London is the most visited city in Europe. Guide to the most popular city in the United Kingdom.

Posted on September 21, 2022January 7, 2023 by Shatabdi

London is the capital of the world’s tourism.

Europe has some of the most impressive landscapes in the world and receives over 746 million tourists every year. This part of the world offers the most luxurious experience for its visitors. Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam have reported the most number of international arrivals. London is the most visited city in Europe with 19.6 million tourists arriving in the year 2022.

The UK capital is a vibrant city with no language barrier for international tourists. The ultramodern lifestyle and traditional culture are the Center points of the city. England’s capital is one of the most expensive cities in the world but there is a lot you can do on a budget. There are tons of affordable activities available in London, which we’ll discuss further in this article.

Things to know

Time zone: London, UK (GMT)
Currency: British Pound (GBP), (Current exchange rate)
Languages: English
Country calling code: +44
Tourist police helpline: 101

What is the best time to visit London?

The city gets pleasant during summer and this is the best time to visit the city. Summer in London can get close to 30 degrees centigrade and it’s a perfect time to go out in the city. This is peak tourist season in London and you will encounter a huge crowd on the street. You can make the most out of it by attending tons of festivals and events during summer.

March to June and September and October can be the best time for you as the weather will be mild and the city will be less crowded. Winter starts in December and lasts till February and the temperature can go close to 4 degrees centigrade. The prices will be low during winter but keep in mind that it rains frequently in London so keep a rain jacket with you.

How to reach London?

London’s Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest and biggest airports in the world. British national airlines British Airways operates flights all around the globe. Flight is the best and quick option to reach London. The city is also connected by road to some European cities. You can also take fast-moving trains to reach here, it is well connected by train services from the neighboring countries.

How to get around in London?

Traveling around the city is as easy as traveling in your hometown. There is various mode of transportation available in London. The best and easy mode of transportation is London Underground, which is a rapid transit system. Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and Tram link System is other city train transit system available in London.

Buses in the city are cash-free and you will have to buy an Oyster card or relevant ticket to travel on city buses. There are a number of taxi services available and you can also use App based taxis to travel around the city. Tourists also prefer to rent a car and drive on their own in London.

London tube map
Oyster travel pass

Which currency can we use in London?

Pound Sterling or GBP is the currency used in England and it’s easily available in all developed countries. So, if you are traveling to London you can carry GBP from your home country or can convert at the airport. Please keep in mind, that converting at the airport and hotel can cost you more because of the high conversion rate. You should also activate your Debit and Credit Card for international use.

You should convert a small portion of your local currency to GBP for initial use after you land. Travelex, Moneycorp, Victoria Street FX, and Thomas Exchange Global are some of the most popular money exchange stores available in London. So once you settle down in the city, you can exchange your money and get a good rate at these stores.

Currency exchange store in London

Victoria Street FX (Online)
Address: 185 Victoria St, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 8:45 am–6:45 pm (Saturday and Sunday, 9 am–6 pm)
contact: +442078 283482
Thomas Exchange Global Victoria Street (Online)
Address: 141 Victoria St, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm (Saturday 10 am–6 pm, Sunday, 10 am–4 pm)
contact: +442074 139000
Safari Currency Exchange – Kings Cross (Online)
Address: 345 Grays Inn Rd, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm (Saturday closed)
contact: +442078 373550

10 best places to visit in London

England’s capital is the most iconic city in England. You can experience the Royal history and the old world charm and that is why London is the most visited city in Europe. There are places which you must visit on your trip to London and you will surely back home with lots of good memories.

1. Big Ben is the iconic clock tower

Big Ben is one of the most iconic historical structures in London. When you think of London the first image that comes to your mind of Big Ben. The incredible architecture and the massive clock are still relevant for the locals, they used to synchronize their watches. There are free tours available to Big Ben to attract more tourists.

Address: London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Start from £13 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442072 194272

2. The Tower of London is a world heritage site

The Tower of London is a World Heritage Site and one of the most visited castles in London. William the Conqueror had built this tower and the Royal Family used this castle for their safety during war and rebellion. The popular Kohinoor diamond is also showcased in the Tower of London. The castle attracts millions of visitors every year and takes pictures with castle guards.

Address: London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 09 am – 04:30 pm (Sunday: 10am–4:30pm)
Entry fee: Start from £14.90 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442031 666000

3. Tower Bridge, a high-level walkway

Tower Bridge is a suspension bridge in London and it was built in 1894 on the river Thames. The lifting central sections and the Neo-Gothic architecture of the Tower Bridge make it a unique landmark in the city. Tower Bridge is famous for its hydraulic mechanism that opens when any big ship crosses from there.

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 09:30 am – 06 pm
Entry fee: Start from £1 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442074 033761

4. London Eye, life on a wheel

London Eye is one of the best attractions in the city. It’s a cantilevered observation wheel near the south bank of the river Thames. There are three types of passes available to enter the London Eye, Standard, Fast Track, and Private Pods. You’ll get to spend 30 minutes in the pods and can experience probably the best view of London.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 11 am – 06 pm
Entry fee: Start from £26 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442079 678021

5. Buckingham Palace, the residence of the Royal

Buckingham Palace is the official headquarters of the Monarch. Once upon a time, it used to be the residence of the Royals of the UK. The king used to organize many events and receptions in Buckingham Palace. The State Room at Buckingham Palace can be visited every summer when it’s open to visitors.

Address: London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm (Last admission: 04:15 pm)
Entry fee: Start from £9 (Online ticket)
Contact: +443031 237300

6. Hyde Park, the best getaway from busy life

Hyde Park is one of the largest parks among all Royal Parks in the city. 300 acres park is a great place to spend some time with your family and friends. There is a lot of attraction for kids in this park, like bird feeding and a playground. You’ll get some beautiful water bodies and jogging tracks in this park. There are some restaurants around the park where you can have your meal while roaming around the park.

Address: London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 05 am to 12 am
Entry fee: Free
Contact: +443000 612000

7. St Paul’s Cathedral, the Anglican Cathedral in the city

St Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London and it is an Anglican cathedral. This cathedral is also famous for its beautiful architecture. It also serves as the mother church of the Diocese of London. The cathedral is situated on Ludgate Hill which is the highest point in London. You can visit this cathedral and experience St. Paul’s glory and the historic galleries.

Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 08:30 am to 04:30 pm (Sunday: 08 am–06 pm)
Entry fee: Start from £7.70 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442072 468350

8. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. This museum was founded by French wax sculptor Marie Tussaud in 1835. There are more than 180 lifelike wax statues stored in this museum. Here you’ll find wax statues of celebrities from all across the globe.

Address: Marylebone Rd, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 10 am to 03 pm (Saturday, Sunday: 10 am–04 pm)
Entry fee: Start from £18 (Online ticket)
Contact: +448718 943000

9. Sea Life London Aquarium

Sea Life London Aquarium is the best place to explore underwater life. This attraction is highly popular among kids. You’ll witness some of the most amazing marine creatures in this aquarium. There is a lot to see at this place and you would need a minimum of one hour to get the best experience at Sea Life London Aquarium.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 10 am to 04 pm (Saturday, Sunday: 10 am–05 pm)
Entry fee: Start from £29 (Online ticket)
Contact: +442079 678025

10. London Dungeon, fun in the dark

London Dungeon is one of the popular tourist attractions in the city. It gives you a different experience and you should expect it to be full of darkness, scary skeletons, tolling bells, and rats in the cage. Basically, you’ll get to see a series of scenes from the medieval period of London. If you have fear of dark and loud scary noises, please avoid going to this place. This place is perfect for young children and you’ll get 360-degree sets with entertaining storytelling.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, United Kingdom (location)
Opening hours: 11 am to 04 pm (Friday, Saturday: 10 am–05 pm)
Entry fee: Start from £29 (Online ticket)
Contact: +443333 212001