Top 40 Best Things to Do in London [with Tickets]

Updated at 19. November 2024 from Pelin

Discover the top 40 must-do things to do in London, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. This guide highlights each activity with insider tips, best visiting times, ticket details, and traveler reviews to help you plan an unforgettable visit.

Plus, you’ll find links to the best value offers for each attraction, ensuring you make the most of your time and budget in this vibrant city.

table of contents

1. Tower of London

One of London’s most iconic landmarks, the Tower of London is a historic fortress, former royal residence, and home to the Crown Jewels.

Insider Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in the Jewel House. Beefeater-led tours offer great historical insights.
Best Time to Go: Early mornings on weekdays; summer months can be busier.
Tickets: Booking online often saves time and offers discounts.
Overall Review: A must-visit for history lovers and families. Kids enjoy the stories of royals and medieval history.

2. The British Museum

Known for its incredible collections from ancient civilizations, the British Museum showcases artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.

Insider Tips: Pick up a museum map to navigate exhibits easily. The Egyptian and Greek sections are especially popular.
Best Time to Go: Mornings during weekdays for fewer crowds.
Tickets: Free entry, but donations are welcome. Special exhibitions may have a fee.
Overall Review: Ideal for culture seekers and solo travelers. Families with kids interested in history will also love it.

3. Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and, during select times of the year, take a tour of the palace’s State Rooms.

Insider Tips: Arrive 30 minutes early for a good spot to view the Changing of the Guard.
Best Time to Go: Changing of the Guard happens on select days—check the schedule. Palace tours are open in summer.
Tickets: Free to watch the ceremony; entry fees apply for tours of the State Rooms.
Overall Review: Great for families, couples, and history enthusiasts.

4. Westminster Abbey

An architectural marvel and the site of royal coronations, weddings, and burials, Westminster Abbey is rich in British history and breathtaking artistry.

Insider Tips: Use the free audio guide for a deeper experience, or join a guided tour.
Best Time to Go: Early in the day, especially on weekdays, to avoid peak times.
Tickets: Online booking recommended for quicker entry.
Overall Review: Perfect for history lovers and architecture fans. Families with older kids might find it particularly educational.

5. The Shard

Standing 310 meters tall, The Shard offers unparalleled panoramic views of London. Visitors can enjoy the view, dine at one of the restaurants, or sip cocktails overlooking the city.

Insider Tips: Visit close to sunset to see the city transition from day to night.
Best Time to Go: Early evening for sunset views.
Tickets: Pre-book tickets to avoid queues. Dining at the restaurants may require reservations.
Overall Review: Popular with couples for romantic sunset views; suitable for solo travelers and groups too.

6. Hyde Park

One of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park offers serene landscapes, boating on the Serpentine Lake, and historic monuments.

Insider Tips: Rent a paddleboat on the lake or enjoy afternoon tea at the Serpentine Café.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer for blooming flowers and warm weather.
Tickets: Free entry; boat rentals have fees.
Overall Review: A hit with families and solo travelers. Perfect for outdoor lovers and couples seeking a relaxing afternoon.

7. Tate Modern

A hub for contemporary art, Tate Modern showcases works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney in a converted power station along the Thames.

Insider Tips: The viewing deck on the top floor offers stunning city views.
Best Time to Go: Mornings on weekdays; weekends can be crowded.
Tickets: Free entry; special exhibitions may have fees.
Overall Review: Ideal for art lovers and solo travelers. Families can enjoy the interactive art installations.

8. Camden Market

Camden Market is a vibrant, eclectic mix of street food, vintage shops, and local crafts, drawing visitors with its unique atmosphere and flavors.

Insider Tips: Visit with an appetite, as food stalls offer global cuisines. Explore side streets for hidden gems.
Best Time to Go: Weekdays for smaller crowds; weekends have more food stalls open.
Tickets: Free to enter, but bring cash for small purchases.
Overall Review: A fun experience for all ages. Great for solo travelers and friends looking for unique shopping.

9. Covent Garden

A lively area with street performances, luxury boutiques, and historic buildings, Covent Garden is perfect for wandering and discovering small treasures.

Insider Tips: Catch a street performance and explore the Apple Market for handmade goods.
Best Time to Go: Late afternoon to catch the bustling vibe.
Tickets: Free entry; some performances may request donations.
Overall Review: Suitable for families, couples, and solo visitors. Great for those who love people-watching and exploring at a relaxed pace.

10. Natural History Museum

Famous for its dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits, the Natural History Museum is a favorite among families and offers a wealth of knowledge on natural wonders.

Insider Tips: The dinosaur and blue whale exhibits are must-sees. Plan extra time for the hands-on science labs.
Best Time to Go: Mornings, especially on weekdays.
Tickets: Free, though donations are appreciated. Some special exhibitions have fees.
Overall Review: Perfect for families and kids; great for science lovers and solo visitors seeking an educational outing.

11. St. Paul’s Cathedral

With its impressive dome, St. Paul’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and has served as the site of many royal ceremonies.

Insider Tips: Climb to the Whispering Gallery for stunning acoustics and city views.
Best Time to Go: Early morning for a quieter experience.
Tickets: Online booking is advised for discounted rates.
Overall Review: Great for architecture lovers and history buffs; suitable for families with older kids.

12. Kensington Palace

A historic royal residence, Kensington Palace offers a glimpse into the lives of past and present royals, including Queen Victoria’s childhood rooms.

Insider Tips: Combine your visit with a stroll through Kensington Gardens.
Best Time to Go: Spring for garden blooms; weekdays are less crowded.
Tickets: Available online or at the door.
Overall Review: Perfect for royal enthusiasts; families and couples will enjoy the ambiance.

13. Borough Market

London’s oldest food market, Borough Market is a paradise for foodies, featuring local produce, artisanal products, and international cuisine.

Insider Tips: Try samples at different stalls and enjoy lunch at the market.
Best Time to Go: Weekdays for fewer crowds; weekends are lively but busy.
Tickets: Free entry, but bring cash for purchases.
Overall Review: Great for food lovers; families, couples, and solo travelers will enjoy exploring.

14. London Eye

The London Eye offers a 360-degree view of the city from the River Thames and is especially stunning at sunset.

Insider Tips: Book a sunset or night ride for the best views.
Best Time to Go: Evenings offer fewer crowds and magical city lights.
Tickets: Book in advance online to save and avoid long queues.
Overall Review: Perfect for couples and families; a fun ride for all ages.

15. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

A faithful reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre, this venue brings his plays to life in an authentic setting.

Insider Tips: Standing tickets are the most affordable and offer a unique viewing experience.
Best Time to Go: Summer for outdoor performances.
Tickets: Book in advance, especially for popular plays.
Overall Review: Great for culture lovers and solo travelers; families with teens may find it captivating.

16. Science Museum

An interactive wonderland, the Science Museum is filled with hands-on exhibits, making it ideal for curious minds of all ages.

Insider Tips: The IMAX theater offers fascinating films on science topics.
Best Time to Go: Mornings on weekdays.
Tickets: Free; some exhibitions have fees.
Overall Review: A hit with families and science enthusiasts; solo visitors will enjoy exploring too.

17. The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Housing an extensive collection of art and design, the V&A is renowned for its exhibits ranging from fashion to sculpture.

Insider Tips: Don’t miss the Cast Courts and jewelry collections.
Best Time to Go: Weekday mornings for quieter galleries.
Tickets: Free, but special exhibitions require tickets.
Overall Review: Ideal for art lovers and solo travelers; suitable for families with older children.

18. Piccadilly Circus

A bustling square in London’s West End, Piccadilly Circus is known for its vibrant energy, iconic neon signs, and nearby theaters.

Insider Tips: Visit in the evening to see the lights and explore nearby Soho.
Best Time to Go: Evenings for the full experience.
Tickets: Free.
Overall Review: Fun for everyone; couples and solo travelers often enjoy the nightlife vibe.

19. The National Gallery

Home to works by masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and da Vinci, the National Gallery is a treasure trove of European art.

Insider Tips: Pick up a guide to see key paintings in an hour.
Best Time to Go: Early mornings or late afternoons.
Tickets: Free, with donations appreciated.
Overall Review: Perfect for art lovers and solo travelers; families with art-inclined kids will enjoy it.

20. Churchill War Rooms

Explore the underground command center used by Winston Churchill during WWII, preserved as it was in the 1940s.

Insider Tips: Audio guides are very informative.
Best Time to Go: Mornings for fewer crowds.
Tickets: Book online to avoid queues.
Overall Review: Ideal for history buffs; suitable for families with older kids.

21. Hampton Court Palace

A bit outside central London, Hampton Court offers a day trip into Tudor history with beautiful gardens and palace rooms.

Insider Tips: The maze in the gardens is a fun challenge.
Best Time to Go: Spring or summer for the gardens.
Tickets: Online booking recommended.
Overall Review: Perfect for families and history lovers; solo travelers enjoy the peaceful setting.

22. Sky Garden

An indoor garden with spectacular views of the city, Sky Garden offers a unique perspective on London’s skyline.

Insider Tips: Book your free entry ticket in advance.
Best Time to Go: Sunset for beautiful views.
Tickets: Free, but reservations are required.
Overall Review: Great for couples and photographers; families enjoy the greenery and views.

23. Tate Britain

Specializing in British art, Tate Britain offers an in-depth look at works from the 1500s to the present.

Insider Tips: Don’t miss the Turner Collection.
Best Time to Go: Weekday mornings.
Tickets: Free, special exhibits may have fees.
Overall Review: Perfect for art lovers; a peaceful experience for solo travelers.

24. Brick Lane

Known for its street art, vintage shops, and incredible food, Brick Lane is a vibrant area in East London.

Insider Tips: Visit on Sundays for the market and best atmosphere.
Best Time to Go: Sundays; weekdays for quieter walks.
Tickets: Free to wander; bring cash for shops.
Overall Review: Great for solo travelers, groups, and anyone who loves street culture.

25. Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market

Famous for its pastel houses and markets, Notting Hill is a charming area for shopping, photography, and browsing antiques.

Insider Tips: Go early to beat the crowds, especially on Saturdays.
Best Time to Go: Saturdays for the full market experience.
Tickets: Free entry; shops vary.
Overall Review: Perfect for couples and solo explorers; families can enjoy the market atmosphere.

26. London Dungeon

An immersive experience, the London Dungeon provides a theatrical look into London’s dark past, with live actors and thrilling rides.

Insider Tips: Not for the faint-hearted; not recommended for young children.
Best Time to Go: Early mornings for fewer crowds.
Tickets: Online booking recommended.
Overall Review: Perfect for thrill-seekers and families with teens.

27. Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill

One of London’s royal parks, Regent’s Park is perfect for relaxing strolls, with beautiful gardens and views from Primrose Hill.

Insider Tips: Bring a picnic and enjoy the hilltop views of London.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer.
Tickets: Free.
Overall Review: Great for families, couples, and solo travelers.

28. The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Located at the famous address, 221B Baker Street, this museum is a must-visit for fans of the fictional detective.

Insider Tips: Buy tickets at the museum; online booking isn’t available.
Best Time to Go: Weekdays.
Tickets: Available on-site.
Overall Review: Perfect for mystery lovers; families with teens may enjoy it.

29. Leadenhall Market

A stunning Victorian marketplace, Leadenhall Market is known for its unique architecture and Harry Potter film appearances.

Insider Tips: Visit early in the morning for quieter photography.
Best Time to Go: Weekdays; early mornings.
Tickets: Free to enter.
Overall Review: A hit with photographers and Harry Potter fans; good for all ages.

30. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kew Gardens boasts diverse plant species, greenhouses, and seasonal exhibits.

Insider Tips: The treetop walkway offers a unique view of the gardens.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer for blooms.
Tickets: Available online and on-site.
Overall Review: Great for families, solo nature lovers, and couples.

31. ZSL London Zoo

Located within Regent’s Park, the London Zoo is home to hundreds of animal species and offers interactive exhibits for animal lovers of all ages.

Insider Tips: Don’t miss the Gorilla Kingdom and Land of the Lions.
Best Time to Go: Early morning for animal feeding times.
Tickets: Book online to save on entry fees.
Overall Review: Perfect for families with kids; animal enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the exhibits.

32. Greenwich and the Royal Observatory

Home to the Prime Meridian, Greenwich offers stunning riverside views, the historic Royal Observatory, and the Cutty Sark ship.

Insider Tips: Take a river cruise from central London for a scenic route to Greenwich.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer for clear skies and park visits.
Tickets: Observatory tickets available on-site or online.
Overall Review: Great for families, science lovers, and history buffs.

33. Soho

Known for its eclectic nightlife, live music, theaters, and vibrant dining scene, Soho is a lively area for evening outings.

Insider Tips: Try one of the many street food options or enjoy a live jazz show.
Best Time to Go: Evenings for the nightlife scene.
Tickets: Free to explore; show and dining costs vary.
Overall Review: Ideal for couples, friends, and solo travelers looking for entertainment.

34. The O2 Arena

A major entertainment venue, The O2 hosts concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions, with a rooftop walk offering panoramic city views.

Insider Tips: Book the ‘Up at The O2’ experience for a unique view of London’s skyline.
Best Time to Go: Evening events or rooftop visits at sunset.
Tickets: Event tickets vary; rooftop walk tickets available online.
Overall Review: Perfect for concert-goers and thrill-seekers; families with teens will love it.

35. Little Venice

A picturesque canal area in Maida Vale, Little Venice is known for its houseboats, waterside cafes, and tranquil charm.

Insider Tips: Take a boat ride along the canal to explore the area from the water.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer for pleasant weather.
Tickets: Free to walk around; boat rides available for a fee.
Overall Review: Ideal for couples and photographers; solo travelers will enjoy the calm ambiance.

36. Somerset House

A cultural landmark, Somerset House hosts art exhibitions, outdoor film screenings, and a popular winter ice rink.

Insider Tips: Visit in winter for the ice rink and festive decorations.
Best Time to Go: Winter for skating, or during seasonal exhibitions.
Tickets: Entry to the courtyard is free; events have varying fees.
Overall Review: Great for art lovers and families; couples will enjoy the romantic winter ambiance.

37. Southbank Centre

A cultural hub along the Thames, Southbank Centre offers theaters, galleries, and music venues, as well as scenic river views.

Insider Tips: Check the events calendar for free performances and markets.
Best Time to Go: Evenings for performances or weekends for markets.
Tickets: Many free events; ticketed shows vary in price.
Overall Review: Suitable for all types of travelers; couples and culture lovers will especially enjoy the vibe.

38. Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House

A historic venue, the Royal Opera House hosts world-class opera and ballet performances in an opulent setting.

Insider Tips: Opt for a backstage tour to get an insider’s view of the venue.
Best Time to Go: Evening performances for an elegant experience.
Tickets: Book tickets well in advance for popular shows.
Overall Review: Perfect for couples and culture enthusiasts; a memorable night out for all.

39. The Design Museum

A museum dedicated to all things design, from architecture to fashion, The Design Museum is both informative and inspiring.

Insider Tips: Visit the café for design-inspired treats.
Best Time to Go: Weekdays for quieter exploration.
Tickets: Free entry, though exhibitions may have fees.
Overall Review: Ideal for art and design lovers; solo travelers and families will find it engaging.

40. Electric Cinema, Notting Hill

One of London’s oldest cinemas, Electric Cinema offers a luxury cinema experience with plush armchairs, footstools, and a bar serving cocktails and snacks.

Insider Tips: Book a double sofa or a bed at the front for the ultimate experience.
Best Time to Go: Evenings for a cozy movie night.
Tickets: Available online; prices vary by seating option.
Overall Review: Great for couples looking for a unique date night; a cozy treat for solo travelers too.