Published on 2 October 2024 Last updated on 28 December 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off
London is one of the world’s largest cities and is known for its many historical and cultural sites. Yet, it’s impossible to see everything in a single city break. That’s why this blog post provides an overview of ten popular sights in London, supplemented with practical tips based on my travel experience.
Famous sights in London
Below you will find an overview of the ten most visited sights in London.
1. Big Ben
Big Ben is one of London’s most famous landmarks. Its name officially refers to the large bell in the Elizabeth Tower. This bell weighs approximately 13,760 kilograms (30,000 pounds) and is among the heaviest bells in the world.
The tower is part of the Palace of Westminster. Since 1859, the bell has chimed every hour. Furthermore, its four clock faces are visible from various points along the River Thames. Each clock face has a diameter of approximately seven meters (23 feet) and hangs at a height of approximately 97 meters (317 feet).
2. Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster houses the British Parliament. The complex comprises hundreds of rooms, several towers, and miles of corridors. The building is also built in the Victorian Gothic style.
The most famous tower is the Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben. Because the building plays a central role in British politics, it is a key landmark for many visitors walking through Westminster.
3. Tower of London
The Tower of London is located on the River Thames and was built in the 11th century by order of William the Conqueror. Over the centuries, the complex has served various purposes, including a royal palace, a prison, and the repository of the Crown Jewels.
Today, the Tower is one of London’s most visited historic sites. You can explore the grounds with an admission ticket. The Crown Jewels are part of the permanent exhibition.
The Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge that connects the banks of the Thames. Opened in 1894, it is located near the Tower of London.
Walking across the bridge is free. You can also visit the upper walkways with a ticket. From there, you have views of the river and the surrounding city.
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. Built in the eighteenth century, it has 775 rooms and is located on the edge of St. James’s Park.
At certain times of the year, parts of the palace are open to visitors. You can also witness the Changing of the Guard outside the palace.
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard usually takes place in the morning. The ceremony is open to the public and free to watch. Because this event attracts many visitors, it’s wise to arrive early.
The London Eye is a large Ferris wheel on the south bank of the Thames. It is 135 meters high and consists of 32 enclosed cabins. A full rotation takes approximately 30 minutes.
During the ride, you’ll see parts of central London, including Westminster and the river. A ticket is required for a ride, which can be purchased in advance.
Piccadilly Circus is a busy intersection and square in central London. The area is known for its large digital billboards and the Eros fountain.
The square is surrounded by shops, theaters, restaurants, and cinemas, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
8. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is located in the Westminster Borough and was built in the 19th century. The square is known for Nelson’s Column and the bronze lion statues.
The National Gallery is also located on the square. This makes Trafalgar Square a popular destination for museum visits or a stroll through the city center. Charing Cross Underground station is a short distance away.
9. St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is located in London’s financial center. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral’s dome is over 111 meters high and visible from various points in the city.
Inside, you can visit the crypt, among other things. Galleries in the dome also offer views across London. A ticket is required to visit the cathedral.
Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in central London. Together with Kensington Gardens, it forms a large green space of approximately 350 hectares.
The park features walking paths, water features, and various monuments, such as the Diana Memorial Fountain. Hyde Park is open daily and free to visitors.
My experience with the sights in London
During my visits to London, I’ve discovered that it’s impossible to see everything in a single city break. I’ve personally visited the ten sights I describe in this blog post and consider them worthwhile for a first city break to London.
My tips for your visit to London
Finally, I have a few practical tips for your visit to London.
1. Plan your route in advance
Check in advance which attractions you want to visit and in what order. This will save you time and prevent excessive walking.
2. Be aware of waiting times
Queues can be long, especially at popular attractions like the London Eye or the Tower of London. Allow extra time for this.
3. Use combination tickets or city passes
Many attractions offer combination tickets or passes that allow you to visit multiple locations for a fixed price. This can save time and money.
4. Check opening hours
Some attractions have different opening hours on public holidays or weekends. Check this before you go.
Edward
Hi, I'm Edward and I love city breaks. Over the past few years, I've visited many cities in Europe and the US, and on Cities To Travel, I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and recommendations to help you plan your next city break.
Disclaimer: Some links in this blog are affiliate links. If you book through these links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Sights in London: Tips and Practical Information
London is one of the world’s largest cities and is known for its many historical and cultural sites. Yet, it’s impossible to see everything in a single city break. That’s why this blog post provides an overview of ten popular sights in London, supplemented with practical tips based on my travel experience.
Famous sights in London
Below you will find an overview of the ten most visited sights in London.
1. Big Ben
Big Ben is one of London’s most famous landmarks. Its name officially refers to the large bell in the Elizabeth Tower. This bell weighs approximately 13,760 kilograms (30,000 pounds) and is among the heaviest bells in the world.
The tower is part of the Palace of Westminster. Since 1859, the bell has chimed every hour. Furthermore, its four clock faces are visible from various points along the River Thames. Each clock face has a diameter of approximately seven meters (23 feet) and hangs at a height of approximately 97 meters (317 feet).
2. Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster houses the British Parliament. The complex comprises hundreds of rooms, several towers, and miles of corridors. The building is also built in the Victorian Gothic style.
The most famous tower is the Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben. Because the building plays a central role in British politics, it is a key landmark for many visitors walking through Westminster.
3. Tower of London
The Tower of London is located on the River Thames and was built in the 11th century by order of William the Conqueror. Over the centuries, the complex has served various purposes, including a royal palace, a prison, and the repository of the Crown Jewels.
Today, the Tower is one of London’s most visited historic sites. You can explore the grounds with an admission ticket. The Crown Jewels are part of the permanent exhibition.
4. Tower Bridge
The Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge that connects the banks of the Thames. Opened in 1894, it is located near the Tower of London.
Walking across the bridge is free. You can also visit the upper walkways with a ticket. From there, you have views of the river and the surrounding city.
5. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. Built in the eighteenth century, it has 775 rooms and is located on the edge of St. James’s Park.
At certain times of the year, parts of the palace are open to visitors. You can also witness the Changing of the Guard outside the palace.
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard usually takes place in the morning. The ceremony is open to the public and free to watch. Because this event attracts many visitors, it’s wise to arrive early.
6. London Eye
The London Eye is a large Ferris wheel on the south bank of the Thames. It is 135 meters high and consists of 32 enclosed cabins. A full rotation takes approximately 30 minutes.
During the ride, you’ll see parts of central London, including Westminster and the river. A ticket is required for a ride, which can be purchased in advance.
7. Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a busy intersection and square in central London. The area is known for its large digital billboards and the Eros fountain.
The square is surrounded by shops, theaters, restaurants, and cinemas, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
8. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is located in the Westminster Borough and was built in the 19th century. The square is known for Nelson’s Column and the bronze lion statues.
The National Gallery is also located on the square. This makes Trafalgar Square a popular destination for museum visits or a stroll through the city center. Charing Cross Underground station is a short distance away.
9. St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is located in London’s financial center. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral’s dome is over 111 meters high and visible from various points in the city.
Inside, you can visit the crypt, among other things. Galleries in the dome also offer views across London. A ticket is required to visit the cathedral.
10. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in central London. Together with Kensington Gardens, it forms a large green space of approximately 350 hectares.
The park features walking paths, water features, and various monuments, such as the Diana Memorial Fountain. Hyde Park is open daily and free to visitors.
My experience with the sights in London
During my visits to London, I’ve discovered that it’s impossible to see everything in a single city break. I’ve personally visited the ten sights I describe in this blog post and consider them worthwhile for a first city break to London.
My tips for your visit to London
Finally, I have a few practical tips for your visit to London.
1. Plan your route in advance
Check in advance which attractions you want to visit and in what order. This will save you time and prevent excessive walking.
2. Be aware of waiting times
Queues can be long, especially at popular attractions like the London Eye or the Tower of London. Allow extra time for this.
3. Use combination tickets or city passes
Many attractions offer combination tickets or passes that allow you to visit multiple locations for a fixed price. This can save time and money.
4. Check opening hours
Some attractions have different opening hours on public holidays or weekends. Check this before you go.
Edward
Hi, I'm Edward and I love city breaks. Over the past few years, I've visited many cities in Europe and the US, and on Cities To Travel, I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and recommendations to help you plan your next city break.
Special offers for London attractions
Are you going on a city trip to London and would you like to visit a few sights? Then take advantage of the offers below!
Disclaimer: Some links in this blog are affiliate links. If you book through these links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
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