London is huge, but a first trip is easy to plan: group sights by area, use the Tube, and take advantage of the many free museums. Four days is a comfortable amount of time.
Getting around
Tap a contactless bank card or phone on the Tube, buses and most trains. Daily and weekly fare caps mean you never pay more than a set amount. From Heathrow, the Elizabeth line and Piccadilly line reach central London.
Free museums
- British Museum: the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.
- National Gallery: Western European paintings on Trafalgar Square.
- Natural History Museum and Science Museum in South Kensington.
- Tate Modern: modern and contemporary art on the South Bank.
Royal and historic London
- Westminster: the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
- Buckingham Palace: check the Changing of the Guard schedule.
- Tower of London: the Crown Jewels and nearly a thousand years of history.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Covent Garden and Soho: theaters, shops and restaurants.
- South Bank: riverside walk from the London Eye to Tower Bridge, with Borough Market nearby.
- Notting Hill: pastel houses and Portobello Road Market.
- Shoreditch: street art, vintage shops and nightlife.
Coffee in London
London has one of Europe’s best specialty coffee scenes, and the flat white is a menu staple. Look for independent cafés in Shoreditch, Soho and around Borough Market. Make one at home with the help of our guide to the best espresso grinders.
Tips
- Stand on the right on escalators.
- Book West End shows and popular attractions ahead.
- Pack a light rain jacket in every season.
FAQ
How many days do you need in London?
Four days is a good first visit. It covers the main sights, a few museums and two or three neighborhoods.
Are London museums free?
Most major national museums, including the British Museum and National Gallery, have free general entry.
How do I pay for the Tube?
Tap a contactless card or phone at the gates. Fare caps limit how much you pay per day and week.
