aerial photography of London skyline during daytime

Travel guide

London

Photo: Benjamin Davies / Unsplash

London is a vibrant, historic city blending iconic landmarks with modern culture. History lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies will find endless attractions and diverse neighborhoods to explore.

When to go

May to September offer mild temperatures and longer days, ideal for sightseeing. Winters are cold and wet, while spring and autumn bring fewer crowds but variable weather.

  1. Jan

    8° · 62 mm rain

    cold and wet

  2. Feb

    9° · 58 mm rain

    still chilly

  3. Mar

    11° · 56 mm rain

    early spring chill

  4. Apr

    14° · 41 mm rain

    cool and less rain

  5. May

    18° · 54 mm rain

    pleasant and mild

  6. Jun

    21° · 63 mm rain

    warm and sunny

  7. Jul

    23° · 59 mm rain

    warmest month

  8. Aug

    23° · 48 mm rain

    warm and dry

  9. Sep

    20° · 65 mm rain

    cooler, more rain

  10. Oct

    16° · 77 mm rain

    cool and wet

  11. Nov

    11° · 69 mm rain

    cold and damp

  12. Dec

    9° · 66 mm rain

    cold and rainy

Best timeGoodQuieterNot ideal

Average daily high and monthly rain over the last ten years, from weather records by Open-Meteo

Top things to do

  • British Museum

    World-class exhibits, free entry, arrive early to avoid crowds.

  • Tower of London

    Historic fortress with Crown Jewels, book tickets in advance.

  • Westminster Abbey

    Gothic architecture and royal history, guided tours available.

  • The Shard

    Panoramic city views, best at sunset, book online.

  • Camden Market

    Eclectic stalls and street food, great for unique souvenirs.

  • Hyde Park

    Spacious green area, perfect for picnics and boating on the Serpentine.

Food to try

  • Fish and Chips

    Classic British dish, try at a local pub.

  • Borough Market

    Famous food market with diverse gourmet options.

  • Afternoon Tea

    Traditional experience, book a tea room in advance.

  • Brick Lane

    Known for excellent curry houses and vibrant atmosphere.

Where to stay

  • Covent Garden: Central, lively, great for shopping and theaters.
  • South Bank: Riverside walks, cultural venues, ideal for families.
  • Shoreditch: Trendy, artsy, perfect for nightlife and street art lovers.

Homestays in London

Getting around

From Heathrow, take the Piccadilly Line (~£6) or Heathrow Express (~£25). Use Oyster or contactless cards for buses and Tube (£2.50 per trip).

Good to know

  • Mind the gap when boarding the Tube.
  • Beware of street scams near tourist spots.
  • Carry an Oyster card for cheaper transport fares.

Emergency numbers

Reading about London

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Written with AI on October 7, 2026 and refreshed every month. Check opening times, prices and entry rules before you go.