2. Westminster
Palace of Westminster is currently used as the parliament building and along with the belt tower, they are the most popular buildings of London. This is why you should definitely go and see the neighborhood. However, there is no possible way to enter both buildings for a trip.
People believe that the bell tower is called Big Ben, but actually it's not. Big Ben is the name of the bell inside the bell tower and somehow got spread in a wrong way. The bell tower is officially called Elizabeth Tower, not surprisingly, named after the Queen.
Unfortunately, the bell tower is under construction since 2017 and will be under construction until 2020. So, if you are planning your trip in this period (like me), you might miss this pretty landmark.
Westminster Abbey is a must-see in this neighborhood. This royal church still offers mass service for whose who wish to pray. Even if you don't, it's one of the World Heritage Sites with all the history about kings, queens, soldiers, poets, heroes and many others! Yet, keep in mind that the entrance is about £20. London has soo many amazing free museums, and that's why I skipped entering.
Pass the Westminster Bridge to get away from the palace a little bit and improve your view. Once you cross the bridge, you might consider going to London Eye and go for a spin. You can buy tickets online and in advance to skip the cue.
3. Tower Bridge
Tower of London is officially Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London. It was founded in the 11th century! Even though it was originally built as a castle, it was used as a prison until 20th century, then it became a museum today. You should come here early in the day to skip the crowd for the ticket office.
Tower Bridge is an iconic landmark of London and one of the best historic sites of Britain. You can visit engine rooms and bridge exhibition to explore this cute bridge. Or do what I did: just cross the bridge taking photos and observing the view and keep visiting the town.
On one side of Tower Bridge, there is The Sky Garden, which offers a 360 degree view of London and the bridge. Entrance is free, but you need to reserve your visit in advance. Visitors can enjoy landscaped gardens, observation decks and open air terrace.
On the other side of Tower Bridge, you can visit Shard, which is Western Europe's tallest building! Shard is composed of a luxury hotel, private apartments, offices and expensive restaurants. Even if you cannot afford any of these options, you can still visit the terrace for about £30!
Borough Market is claimed to be the best market in London. You can find many gourmet products and yummy pieces for lunch - or just for snacks.
4. Museums
The best thing about London is the museums: they have the best and the biggest collections and all national museums are free to enter! Here is what to expect:
- British Museum offers the largest art collection from all around the world! Visiting everything in one visit is almost impossible, but you should choose a few collections based on location and visit them depending how much time you can spare.
- National History Museum is the one with giant dinosaur skeletons and many science exhibitions. Don't forget to check the earthquake simulation!
- National Gallery has thousands of classical paintings to offer to the visitors, mostly made between 13th and 19th centuries.
-Tate Modern is an old oil-fired power station, which works as a modern art museum with the pieces of Picasso, Dali and Warhol.
5. Downtown
Piccadilly Circus is the Times Square of New York - big billboards, shops, LED lights. You can follow Regent street and then Oxford street for shopping or just window shopping, this huge street shows an amazing example of typical London.
If you are not into fancy shopping, head to Carnaby street in the neighborhood. You can find smaller, independent shops, pubs or restaurants. This is one of my favorite places in London - and I am sure most of the travelers agree with me. Once here, make your reservation in advance at MotherMash for one of the best pies in London!
Speaking of non-fancy London, Covent Garden is yet another must-see location! Search for hidden gems, like The Opera Quarter, St Martin’s Courtyard, Seven Dials, Neal’s Yard and manymore!
Leicester Square has a lot to offer at all times to sit down and chill out at all times - but even more in December! Amazing Christmas markets have the best mood ever..
If you are lucky enough to catch London in a sunny weather, enjoy walking around Hyde Park or maybe even have a little picnic. The park is huge, so don't expect to see everything all at once. In December, the park becomes the Winter Wonderland! What I had in mind was a huge Christmas Market - but what it actually is a huge portable entertainment park with minor Christmas mood. On the bright side, they have lots of mulled wine, so completely worth it!
6. Notting Hill
A trip to London is not completed without the Notting Hill! I don't know how it was before the famous movie with Hugh Grant - but it is sooo big right now! People don't flow here just because of the movie but pretty houses, hip souvenir shops and cool pubs. But mostly pretty houses!
Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls and definitely a must see. It's a super popular location for film makers - so who knows who you will come into!
The best way to reach is using the subway to Notting Hill Gate Underground and keep walking.
Enjoy!
