29 Best Places to Visit in London

London is a city steeped in history and culture. It is considered the most visited city in the world, with over 50 million visitors annually. From Buckingham Palace to Chinatown and from London Eye to Westminster Abbey, this list will help you plan the best London tour.

Currency in London: The official currency of London is the British Pound. 1 British Pound equals 99.57 Indian Rupees as of 28th February 2022*.

*Currency rates change are subject to the market exchange rate.

If you are planning a holiday in London, here is a list of the top tourist destinations you surely do not want to miss. It includes a range of famous sights, parks, gardens, museums, shopping sites and activities that you can check out here.

You must have seen the famous spots of London in several movies and photographs. Start your London tour by visiting these places in real:

1. Notting Hill Gate, London

It is one of the multicultural and cosmopolitan areas of London that you should not miss during your visit. Historically, it used to be a street with tolling gates, which gives it its current name. You will find stunning pastel-coloured houses and vintage cars around this place. Moreover, it can offer good nightlife with multiple pubs and bars around.

• Location: Royal Borough Of Kensington & Chelsea
• Timings: 24/7
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: Tourists like exploring famous sites like Portobello Road Market, Portobello Green Market, St Lukes Mews, Notting Hill Museum of Brands. etc. You can enjoy good food from Acklam Village, the Ginstitute and the Castle Portobello.

2. Westminster, London

The House of Parliament is the focal point of Westminster and one of the most iconic buildings in London. The building, completed in 1870, is home to the House of Commons. The Palace of Westminster is also home to some great museums, such as the Museum of London, which contains a collection of historical artefacts from London's past.

• Location: Westminster, London
• Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore places like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Churchill War Rooms, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Harry Potter station, etc. Places like Cinnamon Club and the Escoffier Rooms can help you enjoy delicious meals. 

3. Piccadilly Circus, Westminster

Piccadilly Circus was designed by William Henry Fox Talbot and opened in 1864. It is located in central London between Regent Street and Oxford Street. Piccadilly Circus contains statues of Hylas and Nymphs by Charles Barry, a fountain by Alfred Gilbert, and an equestrian statue of Charles II by John Bacon.

• Location: Piccadilly line, Westminster, London.
• Timings: 24/7
• Entry Fees:Free
• Things to do: You can take historic pub tours, explore the Piccadilly Craft Market, visit the Yoma Spa and the London Reign Showclub, and catch shows at the Piccadilly Theatre.

4. Baker Street, Westminster

This is the most famous street in London. It was named after John Hunter Baker, who opened a medical practice at No. 21 in 1837. However, it was not until 1887 that the street became known as the residence of Sherlock Holmes. The building now houses an exhibition about the life of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (creator of Sherlock Holmes).

• Location: Baker St, Marylebone district, Westminster, London
• Timings: 24/7
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore stores and restaurants like Cadenhead's Whisky Shop and Tasting Room, the Barley Mow, Purl London, etc. You can also explore art through Hay Hill Gallery, Wallace Collection and Madame Tussauds London.

5. Big Ben, Westminster

London’s iconic clock tower, also known as Big Ben, is often considered one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Its impressive height of 97 metres makes it easier to attract the attention of tourists. Its clock is known for being the time signal for BBC radio, and Pugin's Gothic revival style architecture also adds to its popularity.

• Location: Westminster, London
• Timings: Monday and Friday: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 1:15 PM to 4:30 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore sites like Portcullis House, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Churchill War Rooms, Battle of Britain Monument, etc. You can also find special statues of Winston Churchill, Oliver Cromwell, Nelson Mandela, George Orwell, etc.

6. Brick Lane, Shoreditch

Brick Lane runs between Spitalfields Market on the east to Aldgate East on the west, with part of its north side falling within the city of London. The area around Brick Lane has been described as ‘the heart of Bangladeshi culture in London,’ with hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area catering to the local community's needs.

• Location: Brick Lane, Shoreditch High, East End of London
• Timings: 11 AM to 6 PM (weekends)
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can go shopping in Brick Lane Vintage Market, Brick Lane Upmarket, Backyard Market and the Old Truman Brewery. There are also pubs and restaurants like 93 Feet East, 104 Bar, and Kill The Cat.

7. Royal Observatory Greenwich, Greenwich Park

King Charles II developed the Royal Observatory Greenwich in the 17th century. Previously, scientists used it to map the stars, helping the sailors to navigate the sea. It is also popular as the Greenwich Mean Time is calculated here. Additionally, you can explore the Octagon Room, Time Galleries, Great Equatorial Telescope, Astronomers Royal Apartment, etc.

• Location: Greenwich Park, south east London
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: £16-£25 for adults, £8-£12.5 for children, £10-£16 for students under 25 
• Things to do: You can go sightseeing in places like Monumento A James Wolfe, Prime Meridian Line, Peter Harrison Planetarium, the Fan Museum, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Market, Greenwich Park, etc.

London is the perfect destination to find classy museums and galleries. Moreover, you can also plan some tours of the majestic palaces to get a hint of England’s royal touch. Here are such destinations you should not miss during your holiday in London.

8. Buckingham Palace, Westminster

Buckingham Palace is a royal residence in the City of Westminster, London. Buckingham Palace is also known as No. 10 (after its location on Downing Street). The palace has been a residence of British monarchs since 1831. It is one of the most popular tourist places in London.

• Location: London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
• Timings: 9 AM to 5:45 PM (July - October)
• Entry Fees:£24 for adults, £13.5-£22 for students and senior citizens, £13.5 for children
• Things to do: You can explore the State Rooms, the Grand Staircase, the Throne Room, Sèvres Porcelain, exhibitions. Additionally, you can take the Audio tour with King Charles III

9. National Gallery, Westminster

It is a great destination to check out some of the oldest and most popular artworks in London. Since the 13th century, this gallery has been the home to a huge collection of Western European paintings. Here, you can explore famous paintings by artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, Rubens, Cézanne, Van Gogh, etc.

• Location: Trafalgar Square, Westminster
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: Tourists prefer exploring the art from some of the top artists of London. In the surroundings, you can find National Portrait Gallery, St Martin-in-the-Fields, Garrick Theatre, Nelson's Column, etc.

10. Trafalgar Square, Westminster

Built around 1840 to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson’s victory, it is one of the most prominent landmarks in London. It highlights the rich culture and heritage of London, thereby attracting tourists and visitors throughout the year. Some of the most renowned monuments and destinations of London are located around the square.

• Location: Westminster, Central London
• Timings: 24/7
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: Some popular tourist attractions are Blame Gloria Covent Garden, Iris Theatre, London Coliseum, Duke of York's Theatre, Covent Garden, etc.

11. Sea Life Centre, Westminster

It is a popular tourist attraction located on the ground floor of County Hall on the banks of the River Thames. Here, you get to witness a wide range of marine wildlife and underwater sea creatures. You can spot starfishes at the Rockpool Explorer Zone and witness tropical fishes at the Open Ocean Zone. It also arranges fun activities like Pirate Treasure Hunt.

• Location: Waterloo, Westminster
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Starting from £39
• Things to do: You can consider sightseeing in places like Brindleyplace, Symphony Hall, Ikon Gallery, Legoland Discovery Centre, Reflex Birmingham, Pitcher & Piano, etc.

12. Hampton Court Palace, Molesey

It is another great location if you wish to learn more about the history of London. Built during the 16th century, this garden gives a hint of the royal lifestyle back in the day. All the artworks and furniture are from the 17th century. A major highlight is the 100 feet long Great Vine in a nearby conservatory house. You can explore famous paintings here, such as “Triumphs of Caesar”.

• Location: Hampton, Molesey
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Wednesday to Sunday
• Entry Fees: £26.10-£28.80 for adults, £13-£14.30 for children, £24.10 for groups
• Things to do: Popular tourist attractions include Henry VIII's Apartments and the Great Hall, William III's State & Private Apartments, the Chapel Royal, the Tudor Kitchens and Cellars, the Clock Court, Hampton Court Maze, etc.

13. Madame Tussauds London, Marylebone Road

It is one of the most popular museums, storing over 400 wax statues of the biggest personalities across the world. Open since the early 19th century, and this museum has made its place among the top attractions of London for its life-like replica of a driver range of celebrities and personalities. If you are into art and sculpture, do not miss out on this museum.

• Location: Marylebone Road
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Entry Fees: £39 for adults,£34 for children, £20-£30 for students
• Things to do: You can explore the stunning wax statues of different famous personalities, and take photographs. Places like Sherlock Holmes Memorabilia, John F. Kennedy Memorial, Saint Marylebone Parish Church, Daunt Books, etc., are in the surrounding.

14. The Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road

It is another diverse museum that tourists prefer visiting in London. Built around 1852, it has evolved to become the largest museum for applied and decorative arts and design. The museum covers over 12.5 acres, offering 145 galleries for visitors. Additionally, you can explore an impressive collection of glass, ceramics, jewellery, furniture, musical instruments, etc.

• Location: Cromwell Road
• Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore the Cast Courts, Three Graces by Antonio Canova, Constable’s paintings, the Fashion gallery, Tippoo’s tiger, etc.

15. Guildhall Art Gallery, Guildhall Yard

It is another popular art gallery in London, which you can check out if you are an art lover. It is a stunning semi-gothic building with Victorian-styled interiors. Here, you will find multiple forms of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, etc. Moreover, it reminds you of the vintage charms of London with its structure.

• Location: Guildhall Yard
• Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore the paintings, sculptures and art pieces, and take their photographs here.

16. William Morris Gallery, Forest Road

It is a public museum dedicated to William Morris, a famous art and craft designer from England. The museum includes a wide variety of creations of Morris, including fabrics, rugs, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, stained glass, etc. Additionally, in Lloyd Park, around the gallery, you can find a skate park, a cafe, artist studios, etc.

• Location: Forest Road, Lloyd Park
• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: This gallery is filled with stunning wallpapers, rugs, furniture, stained glass, carpets, etc. You can explore these. Moreover, you can treat yourself from the cafe in Lloyd Park.

London is filled with gardens and parks that tourists enjoy visiting, especially with kids. Here are some of the most popular ones.

17. St. James’ Park, Westminster

It is a royal park in London, which allows you to take lazy strolls or enjoy picnics. The gorgeous flower beds in this park ensure natural beauty. Moreover, you can enjoy the wildlife here, as this park has been the home to Pelicans for over 400 years. It is also surrounded by multiple landmarks, making it ideal for tourists.

• Location: Westminster, central London
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: Popular tourist spots include Churchill War Rooms, Trooping the Colour, the Household Cavalry Museum, Banqueting House, Whitehall, Sir Keith Park Memorial, etc.

18. Kew Gardens, Richmond

A UNESCO World Heritage site of London, Kew Garden can be perfect for a quick getaway from the hustles of the city. Sprawling over 300 acres on the banks of the river Thames, the garden has an impressive collection of 14000 species of trees. Apart from that, you can also explore the stunning glasshouses here.

• Location: Richmond, southwest London
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:15 PM
• Entry Fees: Free for children under 4, £4-£5.50 for children aged 4-15 years, £6-£10 for students aged 16-29 years
• Things to do: You can visit places like the Great Pagoda, the Japanese Landscape, the Temperate House, the Treetop Walkway, the Palm House, etc.

19. ZSL London Zoo, Regent's Park

It is one of the oldest and most scientific zoos in the world. Apart from a children's zoo, ZSL also houses a reptile house, an insect house, and an aquarium. You can spot a wide range of wildlife here. Moreover, it hosts various programs like Friendly Spider Programme, Meet the Penguins and Giraffe Keeper Experience.

• Location: Outer Cir, Regent's Park
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fees: £30-£35 for adults, £27.45-£31.95 for senior citizens and students, £19.85-£23.10 for children
• Things to do: Apart from exploring the zoo, you can also check out sites like Primrose Hill, Camden Market, Regent's Park, St Mark's Church, Jewish Museum London, etc., in the surrounding.

The markets and cafes of London will give you the closest view of the life of English people. Visit these places to have a pleasant experience:

20. Shoreditch, Borough of Hackney

Shoreditch has been the site of many famous urban renewal projects over the years, and it's now home to some of the city's most fashionable and innovative restaurants and bars. You can also find many art galleries in this part of London, which is why it's one of the best places to go if you want to see some beautiful works of art.

• Location: Shoreditch, East End of London.
• Timings: 24/7
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: There are multiple tourist attractions that you can explore here, including Columbia Road Flower Market, Museum of the Home, Dennis Severs Museum, Spitalfields Market, Libraria, etc.

21. Chinatown, Gerrard Street

Chinatown is the perfect choice if you're looking for a place to take your date on a romantic date night. This charming part of London is teeming with restaurants and bars, which will provide you with the best food and drink in the city. This area is buzzing with life with a comprehensive range of restaurants, shops, and cultural activities.

• Location: Chinatown, Gerrard Street, London
• Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: There are various attractive sites that can  be interesting for the visitors. These are Four Gates, Plum Valley, Chinese Art At CAN,  Blue Post, Experimental Cocktail Club, the 1888 Mural, the Lion Sculpture, etc.

22. Covent Garden, Long Acre

It is a popular shopping site with a bustling neighbourhood, located at the western end of London. A fruit and vegetable market previously, Covent Garden is currently the home to numerous shops and boutiques. However, you can find theatres, historical buildings, street performers, etc., in the southern end of the neighbourhood.

• Location: Long Acre, London
• Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sundays: 12 PM to 6 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore places like Neal’s Yard, Freemason’s Hall, London Transport Museum, Seven Dials Market, Rock & Sole Plaice, Lyceum Theatre, etc. 

23. Borough Market, Southwark Street

If you are a shopaholic, do not miss out on the Borough Market. It is a large wholesale and retail market in Southwark. The buildings around this place date around 1851, giving it a vintage English appearance. It is a large food market offering a diverse variety of speciality foods to the customers.

• Location: Southwark Street
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: The Shard London, Tower Bridge, the Tower Of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the HMS Belfast’s History, Winchester Palace, Southwark Cathedral, etc., are some common attractions here you should check out.

What the Statue of Liberty is to New York, the London Eye is to London. Discover the famous viewpoints of London through your own eyes:    

24. London Dungeon, Westminster

If you are interested in exploring the history of London, do not forget to visit London Dungeon. Through the dungeons, you get to walk from one show to another. These shows describe various historical incidents in a fun interactive manner, which helps the audience learn more about London. You can witness famous characters like Sweeny Todd on the way.

• Location: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road
• Timings: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry Fees: £26.5-£35 for adults
• Things to do: You can check out top sights like SEA LIFE London Aquarium, DreamWork, London Eye, Thames River, County Hall, Westminster Bridge, etc.

25. London Eye, Westminster

The London Eye Ferris wheel is located near Battersea Park and offers panoramic views over London, including Victoria Embankment and Tower Bridge. You'll be able to view Parliament Square, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben, making it an ideal way for tourists from around the world to experience what makes London so unique.

• Location: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom.
• Timings: 11 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fees: Starting from £30.50
• Things to do: You can check out tourist destinations like the London Dungeon, South Bank, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, the Boat Show Comedy Club, International Brigade Memorial, London Wonderground, etc.

26. Hyde Park, Westminster

It is another royal park in London which offers a wide range of activities to entertain visitors. You can spot numerous monuments, memorials, statues and fountains here. There is also a large bird sanctuary for lovers of wildlife. You can enjoy activities like boating, swimming, tennis, skating, horse riding, etc. Several charities, conferences and seminars are held here throughout the year.

• Location: Westminster, central London
• Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can explore sites like Marble Arch, Speakers’ Corner, the Serpentine Lake, Apsley House, the Wellington Arch, the Queen Elizabeth Gate, etc.

27. River Thames, Southern England

The Thames River cruises are one of the best ways to see London's sights without having to tread on foot. With stops at Tower Bridge, Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and Charing Cross stations, you can explore each area and take in some great views.

• Location: Thames River, southern England, United Kingdom
• Timings: Open 24/7
• Entry Fees: Free
• Things to do: You can admire the beauty of the river, take a cruise or enjoy high-speed Thames speedboat rides. Along the banks, you can notice multiple historical towers and monuments along the banks and enjoy delicious meals from the restaurants.

28. British Film Institute (BFI), Lambeth

The British Film Institute (BFI) is one of the best places to visit in London. It provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about the city's film industry and history. Its core purpose is to collect and preserve moving image materials relating to cinema history and promote the understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of moving image culture.

• Location: Lambeth, London, UK
• Timings: 11 AM to 8:45 PM
• Entry Fees: €13.75
• Things to do: There are walking tours you can take here, such as the James Bond Film Location Walking Tour and the Wizard Walk (Harry Potter Tour). You can also enjoy the London by Night Open Top Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and the High-Speed Thames River RIB Cruise in London.

29. Warner Bros. Studio, Watford

If you are a film buff, a tour of the Warner Bros. Studio is probably on your bucket list. Located in Leavesden, this studio offers a glance at the making of famous movies like Harry Potter. You can get a personalised experience of the popular characters of this series. Moreover, you can witness various artefacts, costumes and souvenirs from the sets of the movie.

• Location: Leavesden, Watford
• Timings: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM
• Entry Fees: Studio tour fee starts from £51.50
• Things to do: You can take tours in the studio to learn all about the films and their making. In the surroundings, you can find sites like Cheslyn House & Gardens, Escape Hunt Watford, Cassiobury Park, the Snow Centre, the Cooking Academy, etc.