London is the culture and cosmopolitan British capital with attractions that suit a variety of tastes. Traditionalists might visit Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and hop on a double-decker bus, while history buffs have their pick of the Tower of London, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Vaunted institutions such as the British Museum and Tate Modern appeal to many, while the East End’s hip neighborhoods are perfect for a night on the town. London sightseeing tours make it easy to cover all the major sights with transport, entrance tickets, and guides often included. There are also many easily accessible day trip opportunities outside the city of London including: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Bath, Oxford and Cambridge.

Tower of London

Though it looks like a romantic castle from the outside, the Tower of London once served as a prison and was the site of numerous executions. Today, the Thames-side landmark—first built by William the Conqueror in 1066—is home to the glittering Crown Jewels, and is guarded by uniformed Beefeaters. Visitors can catch a glimpse of this UNESCO World Heritage Site during river cruises and hop-on hop-off bus tours. Participating in a guided tours guarantees admission and offers a chance to skip past ever-present lines.

Viator VIP: Exclusive Access to Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral

On this exclusive, early morning tour, visitors not only enjoy a more tranquil experience at the Tower of London while taking in its most important features, but they also get the chance to see the Beefeaters at work and attend the Tower’s opening ceremony. 

Tower of London Entrance Ticket Including Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

As one of the UK’s most-visited attractions, the Tower of London always has long lines. By securing advanced entrance tickets, travelers can skip the lengthy wait times and head straight inside.

Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, Thames Cruise with Harrods Cream Tea or London Eye Upgrade

This tour makes it easy to visit the Tower of London along with the Crown Jewels, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and many more. The Tower of London is often combined with other in-demand destinations on London sightseeing tours. 

Family-Friendly Tower of London Tour Including Thames River Cruise

This family friendly tour provides a less crowded experience with early entry at the Tower of London and also includes a Thames sightseeing cruise.This tour is ideal for families visiting London with their children.  

Read more about Tower of London tour options here.

Buckingham Palace

Although Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most recognizable attractions, it is rarely accessible to visitors.. Since the palace State Rooms are only open to the public for  two months in the summer this can create long lines and a frenzy of tourists. Booking a tour in advance that includes State Room access can guarantee admission during the outdoor Changing of the Guard ceremony and a visit to the Queen’s gallery.  

Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony

This tour guarantees palace entry with tickets to the State Rooms that are only available in the summer and are in high demand. Guests also get the chance to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which only happens once daily on select days.

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Day Trip from London

Visitors can see two of Britain’s storied castles in one day on this combination tour. The tour stops first at Windsor Castle—the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle—and continues to Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace Tour Including Afternoon Tea

This tour supplies a good dose of British pomp and ceremony by pairing an exclusive visit to the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace (only open in summer) with traditional afternoon tea in a lavish, central London venue.

Small-Group Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

This small-group tour of Buckingham Palace, that is available throughout the year, provides an accessible and affordable way to take in the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Read more about Buckingham Palace tour options here.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey—one of London’s UNESCO World Heritage sites—has quite a history. The soaring Gothic church is an architectural marvel in its own right, and its regal pedigree as the site of royal weddings and coronations makes it a top-tier attraction. Wait times can exceed an hour during peak summer months, but pre-booking a tour ensures a hassle-free experience. Many tours offer combined itineraries that include Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament which are located just steps away.

Tour to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament in London

This British capital tour makes the most of a half-day itinerary. This includes a guided tour of Westminster Abbey as well as a special opportunity to venture within the Houses of Parliament.

Private Tour: Westminster Abbey and Banqueting House Walking Tour in London

While Westminster Abbey always attracts crowds, this private tour offers a more tranquil way to explore the landmark. Visitors also see Banqueting House, the only remaining building of what was once the Palace of Whitehall.

London Combo: Westminster Abbey with Changing of the Guard, Buckingham Palace and Afternoon Tea

This full-day tour immerses visitors in London’s royal heritage with a guided tour of Westminster Abbey and the rare chance to visit Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms—open just two months per year.

London Walking Tour Including Fast-Track Westminster Abbey Visit and Changing of the Guard

This walking tour offers fast-track admission to Westminster Abbey, allowing visitors to beat the crowds and bypass lengthy wait times. The itinerary also includes a Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Read more about Westminster Abbey tour options here.

Stonehenge

Situated in the British countryside, Stonehenge is within easy day-trip distance of London, making it one of England’s most visited attractions with as many as 1.5 million people making the pilgrimage to the Neolithic stone circle each year. Day trips leave the city each day , and offer perks such as before- or after-hours access to the usually roped-off inner circle. Many itineraries also include stops at Windsor Castle, Lacock (featured in the Harry Potter movies) and Bath.

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

This three-in-one itinerary offers visitors a stress-free introduction to three of the UK’s most in-demand attractions—Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath—plus comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped coach transit.

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

Most Stonehenge tours keep visitors a short distance from the stones, but this itinerary offers the rare opportunity to venture into the landmark’s Inner Circle.

Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London

Most tours from London to Stonehenge are group outings by coach, but this itinerary offers a more intimate way to visit the UNESCO-listed site, as well as Windsor Castle and Bath.

England in One Day: Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from London

Perfect for time-pressed clients, this introductory tour whisks visitors to four UK highlights—Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds, and Stratford-upon-Avon—in just one day.

Read more about Stonehenge tour options here.

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Day Trips & Excursions

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Most Popular Things to Do

Day Trips & Excursions

Sightseeing Tickets & Passes

Cultural & Theme Tours

Walking & Biking Tours

Tours & Sightseeing

Things to Know

What the Locals Know

London is famed for its greenery. Visit popular green spaces such as Hyde Park or Regent’s Park, or head to secret gardens such as Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden or the Chelsea Physic Garden.

When to Visit

London benefits from a temperate climate; however, summer and early autumn usually promise the least rain. The peak time for people to take a trip to London is in July, with people planning tours and activities about 40 days in advance.      

Getting Around

The London Underground—colloquially known as the Tube—offers a quick and reliable way to explore the city. Double-decker buses and black cabs offer a charming but also efficient way to travel.

Things to Bring

A portable umbrella that can be stowed away in a small bag is always a good idea. True to reputation, London is frequently taken by sudden showers.

Local Customs

Pubs are a quintessential part of the British social life, and visiting (at least) one is a must. Luckily, there are plenty scattered all over town.

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