From Buckingham Palace to Abbey Road, London has a rich history and culture ready and waiting to be discovered.
With over 8 million inhabitants, London is the largest capital city in Europe, and home to the most recognised royal family in the world. It’s easy to get around the UK’s famous capital thanks to the iconic red double-decker buses, black cabs and exceptional underground rail network.
London is where tradition and history meet modernity and innovation. This is showcased by the London skyline along the River Thames. Here you’ll find architectural treasures such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, world-famous buildings all in the Gothic style, alongside recent additions such as the skyscraper nicknamed The Gherkin (its shape explains all!) and The Shard, an unmistakable glass spire that is the tallest building in Europe. A ride on the London Eye observation wheel on the banks of the River Thames will give you one of the best views over the city.
Visit the British Museum, renowned for its permanent collection of treasures and artefacts from all over the world. Lovers of modern art will be inspired by the Tate Modern, housed in the old Bankside Power Station on the South bank of the River Thames.
Cultural diversity is the key to London’s identity, and this is in evidence with the wide choice of cuisine on offer. Sample some of the best authentic Indian curries in one of the restaurants along Brick Lane. Or head to Soho for dim sum in London’s Chinatown, or pop over to Covent Garden for a wide choice of street food. Kensington, Chelsea and Knightsbridge have many Michelin-starred restaurants, but if you are in the mood for something more laid-back, try the innovative bistros and gastropubs in Notting Hill.
If you’re in the mood for shopping, London’s celebrated department stores will exceed your expectations. Try the luxury of Harrods and Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge, or Selfridges on Oxford Street.
If the sun comes out, spend some time people-watching in Trafalgar Square or Piccadilly Circus, or head to the calm of London’s many parks, most notably Hyde Park, the city’s largest. And whatever you decide to do, Buckingham Palace is a must-visit. Witness the changing of the guard at 11:15 am every day except during winter.
London Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in London
Paddington
Explore the lovely canals and intriguing architecture of this historic neighborhood made famous by a fictional bear from Peru.
Relax in the stunning park with a view of the palace, explore the upscale high street and visit the galleries and museums of this affluent neighborhood.
Wander around London’s financial district in the scenic docklands with the tallest skyscrapers in the city. They are home to some of the world’s biggest companies.
Located in London City Centre, this spa hotel is steps away from Southbank Centre Book Market and Florence Nightingale Museum. St. Thomas' Hospital and Sea Life ...…Located in London City Centre, this spa hotel is steps away from Southbank Centre Book Market and Florence Nightingale Museum. St. Thomas' Hospital and Sea Life ...WWW…
4.4/5Wonderful! (12,692 reviews)
"The space, location, amenities and staff. The venue is very central and is a fantastic location for getting around."…""The space, location, amenities and staff. The venue is very central and is a fantastic location for getting around."WWW…"
Located in Hillingdon, this hotel is 2.6 mi (4.1 km) from Stockley Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Brunel University and London Motor Museum. Windsor Castle ...…Located in Hillingdon, this hotel is 2.6 mi (4.1 km) from Stockley Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Brunel University and London Motor Museum. Windsor Castle ...WWW…
4.3/5Excellent! (8,512 reviews)
"Stay here whenever I arrive from my long overseas flight A short walk to Hertz and Eurocar rentals Very comfortable bed; great, friendly staff"…""Stay here whenever I arrive from my long overseas flight A short walk to Hertz and Eurocar rentals Very comfortable bed; great, friendly staff"WWW…"
Located in London City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Tate Modern and Coca-Cola London Eye. The Shard and Big Ben are also within 1 ...…Located in London City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Tate Modern and Coca-Cola London Eye. The Shard and Big Ben are also within 1 ...WWW…
4.7/5Exceptional! (2,778 reviews)
"check in welcoming and excellent service. Spa was also excellent but unfortunately no swim pool or jacuzzi however the treatments made up for it and i enjoyed the steam room."…""check in welcoming and excellent service. Spa was also excellent but unfortunately no swim pool or jacuzzi however the treatments made up for it and i enjoyed the steam room."WWW…"
Once the private hunting grounds of a king, London's most famous park is today a place where everyone can enjoy gardens, monuments and music performances.
Attend music and sports events, see a movie or go bowling in one of the busiest arenas in the world, situated inside this iconic dome by the River Thames.
Tower of London Tickets with Beefeater Tour & Crown Jewels
NZ$22
Get a firsthand look at more than 1,000 years of British royal history with a visit to the storied castle grounds at the Tower of London. Marvel at the glittering Crown Jewels and coronation regalia of monarchs past, and roam the ramparts with the famous Beefeaters who still protect the tower.
Fly high above the slow-moving waters of the Thames for a bird's-eye vantage point over London's historical landmarks and modern architecture. Take in far-reaching views of St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London on this relaxed revolution over the British metropolis.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
NZ$133
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is an absolute must for fans of the Harry Potter series of books and films. Go behind the scenes to discover the secrets behind the filming of all 8 films as you explore the actual sets used to film scenes in Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and Privet Drive—to name but a few.
The world of Harry Potter awaits. Explore the extravagant sets and props that helped bring the magic to life in the Warner Bros. films at the studio where Hogwarts and Diagon Alley were created for the big screen.
Plaza Premium Lounge at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) - Terminal
NZ$57
Kick up your travel-weary feet with a first-class relaxation experience in the Plaza Premium Lounge. This peaceful oasis offers a convenient escape from the airport bustle. Plus, get access to amenities that run the gamut from useful to luxurious, from Wi-Fi and showers to a champagne and tapas bar.
London River Thames High-Speed Cruise from Embankment Pier
NZ$88
The super-powered Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB's) are specially designed to operate on the River Thames. One minute you're cruising gently under Tower Bridge, the next you are racing out towards the Thames Barrier at a rate of 50 knots on a speed boat.
