Must-See Attractions in London for an Unforgettable Vacation

London is one of the world’s most interesting and exciting cities, a vibrant, buzzing metropolis with deep historical roots, home to some of the world’s best culture, food, and city views. With world-famous landmarks and a wealth of unforgettable things to do in London, it is a must-visit for any traveler to the UK.

So if you are sailing from Southampton on a last-minute cruise and have a few days to kill in the capital first, or if you are planning a longer vacation in the city, here are some of the best things to see and do in London.

The Tower of London

The heart of the old city of London, this historic Norman castle on the north bank of the River Thames was a symbol of power and conquest when it was first built and has served a number of purposes over the centuries, from royal residence to impregnable prison. These days it is an amazing place to get to grips with the rich (and often gruesome) history of the city as well as offering the opportunity to see the glorious British Crown Jewels – a treat for any fans of royalty.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious museums, and is home to one of the most impressive collections of art and antiquities from around the globe. From the dramatic and intriguing Rosetta Stone and the astonishing Parthenon sculptures to the rich displays of Egyptian, Viking, and Roman treasures, it is a truly unmissable experience for anyone with even the slightest interest in history and world heritage.

Buckingham Palace

The home of the British Royal Family, no visit to London is complete without a trip up Pall Mall to pay respects to the monarchy. The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens every day and is a delightful and impressive display, while the grand facade and stunning architecture of the palace make it a great spot for a souvenir photograph!

Westminster Abbey

Probably one of the most impressive examples of English Gothic architecture in the country, Westminster Abbey occupies a remarkable position at the heart of the history, religion, and culture of the United Kingdom. Not only is it where the kings and queens of England and the United Kingdom have been crowned for centuries, but it is also the final resting place for famous names in the fields of art, literature, and science, including Charles Dickens and Sir Isaac Newton!

The Tate Modern

A must for fans of modern art, this renowned contemporary art museum is a jewel in London’s cultural crown. From its remarkable building (a repurposed power station on the banks of the River Thames) to its incredible exhibitions from a diverse range of artists from Picasso to Warhol, it is truly something to savor for anyone with an interest in painting, sculpture, and modern art.

The Natural History Museum

For young families, there is nowhere better to spend the day than exploring the captivating exhibits in the Natural History Museum. From creepy crawlies and dinosaurs to earthquakes and volcanoes, it offers excitement around every corner, and keeps the entertainment coming, one room after another. The architecture of the building itself is pretty breathtaking and well worth a photograph or two!

The Globe Theatre

Drama enthusiasts and fans of the Bard should make an effort to catch a play at the reconstructed Globe Theatre in London, but not the original home of Shakespeare, which I finally backpacked to in 2022 – Stratford-Upon-Avon. There I stayed at The Queen’s Head and watched Much Ado About Nothing in Shakespeare’s Town. This lovely ‘wooden O’ makes for an atmospheric place to watch a performance of your favorite Shakespeare play and brings a sense of authenticity that it is hard to find anywhere else in the world.

While London is full of attractions, these are some of the most exciting and should be front and center in your itinerary. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this incredible city, with these suggestions as your guide!