Now you can add a little extra to your vacay with activities like guided tours to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & more.
Things to do in London
Tower of London & Tower Bridge
Arguably one of the most iconic British infrastructures, the Tower Bridge crosses the Thames River and leads to the Tower of London. Built in the late 1800s, this bridge is often confused with “London Bridge,” which is actually further west along the river, but the bridge is still accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians. The Tower of London (Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London) is a historic castle that houses a number of attractions to explore from the Crown Jewels to the famous “guardians of the tower” ravens.
Buckingham Palace
Most commonly noted for being the Queen’s residence, the Buckingham Palace was built in 1705 but to this day remains the administrative headquarters for the U.K. monarchy. While you can’t take a grand tour of the palace, you can enjoy its beauty from outside and watch outdoor ceremonies like Changing of the Guard, which happens daily during the summer and most weekdays the rest of the year.
London Eye
The London Eye (or the Millennium Wheel) is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, sitting on the south bank of the Thames River. The famous landmark was constructed in 1998 to commemorate the millennium in London and to this day, remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Big Ben
One of the better views the London Eye has is that of Big Ben, which was originally named the Clock Tower and later renamed the Elizabeth Tower. Though still referred to by many as Big Ben, this tower was designed in a neo-Gothic style and completed in 1859, currently residing at the north end of the Palace of Westminster.
London Travel Tips
Passport Required: Yes
Language Spoken: English
Power: Three-pin plug with 230V (U.S. residents will need an adapter)
Currency: Pound Sterling
Transportation: The London Underground (the Tube) is reliable and inexpensive, but you can also rent a car with your vacation package. After you’ve selected your flight, hotel and room type, simply click “Add a car” to see all the rental options that best suit you and/or your party (note that the U.K. drives on the left side of the road).
Popular Attractions: Portobello Road, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, House of Parliament, Millennium Bridge, Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Hyde Park.
Notable Experiences: Piccadilly Circus, Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, London Eye and Tower of London.