London is a city you can never finish — but some experiences simply cannot be skipped. Here is our ranking, from the top down.
1. The British Museum — for free
One of the greatest museums on earth, home to the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. Entry is free, as it is at most of London's national museums.
2. The Tower of London & Tower Bridge
A thousand-year-old fortress guarding the Crown Jewels, beside the bridge that became the city's symbol — cross it on the glass-floored upper walkway.
3. Borough Market
London's most famous food market, trading under the railway arches by London Bridge: cheesemongers, bakers and street-food stalls from every cuisine.
4. A West End show
Dozens of productions run simultaneously in the theatre district. Same-day discount tickets are sold at the TKTS booth in Leicester Square.
5. The London Eye
Thirty minutes of slow rotation above the Thames, looking straight across at Parliament and Big Ben.
6. Camden Market
Canal-side counterculture: vintage fashion, music and street food from around the world.
7. Greenwich
Ride a boat down the Thames to longitude zero: the Royal Observatory, the Cutty Sark and a park above the river.
8. The Royal Parks
Hyde Park, Regent's Park and Kensington Gardens — vast green lungs where Londoners actually live.
9. Notting Hill & Portobello Road
Pastel houses, antique shops and the famous street market, at full roar on Saturdays.
10. Sky Garden — a free sunset
A tropical garden on the 35th floor of the "Walkie-Talkie," with 360° views. Free, but book ahead online.
Tip: pay with a contactless card on all public transport — it is automatically capped at the day's cheapest fare.
