Things to do in London

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Two red double-decker buses on a city street with historic buildings in the background.
A cityscape with a prominent dome structure, bridges, and modern buildings.
A park with a large building in the background, surrounded by trees with autumn leaves.
A lion statue in front of a clock tower and a building with classical architecture.
A cityscape with a prominent Ferris wheel, high-rise buildings, and a clock tower.

Things to do

Skip-the-Line London Eye Experience Tickets

Fast Track London Eye Entry Ticket

$59
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Fast Track London Eye Entry Ticket
Westminster Abbey in London

Westminster Abbey Tickets

$43
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Westminster Abbey Tickets
Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket

Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket

$36
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket
Shrek's Adventure Tickets

Shrek's Adventure! London Tickets

$32
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Shrek's Adventure! London Tickets
See all activities in London
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.
    Learn about One Key

London must see attractions

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.
Learn more
A river with boats, a gazebo, and autumn trees.

2. Big Ben

Catch a glimpse of Big Ben across the River Thames and you’ll know you have truly arrived in London. Featured in British films, such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually,” Big Ben is best viewed from the Thames’ east bank or while strolling along Westminster Bridge, on route to see the Houses of Parliament.
Learn more
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in London.

3. Tower Bridge

For London locals, Tower Bridge is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, ushering 40,000 vehicles safely across the Thames daily. However, for many visitors, the sight of the dual Gothic towers rising above the skyline is a must-see.
Learn more
The Tower Bridge in London, featuring two towers, a central arch, and suspension cables.

4. Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus garnered its peculiar name from Roger Baker, a tailor famous for making men’s piccadills, the frilled collars fashionable in the 17th century. The word “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic, which whisks around beneath the statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, the name represents flashing lights, entertainment and the exuberance of a city on the move. Piccadilly Circus has become a must-see spectacle, which draws locals and tourists day and night.
Learn more
A busy city square with historic buildings, a fountain, and various shops including a pharmacy and a cinema.

5. The Arena

The O2 Arena is an award-winning complex that hosts many types of events, such as sports and music. It has a seating capacity of about 20,000 and has held the title as the busiest arena in the world with more than 2 million ticket sales in a calendar year. It was designed with excellent acoustics to prevent echoing.
Learn more
A large stadium with a unique roof structure and multiple tall towers.

6. Buckingham Palace

The official home of British royalty since 1837, Buckingham Palace is the epicenter of Britain’s constitutional monarchy. It’s walls have witnessed innumerable state decrees, lavish banquets and foreign dignitary receptions.
Learn more
A classical fountain with statues, a golden angel, and a neoclassical building in the background.

7. Trafalgar Square

Built to commemorate the British Navy’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, London’s Trafalgar Square is now the first port of call for over 30 million tourists a year. This area has been a gathering point for celebrations and political rallies for more than a century. Within hours of each event, however, the normal rhythms of the city return, watched over by the stoic statues of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Four Lions.
Learn more
A large obelisk monument surrounded by a circular fountain in a city square.

8. London Bridge

London Bridge is easily one of the most famously named bridges in the world, and the site of the oldest recorded crossing of the River Thames. Walk across the landmark structure, enjoy gorgeous river views and pick up insights into the bridge’s history in its underground vaults.
Learn more
The Tower Bridge in London with the moon in the sky.

What to do in London

Stay near popular London attractions

A river with boats, a gazebo, and autumn trees.

Hyde Park

9.2/10 (38,380 reviews)
Stroll through London's iconic royal parkland featuring Speakers' Corner and the Diana Memorial Fountain. Rent a rowboat on the Serpentine Lake or enjoy seasonal concerts amid the manicured gardens.
See properties

Where to stay in London

Find the best London areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about London
Learn more about London
The exterior of the Covent Garden Market with the Punch & Judy theatre and Central Avenue entrance.

Covent Garden

The lively bars and colorful gardens are just a few top-rate features of the neighborhood. Make a stop by Covent Garden Market or London Transport Museum while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Covent Garden Underground Station to get around town.

A historic building with intricate architecture and a large lawn area.

South Kensington

Known for its fascinating museums and charming cafes, there's plenty to explore in South Kensington. Check out top attractions like Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum, and jump on the metro at South Kensington Underground Station or Gloucester Road Underground Station to see more of the city.

A bustling street with a 'Welcome to Carnaby Street' archway, vintage shops, and pedestrians.

Soho

Travelers to Soho praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Oxford Street and Soho Theatre.

A street lined with shops, including DKNY and Rolex, and a white van on the road.

Mayfair

Mayfair is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Oxford Street and Sotheby’s. See more of London by jumping on the metro at Bond Street Underground Station or Bond Street (Elizabeth Line) Station.

A street scene with a building labeled 'CAMDEN LOCK' and a 'POST STORE' sign.
Photo by Paul Hudson
Open Photo by Paul Hudson

Camden

Oxford Street and The British Museum are a few top attractions in Camden. Hop around the city on the metro at Chalk Farm Underground Station or Swiss Cottage Underground Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, beautiful gardens, and popular shops.

Popular day trips from London

An aerial view of a city with modern architecture, including a distinctive curved building and a tall skyscraper.

Croydon

A forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Hornchurch

Swans swimming in a park with a gazebo in the background.

Hounslow

A sunset over a body of water with boats and a stadium in the background.

Wembley

A tall stone tower with a clock, surrounded by trees.

Bromley

Railway tracks, a road with cars, and residential buildings in the background.
Photo by Nigel Cox (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Buckhurst Hill

A family in front of a historic castle with red brick walls and towers.

Kingston Upon Thames

An aerial view of a residential area with houses, a parking lot, and a large building with illuminated windows.

Borehamwood

Frequently asked questions

Is London worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in London is visit Hyde Park. Check this leading sight off your list, then experience more of the area's bars and pubs and views.
How do I spend a day in London?
When you've checked off major attractions like Hyde Park and London Eye, spend the rest of your day exploring London's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in London?
Don't leave without visiting Hyde Park, rated the top tourist attraction in London.
Is three days enough to stay in London?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city highlights, like Hyde Park, London Eye and Buckingham Palace. The average stay in London is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your break, West Drayton isn't far away.
Is London a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, London is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between Hyde Park and London Eye. Then take a stroll through London City Centre, located 0.1 miles from the center, and City of Westminster, which is about 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in London with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in London with kids.
What to do in London for adults?
Beefeater Gin Distillery and Fuller's Griffin Brewery are just two of the things to do in London. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in London?
In London, Hyde Park is a top spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to learn about the best free things to do in London.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia