London is one of those places in all the films and shows and books that (most) are set on visiting! With such a unique mix of centuries of history and a vibrant metropolitan city, London is something special. Whether you’re looking for something a bit more historical or modern - or even something in between it is a must see in my opinion, even though it is actually not one of my favorite places I’ve visited. As I’ve mentioned in my Dublin/Ireland Travel Guide, I visited London after spending time in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Since I was focusing on historical sites especially, I was pretty over the colonizing empire once I got to London and had some extra annoyance with a lot of the historical sites I saw given this mindset coming in. Don’t get me wrong, some of the sites I visited were some I’d been dreaming of since I was a little girl, I just am a traveler who takes sites and experiences with an informed grain of salt. Either way, here’s my ultimate London travel guide with suggestions, tips and resources to help you plan your trip to London!

The National Portrait Gallery - If you’re interested in seeing some incredible art, this is a great place to start! The National Portrait Gallery is comprised of portraits of influential and important English figures throughout the centuries. Some famous portraits include William Shakespeare and various members of the Royal Family.

The British Museum - If you’re looking for a large mix of human history - culture, music, art, and more - this is the place to be. With most of the relics and works throughout gathered from the height of the British Empire there are pieces from all over the world. Now to be clear, I certainly don’t agree with many of the objects in this museum being there. For many reasons, it serves as a continuation of colonization and imperialism you can read more about here and here. However, if you insist on visiting and viewing the museum this is the one I would recommend the most for the time being.

Harry Potter Walking Tours - in London there are LOADS of Harry Potter themed tours! It is such a part of the pop culture there now, especially with visitors not from London or the UK. I personally LOVED my tour with Tour for Muggles. Our guide was super friendly, super fun and was very accommodating to everyone in the group. On our tour sadly there was some filming for the newest Mary Poppins going on so there was one location we weren’t able to see, but, was made up with some additional knowledge throughout the tour. One thing I really liked was how the tour focused not only on the film or books - for example showing the exact place Arthur Wesley walks with Harry to get into the Tube - but also places important to Rowling in her crafting of the novels. All around, I couldn’t recommend them more if you’re looking to add some Harry Potter magic into your time in London. TIP: Be sure to head over to King’s Cross to check out Platform 9 3/4! There is a free photo op (have someone take your photo with a phone or your camera) and a gift shop!

Thames - I loved spending time having a bite next to the river people watching or walking along it to get from one stop to the other. You actually will pass quite a few things right off the river and can even take a boat taxi, which isn’t always necessary to get around but was quite fun!

Warner Bros Studio Tour London - This was one thing I actually ended up not being able to do last minute, however, from my MANY friends and family who have done it, I highly recommend it! This is something on my bucket-list when we get to go back and I seriously can’t wait! If you are considering going, go for those who can’t and share endless photos and stories with us please!

Borough Market - In London there are quite a few markets you can attend, but this was my favorite. Located next to a few churches and squares I wanted to wander, it was a great stop for lunch and just seeing what all local offerings there are. If you’re someone keen on grazing, this is an excellent choice to order or purchase a few things and then share (or don’t).

Trafalgar Square - commemorating the battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars, this square is just a lovely place to walk around, grab a bite and explore. I came over here just to check things out and had fun wandering around.

Big Ben - an iconic portion of the skyline in London can be enjoyed from far away just walking around or even up close! I personally enjoyed from afar - when I was last in London it was shortly after the Westminster Terrorist Attack so security was heightened and tourist spaces were operating differently. If you are interested, you can get closer with a UK Parliament tour available to visitors!

Westminster Abbey - be warned - depending on when you visit you might have to wait in a line! We did due to security concerns after the attack, but as one of the most popular and iconic locations in London I wouldn’t be surprised if there isn’t always a line. As one of the most notable religious buildings in English history a ton has happened here! From royal coronations to royal weddings there is a ton of history to take in! Additionally, there are a lot of famous (or infamous) people buried here including Chaucer, Isaac Newton, Oliver Cromwell, Mary Queen of Scots and more.

Buckingham Palace - This was something I viewed from afar because personally I wasn’t very interested in seeing the inside. I can’t say I’m all that into the Royal Family, especially given their history. If you are someone interested in the Royals though, this is probably a must-see on your list. From my dear friend who studied abroad here who is very into all that did enjoy it!

Tower of London - I actually did spend quite some time exploring this area and really enjoyed how much there was! Not only are the grounds beautiful, each aspect of the experience has tidbits from centuries of English History including armor, weapons, and so on. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed my time here. I highly recommend if you plan on visiting to give yourself extra time to wander and read.

Shakespeares Globe - While I was meant to see a show here I ended up not being able to due to some injury to my feet - given the show was standing only I skipped. However, if you are looking to see a show in a replica of the Globe (the original burned down) this is a super fun experience my friends who did go couldn’t share their love for it enough!

Churchill War Rooms - quite possibly my favorite thing I did in London, the war rooms are severely overlooked when traveling to London! While I personally love Churchill and have been very interested in his life, philosophy, etc. for some time even those who aren’t well versed would find this interesting. While you do get to learn about Churchill, there is also a ton of information and relics from the War and the actual war rooms the English worked out of while strategizing the defeat of the Axis Powers. You might not be able to walk right in and sit where Churchill did, you can peer through glass into the rooms where many major decisions leading to the end of the War took place. I personally live for places like that in my travels so if that’s something you enjoy this is a must go for you!

When I was in London I actually opted for trying more of the cultural options that weren’t inherently “english” like Pad Thai, Falafel and so on. That being said, DO try the foods that aren’t “english”- the communities of folks from all over the world in London make amazing food. I had the same falafel places two nights in a row because of this and have zero regrets! If you are looking to try some more traditionally English bites, be sure to try these:

Fish & Chips : possibly one of the most iconic bites from across the Pond, this really is something to try if you can! I sadly wasn’t able to due to being vegetarian but if you can, do!
Bangers & Mash : this is actually something I grew up with due to my Canadian family and it’s absolutely a hearty and yummy dish! If you like mashed potatoes and sausage - this is for you!
An English Breakfast : I don’t know about you but Breakfast is my favorite meal. It can include just about anything and just somehow always tastes extra yummy. Here, an English breakfast includes ALL the things including: eggs, beans, toast, hash browns, black pudding, tomatoes and so much more! You might want a snooze after eating but you won’t regret it!
Beef Wellington : While I’ve never had this, I’ve seen so many chefs on the Food Network give it an attempt and on top of being a cooking feat, it sounds pretty delicious too! Another classic combo of meat and carbs but more refined.
Bread and Butter Pudding : Quite possibly one of my favorites this delicious bite sounds simple but is in fact quite sweet!

Cereal Killer Bar : Not a food, but a specialty bite I highly recommend trying just for fun! You can create any cereal/milk and toppings combo you can think of! It’s a fun way to try something different. Plus, the shop is super fun and located in a great spot to wander around!

Thursdays are the new Friday - If you’re looking to experience the nightlife, I actually recommend going out on Thursday nights! This is one of the busiest and popular nights to go out in London to blow off steam from the week!

Get your theatre tickets the day of - If you’re looking to see a West End show or decide spontaneously to, be sure to get your tickets the day of. There are loads of trust worthy shops around (specifically Soho and Piccadilly) that you can buy from. A major bonus? They are also typically very discounted, sometimes 50% off or more!

Don’t forget the 12.5% charge - the 12.5% service charge is typically added to any bill at a nicer or touristy spot in London. Some bars might even add this to your drink bill so it’s best to assume you will be charged this and order your meal or drinks accordingly. It technically is optional but you really only get out of paying if you have seriously terrible service.

Take the bus - While I personally love (and was fascinated) by taking the Tube, it is a great alternative to take the busses. They go basically anywhere and many even fun 24 hours a day allowing you to take in the sites while you get from point A to point B. Additionally, they tend to be a bit cheaper than the Tube if you are on a budget.

Prepare to walk - A LOT. - While you will probably take transit to get from one side of the city to another, the in-between while exploring will be done on foot. Wear footwear thats comfortable and durable!

If you’re a student, or have a student ID, be sure to use it! - like many places across Europe, there is almost always a student discount at museums and any other informative experience. Be sure to have your ID on you to take advantage and save a few pounds!