Allie Hubers Visiting London for the first time? The city is packed with history, culture, and iconic sights, but it can also be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Our guide covers the best of London, from famous landmarks to hidden gems, without rushing through everything.
I’ve visited London seven different times and even lived in the city for a study abroad course. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world, even after visiting 64 different countries.
Luckily, most of London’s must-see places are within the same area of the city. Even if you’re short on time, you can easily see the most famous landmarks in London within one or two days.
Be sure to follow our guide to make the most of your first visit to London with a perfect one-day itinerary of the main sights.
Navigation tips: What’s the best way to get around London?
Navigating the city is a breeze, thanks to its highly-efficient public metro system. If you’re looking to get your steps in, you can also walk to and from most of the iconic locations of London. This is my preferred way of exploring the city and taking in the sights.
If it’s rainy — and there’s a good chance it might be — you’ll want to take advantage of the public transport. You can also save time by utilizing the Tube or double-decker busses to get around.
Here are some key navigation tips to help you get around London with ease on your first visit:
- Contactless payment: The easiest and cheapest way to pay for public transport is through contactless payment. Simply tap your credit card or phone when entering and exiting The Tube, buses, and trains.
- The Tube (London Underground): A fast, efficient subway system with color-coded lines. Mind the gap!
- Double-decker buses: Scenic and budget-friendly public transport. Routes like #11 and #15 pass major sights. Yes, they are real and functional!
- Walk when possible: Many top attractions are within walking distance.
- Use your phone: Apple Maps and Google Maps provide easy walking and public transit directions, including which routes to take and real-time directions. Simply select the public transport or walk option for directions.
Guide to London’s iconic landmarks
If you’re short on time, be sure to prioritize London’s most iconic landmarks. They’re listed in order of proximity, so you can start at any point and follow the route seamlessly.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic fortress on the banks of the Thames, known for housing the Crown Jewels, its legendary Beefeaters, and its grim past as a royal prison. It’s easy to walk and see the tower from afar.
You can also find some nice souvenir shops in this area for classic tourist knickknacks. If you want to see the Crown Jewels, purchase tickets in advance.
Tower Bridge
If you think of London’s most famous bridge, this is the one!
The Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, built in 1894. Visit in the morning for a peaceful scene overlooking the river and waking city, or stop by in the evening to see it beautifully illuminated.
You can walk across Tower Bridge for free using the pedestrian walkways on either side of the road. Don’t forget to snap photos with the Tower of London in the background.
Borough Market
Just a 10-minute walk from Tower Bridge, Borough Market is one of London’s top food spots. It’s one of London’s oldest markets, offering a variety of fresh produce, street food, and artisanal goods. It’s a must-visit for food lovers looking to sample local and international flavors.
Craving coffee? Monmouth Coffee is a beloved London staple. Be sure to try a sausage roll, the honey truffle & parmesan pork ciabatta, and the famous chocolate strawberries—they’re absolutely worth the hype!
London Eye
This giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank along the River Thames provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. A ride takes about 30 minutes for $38 USD, offering a unique perspective of landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.
Either side of the River Thames provides great views of the London Eye. I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to purchase a ticket; just seeing the London Eye is cool enough on a first visit. If you have the time and money, go for it!
Big Ben and the House of Parliament
Just a short 5-minute walk from the London Eye is Big Ben, perhaps the most iconic landmark of London! It chimes every hour and stands proudly next to the House of Parliament.
The nickname for the Great Bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben is one of London’s most famous symbols, so expect crowds while you’re there.
The Westminster Bridge will provide the best front-facing shot of Big Ben and the House of Parliament. You can also find famous red photo booths on the other side of Big Ben, which make for an amazing photo.
Westminster Abbey
Around the corner from Big Ben and the House of Parliament is Westminster Abbey. The walk is short, around 3 minutes.
Westminster Abbey is a stunning Gothic church known for royal coronations, weddings, and burials, including those of Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Isaac Newton. This is where Prince William and Kate were married in 2011. Its rich history makes it one of the most significant religious sites in the UK.
St. James’s Park
After leaving Westminster Abbey, you can walk through St. Jame’s Park on your way to Buckingham Palace. This is a beautiful green park known for its lake, resident pelicans, and scenic walking paths. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of London.
You can walk all the way to Buckingham Palace through St. James’s Park. My favorite route is along the lake and then crossing the Blue Bridge towards The Mall.
The Mall
The Mall is a grand, tree-lined road leading to Buckingham Palace, often used for royal processions. Walking along it feels like stepping into British history, especially during ceremonial events.
This famous road is one of the best ways to reach Buckingham Palace. The Mall runs from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, and it’s approximately 0.9 miles (1.4 km) long.
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch, this grand palace is famous for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. While the State Rooms are open to visitors in summer, you can admire its grandeur year-round from The Mall.
The best way to see Buckingham Palace is from The Mall or Victoria Memorial, which offer clear views of the grand palace. For a closer experience, visit during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is London’s version of Times Square, famous for its bright billboards, bustling atmosphere, and historic Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain.
It’s a major meeting point and gateway to Soho and the West End. This area has a variety of cinemas, theaters, shops, and restaurants, including traditional English pubs.
Convent Garden
Convent Garden is a vibrant district known for its street performers, boutique shops, and historic market halls. It’s a great spot for dining, shopping, and exploring landmarks like the Royal Opera House.
This is a wonderful place for dinner, as it’s lined with restaurants and bars. Try dinner at Flat Iron for a fantastic steak or Dishoom for Indian food, complete with cookie dough ice cream from Udderlicious!
London’s best pubs, restaurants, and shops
London is a city that blends historic charm with modern style, offering some of the best pubs, restaurants, and shopping experiences in the world. Whether you’re craving a pint in a centuries-old pub, an unforgettable meal, or a stylish shopping spree, the city has something for every taste.
From Michelin-starred dining to hidden cocktail bars and iconic department stores, here’s a quick guide to London’s best-rated and most popular spots to eat, drink, and shop.
London’s best pubs:
- The Churchill Arms (Kensington): A floral-covered pub famous for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Thai food.
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street): A historic 17th-century pub with a literary past and classic British ales.
- The Spaniards Inn (Hampstead): A charming pub with Dickensian history and a beautiful beer garden.
- The Grenadier (Belgravia): A tiny, hidden pub with a legendary ghost story and great pints.
- The Harp (Covent Garden): A CAMRA award-winning pub with a stellar selection of real ales and ciders.
Best restaurants in London:
- Dishoom (Multiple locations): Bombay-style café serving incredible Indian small plates (try the bacon naan!).
- Sketch (Mayfair): A quirky, Michelin-starred restaurant known for its pink tea room and artistic dining.
- Flat Iron (Soho & Covent Garden): A budget-friendly spot for high-quality steak and hand-cut fries.
- Padella (Borough Market): Fresh, handmade pasta dishes with long but worth-it queues.
- Hawksmoor (Spitalfields & Seven Dials): One of London’s best steakhouses, perfect for a hearty meal.
- The Victoria (Paddington): My favorite! A charming, historic pub tucked away near Paddington Station, known for its Victorian decor, cozy atmosphere, and great British food.
London’s famous shops:
- Liberty London (Regent Street): A luxury department store housed in a stunning Tudor-style building.
- Harrods (Knightsbridge): The world-famous, ultra-luxury department store, ideal for gifts and souvenirs.
- Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly): A historic shop known for its high-end teas, biscuits, and hampers.
- Selfridges (Oxford Street): A premium department store with fashion, beauty, and tech under one roof.
- Carnaby Street (Soho): A cool shopping district filled with independent boutiques and British brands.
