If you have not yet visited London, then you are in for a big surprise. Go in with the wrong expectation and the wrong itinerary, and you can very easily walk away with a bitter attitude towards London.
It’s too big. It’s too busy. The crowds are horrible. This is often the experience of those who do one thing – the top ten tourist destinations. Many people who come to visit London don’t have the time or inclination not to see these top sights, which means that visiting them can be a hassle.
Skip Oxford street and forget about the Queen’s guards outside of Buckingham Palace. There is so much to do in London that is fun, thrilling, and unique. There is a London for everyone, but finding your London can take time if you don’t know where or how to look.
To help, consider this guide so that you can make the most out of your first trip to this great capital.
Make a List of Free Walking Tours
There are free guided walking tours and walking routes that you can download to Google Maps and simply go on yourself. They are a great way to see the city by foot and see some of the best highlights only Londoners know about.
Take Buses, Not the Underground
If you aren’t in the city for long then forget the Underground. The Underground is the fastest and often most convenient way to get from one destination to another, but you don’t get to soak in the sights of the city. The buses, on the other hand, are cheaper and the ones that go through zone 1 offer some truly spectacular views.
Tip: Try to get the front seat on the second story of the double decker buses for the best views as you go through the city. You don’t have to worry about traffic or crowds and can instead get an elevated view of the city.
Go All Out on the Food
London has some of the best food in the world from the best chefs around the world, so go all out and remember to taste dishes from all over. You can combine great food with an experience like you can at 100hoxton.com, you can have breakfast at the top of the city, or go deep underground into a speakeasy.
There is an infinite number of options, and so long as you budget for a few £30 to £40 meals, you will be able to enjoy some of the best culinary experiences in London comfortably.
Know What Is On When You Are Visiting
London always has something going on, from free activities and exhibits to festivals, plays, live acts, and concerts. You are always spoiled for choice, but tickets sell out fast so book as soon as you know your dates.
Leave Zone 1 & 2
There is so much more to London than Zone 1 and 2. There is Richmond, Hampstead Heath, Hampton Court Palace, and Greenwich to name a few. So head on outside of zone 1 and 2 and experience a different London you’ll fall in love with.
