Famous writers. Egyptian artifacts. Italian art. London, England, has a little bit of everything, which makes it easy to figure out why it’s one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Both zealous travelers and excited teenagers love visiting this city, which is steeped in culture, history and natural vistas. London is also a main hub for cuisine, music and fashion. The best part about London is that you don’t have to learn another language to communicate, as you do when you visit other parts of Europe. Unless you’ve been to the famous city in the past, you’ll want to make like a tourist and visit the area’s main attractions.
What are London’s top tourism sites? Plan to visit to at least a few of the following hot spots.
- Unless you have three weeks to spend solely in the British Museum, you’ll have to cut right to the chase. Make sure to see the Elgin marbles, which used to be in the Parthenon in Athens. Other must-see exhibits include the Egyptian mummy collection, the Magna Carta and the Rosetta Stone. Make sure you have your route mapped out ahead of time. The British Museum is two and a half miles long!
- During August and September, the Queen of England doesn’t reside in Buckingham Palace. These months are teeming with tourists who want a glimpse of the state apartments, the famous Picture Gallery and, of course, the throne. Not in the mood to tour the palace’s 600 rooms? Stop by any day at 11:30 a.m. to view the changing of the guards.
- Get lost in the maze of hedges at Hampton Court, which was originally Henry VII’s royal palace. Hint: Make a left as soon as you enter the maze.
- Wondering how Henry VII spent his free time when he wasn’t entertaining his six wives? Hyde Park is the city’s largest part and it’s also where Henry used to go deer hunting.
- For a taste of New York abroad, visit London’s “The City” area, which is comparable to The Big Apple’s Wall Street. While you’re there, stop by Saint Paul’s Cathedral, which is where Sir Christopher Wren is buried. View 360 degrees of London at the Whispering Gallery, too.
- Book nerds shouldn’t miss Poets Corner, which is where there are both tombs and monuments for brilliant writers like Chaucer and Browning.
- If the weather’s nice, stroll through Kensington Gardens, which is on the border of Kensington Palace.
- Art lovers should spend a few hours in the National Gallery, which is chock full of pieces from European artists that date all the way back to the 13th century.
- The Tate Gallery has two personas: one is vintage and historical while the other is modern and cutting edge.
- Westminster Abbey has been the site of several British coronations since way back in 1066.
- The Tower of London is home to both the Crown Jewels and the macabre Execution Rooms. William the Conqueror built the Tower of London during the 11th century.
- Itching for a taste of Italy in London? The largest Italian sculpture collection outside of Italy is at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The museum has a lust-worthy gift shop, too.
Contributed by Chris McMahon for Marriott.com – Chris is a freelance writer who enjoys traveling and writing about his experiences. His articles mainly appear on travel blogs. To find out more about their London Hotels visit their website.
