We kicked off our world tour in April with a week in London, exploring everything the city has to offer. After living in Chicago for four years, we thought we'd prefer smaller towns on this trip, but we completely fell in love with London. A city that combines historic charm and modern skyscrapers, London is packed with endless sites to explore. For travelers that love food, history, art, shopping, and more, London has something for everyone. After compiling recommendations from locals and our experiences, we hope you will fall in love with London as much as we did using our comprehensive London travel guide.
The city is stunning, rich with history, and the people are super friendly. We had a great time wandering through the boroughs, searching for our favorite cafés. If you're planning a trip to London, check out our ultimate travel guide for recommendations and tips!
How to Get to London
If you're flying into London from outside Europe, you'll likely arrive at Heathrow International Airport (LHR). There are several options to get to central London, depending on your preferences for time, cost, and convenience.
Uber/Taxi
We chose Uber because we had large suitcases and needed to pick up keys for our rental. Uber and taxis are quick but can be pricey, so they're best if you're in a hurry or have lots of luggage.
London Underground (The Tube, Piccadilly Line)
The Tube is a more affordable option, costing less than £7 one way, but it takes about an hour to reach central London. You can use contactless payment with a card or your phone, making it easy to use.
Heathrow Express
The Heathrow Express is a high-speed train that runs every 15 minutes between Heathrow and Paddington Station. It’s the fastest option, taking only 15 minutes, but it's more expensive, costing £22-£25 each way. However, you can get discounts if you book in advance online.
Getting Around London
London is very walkable, but it also has an excellent public transportation system. Here's how we got around:
Walking
We highly recommend walking as much as possible. It's a great way to explore the city and get your bearings. London is a very walkable city and there’s so many things to see if you can take your time and explore by foot. However, for longer distances, you may want to use public transport.
If you're not used to cars driving on the left side of the road, always remember to look right, then left, before crossing the street. In some tourist areas, you'll find helpful reminders painted on the pavement to guide you.
London Underground (The Tube)
The Tube is easy to use with contactless payment. Fares depend on how far you're traveling, so remember to tap in and out. Central London is in Zone 1, with other zones expanding outward. Also, children under 11 travel free with an adult.
Bus
Buses are also easy to use, with a flat fare regardless of distance, so you only need to tap when you board.
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
For first-time visitors, we definitely recommend booking the hop-on-hop-off bus. These tours take you to major attractions and often include audio guides. We booked through Big Bus Tours and highly recommend this company.
Biking
London has bike-sharing options, such as HumanForest, which offers the first 10 minutes for free. It's a fun way to explore the city and easy to use with their app.
How Much Time to Spend in London
We spent a full week exploring London and still didn't get to see everything we wanted to. However, a 4-5 day visit would be a great introduction to this city that will leave you wanting to come back!
Where to Stay in London
Kensington & Chelsea
A beautiful and historic area, Kensington & Chelsea offers a blend of residential charm and picturesque streets filled with shops, restaurants, and cafés. This posh area can be a bit pricey but we think it’s well worth it for the ambiance and convenience. After staying in this neighborhood for a week, we wholeheartedly recommend it for an amazing London experience.
Located just steps away from the charming Pavilion street, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a luxurious 5-star hotel in Chelsea. Its proximity to Sloane Square makes it an ideal spot for exploring London.
Photo Credit: 11 Cadogan Gardens via 11cadogangardens.com
Located in the heart of South Kensington, The Kensington is a luxury hotel near iconic landmarks such as The Royal Albert Hall, The Victoria and Albert Museum, Kensington Gardens and Harrods. With elegant Victorian decor and traditional afternoon tea, it offers an idyllic London experience.
Photo Credit: The Kensington via Doylecollection.com
Soho/Piccadilly
Located in the West End, this vibrant and bustling area is at the heart of London's entertainment scene, offering plenty of nightlife options.
The Waldorf Hilton London is an iconic hotel with historic architecture and a convenient location near the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the British Museum.
Picture Credit: The Waldorf Hilton London via Hilton.com
The Resident Covent Garden offers modern amenities in a convenient location near Covent Garden, West End Theaters, and other major attractions.
Picture Credit: The Resident Covent Garden via Residenthotels.com
Westminster
Centrally located and rich in history, Westminster is near iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. This neighborhood has great restaurants and easy access to other areas.
This iconic hotel opened its doors in 1862 and offers a prime location near London’s most famous landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.
Picture Credit: The Clermont London, Victoria via Theclermont.co.uk
Nestled in the heart of Westminster, this 4-star hotel combines modern comfort with historic charm. Its stunning courtyard, restaurant, and bar offer a relaxing retreat in the center of London.
Picture Credit: St. Ermin's Hotel via Marriott.com
Marylebone
A quieter alternative to Soho, Marylebone is known for its cobblestone streets and charming cafés, providing a quaint location near central London.
This 5-star hotel offers amazing dining options, a champagne bar, spa, and more. Its central location makes it an ideal spot for exploring Marylebone and all of London.
Picture Credit: The Landmark London via Landmarklondon.co.uk
The Zetter offers historic British charm, featuring quaint and elegant rooms in a central location. Don’t miss the Parlour for lunch, cocktails, and a wonderful afternoon tea.
Picture Credit: The Zetter Marylebone via Thezetter.com
Shoreditch
Known for its vibrant nightlife and creative energy, Shoreditch is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Shoreditch, the Redchurch Townhouse features 37 rooms with 1950s and 1970s inspired design. This hotel offers a cozy atmosphere and a unique stay in one of London’s hippest neighborhoods.
Picture Credit: Redchurch Townhouse via Sohohouse.com
Things to Do in London
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
If it’s your first time visiting London, watching the changing of the guard is a must. This ceremonial event happens every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10:45 am and lasts for about 45 minutes. To get a good spot, we recommend arriving at least an hour early. We found that sitting on the steps of the Victoria Memorial, facing Buckingham Palace, offered a great view.
Go Sightseeing on a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
The hop-on-hop-off bus is a great way to explore London's iconic landmarks. We booked the Big Bus Tours, which took us to popular sights like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and the Palace of Westminster. The best part is you can get off at any stop, explore at your own pace, and then hop back on to continue the tour.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Indulging in afternoon tea is a must-do in London. There are so many fun and unique options across the city, with prices starting around £40 to £80, depending on the venue and any add-ons, so we recommend looking around to find one that interests you most. We suggest checking out our guide to afternoon tea in London for more detailed recommendations. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere, from classic elegance to charming gardens.
Fortnum and Mason's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in Piccadilly is a classic choice, offering an elegant ambiance and a range of teas for £80/person. Claridges in Mayfair, priced at £90/person, is known for its upscale setting and incredible service. Harrods Tea Room in Knightsbridge, at £73/person, combines luxury shopping with an upscale tea experience. For a more budget-friendly option, the Wallace Collection in Marylebone offers afternoon tea for £45/person in a beautiful museum. Meanwhile, the Royal Albert Hall in Kensington provides a unique musical atmosphere at £51/person.
Explore Kensington Palace and Gardens
Kensington Palace, set within Kensington Gardens, is a royal residence with a rich history. It's where Queen Victoria grew up and is currently home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Visitors can explore the palace and the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace, which are perfect for a beautiful walk. You can purchase tickets here.
Watch a Football Match
London is home to several Premier League football clubs, making it a great place to catch a match. We had a blast watching a West Ham vs. Fulham game during our visit. If you want to attend a match, check the football schedule in advance and book tickets early, as games can sell out quickly.
Watch a Musical in the West End
London's West End is famous for its world-class theater scene. Watching a musical here is a great way to spend an evening. From long-running classics like "The Phantom of the Opera" to hits like "Hamilton," there's something for everyone. Check online for showtimes and tickets.
Visit a Museum
London is known for its incredible museums and most of them offer free admission and there’s something for everyone. The British Museum showcases a vast collection of historical artifacts, while the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) focuses on art and design. The Natural History Museum features exhibits on natural sciences, including dinosaur skeletons. The Churchill War Rooms give a unique glimpse into Britain's World War II history, and Tate Modern is a must-visit for contemporary art enthusiasts.
Enjoy a Sunday Roast
A Sunday roast is a British tradition, typically consisting of roasted meat, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy. It's a hearty meal and a great way to experience local culture. We recommend trying it at one of London's traditional pubs, such as the Cadogan Arms, Crown and Rose, or Fallow.
Explore Borough Market
Borough Market is one of London's oldest and most popular food markets. It's a foodie paradise with stalls offering fresh produce, baked goods, street food, and more. You can sample a variety of dishes as you explore the bustling market.
Go Shopping
London is full of amazing shopping from designer brands to quirky boutiques. Check out Harrods, an iconic luxury store with a wide range of goods, from fashion to food. Fortnum and Mason is a great place for souvenirs, known for its gourmet food and tea selection.
Walk through Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London's largest and most famous parks. It's a great place for a nice walk, with plenty of paths, beautiful gardens, and landmarks like the Serpentine Lake. You can rent a paddleboat, visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, or just relax on the grass and enjoy the scenery.
Explore Charming Neighborhoods
London is full of unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Notting Hill is known for its colorful houses and the famous Portobello Market, which is great for antiques and vintage finds. Soho is a lively area with theaters, restaurants, and nightlife. Kensington & Chelsea offer upscale shopping and dining, while Paddington and Marylebone provide quieter, more residential vibes.
Explore Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a lively district with shops, markets, restaurants, and street performers. It's a great place to wander, shop for souvenirs, and find delicious food. The indoor market offers a variety of stalls selling unique items, and there are often live performances in the central square.
Have a Drink with Stunning Views of London
Located in The Shard, the tallest building in the UK, the Shangri-La hotel offers amazing views of the city. Enjoying a drink at their Sky Lounge to see London's skyline from above. Be sure to reserve in advance, as this is a very popular spot.
The Sky Garden is a public garden located at the top of The Fenchurch Building. It offers panoramic views of London, and entry is free, although you need to book a time slot online in advance. There's also a bar and restaurant, making it a great spot for a relaxing evening with stunning views.
Explore Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world. You can spend hours exploring the grounds, learning about plant conservation, and enjoying the natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Treetop Walkway for a unique view of the gardens from above.
Where to Eat in London
British Fare/Pubs
Craving classic British comfort food? Mother Mash lets you customize your meal with a variety of pies, sausages, mash, and gravies. We recommend the steak and stout pie with chive mash, or the apple pork sausage with sage sausage and horseradish mash.
This traditional pub is themed after the famous detective, complete with Sherlock Holmes memorabilia. It also has a full restaurant and a rooftop garden.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese offers traditional British pub food in a historic setting—it's been serving customers since the 17th century.
The Cadogan Arms is a modern gastropub with classic British dishes and a twist on pub favorites. We loved the fish and chips and the pork cheek curry.
The Churchill Arms is easy to spot with its floral-covered facade. Inside you’ll find a traditional British pub in the front and a Thai restaurant in the back.
Located in Richmond, this pub serves classic pub fare and is featured in the TV series "Ted Lasso." We enjoyed the fish and chips and salmon for lunch. It’s a fun pub especially for fans of the show.
For fine dining, Lyle's is a contemporary British restaurant focusing on seasonal ingredients. It’s perfect for a special occasion or if you want to experience London's elevated dining scene.
Indian
Cinnamon Bazaar offers Indian cuisine in a bright and fun atmosphere. They have a variety of chaat and hearty entrees.
A fusion of North Indian cuisine and a traditional British chop house, Tandoor Chop House serves tandoori dishes with a twist.
A stylish Indian restaurant offering modern takes on classic Indian dishes. This is a great spot for anyone looking for bold flavors and innovative cuisine.
Dishoom is a must-visit for its iconic Indian street food in an upscale environment.
A neighborhood pub with Indian-inspired small plates and entrees. A more upscale
take on the traditional pub experience.
Brunch/Cafés
Located within Kensington Palace, this charming café has a relaxing terrace where you can enjoy pastries, sandwiches, cakes, coffee, and tea. We enjoyed coffee with an amazing lemon blueberry loaf.
Located on Pavilion Road in Chelsea, Roasting Party is a cozy coffee shop with excellent drinks and pastries. After visiting multiple cafes, we found this spot to have our favorite coffee of the trip!
This popular pastry shop in Sloane Square is known for its delicious baked goods. It's a great place to pick up some fresh pastries to start your day.
A stylish deli and café with a wide range of coffee, pastries, and savory treats. We highly recommend the ham, gruyere, and peach mustard swirl—it's unique and delicious.
Located in Chelsea, this cozy café and bakery offers an impressive selection of sweet and savory pastries. Everything we tried was delicious, making it a must-visit spot for bakery lovers.
St. John Bakery has multiple locations around London and is another great place to grab coffee and pastries. The cinnamon buns and egg sandwiches are amazing—we wished we had more time to return for more treats during our trip!
A brunch spot in Richmond with an excellent English breakfast, along with a variety of sweet and savory brunch options.
An Australian-inspired café with a great brunch menu. Their ricotta hotcakes and avocado toast are top picks.
Located within the Lime Tree boutique hotel, The Buttery offers breakfast and lunch in a charming café with garden seating. Try "The Buttery Breakfast" for a traditional English breakfast experience.
Asian
This traditional pub has a surprise: a Thai restaurant in the back! Their menu offers tasty Thai dishes, making it a unique spot for a casual dinner.
A Vietnamese courtyard restaurant specializing in soups and noodle dishes. We loved the spicy coconut curry laksa.
Bao Noodle Shop offers authentic Taiwanese cuisine with locations all over London. The dim sum selection is amazing, featuring dishes like soy glazed eggplant, chili cucumber, and Taiwanese fried chicken. Don't miss their prawn croquette and fried chicken bao. The true highlight is the slow-cooked beef cheek noodles served in a deliciously rich broth.
Italian
For authentic Italian dishes and fresh pasta, head to La Mama Mia. This quaint restaurant has a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
Coppa Club - $$
Coppa Club is a modern European restaurant with several locations across London, including one near the Tower of London. Their diverse menu features a variety of options, from pizza and pasta to salads and steaks. Whether you're craving traditional Italian flavors or exploring new culinary experiences, Coppa Club has something for everyone.
French
A classic French brasserie in London’s West End serving traditional French dishes.
Blanchette - $$
A Parisian-style bistro serving simple and inventive French food. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends
Pierre Victoire - $$
This small French bistro is known for its daily specials and set menus. They also offer à la carte options as well.
London Travel Guide Takeaways
We highly recommend adding London to your travel bucket list. Whether you're into history, art, theater, or shopping, London has something for everyone. We enjoyed walking through the different neighborhoods, exploring parks, and trying local cafés every morning.
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