London, England, UK

City tour of London, England

London City of history and diversity

It's ambitious. Very ambitious. But, it's possible to tour London, one of the biggest and most diverse cities on earth, in just one day. The structures and monuments of this vast city speak of a 2000-year history from the Roman occupation, the Norman invasion and the Magna Carta to the English Civil War, the British Empire and the 'Blitz'. Here you will find history around every corner. But that's not all. You will discover in today's London a success story of cultural diversity and coexistence. Every nationality, language, creed and culture is represented by the 10 million people who live and work in this vast and still-growing melting pot. There's little wonder this iconic city attracts up to 30 million visitors annually.

A walking tour of London, England

The Tower of London

Our journey begins at The Tower of London, one of the UK's most iconic tourist destinations and a monument of British history, architecture, and intrigue. Founded by William the Conqueror as part of the Norman Conquest in 1066, the Tower has served variously as a royal palace and a fortress over its long history. It also has a dark history as a place of execution and imprisonment. Several figures from British history — including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Thomas More — were executed within its walls or on Tower Hill. Today, the Tower is home to the Crown Jewels, a breathtaking collection of crowns, sceptres and other regalia used during the coronation of British monarchs and other royal ceremonies. Book your tickets here...

The Tower of London, London, England
Tower Bridge, London

Tower Bridge

One of the most iconic and recognisable sights in all of London, Tower Bridge has stood since its completion in 1894 as a tribute to Victorian engineering and design. Built to ease road traffic while maintaining river access to the busy Pool of London docks, combining aspects of bascule- and suspension-bridge construction. Its bascules, or movable roadways, lift to allow ships to pass through, a process that still fascinates visitors 130 years after it was conceived. Cross the bridge on foot and head along the South Bank past Southwark Cathedral towards Shakespeare's Globe.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a faithful recreation of the original Elizabethan playhouse for which Britain's most famous playwright wrote his plays. The original theatre was built in 1599 and tragically burned down in 1613 during a performance. The current Globe was opened to the public in 1997, standing just a few hundred yards from the original site. The theatre is designed to replicate the open-air playing conditions of the 16th century, offering both standing and seated areas in a circle around a stage that is positioned in the middle of the space. Guided tours can be booked in advance.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, London, Britain
Tate Modern, London, UK

Tate Modern

Just a few metres along the South Bank, in what was once the Bankside Power Station, you will find the Tate Modern — one of the foremost contemporary art museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world, spanning the 1900s to the present day. You can view famous works by Picasso, Rothko, DalĂ­, and Warhol for no entrance fee at all. Even if modern art is not how you would choose to spend your time in London, do allow at least a few minutes to head to the Blavatnik Building, specifically the viewing platform on its 10th floor. Here you can feast your eyes on panoramic views of the London skyline, the River Thames and St Paul's Cathedral.

St. Paul's Cathedral

As you cross the Thames using the pedestrian Millennium Bridge, you will see the dome of St Paul's Cathedral ahead of you. This is one of the most iconic sights in London and a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture. Conceived in the aftermath of the Great Fire of London (1666), the Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710. Since then, it has been a focal point of British pageantry, hosting such events as the funerals of Lord Nelson and Sir Winston Churchill, jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria, and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. For those who can stomach the 257 steps to the Dome, the famous Whispering Gallery is well worth the climb. This legendary space is famous for its remarkable acoustics, where a whisper against its walls can be clearly heard on the opposite side, 112 feet away. Book sightseeing tickets in advance here...

St. Paul's Cathedral, London
Covent Garden, London, UK

Covent Garden

Walk along the river or take the Underground District and Circle line as far as Embankment. A short distance from the riverbank, you'll find Covent Garden — a vibrant and historic district known for its lively atmosphere, cultural institutions and diverse attractions. Originally a fruit and vegetable market in the 17th century, Covent Garden's history stretches back to Roman times. Here, you'll find the famous Market Building and piazza, the Royal Opera House and Theatre District. For us today, it's a great place to get lunch — Covent Garden is perhaps the best area of London to dine out. You will find every kind of food and drink here (except perhaps the cheap kind!). If the weather is nice, find a table on the pavement and enjoy listening to the buskers.

Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square

Spend some time exploring some of London's most celebrated outdoor spaces en route to the Houses of Parliament. With a history dating back to the 17th century, Leicester Square is today London's premier entertainment district — surrounded by cinemas, theatres, and casinos. Just along Coventry Street, Piccadilly Circus is famous for its neon signs, the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, and the statue of Eros. It is also a gateway to some of London's best shopping streets, including Regent Street and the bustling areas of Soho. Head down Haymarket past the Theatre Royal, and turn left when you reach Pall Mall. Ahead you will see the dome roof of the National Gallery, signalling your arrival at Trafalgar Square. In many ways, the centre of London, Trafalgar Square is a traditional site for political demonstrations, New Year's celebrations, and other public gatherings. Home to Nelson's Column, the square commemorates Admiral Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Piccadilly Circus, London
Big Ben, London, UK

Big Ben & The Palace of Westminster

The most unmistakable sight in the United Kingdom is the Palace of Westminster, with its unmissable 'Elizabeth Tower', commonly but erroneously called Big Ben. In fact, Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the tower's famous clock. The Palace of Westminster serves as the meeting place for the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two chambers of the British Parliament. A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, the Palace was designed by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin and rebuilt in the mid-19th century after a fire destroyed the original medieval palace. A 90-minute guided tour of the Palace can be booked in advance. Alternatively, there is a self-guided multimedia tour which should also be booked in advance.

Buckingham Palace

There are three main routes from The Houses of Parliament to Buckingham Palace. The quickest is along Birdcage Walk — the most likely route for the Prime Minister to take on his or her weekly visits to see the monarch. The most scenic is through St James's Park, with its lake, manicured lawns and seasonal flora. But the most stately route is 'The Mall' — the tree-lined boulevard that leads from Admiralty Arch on Trafalgar Square to Victoria Memorial at the gates of the Palace. The official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, Buckingham Palace is a key site of political and royal events and a significant cultural landmark. Tourists will recognise the Household Guards with their distinctive bright red tunics and tall black bearskin hats. Palace tours can be booked in advance...

Buckingham Palace, London

Walking tour of London City Map

Other London attractions

If you're looking to go a bit deeper, or a bit further afield, here are some other London attractions that may be of interest.

Hyde Park in London City

Hyde Park

Hyde Park, a sprawling 350-acre urban park nestled in Westminster, Greater London, holds the prestigious Grade I listing. As a Royal Park, it reigns as the largest among its counterparts, forming a picturesque chain from Kensington Palace through Kensington Gardens.

Westminster Abbey in London, England

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is an Anglican church situated in the City of Westminster, London. Since the 1066, it has served as the venue for the coronations of 40 English and British monarchs, as well as a resting place for 18 monarchs from England, Scotland, and Britain.

Science Museum, London, England's capital city

Science Museum

Situated on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the Science Museum stands as a significant institution. Established in 1857, it ranks among the city's top tourist destinations, drawing 3.3 million visitors annually as of 2019.

Natural History Museum in London City

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum showcases a wide array of specimens from different areas of natural history. Situated on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, it stands as one of the three prominent museums in the area, alongside the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

The National Gallery, England, Britain

The National Gallery

The National Gallery, situated in Trafalgar Square within the City of Westminster, Central London, serves as an art museum. Established in 1824, it boasts a diverse range of more than 2,300 paintings ranging from the mid-13th century to 1900.

Harry Potter World London

Harry Potter World London

Explore genuine film sets and delve into the behind-the-scenes mysteries at Harry Potter World London. Walk across the authentic stone flooring of the legendary Hogwarts Great Hall, encounter lifelike creatures, and wander through the captivating streets of Diagon Alley.

Visit London On one of our Britain & Ireland Tours

Discovery Tours Collection
A tour attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

  • 9 days
  • 17 attractions
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Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

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Iconic Ireland Collection
10 Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

  • 10 days
  • 22 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

Rated 4.97 out of 5
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A tour attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour

  • 14 days
  • 25 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

Rated 4.97 out of 5
From €3,990
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The London Eye, seen on our Tours of England and Ireland

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

  • 18 days
  • 34 attractions
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Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

(5)
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Iconic Ireland Collection
14 Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

  • 14 days
  • 25 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Rated 5 out of 5
From €2,990
Iconic Ireland Collection
8 Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

  • 8 days
  • 17 attractions
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Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

(5)
From €1,640
Iconic Ireland Collection
6 Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

  • 6 days
  • 11 attractions
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Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.

Rated 4.94 out of 5
Luxury Tours Collection
Deluxe Castle Tour of Ireland

Deluxe Castle Tour

  • 10 days
  • 22 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Rated 4.95 out of 5
From €2,890
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Ancient Tour of Ireland

Ancient Ireland Tour

  • 8 days
  • 19 attractions
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An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Rated 5 out of 5
From €3,290
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A UK tour attration, a castle in Scotland, Great Britain

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

  • 13 days
  • 24 attractions
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Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

(5)
From €5,690
Discovery Tours Collection
Discover Northern Ireland Tour

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

  • 6 days
  • 8 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Rated 5 out of 5
From €1,090