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London’s best attractions route

Discover the best attractions in London by area and make the most of your sightseeing trip to the capital with the route below.
People in a London Eye pod admiring the views of London, with the river Thames and Houses of Parliament below
Panoramic views from the London Eye © Shutterstock. Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From iconic museums and landmarks in central London within walking distance of each other, to family attractions and cultural spots easy to get to in other parts of the city, follow this itinerary to tick off as many top London attractions as you can.

Central London

Fun on the South Bank

An ideal place to get your bearings, set off on your London attractions route on the South Bank. This central location abounds with fun attractions and experiences for all ages.

  1. First, head up the London Eye for astounding 360-degree views of the city. Spot some of the capital's most iconic landmarks and top attractions, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. Book now
  2. Kids in tow or fan of underwater wonders? Check out the SEA LIFE London aquarium, which houses one of Europe's largest collections of global marine life, from sharks and jellyfish to seahorses and piranhas. Book now
  3. Teens and adults alike will love the London Dungeon next door. Delve into the capital’s dark past, with live actors, thrilling rides and exciting special effects, during this terrifying 90-minute experience. Book now

Westminster attractions

Crowds of people admire the grand exterior of Westminster Abbey on a sunny day

Next, cross the river to discover incredible London attractions steeped in British history and culture.

  1. Just across Westminster Bridge, explore the fascinating history and heritage behind the doors of the Houses of Parliament and one of the world’s most famous clock towers, Big Ben, on a guided tour. Book now
  2. Marvel at the incredible architecture of nearby Westminster Abbey before stepping inside the historic coronation site of all British monarchs since 1066. Book now
  3. No visit to London would be complete without a peek at Buckingham Palace, just across St James’s Park. The former London residence of Queen Elizabeth II is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today and can be visited at certain times of year. Book now

The City and London Bridge highlights

Young woman smiling while she takes a picture of the view of London and the river Thames from The View from The Shard.

Further along the Thames, round off your central London attractions tour with a few more iconic sights.

  1. Immerse yourself in yet more history at St Paul’s Cathedral, with its stunning stained-glass windows, impressive architecture and historical monuments. Book now
  2. For a spot of culture, cross Millennium Bridge and head over to free modern and contemporary art gallery Tate Modern and iconic Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre next door. Book now
  3. Head to nearby London Bridge to soak up incredible 360-degree views from The View from The Shard, at the top of one of the highest buildings in Europe.
  4. Then make your way to the Tower of London and go on a one-of-a-kind tour of the palace with a Yeoman Warder. Stand where famous heads have rolled and take a closer look at the priceless Crown Jewels. Book now

North London

An Asiatic lion stands against a backdrop of rocks at ZSL London Zoo.

  1. Hop on the Tube to Baker Street station and head north to visit Madame Tussauds London. This famous London attraction is full of realistic wax figures of celebrities, world leaders and sports stars. Book now
  2. Cross Regent’s Park to come face to face with more than 700 animal species at London Zoo, from penguins to lions and zebras. Book now

East London

Looking up from the ground at the twisting red structure of the ArcelorMittal Orbit, with the winding grey tunnel slide intertwined, on a sunny day.

  1. Next, head east and check out the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, including Lee Valley VeloPark and the Aquatics Centre.
  2. Tuck into delicious local cuisine on a Brick Lane Indian Food Tour with an expert foodie as your guide. Book now

South London

The view from Greenwich Park featuring the Old Royal Naval College and Canary Wharf.

  1. Make your way to the Royal Docks and glide above the Thames on board the IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line Cable Car). Take in aerial views of London's skyline, as you travel to your next stop: the Greenwich Peninsula. Book now
  2. Before setting off to explore Greenwich, treat yourself to another adrenaline-fueled experience with Up at the O2, an exhilarating 90-minute climb over the roof of the world's most popular entertainment venue. Book now
  3. Greenwich awaits! The home of time, Greenwich is where eastern and western hemispheres meet. Discover breathtaking views, royal heritage and superb attractions, including Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum. Book now

West London

A shot of hope the blue whale in the main hall of the natural history museum in London.

  1. From Greenwich, hop on an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers or get the Tube to travel back to west London. Book now
  2. Start off your west London tour with South Kensington’s excellent cluster of free museums: see fascinating art and design at the V&A, get hands-on at the Science Museum's interactive galleries and simulators, and explore our planet's living wonders at the Natural History Museum.
  3. Then take a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Royal Albert Hall, one of the most famous music and concert venues in the world, and see a show if you can! Book now

Inspired? Find more sightseeing ideas for your trip and check out our London attractions map to get planning!

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