London is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe, and I already know you’ll fall in love with it as soon as you arrive! This bustling, cosmopolitan capital city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks but also has plenty of hidden gems and quirky attractions in store.
In this article, you’ll find an incredibly detailed itinerary to spend four full days in London, which, in my opinion, is the minimum you need as a first-time visitor to discover the city.
London is huge, and the attractions are spread out, so even if the public transport network is very good, you’ll also need to account for travel time.
Why is this the London itinerary you need? Simple! It’s a packed itinerary optimized to maximize your time while allowing you to see all the major landmarks- from Big Ben to the most famous food markets.
However, you can take it slower or adjust it to your preferences. You might not be interested in all the attractions or look forward to visiting other locations I left out.
Feel free to use this comprehensive itinerary as a guide and eliminate or replace attractions as you see fit. However, remember that I curated it to make sense geographically, so you’ll have to pay attention to that when making changes.
I also recommend some tours to dive deeper into certain neighbourhoods and attractions (British history and culture are so fascinating!) If you decide to go on those, you might have to eliminate some other activities, or you won’t have enough time.
You could spend weeks on end in London and not see it all, but I hope that this 4 days in London itinerary helps you plan the most memorable visit to England’s capital from beginning to end.
I’m also including a few great restaurant suggestions for some days, but it would take an entire post to recommend every meal. I recommend checking Google Maps for good-rated eateries if you’re in doubt.
You should always be connected in a city like London to check for public transportation and directions. It will also come in handy to do last-minute research on restaurants or attractions, and it’s even more important if you’re planning a day trip from London, as wifi coverage is not usual.
I recommend buying a UK data esim that grants you plenty of flexibility when choosing your data plan. You can opt for day plans, ideal if you’re only spending a few days in England, or go for the weekly or monthly plans, from as little as 5 USD. It’s super easy to install, and you can add more data or extend your plan with a simple click.
Ready to discover the captivating city of London? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Day 1: Classic London Landmarks & River Views
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace will be your first stop of the day in the heart of London. This iconic building has been the British Monarch’s residence since the 1800s, starting with Queen Victoria, whose memorial you’ll see right at the entrance of the Palace.
Aside from being King Charles III’s home and headquarters, nowadays, it’s also used for official events and receptions. And if you visit during the summer, you can access the lavish State Rooms for a visit!
However, the main attraction at Buckingham Palace is watching the Changing of the Guard. This very cool tradition dates back around 500 years and occurs a few times a week, starting in St. James’s Palace.
The King’s Guard gathers there and marches toward Buckingham Palace accompanied by a military band playing music. At the Palace, the Old and the New Guards exchange places in a well-rehearsed ceremony that lasts about 45 minutes.
Attending every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10:45 a.m. is free.
I recommend arriving early to get a good spot. It’s a very popular activity, and you may be stuck watching the back of people’s heads!
State Rooms Opening Hours: The State Rooms are open to visitors from July 10th to September 28th from 9.30 AM to 7.30 PM (last admission at 5.30 PM).
State Rooms Entrance Fee: Reserved tickets cost £32 for adults, £20.50 for people aged 18 to 24, and £16 for children. If you buy on the day, you’ll pay an extra charge of £3, £2, and £1, respectively.
From Buckingham Palace, walk past St. James’s Palace and enter the park to the right, which I recommend using as a picturesque and very green shortcut.
Take one of the lovely paths and cross the Blue Bridge over the lake. Continue straight until you reach Birdcage Walk.
You’ll take a left and walk for a few minutes toward Parliament Square, located by Westminster Abbey.
Westminster Abbey & Big Ben
The most iconic attractions in central London are a short walk from each other, so prepare to be in awe multiple times this day, starting with Westminster Abbey.
This stunning Gothic cathedral was built in the 10th century, though King Henry III rebuilt it into the building you see today, with impressive stained-glass windows and ornate decorations.
The church is a religious and historical landmark. It has been the site of coronations since 1066. It is the resting place of many important British figures, including scientists such as Isaac Newton, Darwin, and Stephen Hawking, poets such as Dickens and Chaucer, and monarchs.
Prince William and Kate’s wedding and Elizabeth II’s funeral were also held in the abbey.
Opening Hours are Monday through Friday from 9.30 AM to 3.30 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM. On Sunday, it’s only open for worship.
Entrance Fee: £30 for adults and £13 for children aged 6 to 17.
A 2-minute walk from the Abbey, you’ll find the Houses of Parliament and the famous Big Ben.
The Houses of Parliament are the political heart of the UK. They are also known as the Palace of Westminster, as they were initially built as a royal palace.
The spectacular neo-Gothic complex is relatively new, as it had to be reconstructed in the 19th century after a fire, but it’s been the seat of parliament for centuries.
The building is home to the House of Lords and the House of Commons, where laws are passed, and to the gorgeous clock tower that’s become a symbol of London: the Elizabeth Tower, better known as the Big Ben.
If you’re looking for Instagrammable shots of the famous Big Ben, check out these spots around the landmark.
- Albert Embankment.
- Under Westminster Bridge on the opposite side of the river.
- Left sidewalk of Westminster Bridge.
You can book a tour of the Houses of Parliament or Big Ben through the official website.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Houses of Parliament Tour Fee: Starting at £26 for an audio guide tour. Big Ben Tour Fee: £35.
Lunch
You’re probably starving by now, so it’s a good time to break from all the sightseeing and grab a bite.
Southbank Centre, on the other side of the river, has good views and many different restaurants. I recommend saving the sit-down meal for dinner so you don’t waste too much time, but if you do want a proper meal, you’ll find a great variety of global cuisines here.
Las Iguanas is a popular spot for Latin American cuisine; Brasserie Blanc is a highly-rated French restaurant; La Gamba is a great place for Spanish tapas; and Strada Southbank is a favorite for Italian dishes.
Giraffe is a family-friendly chain restaurant where you can get fish and chips, burgers, and other fast food, and there are also local sandwich shops like Pret A Manger and Greggs where you can grab a quick bite and a coffee to enjoy by the river.
Your next attraction is a few steps away, located by the River Thames across from the Houses of Parliament.
London Eye
One of London’s most recognisable landmarks is the London Eye, an imposing Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. It stands 443 feet (135 meters) tall.
It features 32 glass capsules that allow panoramic views of the city skyline from above. From this prime vantage point, you can see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Wembley Stadium, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
A different view of London will help you grasp the city’s immensity during a 30-minute ride.
Opening Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 AM to 6 PM, and Friday and Saturday, 10 AM to 8:30 PM.
Entrance Fee: £29 for the Standard Ticket and £44 for the Fast Track ticket when purchased online.
Walk 5 minutes back to Westminster Bridge and cross the river to Westminster Pier.
Thames River Cruise to Tower Pier
Embarking on a Thames River Cruise is mandatory when in London. You’ll be able to relax your tired legs and soak in the city’s waterfront buildings while learning about the history and development of London over the years.
You’ll sail under the Waterloo, Millennium, and London Bridges, admiring their intricate architecture from up close before you face the Tower Bridge. It’s the prettiest bridge in London, and nothing beats watching it from the water, in all its glory!
▶️ This London: Westminster to Tower Bridge River Thames Cruise is a great sightseeing cruise with live audio commentary, ensuring you learn about the landmarks as you sail past them. You’ll get to see St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern, the Shard, and the Globe Theater during the 30-minute experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
You’ll get off at the Tower Pier to explore a new part of London.
Tower of London & Tower Bridge
The Tower of London is a controversial landmark in London, as it’s incredibly rich in history and culture but with a past so dark that it gives you the chills.
Visiting nowadays is a cultural experience, but you’ll discover the gory events that took place in this fortress centuries ago. Some say ghosts haunt the tower, so visit at your discretion!
The impressive Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror as a defensive building, but it served many purposes over the years, from prison to royal residence.
It’s mainly known, however, for being the place of execution of many important figures, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Henry VIII’s fifth wife, Catherine Howard.
The Tower of London is also famous for its legend of the ravens, that keep the kingdom from falling and for housing the Crown Jewels.
▶️ The Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket grants you access to the attraction at any time of day so you can head there straight from the pier. You’ll have access to all the rooms and join a Beefeater Tour inside to learn more about the former prison’s history, legends, and gruesome details. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 9 AM to 4.30 PM, Sunday & Monday from 10 AM to 4.30 PM.
Entrance Fee: £34.80.
A couple minutes’ walk from the Tower of London is the Tower Bridge, famous for its impressive Victorian Gothic architecture.
Tower Bridge spans the River Thames. Its bascule design allows it to lift to allow ships to pass. The two intricate towers on each side are joined by two bridges: one for vehicles and pedestrians and a glass-floored walkway at a higher level, offering panoramic city views.
There are two options for visiting the Tower Bridge: you can get tickets to access the Tower Bridge Exhibition, learn about its history and see the original engines that once powered the bridge, and go up to the walkway for the views.
Otherwise, you can admire its exterior and walk across it to see the ornate designs up close.
To the left of the landmark, the Girl with a Dolphin sculpture is a great location for Instagram photos of the bridge.
Tower Bridge Opening Hours: Daily from 9.30 AM to 6 PM.
Tower Bridge Entrance Fee: £13.40
Dinner
If you’d like to cap off your first day in London with a special dinner, you can make reservations at the Coppa Club Igloos. Located on a terrace overlooking the Tower Bridge, the riverside igloos offer an intimate dining experience for you and your group.
The food and drinks menu is top-notch, and the igloos are equipped with heating and blankets to ensure you’re warm.
Reservations are required, and I recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.
Day 2: Museums, Shopping & Sky Garden
Covent Garden
Start your day with a hearty breakfast and go to Covent Garden, a sought-after shopping destination in the West End.
Once a fruit and vegetable market, Covent Garden is now a lively district offering an incredible dining and shopping experience. It features luxury fashion and beauty stores, cafés, top-notch restaurants, and the Royal Opera House.
The former farmers’ market is in the Covent Garden Piazza, an open square lined by historical buildings and market halls famous for its street performers.
The Apple Market pays homage to Covent Garden’s origins by promoting local goods. Throughout the week, stalls sell handicrafts, artisanal jewellery, and art.
Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM.
An 8-minute walk along James Street, which turns into Neal Street, will bring you to the next stop.
Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is a small alley in Covent Garden, famous for its colourful buildings, quirky boutiques, and local cafés. Tucked off Monmouth Street, it’s an indisputable gem in the heart of the bustling district, though it’s not so hidden anymore.
It offers a laid-back atmosphere, plenty of outdoor seating areas to enjoy a coffee or a meal while people-watching, and lovely shops where you can browse for eco-friendly beauty products or buy freshly baked pastries.
Opening Hours: Most shops open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Walk along Shaftesbury Avenue for 10 minutes to reach the British Museum.
British Museum
One of London’s most commendable things is that its world-class museums are entirely free to visit, and the British Museum is no exception.
The British Museum, established in the mid-1700s, is the world’s oldest national public museum. It houses a large collection of artefacts from all over the globe.
You’ll get to admire its famous Great Court and the stunning glass ceiling that lets beams of sunlight into the building.
The Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, a collection of sculptures from Greece’s Parthenon, are among the museum’s most important treasures.
Egyptian mummies, the Lewis Chessmen, and drawings by Michelangelo and Botticelli are other iconic pieces on display that you shouldn’t miss.
The visit will allow you to explore human history and civilizations through archaeological finds, art, and cultural objects from various centuries. Depending on your interest in history, you can spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum.
Opening Hours: Saturday through Thursday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and Friday, 10 AM to 8:30 PM.
Tube: Tottenham Court Road (Central Line) → Oxford Circus. The ride takes you only a couple of minutes.
Oxford Street
You’ve arrived in London’s shopping hub par excellence. Located in London’s West End and stretching for 1.2 miles, Oxford Street has the most fashionable stores, ranging from high-end and world-renowned brands to flagship shops and local department stores.
You can shop for beauty products, clothes, accessories, homeware, electronics, and books and stop for a drink or coffee at one of the many cafés.
Wander along the famous street for a while, then retrace your steps back to the Oxford Circus tube station (it won’t take you more than 5 minutes) and turn to Regent Street in the direction of the river.
Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus & Leicester Square
Regent Street could be described as an extension of Oxford Street, as it’s an equally popular shopping street lined by upscale stores, a few flagship shops like Apple, Burberry, and Hamley’s, the world’s oldest toy store, and iconic curved buildings.
It’s also a great place to spot the red double-decker buses.
Stroll south along the street until you reach Piccadilly Circus, London’s version of Times Square. You’ll instantly feel the buzzing energy and heavy pedestrian traffic, so watch your step!
Piccadilly Circus is famous for its neon billboards. Its center features the impressive Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, surrounded by busy roundabouts and elegant buildings.
The area is home to theatres and restaurants, and it’s a 4-minute walk to Leicester Square along Coventry Street.
Leicester Square is the soul of London’s entertainment scene, surrounded by theatres and cinemas where many red-carpet events occur.
The square is pedestrianised and full of statues of the most beloved characters – from Paddington Bear to Gene Kelly, Mary Poppins, Mr. Bean, Shakespeare, and Harry Potter. It’s so fun to spot them as you wander around the square!
The area also has one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife scenes, making it a great place for a fun night out.
Tube: Embankment (Circle/District Line) → Monument. Walk 3 minutes to Sky Garden.
Sky Garden
Sky Garden, located on the 35th floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, offers one of the best vantage points in the city.
As its name implies, it’s an indoor garden—the highest in London—featuring lush greenery, an open-air terrace, observation decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows that grant 360-degree views of London.
You’ll be treated to an impressive panorama over the River Thames and spot the Shard, the Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral in the city skyline.
There are two bars and two restaurants on-site, and there are often music nights with live bands or DJs.
Entrance to Sky Garden is free. However, the visit is timed, and you must book your slot beforehand. If there’s no availability on your chosen day, you can make reservations at one of the restaurants.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday from 8 AM to 11 PM, Friday and Saturday from 8 AM to 12 AM, and Monday from 10 AM to 11 PM.
Entrance Fee: Free, but you must book your advance slot.
Day 3: Borough Market, St. Paul’s & Trendy Neighbourhoods
Breakfast at Farm Girl Café
Fuel up for the day with great food and coffee at Farm Girl Café in Notting Hill. This is the neighborhood you’ll be exploring today, so it’s a good idea to head there early for a scrumptious breakfast and fancy coffee drinks.
Opening Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
Address: 59A Portobello Road.
Once caffeinated, leave the coffee shop and turn left on Portobello Road. It’s a 5-minute walk to Portobello Road Market.
Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is one of London’s quirkiest and most fascinating attractions. It’s considered one of the most historical street markets in the world and has been held in the heart of Notting Hill since the beginning of the 19th century.
The market is especially famous for its colorful storefronts and antiques. Many stalls sell vintage artefacts, collectables, and rare objects.
You’ll find everything from vinyl to books, fresh produce, fashion, handicrafts, and street food worldwide, making the visual enjoyable.
It’s the busiest on Saturdays, though it’s open every day.
Other gems in the area include The Notting Hill Bookshop, the Blue Door from the famous movie, and the pastel-coloured Colville Houses.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Tube: Notting Hill Gate (Central Line) → Bank → London Bridge. Exit through the Borough High Street (west side), a minute’s walk from Borough Market.
Borough Market for Lunch
Borough Market is a historic food market in a Victorian building on the south bank of the River Thames.
The vibrant market is always buzzing, especially at lunchtime. It features an array of food stalls selling a wide selection of foods.
Gourmet cheeses (including drunk cheeses that you must try – yum!), cured meats, decadent pastries, fresh seafood and produce, flavored nuts, artisan goods, and wines are some products you’ll find there. It’s essentially a foodie paradise!
Beyond the shops is a courtyard with food trucks, where I suggest you have lunch. You can choose from different world cuisines, or you can opt for a fancy meal and get oysters and champagne at one of the wine bars. Bon appetit!
Opening Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM; Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM; and Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM.
Tube: London Bridge (Northern Line) → St. Paul’s. The tube station is a 2-minute walk from the cathedral.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican church and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and impressive dome. Its most admirable trait, however, is having survived the bombings of WWII, becoming a symbol of resilience for the locals.
The cathedral dates back to the 17th century, though the original church, built on that site to honour Saint Paul, was established in 604 AD.
You can visit the cathedral with a ticket or a guided tour and explore its impressive nave, decorated with ornate mosaics, the memorials of historical figures, and the higher galleries.
Otherwise, head to the Madison Roof Terrace at One New Change Shopping Centre for free and unbeatable cathedral views.
Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM (except Wednesday, when it opens at 10 AM); Sunday, 8 AM to 6 PM.
Entrance Fee: £26 for adults. £10 for children aged 6 to 17.
Tube: St. Paul’s (Central Line) → Tottenham Court Road (Northern Line) → Camden Town.
Explore Camden Market & Street Art
You’ve probably gathered by now that London loves its markets, but don’t skip any of these on the accounts that you’ve already been to; they’re all so different!
Camden Market, located in the bustling area of Camden Town, is an eclectic market spread across several locations. The most popular are Camden Lock and the Stables Market.
It’s a great place to browse for unique items, vintage clothing, handicrafts, artisan jewellery, and furniture. Of course, we can’t forget about the street food stalls in every market around the city.
You can grab a quick bite, a coffee, or a beer (why not?) and enjoy it by the Regent’s Canal.
Camden Town’s major appeal, however, and the one that attracts most tourists, is its street art. Around the market you’ll see that most walls have been intervened with bold murals, graffiti, and other artistic installations, reflecting the bohemian atmosphere of the district.
From political statements to eccentric designs and colorful drawings, make sure to get lost in the alleys and backstreets of Camden to find its creative gems.
Tube: Camden Town (Northern Line) → Old Street.
Shoreditch & Brick Lane for vintage shopping & street art
Shoreditch is one of the most culturally rich districts in the city, located east of Central London. It’s known for its trendy scene, home to hipster cafés, a thriving artistic community (and therefore plenty of street art), and cute shops.
The best thing you can do in the area is to wander as if you were in an open-air gallery, which is what it feels like! You’ll see colorful murals and graffiti on every corner, finding photo opportunities everywhere. It’s one of my favorite areas in London!
A short walk away is Brick Lane, the perfect place for vintage shopping. Quirky boutiques and vintage shops line the street, along with curry houses and independent art galleries, offering an interesting blend of cultures, mainly imposed by the Bangladeshi community that has shaped the area’s identity.
The Brick Lane Market will not be missed if you’re there on a Sunday.
Dinner in Shoreditch
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Shoreditch. The offer is so vast and good! These are some of the best spots to check out for dinner.
● Dishoom Shoreditch is a highly-rated Indian restaurant inspired by the old Irani cafés of Mumbai. Its signature dishes include the bacon naan roll and prawn pathia. You can also get craft drinks with your meal.
● Smokestak is a barbecue joint renowned for its smoked meats and charred vegetables. Its rustic, industrial-style setting is appealing.
● Fat Hippo Shoreditch is your go-to restaurant for burgers and fries. It’s renowned for its indulgent burgers, which have an incredible variety of toppings and are guaranteed to get messy – the sign—of any good burger. Also The restaurant catersrians and has a kidhasenu.
● Burro & Salvia is an Italian restaurant that specialises in hand-made, fresh pasta dishes. Enjoy them on-site with a glass of wine, or take them home. The restaurant is cozy, and while the menu is relatively limited, the pasta is finger-licking good!
Day 4: Natural History Museum, Hyde Park & Harrods
Breakfast at Granger & Co. Chelsea or EL&N Cafe
Start your day in Chelsea, having breakfast at one of these iconic locations.
Granger & Co. Chelsea is an elegant, Australian-inspired restaurant that offers all-day dining. It’s a local favorite for breakfast, and its signature dishes include ricotta hotcakes, smoked chalk stream trout, and fruit bowls.
Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, 7 AM to 10.30 PM, and Sunday, 8 AM to 9.30 PM.
Address: 237 – 239 Pavilion Road
A good alternative is EL&N Cafe, a bright pink coffee shop with delicious pastries and cakes to satisfy even the pickiest sweet tooth. They also serve savory breakfast options and fantastic coffee.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 12 AM.
Address: 239 Brompton Road.
It’s a 10-minute walk from EL&N Cafe and a 20-minute walk from Granger & Co. Chelsea to the Natural History Museum.
Natural History Museum
A fascinating museum to explore when in London is the Natural History Museum, especially if you have children!
The museum, housed in one of the most stunning Romanesque buildings in town, features a large collection of natural-world exhibits. The display stars are the dinosaur skeletons and the jaw-dropping blue whale model in the grand Hintze Hall.
There are interactive science exhibits, rare gemstones, the largest blue topaz, and other interesting fossils.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5.50 PM.
Entrance Fee: Free.
Tube: South Kensington → Hyde Park Corner.
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
London is one of the few European cities with so many green spaces, and two of the most famous ones are located next to each other: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
They offer a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle that will make you forget you’re still in the heart of London. Hyde Park is well-known for the Serpentine Lake, home to swans and geese, the Speaker’s Corner, where spontaneous public debates occur, and the Diana Memorial Fountain.
Opening Hours: Daily from 5 AM to 12 AM.
The Kensington Gardens are separated from Hyde Park by the Serpentine Lake. They’re home to Kensington Palace, the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales (William and Kate), the Albert Memorial, and the lovely Italian Gardens.
Both spaces are local favorites for jogging, cycling, or having picnics when the sun is out.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 AM until dusk.
Walk along Kensington Gore Road (A315) and take a right on Brompton Road. It’s a 20-minute walk to Harrods.
Explore Harrods’ luxury shops & Food Hall
Welcome to Harrods Department Store, one of the most luxurious in the world. This iconic shopping destination has an astounding facade, but it’s even better on the inside.
The store features over 300 departments selling everything from high-end clothing brands to jewelry, designer fashion and accessories, homeware, beauty products, and souvenirs.
You can get beauty treatments on-site, shop for fine wines and spirits, and visit the remarkable food hall.
The food hall, spread across lavish rooms, sells gourmet delicacies worldwide, including pastries and heavenly desserts, seafood, fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and meat.
You can sit down for a meal and choose from caviar or truffles, the classic fish and chips, or a cup of tea with fine chocolates.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM. Sunday from 11.30 AM to 6 PM.
Travel Tips for Your London Itinerary
✅ Use an Oyster Card or Contactless Payment for an easier public transportation experience. It’s also cheaper than buying individual tickets. You can top up your Oyster Card at stations or convenience stores, and contactless cards work the same way with automatic fare caps.
✅ Walk whenever it’s under 10-15 min, as it will be much faster than the tube and save you money. Many major attractions are within walking distance, and you’ll enjoy London’s charming streets, hidden alleyways, and historic architecture.
✅ Avoid rush hours (7.30-9.30 AM & 5-7 PM) when taking the tube and trains, as they can get very crowded. If you must travel during these times, allow extra time for delays and be prepared for packed carriages, especially on central routes.
✅ Be mindful of the traffic direction: remember they drive on the other side of the street! You’ll see signs on the streets telling you to look right or left before crossing, but always looking both ways is a good idea. Pedestrian crossings are common, but drivers may not always stop, so proceed cautiously.
✅ Carry a light rain jacket or umbrella regardless of the season, as London weather is unpredictable, and you could get caught in the rain. It’s common to experience sunshine, rain, and wind all day, so layering your clothing is always a wise choice.
✅ Most restaurants, shops, and even transportation accept contactless payments, sometimes exclusively. Make sure you’ve told your bank (if applicable) that you’ll be traveling so you can use your cards in England. It’s rare to find a shop that will take cash. A backup payment method, like Apple Pay or Google Pay, can be helpful if your card doesn’t work.
✅ Take a plug adapter with you to charge your devices. UK’s plug type is G. If you have multiple devices, consider bringing a power strip or a universal adapter with USB ports to keep everything charged without needing several adapters.
✅ Tips are accepted, but they’re not mandatory. Some places will add the service charge to your bill, so check before you tip your servers. If it’s not included, rounding up the bill or leaving 10-12% is polite, especially in restaurants with table service.
