With nearly 30 million visitors each year, London, England is a major international travel destination. The city offers many attractions from historical sites to unique local dining options. Whether visiting for business or for leisure, London offers an experience for everyone. Here’s how to spend a day visiting the most famous sites within the city.
Buckingham Palace
Start your day with a tour of the palace that has served as the principal home to the reigning monarchy since 1837. Please Note: The palace is only open to the public when the Royal Family is away, which they usually are in August, to Scotland. Attractions to visit within Buckingham Palace include:
- Queen’s Gallery– Features selected pieces of artwork from the Royal Collection.
- Royal Mews – View elaborately decorated coaches and carriages with several still used by the Royal Family. A highlight is the Gold State Coach used in every coronation since 1821.
- State Apartments Tours (July 21 – September 30 only) – View 19 staterooms including the White Drawing Room, the Music Room, the Picture Gallery, and the Throne Room.
Westminster & Central London
Next, take a guided walking tour, or explore on your own, many of London’s most compelling sights located within Westminster Abbey and Central London.
- Westminster Abbey – Includes the Poet’s Corner, Coronation Chair, The Lady Chapel, Royal Tombs, Cloisters, and other attractions.
- 10 Downing Street – Walk past the British Prime Minister’s official residence (subject to security restrictions).
- Trafalgar Square – Perhaps London’s most important large open public space, Trafalgar Square features the 145-foot tall Nelson’s Column and is bordered by the National Gallery art museum.
- Piccadilly Circus – Juncture of the West End’s major shopping and entertainment district highlighted by Regent Street and the Eros Statue.
- Big Ben – Located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben is known as one of the most famous striking clocks in the world.
- Houses of Parliament – Take a guided tour through the Commons Chamber and Lords Chamber will give you insights into the workings of these two-centuries-old institutions.
National Gallery
Those with an interest in art and culture should consider visiting the National Gallery, located just north of Trafalgar Square.
This museum is free to enter and features over 2,300 works, including world-renowned pieces such as Virgin of the Rocks by Leonardo da Vinci, and Vase with Fifteen Sunflowers by Vincent Van Gogh.
London Eye
End your day with a 30-minute-long ride on the world-famous London Eye. Standing an impressive 443 feet high, this attraction is a must-see when visiting London.
Located along the River Thames and constructed in 1999 with 32 cabins accommodating up to 800 passengers, this observation wheel offers panoramic views of the city.
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