London is one of the most modern, cosmopolitan and vibrant cities in the world. It’s a city with an incessant rhythm, constantly moving day and night. It has so much to see and do that you’ll need more than one city break to get to grips with it.
The British capital is one of the most complete cities in the world and offers tourist attractions like few other cities, the best art galleries and museums in the world, lively neighbourhoods and first-class restaurants serving the best cuisines in the world. In addition, Voyage Privé also offers deals for the capital so you can save some money on your visit.
To make the most of your time there, here are the best things to do in London. Don’t miss out!
1. Visit Westminster Abbey
Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, it holds the honour of being the oldest in the city, so it must be included in the list of things to see in London. As well as housing the tombs of some monarchs and illustrious figures, such as Isaac Newton, for more than a thousand years, it is the place where the coronations of kings and even some royal weddings are held, such as that of Kate Middleton and William of Cambridge.
Its interior is a succession of rooms and chapels steeped in history and symbolism. Of particular note are the Poets’ Corner, Lady Chapel, the cloisters, the Chapter House and St Edward’s Throne. The entrance fee is 23 pounds.
2. Take a Cruise on the Thames
One of the most special ways to get to know London is by taking a boat trip on the Thames. There are several tour companies that run these tours, each of which offer different routes, although in general they all pass by the most popular tourist attractions such as Westminster and the Tower of London.
A tour of this type usually costs around £20. With the London Pass you can take one of these tours which take in the main attractions along the banks of the Thames and allows you to hop on and off at your leisure for a day.
3. Watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, which Londoners call “the palace”, is the official residence of the British royal family and the venue for royal receptions. It can be visited inside, but only from July to September, which coincides with the royal family’s holidays.
In front of its main façade, the famous Changing of the Guard takes place (at 11am every morning). It is one of the most typical things to see in London and every day this event attracts hundreds of people.
4. Ride the London Eye
Also known as the Millennium Wheel, it is one of London’s most popular and recognisable icons. At 135 metres high, it was the highest in the world until 2006, when it was taken over by the Chinese Nanchang.
If you want to enjoy one of the best views of the city, with the Thames and Big Ben as protagonists, climb up to one of its 30 cabins. Of course, as it is one of the most visited places in London (it receives more than three million visitors a year), there are always long queues, so it is advisable to buy your ticket in advance, especially if you are on a tight schedule.
5. Delve into the ancient world at the British Museum
The British Museum is one of the most important museums in the country and also one of the most visited, as it receives more than five million visitors a year. A place that holds thousands of years of history, a visit to the British Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in London.
It houses more than eight million ancient objects relating to archaeology, history, art and ethnography from all over the world, especially Rome, Greece, Egypt and America. Some call it the world’s largest centre of plunder. Considering the origin of many of its pieces, there is a great deal of truth in this.
6. Drink tea
If there is one custom that Londoners have been devoutly practising since the 19th century, it is tea, always accompanied by pastries, and usually at around 5pm.
Although you will find hundreds of places to do so, some of the most popular addresses are Claridge’s Hotel (Brook St, Mayfair, on the corner of Brook Street and Davis Street), The Chesterfield Hotel (35 Charles St, Mayfair) or The Berkeley (Wilton Pl, Knightsbridge).
7. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral
The monumental St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s architectural treasures. Survivor of the Nazi bombings and protagonist of some historic events, such as the wedding of Diana of Wales and Charles of England or Churchill’s funeral.
Built on Ludgate Hill, it stands out for its impeccable Baroque façade. Inside, the frescoes that decorate the ceiling, the Whispering Galleries and the Stone Gallery, which requires a climb of more than 300 steps.
