London 4 days

The official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony if your visit aligns (typically 11:00 AM on select days, check schedule).

• Arrive by 10:30 AM for a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard.
• Check the official schedule for the Changing of the Guard as it does not occur daily.

A magnificent Gothic abbey church that has been the traditional place of coronation and burial site for English and, later, British monarchs. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in over a thousand years of history.

• Audio guides are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history.
• Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time.

The iconic seat of the UK Parliament, including the Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben. The tower's extensive restoration was completed in 2022, and it is now fully visible and operational.

• Walk around Parliament Square for exterior views.
• Consider booking a tour of Parliament in advance if interested in interior access.

A classic Victorian pub near Westminster offering traditional British fare and a wide selection of ales. It's a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.

• Try the fish and chips or a hearty pie.
• Can get busy; consider arriving slightly before peak dinner hours.

Home to a rich collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900, including masterpieces by Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Turner. Admission to the main collection is free.

• Focus on specific wings or artists to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Check for temporary exhibitions which may have an entry fee.

A bustling public square and tourist attraction, famous for Nelson's Column, the National Gallery, and its resident lion statues. It's a central hub for events and gatherings.

• Great spot for people-watching and street performers.
• Be aware of your surroundings as it can be crowded.

Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, this gallery displays an international modern and contemporary art collection. The viewing level offers panoramic city views.

• Take the lift to the viewing platform for excellent free views of St. Paul's Cathedral and the city.
• The building itself is an architectural marvel.

A vibrant food market offering a vast array of artisanal produce, street food, and international cuisine. While it closes in the evening, many surrounding restaurants and pubs are open.

• Sample a variety of street food options for dinner.
• Look for unique British cheeses and baked goods.

A historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames, famous for holding the Crown Jewels and its rich, often dark, history as a royal palace, prison, and fortress. See the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) for insights.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially for the Crown Jewels.
• Join a free Yeoman Warder tour for fascinating stories.

An iconic bascule and suspension bridge crossing the River Thames. You can walk across it for free or pay to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which includes the high-level walkways and Victorian Engine Rooms.

• Check the bridge lift schedule online for a chance to see it open.
• The exhibition offers great views and historical context.

Known for its vibrant street art, independent boutiques, trendy bars, and diverse culinary scene. Explore Brick Lane for vintage shops and curry houses, and discover art on side streets.

• Take a guided street art tour to learn about the artists and their work.
• Explore Boxpark for unique pop-up retail experiences.

A popular Bombay-style café serving delicious Indian comfort food. Expect a lively atmosphere and expect queues, especially during peak hours, as they don't take reservations for small groups.

• Try the Black Daal and the House Keema Pau.
• Go slightly off-peak or be prepared to wait; the bar is a good place to pass the time.

The world's leading museum of art and design, housing a vast collection spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. Its collections are extraordinary, from fashion and textiles to sculpture and photography.

• Don't miss the Cast Courts and the Jewellery gallery.
• Explore the beautiful central courtyard garden.

Famous for its dinosaur skeletons and impressive Hintze Hall, this museum explores the natural world with vast collections covering zoology, botany, mineralogy, and paleontology. Entry to the main museum is free.

• The Dinosaur gallery is a must-see for all ages.
• Check for special exhibitions, which may require booking and a fee.

An iconic luxury department store in Knightsbridge, famous for its opulent Food Halls, extensive fashion collections, and distinctive Egyptian Escalator. It's an experience as much as a shopping destination.

• Visit the Food Halls for a gourmet experience, even if not buying.
• Look out for the famous Harrods green bags.

A famously decorated pub known for its stunning floral displays and Thai restaurant in the back. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of ales.

• Admire the incredible exterior, especially during spring and summer.
• The Thai food is surprisingly authentic and highly rated.