If you're planning a trip to the capital, explore these useful things to know before visiting London, from practical information about London, such as public transport, currency, visas, time zone and accessibility, to expert London travel tips covering the best things to see and do, top events, when to visit and where to eat in the capital.
Where is London located?
London is one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world; but where is it actually located? London is the capital city of England and is located in the south east of the country. It belongs to the county of Greater London, an administrative area that includes 32 boroughs plus the City of London.
Although a country in its own right, England is also part of the United Kingdom alongside Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
How can I get to London?
From its location in south-east England, it doesn't take long to get to London from all major cities in the United Kingdom. The UK's efficient rail network means a London break by rail takes less than two and a half hours from cities in the north, such as Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield. It takes less than two hours to get to London from places in the west of England such as Bristol, and less than an hour from Brighton.
Regular ferry services connect London to continental Europe and Ireland, and the Eurostar high-speed train will take you from Paris to central London in little more than two hours. With six major airports, London is easy to get to from all over the world.
What language is spoken in London?
The official native language in London is English. However, the capital is culturally diverse and home to people from around the world, so there are actually more than 300 languages spoken in the city today.
What is London famous for?
London is a modern, innovative and iconic city, steeped in history. It’s famous for its historic palaces and magnificent landmarks, world-class museums, iconic attractions and events, picturesque parks and gardens.
London is known for its vibrant culture and cultural icons, such as red buses, West End shows, the Royal Family, literary figures such as William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, and film icons including James Bond and Harry Potter.
What to do in London?
There are so many reasons to visit London! The city is home to iconic sights, royal palaces, world-class art, incredible food, award-winning shows, stunning parks, thrilling activities and so much more. Get started planning your trip with the best things to do, top 50 must-sees and useful information and guides for first-time visitors, including useful things to know before visiting London.
Whether you're a seasoned visitor or it's your first time in London, make the most of the city – stay in some of the country's grandest hotels, see some of the best theatre in the world in the West End and check out all of London's top attractions. Plus, join in one of the many exciting London events happening throughout the year, from parades and music festivals to flower shows and sporting spectacles, or take a tour and allow an expert to guide you through the city’s hidden gems.
Is London expensive to visit?
Despite its reputation as an expensive place to visit, a trip to the capital needn't break the bank! You can visit London on a budget if you know where to go and how to save money on everything from transport and food to hotel stays and theatre tickets.
Discover a wealth of free things to do in London, cheap attractions, low-cost London transport options, affordable restaurants and budget accommodation to choose from across the city.
When to visit London?
Not sure when the best time to visit London is? The capital is the perfect place to visit all year round, with seasonal events coming one after the other. Find out more about special events in London with this month-by-month guide.
The climate in the capital is one of the mildest in the UK, but London weather can be quite unpredictable. In autumn and winter, take in a museum or art gallery, or head to one of London's many pop-up ice rinks over the Christmas period. Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the outdoors at one of the many wonderful parks, seeing the sights on a river tour or open-top bus, or indulging in a drink in the sun at a rooftop bar.
How big is London?
London is the biggest city in the UK, by density and by population. It is approximately 600 square miles (1,500 square kilometres). As of 2024, London's population stands at approximately 9 million.
How do I get around London?
London is very easy to get around, thanks to its extensive public transport network. Learn about using the Tube, buses, riverboat services, local trains, London's public bicycle hire scheme Santander Cycles and London taxis.
Whether you're making a one-off trip or you're a regular visitor, using an Oyster card is the easiest way to get around on the public transport network in London. Find out everything you need to know about Oyster cards in London, plus check out these handy travel maps and guides to best plan your journey. If you prefer walking, then don't miss the best walks in the city.
Is London accessible?
London continues to improve accessibility throughout the city with inclusive design, such as step-free access, ramps and smooth surfaces, ensuring that visitors can access the capital's transport network, top sights and accommodation.
Find out about accessible London, including accessible hotels, accessible attractions, accessible tours, accessible public transport and much more.
Is London safe?
London is a very safe place to visit, but as with any global city, be aware of your surroundings and use common sense and caution to stay safe, particularly at night. It's advisable to plan your route and stay in well-lit, busy areas.
Can I drink tap water in London?
London's tap water is safe to drink. In fact, tap water around the UK is rated among the best in the world. Find out all about London’s drinking water, including where to fill up your water bottle for free.
What is the City of London?
The City of London is an area of central London. It's the most historical part of London and was founded by the Romans as the settlement of Londinium in AD50. Today, it's home to some of London's top attractions, including the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and St Paul's Cathedral, as well as modern skyscrapers such as The Gherkin, "The Walkie-Talkie" (20 Fenchurch Street) and "The Cheesegrater" (122 Leadenhall Street).
What time zone is London?
London operates by Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the same as the rest of the UK. The clocks in the UK change twice a year, in March and in October. Head to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, stand on the Greenwich Meridian Line and see where the mean solar time for the UK is calculated from. While you are there, visit many other top attractions in Greenwich, one of London's local neighbourhoods.
What currency is used in London?
The UK currency that is used in London is the pound sterling (£/GBP). Before visiting London, it's helpful to know a little about UK currency and how it works. Take a look at this guide to the British pound, from using cash machines to contactless payment.
Do I need a visa to visit London?
Some people may need a visa to visit London, depending on what country they come from. Following the UK's decision to leave the European Union, visa-free leisure travel to and from the UK is still in place for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. However, nationals from those countries are now required to have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Find out all you need to know about UK visas and ETAs for travel to London before you go.
How do I access the internet in London?
Get online and browse the internet in London in a few simple steps. Whether you'd rather gain access to the internet using your existing mobile phone contract, by purchasing a sim card or wifi device, or connecting to free wifi in London in areas across the city, find out how to access the internet in London.
I only have a day in London. What should I do?
London is a very walkable and accessible city and in one day you can visit many iconic landmarks and attractions on foot or by renting a bike. To experience all the sights and sounds of London, book a sightseeing tour, a river Thames tour or a one-day hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Pick from the top 10 attractions to explore with the money-saving London Pass and finish the day in style at one of the 10 best musicals in London. For inspiration on how to make the most of your time in London, check out these top London itineraries, including the 24 hours in London itinerary.
Can you recommend a good place to eat?
London is home to many world-class restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars, and unique food and drink experiences. London’s eclectic food scene reflects its status as one of most diverse cities in the world with a mix of British classics and multicultural cuisine to satisfy all taste buds.
Food lovers can go on a culinary journey and enjoy the best gastronomy London has to offer, from the many Michelin-starred restaurants to popular street food markets.
Is tipping expected in London?
Tipping in London is appreciated but not always appropriate. There are some situations where it is customary, for example in restaurants. However, tips in the UK are discretionary and depend on the quality of the service you receive.
It is customary to leave 10 to 15% of the bill as tip when eating out in London, although some restaurants add on a service charge instead (usually 12.5%). In London hotels, people often tip porters. It is polite to round up your taxi fare to the nearest pound for black cabs and licensed minicabs.
Where can I get a map of London?
You can collect a printed city map in the Visitor Centres at both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports and at most hotels, stations and Tourist Information Centres across London. For free online maps and guides, simply download these London travel maps and the Visit London app before you arrive, to help you plan your stay in London.
I'm travelling with kids to London. What should we do?
London is a very family-friendly city with plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained all year round, and for all budgets. From things to do in London with kids and immersive attractions to top London shows, check out suggestions for fun things to do in London for families and kids of all ages.
For more London information and fun insights, check out 101 facts about London. Ready to finalise your trip? Find more essential information about London, pick a place to stay, make a list of top attractions to visit and read 11 tips on the best way to make the most of London.
