10 must-visit places in London you can't miss

If you are planning a trip to the British capital and want to know which must-see places in London should be on your itinerary, you’re in the right place. London is a city overflowing with history, culture, and iconic landmarks that leave visitors in awe. Here are the ten places you simply cannot miss during your visit.

With its rich tapestry of history and vibrant atmosphere, London boasts countless attractions. In fact, we have previously shared 25 things to see and do in London. However, some sites stand out for their historical significance, architectural beauty, or cultural importance, making them truly essential stops on your journey.

Are you ready to uncover the must-see attractions of London? Let’s dive in!

1. The Palace of Westminster and the Big Ben

Arguably the most iconic building in London, the Palace of Westminster exudes elegance and grandeur with its Victorian style and golden turrets, reflected beautifully in the River Thames. This magnificent structure serves as the seat of the UK Parliament, home to both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Dominating its skyline is the Victoria Tower, which houses copies of all laws passed since 1497.

And then there’s the Big Ben. While many think of it as the clock, Big Ben actually refers to the Great Bell housed within the Elizabeth Tower (formerly known as St. Stephen's Tower). Since its installation in 1859, it has been marking time for Londoners and tourists alike, making it an unmissable point of interest.

• Don’t forget to book your tour of the UK Parliament.

2. Westminster Abbey

Next on our journey is Westminster Abbey, a historical treasure built between 1045 and 1050 by Edward the Confessor. This iconic church, which has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries, showcases a beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Along with St. Paul’s Cathedral, it stands as one of London’s most significant religious buildings and is recognized as the principal Anglican church in the world.

Since 1066, every English monarch has been crowned here, beginning with William the Conqueror, who took the throne in this very location. The Abbey has also hosted royal weddings, the latest of which was that of Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as notable funerals, including that of Princess Diana.

Walking through its historic halls feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages, with highlights such as the Lady Chapel, cloisters, and the College Garden. You’ll also find a remarkable array of tombs and memorials, including those of influential kings and renowned writers in the famed “Poets’ Corner.” While admission might seem steep, experiencing this pivotal site in British history is well worth the expense.

• Secure your entry to Westminster Abbey.

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral: A Must-See in London

While Westminster Abbey holds the hearts of Londoners, St. Paul’s Cathedral is undoubtedly the one that captures the most photographs. It is one of the most beautiful cathedrals globally, showcasing extraordinary architectural and artistic wealth. Notable events, including the wedding of Charles and Diana and funerals of significant figures like Winston Churchill, have taken place here.

St. Paul’s Cathedral has a fascinating history. Its location atop the highest point in London has hosted various places of worship since ancient times, with the earliest church built in 604 AD. The original structure was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and the cathedral we see today was reconstructed in 1676, ultimately becoming the classic Baroque masterpiece we admire.

Christopher Wren’s magnum opus features a dome that is the second largest in the world, surpassed only by St. Peter's in the Vatican. Visitors can explore three interior circular galleries: the Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Golden Gallery, which offers stunning views of the Thames and the City of London from 85 meters high. The total height of the cathedral reaches 111 meters, making it the tallest building in London from 1710 until 1967.

• Get your entry for St. Paul’s Cathedral.

4. Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

As the official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is where Queen Elizabeth II enjoys her afternoon tea most days. It also serves as a venue for official ceremonies and state visits.

The palace has been the backdrop for some fascinating chapters in British history, including the infamous incident when Michael Fagan, an unemployed Irishman, managed to sneak past guards and enter the Queen’s bedroom. For a glimpse of royal life, the acclaimed series The Crown gives an excellent portrayal of palace life.

One of the most famous events here is the Changing of the Guard, a unique ceremony where the guards responsible for royal security are swapped out, marching to the sound of military music while maintaining perfect posture with their tall furry hats. This spectacle occurs daily at 11:30 AM during summer, and every other day during the rest of the year.

• Book your entry to Buckingham Palace (open to the public on select days).

5. The Tower of London

It’s hard to imagine that one of London’s most iconic symbols has a dark past. The Tower of London served as one of England’s most feared prisons for nearly 1,000 years.

Legend has it that few left the Tower alive, enduring dreadful conditions where many prisoners were tortured for days, months, or even years before facing execution at nearby Tower Hill. Today, however, the atmosphere is much more inviting, making it a highly recommended visit.

Within the walls of this historic site, you can see incredible artifacts, including the Crown Jewels—a priceless collection of crowns, scepters, and swords. Other notable buildings include the White Tower, originally a royal residence and armory, the Medieval Palace, the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula (the burial site of famous prisoners), and the Bloody Tower.

Don’t forget about the ravens! According to tradition, if the ravens ever leave the Tower, both it and the monarchy will fall. The British take this legend seriously; hence, they have a dedicated Ravenmaster to care for them.

• Reserve your entry to the Tower of London.

6. Tower Bridge: A Top Attraction in London

Among the many bridges spanning the Thames, none is as grand and captivating as the Tower Bridge. This remarkable Victorian-style bridge is located just a stone's throw from the Tower of London, making it a must-visit.

Contrary to popular belief, Tower Bridge was not the first bridge over the Thames (that honor goes to the nearby London Bridge). In the late 19th century, as London experienced exponential growth, the need for a new crossing arose. To accommodate both road traffic and shipping, a bascule (drawbridge) design was chosen, resulting in the completion of Tower Bridge in 1894.

Stretching 244 meters in length with two 65-meter towers, the bridge opens about a thousand times a year. Initially powered by steam pumps, it now operates on a hydroelectric system (visit the official Tower Bridge website for the lifting schedule).

Visitors can enjoy a fascinating exhibition at Tower Bridge, but the real joy lies in the stunning views of the Tower of London and the River Thames from the bridge itself—walking across it is undoubtedly a highlight of any London trip.

7. The British Museum: The Most Interesting Museum in London

The British Museum is one of the largest and most renowned museums globally, housing an extensive collection of antiquities, making it the third most visited museum in the world, following the Louvre in Paris and New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Established in 1759, it boasts over 7 million objects (not all on display, of course).

At the British Museum, you’ll find everything from a mummy (the museum houses the world’s largest collection of Egyptian artifacts outside Cairo) to a moai from Easter Island.

Additionally, the museum features priceless works such as the Elgin Marbles (also known as the Parthenon Marbles), the Rosetta Stone (key to deciphering hieroglyphs), the largest collection of Chinese porcelain in Europe, the bust of Pericles, and much more.

With a remarkable ethnological section showcasing African, Islamic, American, and Asian artifacts, the British Museum is truly one of the top ten places to visit in London!

And the best part? Admission is free (though donations are encouraged, with a suggested amount of £5). It’s certainly one of the must-see places during your first visit to London!

• Join a free tour of the British Museum.

8. Piccadilly Circus

If New York has Times Square, London boasts Piccadilly Circus. This vibrant square (actually an intersection of streets) is the meeting point for locals and a magnet for tourists from around the globe. The name “Piccadilly” originates from the Piccadilly Hall, a house owned by Robert Baker, a tailor known for selling "piccadills" (a type of collar).

Three main attractions dominate the square: the Fountain of Eros, which stands at the center (not just a water feature but also a source of controversy for its sensual statue), the iconic neon billboards that have illuminated this area since 1923, and the endless entertainment and nightlife options available nearby, including Regent Street shops and the bars, restaurants, and theaters of the vibrant Soho district.

• Sign up for a night tour of London.

9. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is perhaps the most famous park in London and the largest in the city center. If you need a couple of hours to unplug from the hustle and bustle of the capital, this is your go-to spot.

Additionally, if you visit on a Sunday morning, you may catch one of the varied speeches at the renowned “Speakers’ Corner,” a place where, since the late 19th century and popularized during World War II, people gather to express their opinions on any topic.

This park has a rich history that includes serving as a private hunting ground for Henry VIII, a military camp, and the first street in London to be illuminated at night. It has also hosted numerous significant celebrations, exhibitions, concerts, and music festivals.

The park’s lake, known as The Serpentine, is a highlight where you can rent a boat and paddle around its tranquil waters.

10. Camden Market: An Original London Experience

London is home to many vibrant markets, but if there’s one that truly stands out, it’s Camden Market! This eclectic marketplace is known for its unique personality.

Historically, Camden Town has been the epicenter of entertainment, fashion, and music, where urban tribes can express their aesthetics: from metalheads to hipsters, goths, and rockers. If you happen to spot someone resembling the English version of Marilyn Manson, don’t let it surprise you—it’s perfectly normal!

Camden Market started in 1974 when local hippies began selling their used clothes and crafts. Strolling through the stalls, you’ll find a treasure trove of items: antiques, clothing, music records, books, and countless curiosities. It’s nearly impossible to leave this vibrant market empty-handed.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even get a piercing or tattoo, as many colorful and quirky shops specialize in body art. Don’t overlook the extensive food offerings, featuring an array of British and ethnic cuisines to sample. For us, this is an essential stop in London!

• Book a free tour of Camden Town.

These are the ten must-visit places in London for a first-time traveler. There are countless other attractions to explore, but we hope this post has made it clear which top ten spots should not be missed during your initial visit to the city.

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