If there’s one city that I’ll never get tired of visiting, it has to be London. Every time I land here, the vibe, the history, and the mix of modern life with old-world charm captivate me. On my last trip, I planned my itinerary carefully, and along with visiting iconic attractions, I also made time for local dining, hotels, and even a lively evening at a casino. In this blog, I’ll share with you the best 5 places to visit in London, along with a few personal recommendations that I think will make your trip more memorable.
Why London Should Be on Your Travel List
London is not just the capital of England, it’s a city that feels like the center of the world. From centuries-old landmarks to trendy restaurants, from royal palaces to buzzing markets, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. Personally, I feel London is best enjoyed when you mix sightseeing with local experiences, like trying authentic fish and chips, staying in a stylish hotel, or spending an evening at a rooftop bar.
Top 5 Must-Visit Places in London
1. The Tower of London – A Royal Walk into History
Whenever I step into the Tower of London, I feel like I’m entering a live history book. This fortress is almost 1,000 years old and has been everything from a palace to a prison. I highly recommend joining a Yeoman Warder tour—they make history fun and engaging.
- Don’t miss the Crown Jewels; they’re breathtaking.
- It’s best to book tickets online in advance to save time.
Personal Tip: After exploring, I enjoyed lunch at Coppa Club Tower Bridge nearby, a restaurant famous for its glass igloos overlooking the Thames.
2. Buckingham Palace – The Royal Experience
You can’t visit London without seeing Buckingham Palace. Watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of those bucket-list experiences. The palace itself is grand, and the energy of the crowd makes it even more exciting.
- The ceremony usually takes place around 11:00 AM, so arrive early for a good spot.
- If you visit in summer, some palace rooms are open to the public.
Where I Stayed Nearby: On one of my trips, I booked a room at The Goring Hotel, a luxury stay just steps away from the palace. It’s elegant, comfortable, and very British in style.
3. The British Museum – A World of Wonders
The British Museum is a treasure chest of world history. What amazes me most is that entry is free! From Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone, I could spend an entire day here.
- Perfect for history lovers.
- Free guided tours are available throughout the day.
Personal Recommendation: After my museum visit, I stopped at Dishoom Covent Garden for dinner. Their Indian-style dishes, especially the black daal, are a must-try.
4. London Eye – A Ride with a View
For one of the best city views, I always recommend the London Eye. Sitting inside one of the glass capsules, watching the city skyline unfold, is magical—especially at sunset.
- The ride takes about 30 minutes.
- For fewer crowds, visit early morning or late evening.
My Experience: After my ride, I spent an evening at the Hippodrome Casino, located near Leicester Square. It’s lively, fun, and a great way to add a little sparkle to your night in London.
5. Camden Market – A Food and Shopping Paradise
If you want to see London’s quirky, fun, and artistic side, Camden Market is the place. From vintage clothing stalls to unique street food, it’s buzzing with energy. I had the best falafel wrap of my life here!
- Open daily, but weekends are busiest.
- Great spot to buy souvenirs or try international cuisines.
Insider Tip: I recommend staying in a boutique hotel like The Standard, London, which is trendy, comfortable, and close to many attractions including Camden.
A Few More Recommendations for Your Trip
Best Hotels in London I Loved
- The Ritz London – For a luxurious royal feel.
- Premier Inn London City – Budget-friendly and comfortable.
- The Z Hotel Shoreditch – Modern, compact, and perfect for solo travelers.
Restaurants That Made My Trip Memorable
- Sketch, Mayfair – Famous for its artistic interiors and fine dining.
- Flat Iron – For mouth-watering steaks at reasonable prices.
- Duck & Waffle – A 24/7 restaurant with an amazing city view.
Conclusion – My Tips for Visiting London
London is a city that never disappoints. Whether you’re into history, royal experiences, museums, or markets, you’ll find something that excites you. But here are a few do’s and don’ts from my own experience:
Do’s
- Do buy an Oyster Card for easy travel on buses and the underground.
- Do book tickets online for attractions like the London Eye or Tower of London.
- Do explore local pubs; they’re the heart of London’s culture.
Don’ts
- Don’t try to cover everything in one trip—London is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
- Don’t ignore the weather forecast; London can be unpredictable.
- Don’t stick only to the big attractions—spend time in local neighborhoods.
If you’re planning your London adventure, I’d say mix the famous spots with a few hidden gems. Trust me, that’s how you’ll fall in love with the city just like I did!