Discover tips and essential experiences for your first time in London

For your first time in London, get ready to dive into the city’s rich history and vibrant attractions. Walk along the River Thames, explore the grounds of Buckingham Palace, or stroll through Hyde Park. From London’s iconic landmarks like Big Ben to must-see neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Covent Garden, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in London for first-timers. Discover the essential things to know about this exciting city, including must-see attractions, the best museums, and how to navigate the city’s world-class public transportation system in this first-timer’s guide.

London: Tips for first-timers

1. London’s public transportation system is extensive and reliable. First timers can buy an Oyster card or use contactless payments for easy access to buses and the Tube.
2. Since London’s weather is unpredictable, it’s a good idea to dress in layers and carry an umbrella.
3. Keep in mind that while most shops and supermarkets are open on Sunday, some close earlier than on other days of the week.
4. Summer and holiday periods draw large crowds, especially at popular attractions like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
5. Several of London’s best museums, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, can be visited for free.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit London depends really on what you’re looking for. Summer sees the most visitors, offering pleasant weather for outdoor sightseeing and events, but also long lines at top sights. Both spring and early fall are ideal for milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore London’s cultural attractions like Buckingham Palace or London Bridge. While chilly, winter in London can be particularly charming with holiday decorations and festive markets. To ensure a smooth first visit at any time of year, book tickets to popular sights in advance to avoid long wait times.

Spring

Mild temperatures and clear skies signal the start of spring in London. With flowers in full bloom, it’s the perfect season for enjoying the city’s parks or attending events like the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, where you can admire the stunning floral displays.

Summer

With its warm and pleasant weather, summer in London is perfect for outdoor sightseeing, attending events like Wimbledon, or checking out a music festival in Hyde Park. However, it’s also the city’s busiest season, so book ahead for must-do London attractions.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage make fall in London a great time to explore the city’s parks and gardens. With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy popular attractions without the long waits or check out events like the London Film Festival and Halloween festivities. Note that fall is one of the rainiest times of the year in London, but this creates the perfect opportunity to check out some of the best indoor activities in London.

Winter

Winter in London, although brisk, sees fewer crowds and is best spent soaking up the festive atmosphere at the city’s Christmas markets and ice skating rink. It’s also a great time to seek refuge from the cold in London’s historic pubs.

London’s top 5 must-visit attractions

Among the best places to visit in London, some are so iconic that first-timers simply can’t miss them. Whether it’s a stroll through Hyde Park or taking in the views from Tower Bridge, your first time in London should definitely include these top attractions.

1. Tower of London

The Tower of London, which has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a treasury, offers a glimpse into the monarchy’s history, as well as its Crown Jewels.

2. Hyde Park

One of the city’s largest green spaces, Hyde Park is a tranquil escape with vast lawns, serene lakes, and beautiful gardens.

3. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, the historic residence of the British monarch, is also the site of the ceremonial Changing of the Guard.

4. The British Museum

Explore the collections of the British Museum, which boasts over 8 million works of art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the mummies of ancient Egypt.

5. Tower Bridge

London’s unmissable Tower Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering with a glass-floored walkway that affords breathtaking views of the Thames River beneath.

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in London

Bustling, vibrant, and steeped in history, the most exciting neighborhoods in London include Covent Garden, Shoreditch, and Notting Hill.

Shoreditch

You’ll never run out of things to do in Shoreditch, from checking out the neighborhood’s amazing street art to shopping at quirky vintage stores. With cool restaurants and lively bars, it’s a buzzy place to explore for a fun day or night out in central London.

Notting Hill

A charming, colorful neighborhood, laid-back Notting Hill is known for its iconic pastel houses, boutique shops, and the famous Portobello Road Market.

Covent Garden

Any first-timer’s guide will have you visiting Covent Garden, a lively and centrally located district that houses London’s Royal Opera House and Covent Garden Market.

What to eat in London

From pub food like fish and chips and delicious Sunday roasts to Indian curries and Chinese dim sum, the diverse food experience in London makes it a fantastic destination for first-timers eager to explore both classic British fare and international cuisine.

Main dishes to try

1. Fish and Chips

A popular street food in London, this classic dish features battered and deep-fried fish served with fries and malt vinegar.

2. Scotch Eggs

Usually found on pub menus, Scotch eggs are hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage meat, which is then breaded and deep-fried.

3. Full English Breakfast

A full English breakfast traditionally includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast. It’s best enjoyed at one of London’s traditional pubs.

4. Beef Wellington

Often served on holidays or for special occasions, Beef Wellington is a beef filet that’s coated in pâté and wrapped in flaky pastry.

5. Sticky Toffee Pudding

Don’t miss tasting one of London’s most decadent desserts — a moist sponge cake covered in toffee sauce and served with warm custard.

Getting to London

London is a well-connected city with multiple airports, including Heathrow Airport serving as a major international gateway. Key train stations like King’s Cross, Paddington, and Liverpool Street provide easy access to and from other destinations in Europe. King’s Cross is especially convenient for tourists heading to popular cities like Edinburgh and Cambridge.

Flying into Heathrow airport

Getting to central London from Heathrow Airport is convenient and efficient. The Heathrow Express train takes about 15 minutes to reach Paddington Station and runs every 15 minutes. Additionally, the Tube’s Piccadilly Line offers a more economical option, taking around 50 minutes to reach central London. Alternatively, taxis are available outside the airport 24/7, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are also widely used.

King’s Cross station

Centrally located in the heart of London, King’s Cross Station features multiple platforms serving local, national, and international trains. From here, you can easily navigate the city or take trips to popular destinations like Edinburgh and Cambridge.

Getting around London

Getting around London is quite straightforward. The city has an extensive and efficient network of buses, Tube lines, local trains, and taxis, making it easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time in London.

Exploring London on foot

Walking in London is easy for first-timers thanks to its pedestrian-friendly zones and designated walkways. Many areas, such as the South Bank and Covent Garden, are closed to traffic, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for pedestrians.

Public transportation in London

London’s Tube system, buses, and trains work seamlessly together to whisk visitors to the city’s diverse neighborhoods. First-time visitors can buy an Oyster card or use contactless payments for easy access to London’s public transportation network.

What to avoid in London

• Smoking is prohibited in many public areas, including parks and on the Tube, but you’ll find plenty of traditional pubs and bars to enjoy a drink after a day of exploring.
• Be cautious of bus lanes and cycle lanes, as London has a high volume of cyclists, and you should avoid wandering into these paths to stay safe.
• When using escalators in the Tube stations, stand on the right to allow others to walk past on the left. It’s a common unwritten rule in London.

First-timer’s guide to London: FAQs

How many days do I need to visit London for the first time?

It’s a good idea to allow four or five days for your first time in London. This should give you enough time to visit the city’s top attractions without feeling rushed.

Do you need to tip in London?

It’s considered polite to tip 10 to 15% when eating out in London, although some restaurants will add on a service charge already.

What is the best area to stay in London?

First-timers should consider neighborhoods like Kensington, Chelsea, or Notting Hill. If you want to be close to the main attractions or a lively area with a fun night scene, consider booking a stay in central Soho, Covent Garden, or Mayfair.

What are the best free things to do in London?

London has plenty of interesting museums and galleries to explore — many of which are free, like the British Museum or the National Gallery.

Do I need cash in London?

It’s good to have cash on hand in case of an emergency, but it’s not necessary. Generally speaking, most things in London can be bought with a credit card.