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London travel guide
London is easier to enjoy when you combine free museums, walkable neighborhoods, and a few advance-booked attractions.
Build your London trip
Four decisions make a useful starting point: where to stay, how to spend three days, what to budget, and which visits to book ahead.
Where to stay in London: South Bank, Bloomsbury, or Paddington?
Choose a workable station and an evening setting, then compare hotel totals.
Read planning guide →Three days in London: landmarks, neighborhoods, and breathing room
Group nearby visits together and choose one main paid experience per day at most.
Read planning guide →London trip budget: a three-night planning worksheet
A worked example for two adults sharing one room, with three nights and three full sightseeing days. All figures are assumptions in GBP, not live quotes.
Read planning guide →London attractions: what to book before your trip
Reserve the experiences that need a particular date, then protect some flexibility for museums, neighborhoods, and weather.
Read planning guide →Choose your London experiences
Compare the options before adding another paid activity to your itinerary.
Thames sightseeing cruise or a riverside walk?
Choose between a seated overview and a flexible route with stops whenever you like.
Compare options →Tower of London or Westminster Abbey: choosing one paid visit
When time or budget allows only one, choose the history and setting that interest you most.
Compare options →Is a London sightseeing pass worth it?
Run the numbers for attractions you actually intend to visit before buying a bundle.
Compare options →Getting oriented in London
See central London on foot
A walk around Westminster, St James’s Park, and the South Bank offers classic views. Allow extra time for busy crossings and large crowds.
Take advantage of museums
Many major permanent collections offer free admission, though special exhibitions may cost extra and timed tickets may be recommended.
Explore distinct neighborhoods
Covent Garden, Borough Market, Greenwich, and Notting Hill each offer a different pace. Avoid trying to visit all of them in one day.
Plan transport
Contactless payment and Oyster options are widely used. Check Transport for London for fares, service disruptions, and airport connections.
Practical tip
Bring a light rain layer and build indoor alternatives into your plans.