London City Break for First-Timers
Why London?
Know Before You Go
When to Visit?
Honestly, there is really no bad time to visit London. While there can be plenty of rain, the weather is generally a bit more mild than many places. Of course we have to mention that the city is SO beautifully decorated for Christmas, from the end of November to the New Year the city streets are lit up like you wouldn't believe. They may not be known for their Christmas Markets but it is definitely worth a stop if you enjoy over the top decor! Other than that, I would say shoulder season is perfect to skip the summer travel crowds.
Getting Around
Currency
The currency here is the Pound. If you don't want to exchange money the city is very credit friendly if you have a card with no international fees!
Must-Do's For Your First Time in London
Changing of the Guards
Head to Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guards. This takes place every Sun, Mon, Weds & Fri at 10:45am. You'll want to get there a little early to get a good spot as it can get pretty crowded, you can use this time to check out the grounds.
Hyde Park & Kensington Palace
After the changing of the guards you can take a walk through Hyde Park and head to Kensington Palace to check out the grounds there as well. During the Holiday Season the park is turned into a Christmas Market; this market requires ticket purchase to entry and is a bit more touristy.
Big Ben & Westminster Abbey
Get a look at one of the most popular sights in London. For the best pictures head across the Westminster Bridge; you can get some great angles on the bridge or keep walking and get a peek from across the Thames. Here you can also get a great view of the London eye as well. And Westminster Abbey is only a short walk from Big Ben!
Trafalgar Square & Covent Garden
Check out the square which can be a very lively area at night. During the holiday season there is also a Christmas Market here as well. From here head to the Apple Market at Covent Garden in the West End. Covent Garden is also beautifully decorated during Christmas.
Soho, Regent Street & Piccadilly Circus
If you're in the mood for shopping or some night life this is an area that you definitely want to check out!
Thames River Cruise
Get Your Guide has some great options for tours, I'll drop my link below. If boats aren't quite your thing spend some time walking along the river, where you can get some great views of the Millenium Bridge (Harry Potter filmed a scene here!), Tower Bridge & The London Bridge!
Food & Drink
Stop into a Local Pub!
Find a local pub, more off the beaten path the better, and sit down for a pint! This is one of the best ways to feel like a local in London. We really enjoyed The White Hart in Waterloo; definitely more of a locals vibe which was perfect. The staff were lovely and there was a full house on a Monday Evening!
Borough Market
One of our favorite things to do when we travel is find the local markets and food halls; Borough Market did not disappoint. There were so many stalls and restaurants to choose from, definitely something for everyone here. This makes for a great lunch option!
Where to Stay
Budget Friendly
Mid-Level & Luxury
We were able to redeem the travel credit from our Cap One Venture X card to spend a night at Sea Containers and it was a seriously great stay. We usually stay at more budget friendly accommodations but would definitely stay here again! The location was also great, being in close walking distance to several sites and the tube!
Must Pack Items
As I’m sure you probably know, London is known for its rainy weather… with that being said make sure to either have a waterproof coat or a packable umbrella!
Don’t forget to take this into consideration when picking footwear as well! This itinerary involves lots of walking, so we usually go with sneakers or hiking boots.
Don’t strand yourself with no cell service! When you land make sure to pick up a SIM card or even better, download an eSIM, I’ll leave my link below ⬇️
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