Top 10 places to visit london

 TOP 10 things to do in London

You should see these attractions in London. Is it even possible to write down the top 10 sights of London? After all, one appeal follows the next in the metropolis. We dared to take on the difficult task for you!

More things to do in London

London is an absolute world metropolis. In addition to the top sights, there is much more to discover. 

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In addition to the venerable buildings such as Big Ben or Tower Bridge, spectacular modern attractions also make it onto our list of the best: London Eye and The Shard are London's two "youngest" sights.

Below is a video showing you the most popular sports in the city that are not to be missed on a London trip! However, our personal favorite is the 10th attraction. Why? Because we can't forget the fantastic view over the city!

These are our top 10 sights in London.

1. Big Ben - the famous clock tower in London

Big Ben is one of the most famous landmarks and tops our top 10 London sights. Located right next to the Houses of Parliament, the clock tower can be seen and heard in large parts of the British metropolis. Upper better: the bell.

Big Ben - the famous clock tower in London

The heaviest bell in the tower is Big Ben, but the building has been called the Elizabeth Tower since 2012. The bell weighs 13.5 tons, and its sound is inscribed in the identity of the British that it is called the "Voice of Britain." But not only the thickest bell in the tower has something to say in London. Because in addition to ringing on the hour, can be heard unmistakable glockenspiel every quarter-hour - which connoisseurs can easily assign to George Frideric Handel's aria "Messiah." Bell is currently silent BIG BEN IS RENOVATED

Unfortunately, you can't hear the famous glockenspiel at the moment. The tower is expected to be restored by 2021 and is wrapped in scaffolding. The subways have visibly tilted Big Ben in recent years – the sound piece is said to have listed about one millimeter a year on average.

How Big Ben sounds, why Big Ben is called "Big Ben," and everything else you need to know about what is probably the most famous clock tower in the world can be found in our "Big Ben London Guide."

Insider Tip: For the best view of Big Ben, take a Thames River Cruise!

2. The London Eye - Ferris wheel on the Thames

The London Eye - Ferris wheel on the Thames

Although the London Eye has only been around since 2000, it is already one of the most popular attractions in London. In addition, the Ferris wheel, also known as the Millennium Wheel, has become a fixed star on the London skyline.

From the 32 glass gondolas, you have a spectacular view from up to 135 meters - in any weather and with a 360-degree all-round view.

insider tip: BUY TICKETS ONLINE,

Be sure to buy the tickets beforehand - preferably with the option that you don't have to wait in line on site. The first time we waited more than two hours because we had underestimated the rush!

TICKETS

The Ferris wheel is our 2nd place in the top 10 London sights. Why? Because we are absolutely in love with the London Eye. On the one hand, it is right on the Thames, which can hardly be topped in terms of location, and you can also discover many well-known spots on a trip with it.

And don't worry, a tour on the Ferris wheel will probably not make you dizzy. The London Eye is very slow at just 0.26 m/s.

3. St. Paul's Cathedral - an architectural masterpiece

St. Paul's Cathedral London

The majestic St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the world's largest and most important cathedrals. It is the scene of many important state ceremonies. Even Princess Diana gave Prince Charles the yes-word in the Episcopal Church.

The imposing cathedral is located about 300 meters north of the Thames in the district of The City. Architecturally, the cathedral is an absolute masterpiece, inside and out - making it one of our top 10 best things to do in London.

GO ON THE DOME! THE VIEW IS MEGA!

Did you know that the cathedral in London today is the second edition? St Paul's Cathedral, like much of London, caught fire in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and burned down completely.

It was not until almost ten years later that reconstruction began under astronomer and architect Sir Christopher Wren, who made a significant contribution to the appearance of London today.

St Paul's Cathedral is considered Wren's masterpiece - the first-level gallery alone is an aural experience. Londoners know what Wren has done for their city. It is, therefore, not surprising that he is one of the great personalities who have their last resting place in the crypt under the church.

4. Camden Market - creative trendy spot

Camden Market

Camden Market is known as a sore thumb! The picture doesn't fit? It fits! Camden is one of London's liveliest and most creative areas.

Not only can you spend hours immersed in the street art images of some of the most renowned artists on the scene, but you can also roam through the six markets in and around Camden High Street.

Clothing, jewelry, knick-knacks – many things are alternative, some even extravagant, but always with the option of taking a unique find home with you.

Camden is a hotspot for tourists and Londoners alike. At least half a million people come to the area on the weekends, making it an absolute London highlight, and not just for us.

DON'T FORGET TO VISIT THE FOOD MARKET ON THE CANAL!

Camden is just plain fun! The zeitgeist is going around in the district, and you can feel it and eat it! Ha! Camden is also on everyone's lips. There is an excellent range of street food in the district, which alone attracts many visitors.

You can almost eat your way through the culinary delights of the whole world at the stands. So be sure to check it out! If you want to learn more about the different markets and what's on offer, check out our Camden Market detail article again.

5. Buckingham Palace - royal residence in London

Buckingham Palace

Must not be missing from our London top 10 sights: Buckingham Palace in London. The palace has been the official residence of the British monarchy since 1837.

The magnificent property was initially built as a townhouse for the 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby, John Sheffield. Later, the building was remodeled and expanded until it officially became a royal residence with the coronation of Queen Victoria.

You can go in in the summer.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE VIEW FROM THE INSIDE

Yes, it is possible to see Buckingham Palace from the inside, but only for a short period during the summer. How to get tickets and why you should not miss the Royal Changing of the Guard during your visit to London, you can read again in the detailed article on Buckingham Palace.

Today, Buckingham Palace serves as the residence of Queen Elizabeth II and as a venue for state receptions. It also houses the Queen's Gallery, the Queen's painting collection, and the Royal Mews, the British monarch's opulent motor pool.

And then, of course, there are the famous bodyguards in their red and gold uniforms and bearskin hats, who watch over the royal family with a stern look and belong in every proper London photo album.

6. Westminster Abbey - 1000 years of history

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most visited churches globally and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Westminster Abbey has a long history dating back to 1045 and has undergone several changes.

You can understand a bit of English architectural history in the building, which began in the Romanesque style. Like St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey is built in the shape of a cross to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Traditionally, the kings of England are crowned and buried in Westminster Abbey in the heart of London. The ceremonial coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place here and the moving funeral service of Lady Diana.

A visit to the majestic church is a must on a London trip, and that's why the church is number 6 in our top 10 sights in London.

Insider tip: Visit the little café in Westminster Abbey!

7. Tower Bridge in London - more than a bridge

Tower Bridge in London - more than a bridge

Alongside Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge is one of London's landmarks, one of the most beautiful bridges globally, and an absolute top 10 attraction in the British capital.

The 244-meter long suspension and bascule bridge over the Thames was only built at the end of the 19th century and connected the districts of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. It was not conceived as a style-defining element in the city backdrop but because it was simply no longer possible without it.

In the 19th century, London was the place to be, not only in the old world, i.e., Europe, but everywhere. At that time, London was the largest city on earth with more than six million inhabitants, which led to a gridlock.

Apart from chaos, not much happened on the streets of the British capital for years. Finally, tower Bridge was inaugurated on June 30, 1894.

Fun fact: Pedestrians were not allowed on the bridge for a long time. After developing into an attraction for prostitutes and pickpockets in its early years, the city stopped it, which is only opened again in 1982.

Since then, you can walk across the bridge again, even partially over the glass. This is only recommended if you don't have a problem with height.

Everything else you need to know about Tower Bridge - from its history to interesting sightseeing tips - can be found in the detailed article.

Insider tip: Come here at sunset - the atmosphere is excellent!

8. The Tower of London - Home of the Crown Jewels

The Tower of London is the exact opposite of the London Eye - and that's what makes it so unique: it's almost 1,000 years old! As a result, the Tower of London is one of the most famous fortresses globally and one of London's four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The protectors of the Empire

VISIT THE RAVEN

Be sure to keep an eye out for the ravens when you visit. The birds are not at home there by accident. According to a 17th-century superstition, at least six animals must always live in the Tower to protect the Empire.

The Tower of London has served as an armory, prison, place of execution, zoo, and jewel house throughout its history. I agree! The Tower of London is home to the British Crown Jewels.

The collection is probably the most valuable that can be admired in this world and includes the magnificent crown used at coronations.

FAMILIES WILL HAVE FUN AT THE TOWER OF LONDON

But not only the royal treasure can be visited, the Royal Armories exhibition with a lot of history of weapons and armor is also worth seeing.

What else do you need to know about the Tower of London - from the exciting history to recommended tours.

9. Piccadilly Circus - bustling hub

Piccadilly Circus

Millions of people pass through Piccadilly Circus every week. The square is one of the most popular meeting places in London.

A lot is going on here at any time of the day or night, making it one of the most exciting places in the city and one of our top 10 sights.

Piccadilly Circus is nothing more than a giant crossroads that connects Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, Coventry Street, and Piccadilly.

THE PICCADILLY CIRCUS IS THE PERFECT STARTING POINT FOR SHOPPING!

In the center of the large circular square is the Shaftsbury Memorial Fountain. Piccadilly Circus is in the heart of London and cannot be overlooked with its many giant billboards.

There is always something to discover at the Circus, for example, the London Pavilion. Once the London Pavilion was a music hall, you can shop there today. The exciting thing about the building is its architecture, which is a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicism.

And the Criterion Theater is also worth a flying visit, as the renowned theater impresses with its Art Deco furnishings. What else you can discover at Piccadilly Circus and the essential information about the famous square can be found in the detailed article - including shopping tips!

Insider Tip: The billboards come into their own at night!

1. The Shard - vertical city building

Since 2013, you can marvel at London from a whole new perspective – from the tallest building in Western Europe. The Shard is a pyramid-shaped skyscraper in London's Southwark district and is regarded as the city's new landmark.

The extravagant building is 338 meters high. The viewing platform is at least 244 meters. The highlight of The Shard on the 72nd floor can be found, where you have a spectacular view over the city outdoors.

SIT BY THE WINDOW WITH A DRINK: LONDON IS AT YOUR FEET

The Shard is designed as a vertical city that brings together different facets of social life. In addition to offices, the building also houses apartments, a shopping center, a hotel and, believe it or not, three exclusive restaurants!!

We are big fans of Oblix. There they grill like crazy - but in a sophisticated style. Mmm, faint! But now to the nitty-gritty. Because our knees are only really soft in the Atrium Bar - three floors high and a breathtaking view!

Harrods – Eldorado for shopaholics

Harrods London

Harrods is an absolute place of pilgrimage for shopaholics, but not only for them a top 10 sight in London.

The world-famous department store is based in central London's Knightsbridge district (South Kensington District). The first Harrods was founded in 1835 by Charles Henry Harrods.

Harrods has it all in the truest sense of the word. On an area of ​​90,000 square meters, you will find the Who's Who from the fields of gastronomy, fashion, electronics, cosmetics, and everything else you can think of, true to the motto "Omnia Omnibus Ubique - Everything for everyone everywhere."

But Harrods is not only predestined for spending money. The interior is also worth a look. The famous escalator alone, which, when you ride it, takes you to ancient Egypt with sculptures and columns, is a highlight.

Plus, it's amazing who's all part of the Walk of Fame exhibit on the second floor of the department store. In addition to countless autograph cards from famous personalities, a football boot from Cristiano Ronaldo and a leather hat from Prince can also be seen there.

DON'T FORGET TO VISIT THE FOOD HALL!

And then, of course, there is the Food Hall! Our mouths are just thinking about the restaurants and snack bars, chocolates, and pastries.

In the Harrods detail article, you can read more about what else Harrods is where to discover and why it might be worth taking a tea time there.

 

Trafalgar Square – Public Art

Trafalgar Square – Public Art

Trafalgar Square is a large central square in central London. The court got its name in memory of the Battle of Trafalgar, in which Britain secured naval supremacy in 1805.

Its aesthetic is characterized by many fountains, memorials, and statues. Perhaps the most famous monument in the square is Nelson's Column, honoring Admiral Horatio Nelson, who fell in battle.

Contemporary Arts

THE SPECIAL FOURTH PILLAR

Inspiring: A column base in Trafalgar Square is always good for a surprise. The ground does not belong to any fixed statue and has been used for sculptures by contemporary artists since 1999.

In the detailed Trafalgar Square article, you can read how this came about and what special features you can also discover on and around.

A visit to the square can also be perfectly integrated into a nice day trip - maybe even by bike?! Because whether you believe it or not, the British metropolis is a great place to pedal.

Insider tip: Be sure to visit the National Gallery as well!

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