London has many attractions to offer to a visitor. It is one of the largest cities in the world and an extremely popular destination with travellers. And so, some planning is needed to enjoy the city the most. Though, a few days are not enough to explore everything.
If you are buying a package from a tour operator, then many of your difficulties are solved. They will plan and schedule your itinerary. They will map out the major landmarks that you will want to see. They will get the best deals in hotels and provide transport too.
However, if you are venturing out on your own, make some pointers beforehand.
List the Places You want to See
First, make a list of all the places you want to see in London. Map out the distances between them. Find the modes of transport that will help you get across.
Four locations have been labelled as World Heritage Sites in London. These are:
- The Settlement of Greenwich
- The Tower of London
- The Royal Botanic Garden at Kew, and
- The site that contains the three structures of Westminster Abbey, St. Margaret’s Church, and the Palace of Westminster.
These are extremely popular as far as sightseeing is concerned.
London is well-connected to almost all the world. The Heathrow Airport here is the busiest one in the world by international flights.
A City Steeped in history
London is steeped in history. London houses several museums like the Imperial War Museum Cabinet War Rooms, the British Museum, Science and Natural History Museums, and the Victoria & Albert Museum. Much of London’s appeal lies here. They are open on all days, but it is better to visit them on weekdays when they are less crowded.
The city possesses some beautiful parks where the weather can be enjoyed. The Hyde Park forms amongst largest green open spaces in London and it is one of the Royal gardens. The St. James Park is also one of the oldest Royal parks in London. Another is the Green Park.
Travelling Around London
The easiest way to travel around the city is with the London Pass. It is a pass that is used for sightseeing at a fixed rate. This is a one-time payment that you can make, and this includes 55 places. It also comprises of a river cruise. This way you can visit and revisit museums and other places. You will also receive a free guidebook for London. You will also get discounts at some restaurants and cafés.
The primary shopping area is the Oxford Street. It possesses several designer showrooms and department stores. Apart from these, street vendors are also located here. Popular shopping malls are situated here as well. Plays, operas, exhibitions, and shows are regularly organized at the Covent Garden and the Leicester Square.
The London Weather
The weather in London is rather erratic. It, of course, is primarily rainy. But sometimes, the weather turns sunny just as suddenly. The months of September and October are usually ideal. Summer is over by then and the weather is pleasant and not too cold. There are several plays scheduled around this time. If it is the Wimbledon you want to catch, then is suggested you drop by in June. Lots more happens in June too, like the Covent Garden Festival and City of London Festival of theatre and music, as well as the Derby and Ascot horseracing. July is just as good too because there are open-air plays at the Regent’s Park. The Albert Hall hosts concerts.
London has something going on every month, but check which weather suits you the most.