Things to do in London

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London Travel Guide

Two red double-decker buses on a city street with historic buildings in the background.

A cityscape with a prominent dome structure, bridges, and modern buildings.

A park with a large building in the background, surrounded by trees with autumn leaves.

A lion statue in front of a clock tower and a building with classical architecture.

A cityscape with a prominent Ferris wheel, high-rise buildings, and a clock tower.

London Attractions

The Big Smoke is no stranger to art, culture, or world -class shopping, so it makes sense that London is one of the world’s top travel destinations. The capital of England earns its reputation by offering top -notch theater productions, food from around the globe, and some of the finest museums on the planet. Of course, afternoon tea should also be on any London itinerary. Whether you head to town to watch the changing of the iconic guards at Buckingham Palace or get bird’s eye view of the city via the London Eye, sightseeing in London is sure to deliver memories to last a lifetime.

Things to do

Kensington Palace & Gardens Tickets

$33

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

Fully guided Paris Day Trip with Cruise & Eiffel Tower Lunch

Paris Day Trip from London with Optional Eiffel Tower Lunch & Seine Cruise

$316

per adult

86% of travellers recommend

Tower Bridge Admission Tickets

$21

per adult

86% of travellers recommend

Tower of London Tickets with Beefeater Tour & Crown Jewels

The Tower of London Tickets with Yeoman Warder Beefeater Tour

$49

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

Westminster Abbey Tickets

$36

per adult

86% of travellers recommend

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London must see attractions

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.

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A river with boats, a gazebo, and autumn trees.

2. Big Ben

Catch a glimpse of Big Ben across the River Thames and you’ll know you have truly arrived in London. Featured in British films, such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually,” Big Ben is best viewed from the Thames’ east bank or while strolling along Westminster Bridge, on route to see the Houses of Parliament.

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The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in London.

3. Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus garnered its peculiar name from Roger Baker, a tailor famous for making men’s piccadills, the frilled collars fashionable in the 17th century. The word “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic, which whisks around beneath the statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, the name represents flashing lights, entertainment and the exuberance of a city on the move. Piccadilly Circus has become a must-see spectacle, which draws locals and tourists day and night.

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A busy urban square with historic buildings, a prominent dome, and a clear blue sky.

4. Buckingham Palace

The official home of British royalty since 1837, Buckingham Palace is the epicenter of Britain’s constitutional monarchy. It’s walls have witnessed innumerable state decrees, lavish banquets and foreign dignitary receptions.

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A classical fountain with statues, a golden angel, and a neoclassical building in the background.

5. Tower Bridge

For London locals, Tower Bridge is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, ushering 40,000 vehicles safely across the Thames daily. However, for many visitors, the sight of the dual Gothic towers rising above the skyline is a must-see.

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The Tower Bridge in London, featuring two towers, a central arch, and suspension cables.

6. The Arena

The O2 Arena is an award-winning complex that hosts many types of events, such as sports and music. It has a seating capacity of about 20,000 and has held the title as the busiest arena in the world with more than 2 million ticket sales in a calendar year. It was designed with excellent acoustics to prevent echoing.

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A large stadium with a unique roof structure and multiple tall towers.

7. London Eye

The 360-degree view from the top of the London Eye is a spectacular way to orientate yourself in London. Below, the River Thames meanders through the teeming metropolis, and on a clear day the views stretch to Windsor Castle, almost 25 miles (40 kilometers) away.

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A large Ferris wheel, a historic building with blue lighting, and a green tower.

8. Trafalgar Square

Built to commemorate the British Navy’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, London’s Trafalgar Square is now the first port of call for over 30 million tourists a year. This area has been a gathering point for celebrations and political rallies for more than a century. Within hours of each event, however, the normal rhythms of the city return, watched over by the stoic statues of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Four Lions.

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A large obelisk monument surrounded by a circular fountain in a city square.

9. London Bridge

London Bridge is easily one of the most famously named bridges in the world, and the site of the oldest recorded crossing of the River Thames. Walk across the landmark structure, enjoy gorgeous river views and pick up insights into the bridge’s history in its underground vaults.

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A city skyline with modern and historic buildings, a bridge over water, and a clear blue sky with clouds.

Recommended things to do in London

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in London

Free Things to Do in London

Leave your wallet in the hotel room. It's possible to have fun in London without spending a cent.

National Portrait Gallery - Wander around and appreciate the interesting displays at this respected museum.

Southbank Centre - If you'd like to discover more of the area's buzzing arts and culture scene, organize a visit.

Vauxhall City Farm - Attention animal lovers — here's your chance to get acquainted with some fascinating new friends.

Hampstead Heath - Make room for play and add some excitement to your escape here.

Parliament Hill Lido - Get set to get wet and have a ball with the whole family.

Goodenough College - Tour this modern landmark and enjoy its design.

Nelson's Column - You'll feel like you've taken a step back in time while ambling around this historic site.

Trafalgar Square - This bustling location is a popular rendezvous point for both visitors and locals.

Serpentine Lake - Get out of life's fast lane and enjoy a bit of time out beside the water.

Charles I Statue - Widely recognized among those who reside here, this site is worth checking out.

St. Martin-in-the-Fields - Spend some time in meditation or prayer at this religious site.

Berkeley Square - Bring your camera and let the natural surrounds spark a sense of wonder in you.

Victoria Embankment Gardens - Find your green thumb and appreciate the wide range of plants on display.

Areas & Neighborhoods in London

Things to do in London, England vary from the refined to the bohemian. You can grab a nightcap after an evening at the opera just as easily as you can shop the stalls of artsy street markets. Whether your trip to London will be fancy or carefree, you can find a borough or neighborhood here that makes you feel at home.

Kensington — This is one of the trendiest boroughs in the city, officially dubbed the “royal” borough. It’s no surprise, then, that the streets are lined by expensive homes and well-manicured trees. Kensington High Street offers fine shopping and dining, and visitors are welcome to tour Kensington Palace.

Covent Garden — This West End district is best known for its energetic public square, where you will often find street performers. The daily open market is perhaps the best of its kind in the city. Things to do in London’s Covent Garden also include more formal affairs, however. You can take in a show at the Lyseum Theatre or get dinner at London’s oldest restaurant, Rules.

Notting Hill — Notting Hill is more than the setting of a famous romantic comedy. This charming part of London has cobblestone streets, pubs begging for you to enjoy a leisurely lunch, and plenty of antiques vendors.

Leicester Square — Leicester Square is often considered to be the entertainment hub of the city. And with cinemas, theaters, and casinos galore—visitors can certainly keep busy any time of day.

Things to See in London

Landmarks and other things to see in London are dripping in stories from bygone times, so if you aced AP history, you’re bound to fit in immediately. Before you take to London by foot or get adventurous, grab your camera and head to one of the many historical sites. Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and Big Ben are just a sampling of the places you will be happy you explored in person. Of course, you can find a theater production of nearly any sort in the city every day of the week. Catch a matinee musical in Leicester Square or grab dinner and a show in Trafalgar Square.

Sightseeing in London

In addition to the many sights and attractions in England’s capital, there are also opportunities to get active. Go for a jog in Hyde Park, grab your nicest swim suit and take a dip in a lido pool, or rent a pedal boat in Battersea Park. London tours also help you burn some calories while you take in the city whether you embark on a walking tour or kayak excursion, you can spot important sites while you work off those fish and chips. If you’re ready to see what the rest of England has to offer, day trips from London provide a wonderful opportunity to see countryside as well as major U.K. universities.

Things to Do in London with Kids

London is a wonderful place for a family vacation. Take the kids along and try these popular family friendly experiences together:

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in London? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Stay near popular London attractions

Hyde Park

9.2/10 (38,380 reviews)

Stroll through London's iconic royal parkland featuring Speakers' Corner and the Diana Memorial Fountain. Rent a rowboat on the Serpentine Lake or enjoy seasonal concerts amid the manicured gardens.

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Where to stay in London

Find the best London areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about London

Covent Garden

The lively bars and colorful gardens are just a few top-rate features of the neighborhood. Make a stop by Covent Garden Market or London Transport Museum while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Covent Garden Underground Station to get around town.

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A grand cathedral interior with a high arched ceiling, intricate stonework, and a central staircase.

South Kensington

Known for its fascinating museums and charming cafes, there's plenty to explore in South Kensington. Check out top attractions like Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum, and jump on the metro at South Kensington Underground Station or Gloucester Road Underground Station to see more of the city.

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A bustling street with a 'Welcome to Carnaby Street' archway, vintage shops, and pedestrians.

Soho

Travelers to Soho praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Oxford Street and Soho Theatre.

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A street lined with shops, including DKNY and Rolex, and a white van on the road.

Mayfair

Mayfair is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Oxford Street and Bond Street. See more of London by jumping on the metro at Bond Street Underground Station or Bond Street (Elizabeth Line) Station.

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A canal with a lock system, buildings, and a willow tree.

Camden

Oxford Street and The British Museum are a few top attractions in Camden. Hop around the city on the metro at Chalk Farm Underground Station or Swiss Cottage Underground Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, beautiful gardens, and popular shops.

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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from London

An aerial view of a city with modern architecture, including a distinctive curved building and a tall skyscraper.

Croydon

A forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Hornchurch

Swans swimming in a park with a gazebo in the background.

Hounslow

A sunset over a body of water with boats and a stadium in the background.

Wembley

A tall stone tower with a clock, surrounded by trees.

Bromley

Railway tracks, a road with cars, and residential buildings in the background.

Buckhurst Hill

A family in front of a historic castle with red brick walls and towers.

Kingston Upon Thames

An aerial view of a residential area with houses, a parking lot, and a large building with illuminated windows.

Borehamwood

Frequently asked questions

Is London worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in London is visit Hyde Park. Check this leading sight off your list, then experience more of the area's bars and pubs and views.

How do I spend a day in London?

When you've checked off major attractions like Hyde Park and London Eye, spend the rest of your day exploring London's retail and dining scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in London?

Don't leave without visiting Hyde Park, rated the top tourist attraction in London.

Is three days enough to stay in London?

Three days will be enough time to check out many city highlights, like Hyde Park, London Eye and Buckingham Palace. The average stay in London is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your break, West Drayton isn't far away.

Is London a walkable city?

With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, London is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between Hyde Park and London Eye. Then take a stroll through London City Centre, located 0.1 miles from the center, and City of Westminster, which is about 1 mile away.

What are some activities to do in London with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in London with kids.

What to do in London for adults?

Beefeater Gin Distillery and Fuller's Griffin Brewery are just two of the things to do in London. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.

Are there free things to do in London?

In London, Hyde Park is a top spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to learn about the best free things to do in London.

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