Booking a trip to London is an exciting experience, and you can start dreaming about what your time will be like visiting sites like Big Ben and the Tower of London. Close to 30 million visitors make vacation plans for London each year, and it’s worthwhile to join their ranks and take in the capital of the United Kingdom.
Knowing the best tips for your London vacation could make or break your experience, as London is an expensive and cultured city. Most London attractions will cost money to see and immerse yourself in, but you can use some handy hacks to save money when planning a trip.
The good news is that you’ve found the perfect guide to creating vacation plans for an unforgettable experience in the Big Smoke. Keep reading this article for nine tips for your trip to London today!
1. Purchase a London Pass
A London Pass might seem like an extra expense on the surface, but it will save you tons of money if you plan on checking out all the London attractions during your stay. You can check out iconic London landmarks without paying a hefty fee at each location when you pay a one-time charge for your London Pass.
It’s 75 pounds for an adult day pass to check out the best tourist sites across London. You can also buy a pass lasting up to 10 days if you spend more time in the Big Smoke. It’s a worthwhile investment if you plan on checking out the primary attractions during your London vacation.
2. Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes
London is a highly walkable city, so wear the right shoes for your trip to London. Comfortable walking shoes will help you get the most from your vacation as you walk from one attraction to the next. It’s made accessible when considering the ample public transportation you can use from Point A to Point B.
Using a mix of public transportation and your two feet will help you see the best of London without breaking the bank. You can check out the secret nooks and charming buildings that make London a fantastic city. Combine your walking adventures with London Tours for an immersive and memorable vacation.
3. Enjoy a Street Food Market
No vacation is complete without a stop at a street food market, and London has several excellent options for foodies. London’s food scene used to be the subject of mockery, but it’s grown into a vibrant scene that foodies will love indulging in. Maltby Street Market is a must-stop spot if you’re out exploring London attractions.
You can also use Google Maps to explore other street food markets that pique your curiosity. The food is one of the many memorable things you can do on your trip to London.
4. Bring an Umbrella
London has a reputation as a rainy destination, and it lives up to the billing. Always bring a sturdy umbrella to add an extra layer of protection from the British rains that frequently occur across the British Isles. It doesn’t rain in London as often as many people think.
It rains more in destinations like Washington D.C. and Miami, Florida, than in the British capital. It’s best to bring a strong umbrella if rain happens, but don’t stress about the wet weather blues.
5. Stay in a Central Location
The closer you can stay in central London, the more memorable your time will be during your vacation. It’s much easier to make vacation plans when you’re staying where all the London attractions are. Central London is well-connected with public transportation, making it the perfect spot to stay if you want to see all the London attractions.
You can walk to most sites if you find an Airbnb or hotel in the center of the city. It’s also simple to take the Tube or bus network to the outlying attractions you want to see. You can also enjoy late nights out without facing a pain in the neck to get back to where you’re staying if you find a spot in the center of London.
6. Visit the Museums
Museums aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s worthwhile to check out as many museums as you can during your London vacation. London is a city famous for its many museums, like the British Museum and the Natural History Museum. It’s your chance to see and learn more during your trip to London.
7. Walk the South Bank Walk
The South Bank Walk is a free walk you can do that will take you to the biggest sites in London as you walk along the famous Thames River. It’s best to start the walk at Tower Bridge while taking in views of the Tower of London, the Shard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a stunning and memorable walk worth the energy to continue to Richmond.
8. Visit a Pub
Spending time in an authentic British pub is an excellent way to enjoy your trip to London. It’s no secret that the Brits love a good pub, and you can join in this tradition by visiting a pub near where you’re staying for an enjoyable night on the town. Visit the oldest pubs for a mix of fun and history.
9. Hang Out With Locals
The best London vacation is one where you spend time with locals and get insight into what life is like in London. You’ll find secret spots you’d never know about otherwise, and you’ll see the best attractions that London offers.
Plan Your First Trip to London Today
Booking your flight and finding a unique place to stay is only the beginning of a memorable trip to London for your next vacation. Bring comfortable shoes, make the most of public transportation when checking out London attractions, and spend some time in an authentic British pub. Bring an umbrella and spend time with locals to find the best spots in the Big Smoke for your London vacation.
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