We recently traveled to London, a city our whole family adores, and had the most fun, adventurous days to share.  London has a rich history and so many museums and landmarks to explore that you can quickly fill a 3 – 5 day trip packed with things to do. You need a minimum of 3 days as you will regret a trip any shorter.  England is incredible in that, you can experience both modern-day pleasures and historical “Oldy Worldy” nuggets around every corner.   It is a city that never stops tapping you on the shoulder and saying , “look over there”,  “turn around”, “now look over there”.  One minute you are at Buckingham Palace, and St James Park and within a short walk you are facing Big Ben and a stones through away from Westminster Abbey.  While London isn’t always known as a foodie paradise, I promise you there are many food adventures and delicious bites to entertain your palate and keep you coming back.  And let’s not forget high tea.  I mean, let’s be honest: Americans are fascinated with all things British; from the accents, to the feelings of sophistication and royalty, to our shared historical connections.  Britain has given us so much to be fond of like the Beatles, Harry Potter, Downtown Abbey, Sherlock Holmes and so many great writers, actors and public figures too numerous to list. There is a reason why video feeds are filled with clips of Emily blunt guest appearances and interviews.  I just love everything British. When you visit London, not only are you surrounded by this connection to the past, there is a vitality to the city that gives you the sense that you are creating history by just being a tourist and exploring all the city has to offer right now.  There is a certain je ne sais quoi the keeps you longing to come back time and time again.

Among the many things to do in London here were some of our favorite places to explore

The London Eye

The Shakespeare Theatre

Diagon Alley

Buckingham Palace

St James Park

The London Tower

West End for Theatre

Big Ben

Westminster Abbey

Covent Garden

Piccadilly Circus

Trafalgar Square

St Paul’s Cathedral

London Travel Tips: What I’ve Learned

London is one of those cities that pulls you in—history, culture, incredible food, and energy like nowhere else. But with so much to see and do, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s what I’ve learned to make the most of your time in London, from personal experience (and a few trial-and-error moments).

Stay Near a Tube Station

London is massive, and being near a Tube stop makes all the difference. Pick a hotel or VRBO close to a station, and you’ll be zipping around the city like a pro. The London Underground is fast, affordable, and easy to navigate once you get the hang of it—just remember to Mind the Gap!

Public Transport is Your Best Friend

Forget taxis—public transport is the way to go. The Tube and buses get you everywhere, and once you figure out the system, it’s a breeze. Grab an Oyster card or use contactless payment, and don’t forget to try a double-decker bus ride—it’s a cheap way to see the city from above.

Take a Day Trip if You Can

London is incredible, but if you are planning a trip longer than 3 days (honestly 5 or more), getting out of the city is can be a fun adventure where you get to see more things Brittish beyond the big city. . Windsor, Bath, Stonehenge, Canterbury or the Cotswolds—there’s so much to see that is just a train ride away. If you can, carve out a day for something outside the city. It’s absolutely worth it.

Make Time for Tea

Honestly one of our favority things to do in London.  Slow down and savor th moment.  If there’s one thing that feels quintessentially British, it’s afternoon tea. Whether you go all out at The Ritz or find a cozy spot in a little café, it’s an experience that slows you down in the best way. Finger sandwiches, warm scones, clotted cream—It’s just so Brittish.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

London is packed with free things to do. Museums like the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the National Gallery won’t cost you a penny, and even just wandering the streets past Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge is thrilling. You can really plan a trip to London that doesn’t break the wallet. Plan some of these free attractions or ideas iinto your itinerary and you’ll be amazed at how much you can experience without spending a fortune.

See the Changing of the Guard (But Get There Early!)

It’s classic London, but it gets crowded. If you want a good view, arrive at least 30–45 minutes early at Buckingham Palace. And if you want fewer crowds, check out the ceremony at Windsor Castle—same pageantry, but way more space.

Plan Extra Time for Everything

I did not believe this at first.  I am a stubborn american, but it is true.  London is not the place to rush. And this is doubly true if you plan to leave the city for any day trips or other explorations around the UK.  Yes, London moves fast, but your itinerary doesn’t have to. Give yourself extra time at each stop, whether it’s lingering in a museum, strolling through Covent Garden, or just soaking in the vibe of a historic pub. Some of the best moments come when you’re not rushing to the next thing.

Research the Food—It’s Better Than You Think

London’s food scene can be exciting if you plan well and do your research.  You have to experience the classics while you are there like, fish and chips, savory pies, sunday roasts, the Classic English Breakfast,but don’t stop there. Indian food is legendary (Tikka Masala is often said to be it’s national dish), and there are some of the best bakeries and street food spots you’ll want to try. A little research goes a long way and don’t be afraid to explore the sushi, thai or indian cuisine while in London.  I can highly recommend Nobu London

Watch the Weather—Trust Me

London’s weather is unpredictable. Check the forecast every morning because what starts as a sunny day can turn into a downpour in minutes. An umbrella, layers, and a light rain jacket are essentials. I learned this the hard way after getting caught in a sudden downpour with nothing but morning optimism to shield me. Not only did it rain but it dropped 15 degrees and I was in shorts and a t-shirt and miserable.  Our family of seven fell into a local souvenir shop to get sweatshirts and umbrellas but we were already soaking wet and miserable.  We learned the hard way.

London is magic, and the best way to experience it is to soak it all in—the history, the food, the energy. Plan a little, leave room for spontaneity, and don’t forget to look up and enjoy the view around every corner.