list of attractions you plan to visit, it may be more cost-effective to skip the London Pass and instead make individual reservations using the official websites of each sightseeing spot.
However, if you're intending to spend several days exploring London's iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey, the London Pass can prove invaluable in saving both time and money.
Take a moment to review the list of attractions covered by the London Pass and compare it with your own to-do list. If there's a particular place you're eager to visit that isn't included in the pass, be sure to make that reservation in advance to secure your spot.
In addition to reserving your hotel ahead of time, we highly recommend making dinner reservations or booking a delightful afternoon tea experience to avoid disappointment and ensure a seamless trip.
For further assistance and detailed information on the London Pass, please visit their official website.
Christmas themed afternoon tea
Where Should You Put up in London?
Choosing the perfect accommodation spot in London can enhance your experience. Central London emerges as a top contender, given its ease of access to various London highlights if you are ready to splurge slightly over your budget. Either by foot or a brief ride on the Underground, one can reach numerous must-visit sites effortlessly.
Have a look at our Ultimate London Accommodation Guide to simplify your decision-making process. An outstanding choice to consider is the London Marriott Hotel County Hall. During our most recent excursion, we discovered the remarkable location it offers. Nestled between Westminster Bridge and the London Eye, along the River Thames, the hotel boasts of rooms offering views of Big Ben and the Parliament. Notably, the Westminster and Waterloo Underground stations are both a short 5-to-10-minute walk away.
For those experiencing London for the first time, it's an exceptional choice, offering iconic vistas, paired with the convenience of a short stroll to landmarks such as the London Eye and Westminster Abbey. In addition, the proximal tube stations make exploring the rest of London a breeze.
The view from our room at the London Marriott Hotel County Hall
How Tipping Works in London
If you're planning a trip to London, it's important to know how tipping customs differ from other places. In London, when dining at a restaurant, it’s customary to tip between 10 to 15% of the total bill. However, before reaching for your wallet, check if a service charge has already been included in your bill, as this is quite common.
Additionally, it is customary to give bellhops a few pounds as a tip for assisting with your luggage, round up the fare when tipping taxi drivers, and show appreciation to your tour guide by tipping them at the end of a tour.
It's always a good idea to take note of these tipping practices to ensure you're following the local customs while exploring the vibrant and culturally rich city of London.
Essential Tech Gear for Your London Trip
There are some fundamental items you must obtain before embarking on your London adventure.
One vital thing you'll require is a Type G power adapter. In case your appliance doesn't support dual voltage, a converter will also come in handy. We've always found it convenient to carry numerous Type G power adapters and a couple of compact power strips to ensure all our devices are fully charged.
Staying online during your travel is also crucial. For this, we advise getting a SIM card. Our pick is Airalo, an eSIM that can be acquired before you kick-start your trip. This SIM card ensures you get immediate internet access as soon as you touch down, bypassing the need for a local store visit. The effectiveness and convenience of Airalo has been demonstrated in various countries like Italy, France, Switzerland, and notably the UK.
In addition, we suggest you install the extremely useful Citymapper app, along with an app like Tube Map for an in-depth understanding and easy navigation of the London Underground. These will undoubtedly help you navigate through London like a local.
Expanding Your Knowledge on London
Make sure to peruse some additional London related articles on our site.
HIGHLIGHTS OF LONDON: Discern the finest London experiences in our insightful write-up - Best Things to Do in London. Revel in the splendor of Westminster Abbey through our vivid pictorial tour and formulate your visit from Guide to Westminster Abbey.. Furthermore, ascertain how to plan a day trip to Windsor Castle from London - an idyllic getaway that offers a change of scenery and a deep dive into history.
LONDON TRIP PLANNER: Create an immersive London journey with our article 5 Days in London, inclusive of thorough daily itineraries. Adapt the material to suit your schedule, whether you've set aside five days or merely a few for exploring this vibrant metropolis.
ACCOMMODATION GUIDE: Streamline your hunt for the perfect accommodation with our comprehensive rundown upon the Best Places to Stay in London.
CHRISTMAS IN LONDON: Experience the festive charm of London with our guide to 15 things to do in London at Christmas. Find out where the best Christmas lights sparkle and explore the best Christmas markets. Learn how to weave these elements into your visit from our London Christmas Itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are planning your first visit to London, it is recommended to allocate at least three days to fully experience the city's main attractions. This time frame allows you to immerse yourself in the highlights of London. However, if you have more days available, you can explore the fascinating neighborhoods and museums within the city, or even venture out for day trips to nearby destinations like Windsor Castle or Oxford.
When embarking on your inaugural trip to London, make sure not to miss iconic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London with its adjacent Tower Bridge, and the world-renowned British Museum. Additionally, be sure to visit Westminster Abbey, take a leisurely stroll across Westminster Bridge, and marvel at Buckingham Palace along The Mall. To really make the most of your time in the city, indulge in shopping at Covent Garden, savor the tradition of afternoon tea, and enjoy panoramic views of London from attractions like the London Eye, Sky Garden, or the View from the Shard.
When it comes to tipping in London, it is customary to leave a gratuity of around 10 to 15% at restaurants. For taxi drivers and bellhops who assist you, it is acceptable to tip them between one and two pounds to show your appreciation for their services.
What are some of the top attractions to explore in London without spending a penny?
London offers a plethora of free activities to enjoy on your first visit. Immerse yourself in art and culture at renowned museums like Tate Modern, The National Gallery, and the British Museum, where you can witness remarkable exhibitions without spending a dime. Witness the grandeur of the Changing of the Guard, take a leisurely stroll across Westminster Bridge and along the picturesque south bank of the River Thames. Delight in the breathtaking panoramic views from Sky Garden, and marvel at the iconic landmarks of Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square. Lastly, indulge in some window shopping along the famous Regent, Oxford, and Bond Streets.
If you are embarking on your first trip to London and have any queries regarding the best places to visit, where to stay, itinerary planning or transportation tips, feel free to leave your questions in the comment section below. Additionally, if you have any valuable insights and recommendations, we would be thrilled to hear from you too!
Additional Guidance for Your London Journey
Should your London trip be a part of a more extensive European excursion, or if you're seeking further travel inspiration, we have a touch more advice to offer.
TRAVEL PLANS FEATURING LONDON: A spectacular journey through London and Paris can be achieved within an excellent 7 or 10-day period. Given a 10-day window, there's also the option to explore London, Amsterdam, and Paris together.
PARIS ESSENTIALS: To truly experience the city, peruse our article titled Best Things to Do in Paris. Discover the secrets of the Pere LeChaise Cemetery, figure out your visit with our 3 Day Paris Itinerary, find out where to nab the most stunning views of Paris, and explore our Paris Food Guide to uncover the must-eat dishes in Paris.
Exploring Scotland: As a first-time visitor in Scotland, there are a few places that you simply cannot miss, such as Edinburgh, the breathtaking Isle of Skye, and the vibrant city of Glasgow. To get the most out of these places, read through our guide for a memorable 10-day Scotland venture.
A Taste of Ireland: To immerse yourself in the Irish experience, make sure to wander down our curated list of Prime Activities in Ireland. Highlights include gazing upon the stunning Cliffs of Moher, a delightful drive through the Ring of Kerry, visiting Ireland's bustling capital, Dublin, and uncovering the beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. Organize your trip effortlessly using our sequenced 10 Days in Ireland Itinerary.
European Debut: If you’re embarking on a maiden journey to Europe, don’t forget to read our exclusive article on7 Essential Tips for Your Inaugural European Adventure to make your trip smooth and memorable. Remember, knowing the local customs and etiquette will not only make your trip more enjoyable, but can also help you make friends along the way.
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