London is one massive city; it has so many famous spots that it can be hard to cover them all in a single trip. The capital of the United Kingdom has everything that you would expect from one of the most historic and biggest cities in the world.
Each year, the city attracts over 20 million tourists; it is the most frequently visited city in the whole of the European continent. There are many reasons why London is famous. It has a mix of both ancient and contemporary attractions, along with some scenic spots, all of which play a huge role in its popularity among tourists.
From Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge and Big Ben, London is full of tourist spots that will leave you mesmerized. However, if you are on a tight schedule, it might be hard to take out the time to visit all the famous places in the city, which is why we have filtered out some of the spots that you cannot miss on your trip to the capital city.
London has one of the highest influx of tourists in the whole world, which makes it almost impossible to get your preferred flight, which is why we recommend using Cathay Pacific to book your flights to London.
Here are a few things you cannot miss while in London.
- Buckingham Palace
The residence of the Royal Family, Buckingham Palace, is one of the things that make London so special. It is among the most famous tourist destinations in the city and anyone coming to the city for the first time has to visit Buckingham Palace just for the culture.
The Changing of The Guard, an activity that has been around for centuries and involves the changing of a regiment of guards by the other, also takes place at the palace. It is another famed activity that attracts countless tourists each year. The Changing of The Guard is an experience that is a major attraction for many people visiting the palace. It also portrays the discipline the soldiers possess and shows their commitment to what they do.
- Big Ben
Big Ben, located in Westminster, is another iconic landmark that is a major attraction for first-timers in London. We have all seen Big Ben and heard its toll in Hollywood movies; however, the feeling that you get when you see it for the first time is something that no movie can provide you with.
No matter what time of the day it is, Big Ben stands tall in the city of London and is one of the places that you must visit if you are visiting the city for the first time.
- Houses of Parliament
Also located in Westminster, the Houses of Parliament are situated right beside Big Ben. The building houses the House of Commons and the House of Lords and is the place where the real power lies. It has been around for more than 150 years and is another major destination that you must cross off your bucket list.
You can couple all the important landmarks in Westminster together and cover them in a single day without having to miss out on any other activities.
- Westminster Abbey
Another major landmark that you can find in Westminster, Westminster Abbey, is the place where the monarchs are crowned and the members of the Royal Family married.
The church also serves as a burial ground for some of the most famous people in history. It is open to the public on most days and is a place you can easily cover on a day trip to Westminster.
- Parliament Square
While in Westminster, you should also check out Parliament Square, which has been designed to pay homage to some of the greatest political figures of all time.
- London Eye
We are all familiar with the London Eye, that huge Ferris wheel we see in all the movies. It is probably the most famous landmark of the city, and rightfully so.
The view that you get from the top is something you won’t find anywhere else and is definitely worth it. It also hosts the New Year’s fireworks each year; if you want the ultimate experience, New Year’s eve might be the perfect time to visit the London Eye.
Depending on your need, you can either book a private pod or enjoy the Ferris wheel on a public pod. No matter which type of pod you choose, you’ll remember your time here.
- Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are a major part of British history. The museum is built inside the bunkers that were used by then prime minister Winston Churchill to seek shelter during the air raids organized by the Luftwaffe.
Today, the museum serves as a reminder of the British triumph in the war; it is worth a visit even if you are not that interested in history.
- The British Museum
The British Museum probably has the greatest collection of artifacts in the world. At the time when Britain ruled most of the world, the British government took artifacts from all over the world and brought them here.
Today, the British Museum contains stuff from every corner of the world, from Egypt to India and the East Indies; you will see stuff here that is not available anywhere else on the globe. The British Museum is a history lover’s paradise; even if you do not have a knack for history, you will not regret your time here.
- The National Gallery
An art-lover’s paradise, the National Gallery is the biggest and most famous art gallery in London. The gallery is home to art pieces from several renowned artists that date as far back as the dark ages.
With pre-renaissance artworks on display here, you get to see how British culture and art have evolved over time.
- Oxford Street
If you come to London and do not visit Oxford Street, you will regret it for the rest of your life. The busiest shopping street in Europe, Oxford Street houses every brand you can think of and is heaven for anyone who loves shopping.
Even if you are not in the mood for shopping, you should still visit the street just to see what it’s like being there. The architecture and the overall design of the street offer an experience that is unmatched.