London Highlights
Dive into the electric heart of the United Kingdom with our highlights guide to London, a city where 2,000 years of history meet cutting-edge modern culture. From the crown jewels glinting in the Tower of London to the panoramic, Manhattan-style views at Madison rooftop, we uncover the essential experiences that make this metropolis a global icon.
Top Attractions:
Saint Paul’s Cathedral
Wallace Collection
Tower of London
Buckingham Palace Tour
Where to Stay:
DoubleTreet London Hilton West End
See details below on our highest rated attractions in England. For a planned day-by-day attraction itinerary, recommendations on restaurants, hotels, and more see our PDF download guide
London - Top Attractions
British Museum - One of the world's greatest museums, this vast institution houses a permanent collection of eight million works, documenting the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present. Must-see artifacts include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, and the Egyptian mummies. Entrance is free, so you can focus your time on the galleries that interest you most and visit more than once throughout your trip!
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Westminster Area Photos - Big Ben & Parliament - Some of London’s most iconic sights - the dazzling clock tower and the home of the UK’s government. The Houses of Parliament, officially the Palace of Westminster, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture situated on the River Thames.
Buckingham Palace - This is the official residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. While the exterior is magnificent, your tour will allow you to see the opulent State Rooms, which are used by the Royal Family to host official functions and welcome guests.
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Wallace Collection - A national museum housed in the magnificent Hertford House in London's Marylebone district. It is renowned for its remarkable collection of 18th-century French paintings, decorative arts, and exquisite furniture, alongside a significant array of Old Master paintings. The museum also holds one of the finest collections of armour and weaponry in the world. Its intimate scale and preserved historic setting offer visitors a unique and sophisticated glimpse into the private tastes of the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace who assembled the collection. Entry to view the collection is free for all visitors.
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Queen’s Walk / Tower Bridge - Stroll along the Queen’s Walk on the South Bank to capture the best photos of Tower Bridge and the city's modern skyscrapers. Walking across the bridge itself is a classic London experience, offering views of the river traffic below and the historic HMS Belfast nearby.
Tower of London - Discover nearly 1,000 years of history at this UNESCO World Heritage site, which has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a fortress. Make sure to join a tour led by a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) or leverage the free audio tour (make sure to bring headphones) and visit the Martin Tower to see the breathtaking Crown Jewels.
Westminster Abbey - Step inside this architectural masterpiece to see the site of every British coronation since 1066 and the burial place of legendary figures like Isaac Newton and Charles Dickens. You can explore the stunning Lady Chapel and the historic Coronation Chair used by King Charles III.
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Top Restaurants in London:
Swiss Butter: This restaurant is known for its secret sauce and straightforward high-value menu. The restaurant focuses on just three main protein options—steak, chicken, or salmon—each served drenched in a rich, green, 33-ingredient secret butter sauce alongside crispy fries, a fresh mesclun salad, and warm baguette.
The Madison Restaurant - This restaurant and bar has dramatic, close-up views of the dome of St Paul's Cathedral. The venue features a sleek, open-plan interior with floor-to-ceiling windows and several large outdoor terraces equipped with heaters and umbrellas for year-round use.
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The King’s Arm Mayfair: We highly enjoyed this classic British pub located near Buckingham Palace. Make sure to try the scotch egg, as well as the steak and ale pie!
