Visit London in the Kingdom of England
A vibrant and influential capital, London is a cultural and historical crossroads. A city of many facets, it boldly blends royal heritage with contemporary creativity. From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower of London to avant-garde art galleries and cosmopolitan neighborhoods, the British capital captivates as much by its diversity as by its energy. Whether you’re a lover of history, museums, gastronomy or entertainment, London promises a rich and inexhaustible experience.
Why visit London?
London is a destination in a class of its own, offering a variety of experiences around every corner. It charms history buffs with its palaces and museums, attracts shoppers with its markets and department stores, and delights gourmets with its ultra-diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a family, a couple or a solo traveler, London is a city to which you always return with the impression that you’ve seen only part of what it has to offer.
London must-sees
- Buckingham Palace: Official residence of the British monarchy.
- Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster: One of the city’s most recognized symbols.
- The Tower of London: a thousand-year-old fortress housing the Crown Jewels.
- Westminster Abbey: This ancestral abbey is a landmark in British history.
- London Eye: An iconic Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.
- British Museum: A free museum with impressive collections from all over the world.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Notting Hill: A colorful, picturesque neighborhood, famous for its Portobello Road market.
- Camden: Alternative district with trendy markets and underground music scene.
- South Bank: Cultural Thameside with Shakespeare’s Globe, London Eye and Tate Modern.
- Soho: The heart of London’s nightlife, with its theaters and trendy bars.
- Covent Garden: Known for its street artists, unique boutiques and lively atmosphere.
Practical tips for visiting London
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Transport | Metro network, red buses, trains and self-service bicycles. Oyster Card recommended. |
| Hosting | A wide range of hostels, boutique hotels and luxury establishments. |
| Currency | Pound sterling (£). Widespread contactless payments. |
| Visa | Check whether you need a British ETA or a visa for London |
| Electrical outlets | Type G (adapter recommended). |
| Weather | Bring clothing suitable for rain, which is frequent all year round. |
Where to eat in London
- The Wolseley: London institution for breakfast or afternoon tea.
- Sketch: Gastronomy and contemporary art in a unique setting.
- Flat Iron: A popular place to enjoy a quality steak at a reasonable price.
- Borough Market: Temple of street food and artisanal products.
- Dishoom: popular Indian restaurant, a tribute to the cafés of Bombay.
When to go to London?
London can be visited in any season. Spring is delightful, with its parks in bloom, while summer offers festivals, terraces and open-air events. Autumn reveals sublime colors in the Royal Gardens. Winter is magical with its Christmas lights, festive markets and department store windows.
Conclusion
London is a world city in perpetual motion, offering an infinite range of cultural, historical and human experiences. Larger and more diverse than cities like Oxford or Cambridge, more international than Manchester or Edinburgh, it embodies the essence of the contemporary United Kingdom. Make sure you plan your stay, because London can’t be visited: it has to be experienced.
The formalities for visiting London depend on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union and many other countries require an ETA if they do not have a visa for London.
The ETA for the UK must be requested online via the official IPhone application. Irish citizens and UK residents are not concerned.
