18 things to do in the City of London – our guide to the Square Mile

How we chose the best things to do in the City of London

Our team of Visit London authors are London locals and experts who have years of experience exploring the city's many unique neighbourhoods. We keep updated with new openings and special events, sharing our deep knowledge of iconic sites and hidden corners of the capital. Our insights into the visitor experience help us understand what people are looking for and what remains culturally significant in the city.

In this guide, you'll find everything you need, along with our top tips and recommendations, all curated from our expertise and experience.

Explore the City of London's top attractions

Also known as the Square Mile, the City of London is steeped in Roman history, cultural landmarks, iconic attractions and unexpected pockets of greenery.

Whether you're into history, art, culture, food or panoramic views, explore the best of the City with our top tips and highlights.

1. Visit one of London’s most iconic landmarks, St Paul’s Cathedral – best for breathtaking architecture

St Paul’s Cathedral has dominated the Square Mile skyline for more than 300 years with its magnificent dome rising 111 metres (364ft) above the city. It’s impressive from the outside, but to truly appreciate its scale and beauty, you have to step inside. This is where St Paul’s really takes your breath away.

Take a moment to sit beneath the soaring ceiling and admire the artwork above you, from gilded domes to a sea of angels stretching across the nave. The atmosphere shifts as you explore: the vast central space buzzes with quiet awe, while the Crypt offers a calmer place to reflect. Here you’ll find the tombs and memorials of national figures including the Duke of Wellington, Lord Nelson and Florence Nightingale.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the climb to the top of the dome is unforgettable. We recommend skipping leg day beforehand as there are 528 narrow steps to the Golden Gallery, and you’ll definitely feel the burn. Along the way, you’ll pass the famous Whispering Gallery, where even the softest murmur travels around the curved wall, and the Stone Gallery, before emerging onto an outdoor platform with spectacular 360 degree views of London.

Outside St Paul’s, Festival Gardens and Reflection Garden offer peaceful spots to pause and take in the cathedral from a different angle.

Best for: Architecture admirers, history fans and checking off iconic London landmarks.
Good to know: There’s no set route to follow inside the cathedral, so explore at your own pace! If you’re afraid of heights or prone to claustrophobia, you may want to skip the climb to the Golden Gallery. Throughout the year, the cathedral also hosts memorable events, from a candlelit Advent Carol Service to traditional carol concerts and charity performances.

2. Get your global culture fix at the Barbican – best for art, music, cinema, theatre and more

When you wander into the Barbican Centre, it can feel like a secret city within the city – soaring concrete, hidden walkways and sudden pockets of calm. You can drift from the Barbican Art Gallery’s bold contemporary exhibitions to The Curve’s free immersive installations, then slip into the Barbican Conservatory, a lush, glass-roofed oasis and find yourself surrounded by more than 1,500 species of plants and trees. The contrast is part of the charm: brutalist architecture softened by tropical greenery.

What we really love about the Barbican is the sheer range of experiences packed into one sprawling complex. The Barbican Theatre hosts everything from innovative theatre productions to dance performances, while the resident London Symphony Orchestra fills the concert hall with extraordinary music.

For food, Barbican Bar & Grill by Searcys is a reliable favourite, serving modern British dishes built around seasonal, sustainable ingredients, and from April to September, the terrace is a lovely spot for pre-show cocktails, English wines and local craft beers. It’s the kind of place where you can shape your own perfect day, whether you’re here for the history, architecture, the arts or simply a relaxed meal in a unique setting.

Best for: History buffs, theatre goers, music lovers, architecture admirers and foodies who want a deep dive into London’s most distinctive arts complex.
Good to know: The Barbican can be a maze, so give yourself extra time to explore. Opening times and ticketed experiences vary, so make sure to check ahead. 

3. Uncover the hidden stories of Tower Bridge – best for history lovers and skyline seekers

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks, instantly recognisable for its Victorian gothic towers, striking blue walkways and remarkable engineering. But nothing quite compares to stepping inside and discovering the human effort behind it all.

As you make your way up through the exhibition spaces, you uncover how the bridge was built between 1886 and 1894, learn more about the workers (and cats!) behind the project and discover memorable details, including an original Victorian diving suit worn by divers who dug the bridge’s foundations.

Once you reach the high-level walkways, suspended 42 metres (138ft) above the Thames, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the London skyline. The highlight is the glass floor, offering a thrilling look straight down to the traffic and river below, a moment that’s both nerve-tingling and unforgettable.

Best for: Families, curious explorers and experiencing a London icon from the inside.
Good to know: As you walk across the blue walkways towards the Victorian Engine Rooms, keep an eye out for the plaques honouring the bridge’s workers.

Historic sights and landmarks

4. Explore London from the Thames on the Tower of London River Tour – best for sightseeing with a playful twist

There’s something undeniably magical about seeing London from the Thames, and the Tower of London River Tour captures that feeling from the moment you step aboard. Setting off right outside the Tower of London, the all electric Silver Raven glides so smoothly that the city almost feels like it’s drifting past you. With floor-to-ceiling windows, a glass roof and an open-air deck, you’re treated to uninterrupted views of more than 20 iconic landmarks – all while wrapped in the cosy hum of a vessel that barely makes a sound.

What really elevates the experience is the live commentary. We loved the playful, Horrible Histories-style storytelling that brings centuries of river life to the surface. From royal intrigue and daring escapes to the Tower’s most notorious tales, it’s clever, funny and surprisingly vivid, making the 40-minute loop feel like a whistle-stop journey through London’s past. And if you fancy a treat, the onboard bar serves everything from hot chocolate to English sparkling wine, perfect for sipping as Big Ben and the London Eye come into view.

Best for: Sightseers who want a relaxed, story-rich cruise with unbeatable views and a fresh perspective on London’s history.
Good to know: Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure and bring a warm layer if you plan to spend time on the open deck. The Silver Raven is the intended vessel, but occasionally another boat may be used for operational reasons.

5. Uncover the origins of the Great Fire of London at The Monument – best for history buffs and explorers

When you’re wandering through the City of London, The Monument has a way of stopping you in your tracks. Rising above the surrounding streets, this elegant Doric column was built to commemorate the Great Fire of London and the city’s remarkable recovery. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, it marks the exact distance from the bakery on Pudding Lane where the fire began in 1666 – 61 metres (202ft).

At street level, you can admire the intricate carvings at its base before climbing the 311-step spiral staircase. The climb is worth the sweeping views across the City’s modern skyline. Look out for St Paul’s Cathedral, the Sky Garden on top of 20 Fenchurch Street, The Gherkin, The Shard, Tower Bridge and more iconic landmarks.

If you’re exploring more Great Fire of London sites, then make sure to head towards the Golden Boy of Pye Corner, a small golden statue marking where the fire ended. It’s easy to miss so make sure to look up! Just a short walk away, you’ll enter London’s oldest parish church, St Bartholomew the Great, through a Tudor gatehouse. It was miraculously untouched by the flames, as was 41 Cloth Fair, the oldest house in the City, to the left of the church.

Best for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts and anyone curious about London’s past.
Good to know: The staircase can feel narrow so it’s best to go at a relaxed pace and enjoy the journey. 

6. Discover Roman London: the city beneath the City – best for uncovering ancient history and hidden archaeology

Beneath the glass towers and busy streets of the Square Mile lies a very different London. As we walk through the modern City, we’re never far from traces of the Roman city of Londinium, established around 47 AD.

The most atmospheric of these is the London Mithraeum, an immersive reconstruction of a Roman temple dedicated to the mysterious cult of Mithras. Before entering the experience, interactive screens and audio narrated by Joanna Lumley set the scene of the cult’s origins and purpose. Then, as you step into the pitch-black room, strategic lighting starts to reveal the outlines of the temple columns and emblem of Mithras, accompanied by mist and background chatter in Latin – a moment that feels genuinely transportive.

Just a short walk away, hidden beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery, lies London’s only Roman Amphitheatre. The green outlines of fighting gladiators catch your eye first while remnants of the amphitheatre’s arena and stone walls are illuminated by warm lighting bringing the space to life. Don’t forget to look down at the timber drains and drain routes marked in stainless steel!

For more Roman London sights, head on the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths Tour for a rare glimpse of a well-preserved Roman home. Nearby, All Hallows by the Tower hides Roman pavements in its crypt, while fragments of the London Wall appear right outside Tower Hill Station, including a statue of Roman Emperor Trajan.

Best for: Archaeology fans, curious explorers, family-friendly days out and learning new surprising facts.
Good to know: Many Roman sites are free to visit but Billingsgate Roman House and Baths requires advance booking. 

Where to eat in the City of London

7. Grab a relaxed bite in the City – best for lunch and casual dinners

Venture into one of the City’s atmospheric market halls, vibrant street food stalls and contemporary restaurants for a relaxed foodie stop along your visit to the area.

Leadenhall Market, with its ornate Victorian roof and cobbled walkways, offers a mix of pubs, cafes and restaurants. The Lamb Tavern remains a classic choice for a pint and a pie across three characterful floors, while Bedales serves cheese plates alongside an excellent wine list, and Oriani dishes up fresh pasta with terrace seating and even live music mid week.

Next to the Barbican, Whitecross Street Market brings a completely different energy – louder, livelier and proudly unpolished. This weekday street food market offers sizzling grills, fragrant curries, vegan bowls, zesty tacos, indulgent sweet treats and more.

For something in between, Bloomberg Arcade offers a polished but still casual lineup of restaurants arranged along a sleek pedestrian walkway. Expect everything from award-winning Bleecker Burger to Koya’s Japanese udon noodles, contemporary Indian dishes at Brigadiers, plus plenty more to explore.

Best for: Global flavours, street food and modern dining.
Good to know: Whitecross Street Market mainly runs on weekday lunchtimes, while Bloomberg Arcade and Leadenhall Market are covered – great for rainy days. 

8. Feast among the City clouds – best for high-rise dining and special moments

While there may be remnants of an entire city beneath your feet, you’ll also find a whole other world unfolding in the clouds. London’s high-rise dining scene never disappoints, and perched atop some of the City’s tallest buildings, you’ll discover a mix of restaurants perfect for fuelling up before, during or after a day spent exploring.

Start your morning with a sunrise breakfast at Duck & Waffle, which serves up an iconic crispy duck leg confit, fried duck egg and mustard maple syrup waffles 40 floors up. Just a few floors below, Sushisamba London blends Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavours with a vibrant energy that makes it ideal for celebrations and late-evening drinks. Over at Lucky Cat 22 Bishopsgate, Gordon Ramsay brings Asian-inspired small plates to a sleek, skyscraper setting, perfect for dinners that stretch into the night. And if you’re simply chasing the view or in need of a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, Sky Garden offers a lush, glass-encased oasis where you can sip, snack and soak in London from above.

Best for: Views, vibes and elevated flavours.
Good to know: Duck & Waffle is open 24/7! Sky Garden requires free but timed-entry tickets and high-rise restaurants often book up quickly during peak hours.  

9. Tuck into the City’s juiciest chops, steaks and roasts – best for a sit-down feast

Sink your teeth into perfectly charred chops and generous sides at a handful of chop houses keeping London’s long loved dining traditions very much alive.

Set on the grounds of London’s first meat market, Blacklock City serves up its famously tender chops cooked over charcoal with a side of beef-dripping chips. Hawksmoor continues to set the benchmark for exceptional hand-butchered, 35-day, dry-aged British beef, and it takes Sunday very seriously with an award-winning roast featuring crispy beef-dripping potatoes, bone marrow gravy and all the trimmings.

For something a little different, Fogo de Chão brings a South American twist with its Brazilian rodizio-style service and endless parade of grilled meats carved tableside. And if you’re craving a true Parisian classic, Le Relais de Venise delivers its iconic steak frites from a silver platter with a good lashing of that signature secret sauce – simple, consistent and always satisfying.

Best for: Hearty cuts, long lunches and Sunday roasts.
Good to know: Blacklock’s “All In” feast is great value for groups, Hawksmoor roasts book up early and Fogo de Chão’s Churrasco Experience is all you can eat, so come hungry!

Bars, pubs and nightlife

10. Get a taste of history, one pint at a time – best for historic pubs

Tucked down alleyways or perched on ancient corners, the City’s pubs are steeped in history and usually buzzing with post-work chatter. They’re the perfect places to pause between sights, refuel with hearty fare or enjoy a relaxed drink.

We can’t talk about historic pubs without mentioning two of the City’s most atmospheric drinking holes. Regularly frequented by Charles Dickens, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street is one of London’s oldest pubs and still features low, vaulted ceilings, wood-panelled rooms, narrow staircases and cosy, dimly lit corners.

The Blackfriar, on the other hand, is a Grade II-listed, art nouveau masterpiece built on the site of a former Dominican friary. You can’t miss its wedge-shaped building with a black friar above the door. Inside, you’ll find striking carvings of friars, ornate mosaics on the ceilings and stained glass, a nod to its monastic heritage. It’s truly worth a visit just for the art alone, but the cask ales and pub grub are pretty good too.

Best for: Traditional pub fans, history lovers and atmospheric pints.
Good to know: Visit The Blackfriars earlier in the day to admire the murals and mosaics in detail.

11. Tune into the Square Mile’s live music scene – best for live music and late-night vibes

Plan a night out at one of the City’s best live music venues featuring an eclectic mix of rock’n’roll, jazz, swing, soulful acoustic sets and more.

The Ned, a former banking hall and Grade I-listed building, is home to 12 bars and has a packed weekly live music schedule. Pop by from 7.30pm on New Music Monday to hear three emerging artists take to the stage, or we recommend walking in from 5pm on a weekday or from midday on weekends to groove to mellow tunes in the stunning central lobby.

You can also catch daily live performances at Eastcheap Records, where vinyl-lined walls, lively crowds and high-energy bands keep the crowd moving well into the night. For bigger concerts, the Barbican also offers an impressive programme of live music events throughout the year.

Best for: Weekday walk-ins, music lovers, after-dinner drinks and anyone looking to discover new acts.
Good to know: If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, it’s best to book in advance or show up early to grab a great spot.

12. Sip on refreshing drinks on the City’s rooftops – best for after-work drinks with a view

The City of London is home to some of the capital’s most popular rooftops bars, drawing hundreds of office workers, locals and visitors almost every day. From instagrammable terraces to sky-high lounges, each spot offers its own angle on the stunning skyline.

On a sunny evening, Madison and Sabine are go-tos for after-work drinks and unbeatable views of St Paul’s Cathedral. Madison brings lively terrace energy while Sabine offers a botanical, secret garden with indoor and outdoor spaces you can enjoy year-round. For a luxurious rooftop bar, head to Wagtail, perched atop a stunning 1920s building with 360-degree views. Sticking with the 1920s theme, Coq d’Argent offers cocktails inspired by Paris in the roaring 20s across four covered and heated rooftop terraces.

Jin Bo Law and The Ivy Asia both feature Asian-inspired cocktails, while Florattica stands out with its floral installations, live artists and DJs. And for a weatherproof option, Sky Pod Bar inside Sky Garden combines lush greenery with floor-to-ceiling views, making it a reliable choice.

Best for: After-work catch-ups, DJs, sunsets and panoramic views.
Good to know: Many terraces have retractable roofs and heating, making them great year-round.

Activities and entertainment

13. Enjoy a night out with a competitive twist – best for games and fun with friends

There are plenty of fun things to do at night in the City beyond its historic pubs. Make sure to check out these cutting-edge activity bars for lively, social and competitive fun.

One of our favourite ways to have fun with friends or colleagues is by heading to an activity bar such as Fairgame City. You’ll find 12 old-school fairground games reimagined with digital scoring, themed cocktails and delicious street food. If you’re looking for a unique activity, F1® Arcade allows you to race full-motion Formula 1 simulators in a sleek, high-energy setting.

Or, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Puttshack, which features tech-driven crazy golf with smart scoring, themed holes and a lively soundtrack. For something entirely lively, Dabbers Social offers everything from bingo to comedy, quizzes and cabaret, accompanied by DJs, dancing and neon lights.

Best for: Group nights out, after-work fun and celebrations.
Good to know: Booking is required so book ahead to avoid disappointment.

14. Shopping in the Square Mile – best for unique retail experiences and stylish finds

London is full of world-class shopping, from iconic department stores like Selfridges, Harrods and Liberty London, to designer outlets, shopping centres and late-night shopping destinations. The Square Mile adds its own distinctive mix to the scene with luxury boutiques, modern retail hubs and lively street markets.

For high-end elegance, The Royal Exchange offers premium boutiques, fine jewellery brands and a stunning neoclassical courtyard perfect for a mid-shopping drink at The Fortnum’s Bar and Restaurant. Just moments from St Paul’s Cathedral, One New Change is your go-to for high-street favourites, trusty eateries and rooftop terrace views.

For something more eclectic, head to one of London’s oldest markets, Petticoat Lane Market, to enjoy a mix of fashion, leather goods, streetwear and great value finds, a vibrant contrast to the City’s glass towers. If you’re visiting on a weekend, be sure to check out Leadenhall Market's stalls, showcasing a range of independent artists and traders, from jewellery to art, retro homeware, antiques and more.

Best for: Unique gifts, fashion-forward finds and lunchtime shopping.
Good to know: One New Change and The Royal Exchange are great spots for rooftop views and post-shop drinks.

15. The Wizard Walk of London – best for Harry Potter fans

Step into the magic on The Wizard Walk of London, a two-hour guided tour that brings the world of Harry Potter to life across some of the City’s most atmospheric streets. Your enthusiastic muggle guide will whisk you off from the cobbled Victorian splendour of Leadenhall Market, the filming location for the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, before winding past literary pubs and the imposing facade of the Bank of England, which bears more than a passing resemblance to Gringotts (sadly, we didn’t spot any fire-breathing dragons guarding the vaults).

You’ll then stop by the sweeping exterior of St Paul’s Cathedral, home to the geometric staircase featured in The Prisoner of Azkaban before crossing the Millennium Bridge, famously destroyed by Death Eaters on screen. The walk ends at Borough Market, where you can spot the backdrop to the Knight Bus scene and continue exploring at your own pace, perhaps even reward yourself with something delicious from the many global food stalls nearby.

With fun facts, iconic landmarks and plenty of opportunities to shout “Wingardium Leviosa!” for the camera, it’s a spellbinding way to explore the Square Mile.

Best for: Harry Potter fans and families looking for a fun, film-themed way to explore the City.
Good to know: The walk covers several filming locations across the Square Mile and finishes at Borough Market, so wear comfy shoes and bring a camera for the photo spots.

Where to stay in the City of London

16. Stay in Club Quarters Hotel London St Paul’s – best for comfort and reliability

Located just a short walk away from St Paul’s Cathedral, Club Quarters Hotel London St Paul’s delivers modern comforts in one of the City’s most historic corners.

Relax in one of the five bright, spacious and well-designed room types equipped with all the essentials including a smart TV, Nespresso coffeemaker, kettle, yoga mats, resistance bands, multipurpose workspace and more. The hotel’s all-day Counter serves fresh coffee, cocktails, pastries and snacks to keep you fuelled throughout your stay, while the lounge area is an ideal space to unwind, read, work or enjoy drinks from the Counter. There’s also a compact fitness area if you’re looking to keep up with your routine.

Best for: Convenience, comfort and prime location.
Good to know: There are complimentary filtered water stations on each floor.

17. Check into your home away from home at Locke at Broken Wharf – best for flexibility

Set on the river Thames, Locke at Broken Wharf is an aparthotel designed to offer visitors flexibility of apartment living with the comfort of a boutique stay.

Check into one of the 113 studios adorned in calming green and yellow tones and each featuring king-size beds, smart TV and a fully equipped kitchenette, with a hob, fridge-freezer and microwave. Thoughtful touches like toiletries, tea, coffee, sugar and weekly service make longer stays feel effortless. Guests can grab a perfectly made coffee at the Locke Coffee Club, enjoy lunch in the relaxed indoor-outdoor restaurant or make use of the bar, coworking area, gym and communal laundry.

Best for: Flexible, design-led stays on the river.
Good to know: Many studios offer river views, and the communal spaces are ideal for longer visits or remote working.

18. Book your bohemian stay at Hyde London City – best for design and location

Housed within a beautifully restored Grade II-listed building, Hyde London City delivers bohemian chic within walking distance of the City of London’s historic sights.

The Green Key-certified hotel offers 111 rooms inspired by the Victoria era, while featuring high ceilings, bold wallpaper accents, rich Bohemian designs, thoughtful comforts and views overlooking the Old Bailey. After exploring the nearby landmarks of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Barbican Centre, return for a modern Turkish meal at Leydi, or settle into Black Lacquer, the hotel’s Japanese-inspired vinyl bar perfect for late-night drinks and small plates.

Best for: Design-led stays in a historic setting.
Good to know: The seven-storey hotel building dates back to 1874.

Keep exploring London's neighbourhoods. Check out the fantastic food and drink scene of nearby London Bridge, head south of the river to uncover the myriad attractions and sights of the South Bank, or venture slightly further afield and find out what's on in buzzing Brixton.