The Hottest Spots to Visit in London

When in London, you can't miss exploring its beauty. The capital of the United Kingdom is peppered with modern architecture, and the historical monuments-Shard line is one of them. You'll see many coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and more. Furthermore, you'll find the Parliament Houses, Big Ben Tower, Westminster Abbey, and an everlasting beauty-the River Thames at the city's center.

Across the River Thames, you can observe the panoramic views of the South Bank and the entire city. With London providing so many picturesque vacation spots, it's one of the most visited cities, with over 20 million visitors each year. As a result, your phone's gallery storage will be exhausted with many fascinating attractions to see. But it'll be worth it.

Should you go to enjoy the calmness of a lush green garden first, have coffee at one of the best Cafes, take a flight on London Eye, or visit any other spot. We know you must be puzzled in choosing how and where to begin. This post will take you through the top attractions in the city to visit. You'll learn about things to do in London, where to stay, and restaurants to try.

Without further ado, let's begin!

The place where Queen the Great lived is one of London's most iconic places to visit. Here, the parades and marches take place. The crowd gathers at 11:30 am and follows the marching guards showing them the sites between the palace. This historic palace was built in Queen Victoria's times. Since then, it's been in the accession of the Royal Family. So now you must be wondering whether the Queen will be there when you visit or not. To figure this out, look atop the flagpole of the building; if the flag is flying day and night, she's at home.

2. Visit the Tower of London

If you want to know about the history of the City, The Tower of London is your go-to place. It's one of the most popular attractions, with many state secrets buried inside it for years. This place is where two princes disappeared and never came back. It has served different roles from the treasure vault to the zoo and from prison to palace. Inside this picturesque massive White Tower, great royal armaments and armor are present. This Tower, built-in 1078 by William the Conqueror, displays a Jewels Crown, the Royal Mint, the Beefeater, and the executions inside this palace. This place is also known as the Bloody Tower due to its history of cruelties.

3. Walk Across the Tower Bridge

You may have seen pictures of London's Tower bridge and wished to visit it someday. When you're in the city of your dreams, grab the chance to walk across the bridge. It's built 2 feet above the river Thames where you can see the enormous adjacent towers and the beauty of London. You can explore more while passing through the bridge. You'll find a well-known area south of the bridge, i.e., Butler's Wharf, with many restaurants. Moving along, you'll have the most fun moments, and you must not forget to capture the pretty view of London.

4. The British Museum

If you plan to visit a spot with family, the British Museum is a must. With more than 13 million artifacts from all over the world, this museum has a vast collection of antiquities from China, Europe, Babylonia, and so much more. Upon entering the museum, many people start by visiting the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Rosetta Stone, the colossal bust of Ramesses II, and the Egyptian mummies. However, suppose you want to spend more time in the museum. In that case, there's a bookstore with books on architectural and ancient history, a kid's games shop, and replica sculptures and jewelry stores. Not to forget, the museum has a restaurant and cafe too.

5. Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

Nothing represents London more loudly than the world-famous, 316 feet tall, Big Ben Tower. While moving ahead, you'll find the Houses of Parliament across the River Thames. If you want to glance at its best view, you can see it by walking across the Westminster Bridge and turning around to look back. If not, you can get an excellent view from the London Sea Life Aquarium. You'll find a place as eye-catching and touristy with a historical background only in London. Furthermore, you can capture a group photo with your friends or family with Big Ben Tower in the background. We bet you'll love it.

6. The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square holds the massive National Gallery Museum, home to many incredible pieces. In London, The National Gallery is a must-see place to visit. It's ranked among the top art museums in the world. This museum displays a survey of European paintings from 1260 until 1920. Collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries are there to find the most moving artwork in the museum. Other highlights include a sketch of Madonna, The Water-Lily Pond by Monet, the painting of a Child by Leonardo De Vinci, Michelangelo's The Entombment, Botticelli's Venus and Mars, and van Gogh's Sunflowers. You'll have the best time there.

7. Top of The Shard

This contemporary architectural landmark opened its way to tourists in 2012. It's 1016 feet tall, standing at 95 stories. It looks fantastic and gives a shiny look on the outside, but on the inside, it's pure class with stunning views. Furthermore, the building got its name due to its uncanny resemblance to a shard of glass. Not only this, but it also has restaurants with office space in the lower section. As you proceed, you'll explore the beautiful view of the city, and upon reaching the top of the Shard, you'll be able to snap unforgettable pictures.

8. Westminster Abbey

Do you want to know more about the British Royalty? First, you must visit Webminster's Abbey. It's a historical place where the Coronations have been held since 1066 and has burials of kings and queens. Nowadays, it's the chosen spot, for now, sixteen Royal Weddings. In addition, this place was rebuilt by King Henry III with famous gothic-style architecture and is now one of the most incredible tourist attractions in London. Other highlights include the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, the attractive gardens, and Poet's Corner in the Transepts, with its memorials to the favorites of Shakespeare, Chaucer, Dickens, and the Westminster Abbey Museum.

9. Hyde Park

Are your eyes eager to see the lush green garden beds providing serene views? Then, you're in the right place. Board a bus and head towards Hyde Park. Hyde Park is one of the iconic London destinations covering 350 acres of land. The first highlight of the park is Serpentine, an artificial lake famous for boating and swimming. While you go ahead, you'll find a forum for free speech at the park. You'll come across a few other highlights, such as the former home of the first Duke of Wellington, Apsley House, and the Wellington arc, where England's greatest hero is commemorated. You can also find a few other parks, such as Regent's Park.

10. The Dome of St. Paul's Cathedral

One of the top things to do in London is to explore the St. Paul's Cathedral, which was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666 and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. This Cathedral is one of London's largest and most famous ones and sits atop the site of a Roman Temple. In today's era, the Baroque twin towers and the Dome of St. Paul's Cathedral are the masterpiece of architecture in the English world. So do not forget to visit it, walk up the stairs and catch the magnificent view of the dome and cityscape. You'll also come across the Whispering gallery, one of London's best things to visit.

Top 5 Tour Ideas to Try in London

1. Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio in London

For fun activities to do in London, you can go on a Day tour to Harry Potter's Studio by Warner Bros. This tour package involves visiting the studio from London in air-conditioned transport. When you reach the studio, the Hogwarts wizards will welcome you and lead you inside the magnificent studio. You'll find the Diagon Alley, wizards' broomstick, steaming train at the station, and much more. You can go there along with your family. Your kids will love watching the magical scenes.

Furthermore, the activity will let you get on the train along with other participants, take a ride on the broomstick, and watch the behind-the-scenes of the film. Then you'll move to the Diagon Alley and explore the fronts of the Ollivander's Magical Wands shop and the Gringotts Bank. As you proceed further, you can capture the shots of Platform 9 ¾ and watch the steam blowing from the Hogwarts Express. You'll now explore Dumbledore's office and some never-seen treasures.

Lastly, you'll learn how J.K Rowling's books came to life through animations and effects. When the tour ends, you'll board the coach and return to London.

This tour involves a coach, tour guide, admission to the places you visit, and a personal audio headset. Start from Windsor Castle, move to Stonehenge, and explore the famous Roman Baths to embark upon the journey.

You're brought to explore Windsor Castle, where the Royal Family lives. Continuing the castle's tour will take you to the State Apartments and St George's Chapel. Then you'll visit the west of London to Salisbury, home to fascinating formations of Stonehenge rocks. The end of your tour will take place at the bath. It is known for its marvelous Georgian architecture and Roman baths. You and your family will have some good fun there. Finally, you'll get in the coach, bid farewell to these unique spots, and return to London.

Are you planning to go on a date or enjoy some time alone while experiencing the beautiful views of the city? Worry not. You can buy a one-day ticket to the London dinner cruise, which will float on the River Thames while you dine. When you board the boat, you'll visit the inner and outer views and the view above the deck of the Cruise. The food serving will begin in the evening when you get a four-course British meal and a fine wine.

While enjoying the meal, you'll experience the most transcendent views from inside the Cruise. You'll enjoy it even more when the Cruise passes the Shard, Big Ben, London Eye, and the London Tower. After dinner, you can enjoy the music and take in the atmosphere.

Do you want to escape the hustle-bustle of London? You can visit the countryside with this one-day tour package. It takes you from London to Cotswolds, one of the most beautiful regions to visit near London. On the way to Cotswolds, you'll come across many village houses and learn about the villagers, their lives, and more. The package involves a two-course lunch at a hotel built in the heart of Cotswolds.

You'll have the entire day to explore the region. You'll go through the place where Shakespeare lived. Furthermore, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold are some of the central areas you'll see.

Top 3 Hotels to Stay in London

London is full of hotels to choose from luxurious to mid-range to inexpensive, worth every penny.

Top Luxury Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is an Edwardian hotel ideally located in a quiet and peaceful central location in Knightsbridge on the edge of Hyde Park. It was recently refurbished over two years, beginning in 2016, but was forced to close in June 2018 due to a massive roof fire. It has now reopened in its entirety, with a new look and the feeling of a fresh start.

This old 186-room hotel is a class act that lives up to its good name. The five-star hotel expertly blends attractive modern and classic British architecture. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with flat-screen televisions, well-stocked minibars, and marble bathrooms with heated toilet seats. Among the highlights are the beautiful spa with a vast pool, restaurants with well-known chefs, and a 24-hour gym.

Top Mid-Range Hotel: Park Plaza Country Hall

There are plenty of mid-range hotels in London with services to make you feel like a VIP. Park Plaza County Hall is one of them. The location of the Park Plaza County Hall hotel is its main strength as most of the prominent landmarks of the capital are within walking distance. It is situated on the south bank, close to several of London's renowned attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Shrek's Adventure, London Dungeons, and the London Eye.

This hotel's 399 rooms, apartments, and suites are sleek with floor-to-ceiling windows and facilities like flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, microwaves, and mini-fridges. The bathrooms are contemporary and classy, with walk-in showers, anti-steam mirrors, and Elemis toiletries. The property highlights include an Italian restaurant, a vibrant café bar, a stunning central atrium, and a spa.

Top Budget Hotel: Premier Inn London Tower Bridge Hotel

Premier Inn London Tower Bridge Hotel is an excellent choice if you are tight on budget and want to spend more on exploring the city. This hotel offers a clean and comfortable place at the most reasonable prices. The hotel lies on Tower Bridge Road in central London, close to Tower Bridge, the Thames, City Hall, and The Shard.

The Premier Inn Tower Bridge London features 196 modern rooms with all the necessities for a pleasant stay. Standard facilities include large flat-screen TVs, electric kettles with complimentary tea and coffee, air conditioning, and luxurious Hypnos beds. There is free Wi-Fi; however, it might be slow at times.

Top 5 Places to Eat in London

Restaurants in London are broad, innovative, and constantly entertaining. It's a kaleidoscope of varied cuisines and tastes. Here is a list of the top 5 restaurants in London that you should try.

1. Bonoo Indian Tapas

A tapas-style Indian restaurant features menu selections inspired from all around India. Bonoo is noted for its excellent customer service and helpful staff. You will undoubtedly like the charming ambiance and exquisite decor. The couches and gorgeous murals add a splash of color to this contemporary eatery.
Many visitors come for the lamb curry, chicken tikka, and lamb cutlets. Still, an Indian restaurant is a vegetarian's dream; even the most adamant carnivore will want to try vegetarian delicacies. You can choose between nine vegetarian curries. In addition, visitors can choose from various tasty beers, Indian wines, and liqueurs.

675 Finchley Road, Child's Hill, London NW2 2JP
+44 20 7794 8899
Website

2. Hibox

Hibox is a Palestinian and Lebanese restaurant that offers a variety of salads, falafels, wraps, vegetables, and juices. The restaurant's 'Boom Boom Boxes,' which comprise wraps and salad, are very popular with guests. Prices are also reasonable here. The most costly dish is the £10 made of your huge cold box; however, most items are priced between £5 and £7.50. The staff is quite courteous (playing up to their advertising tagline of "happiness in a box"), and the portions are pretty generous.

48 Goodge St, London W1T 4LX, United Kingdom
+44 20 7580 9312
Website

3. De Vine Restaurant Coffee Bar

Look no further if you want delicious meals served fresh daily at affordable prices. De Vine Restaurant and Coffee Bar is a family-run café that serves breakfast and lunch in the Tower Hill area. They specialize in all-day breakfasts, freshly prepared hot and cold sandwiches, deep-filled jacket potatoes, omelets, homemade hot dishes, and delicious freshly brewed tea and coffees. The café, located just a short distance from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, can accommodate groups of any size, large or tiny, in a calm and pleasant ambiance.

19 Vine St, London EC3N 2PX, United Kingdom
+44 20 7488 9929
Website

4. Scarlett Green

Scarlett Green is a two-story Soho restaurant with palm-print menus, dusty pink plates, and marble-topped tables. At this restaurant, the courteous waiters exhibit a high degree of excellence. For the quality you get, the prices are reasonable. The magnificent décor and welcoming ambiance make visitors feel at ease.

Indulge in some delicious cod filet, grilled prawns, and poached eggs, or satisfy your sweet tooth with banana pancakes, raspberry cheesecakes, or doughnuts. Enhance your dinner with pink prosecco, mimosas, or gin martinis.

19 Vine St, London EC3N 2PX, United Kingdom
+44 20 7488 9929

Website

5. Nora Café

Nora Café is an English-style café serving delectable breakfasts, creamy coffees, and mouthwatering desserts. The chefs here make savory bacon and sausages. Begin your lunch with a beautiful coffee, smoothie, or tea. This café is known for its excellent service and courteous staff who are always willing to assist you. This establishment's affordable prices are lovely news for its customers. The pleasant ambiance is also noteworthy.

9 Wentworth St, London E1 7TB, United Kingdom
+44 20 7247 4992
Website