London is a vibrant, multicultural city where you won't be bored for a moment. From iconic highlights such as Westminster Abbey and Tower Bridge to cosy streets and green parks, it is the perfect destination for a city trip. Stroll along the Thames, discover cool neighbourhoods, visit a museum and end your day in a cosy pub. Whatever you come for, London has it all. Check our tips and be prepared!
General information about the United Kingdom
Are you planning a round trip to the UK? Then check out our tips for the best travel period and daily budget. You can find all information about United Kingdom here.
How do you travel to London?
If you opt for a city trip to London, you have several options. We have worked out some options for you below so you can see which one suits your travel style best.
London by train - Our favourite
London is actually very close to the Netherlands and Belgium. The train is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get there, although it is not always the cheapest option. How much you pay depends on how early you book, what day you travel on and whether you go around public holidays.
If you choose to go by train, take the Eurostar to London and you will reach your destination in about 4-5 hours. Check out the website of NSInternational for current prices.
By plane to London
Another option is to catch a plane to London. This is often cheaper than the train, but you'll be on the road a bit longer. Especially since budget flights often land at airports like Stansted, Luton or Gatwick, and from there you have to travel quite a bit to the city centre. So factor in extra travel time as well as additional costs. Fortunately, from some airports you can take a cheap shuttle bus from Terravision towards the city.
By bus to London - Budget option
The cheapest way to travel to England? That's by night bus! We haven't tested it ourselves yet, but we often hear good stories about the budget-friendly Flixbus. If you're flexible, you can already score a return ticket to London for around €80. OK, it might not be the most comfortable option, but the big advantage: you simply board in Utrecht or Amsterdam and are dropped off right in the heart of London. Tip: choose a bus that leaves late at night, then you'll arrive in London the next morning!
By car to London
The last option is to go to London by car yourself. This is ideal if you want to take a longer trip and combine your visit to London with the Cotswold or Oxford. Do you opt for the car? Then you have 2 options:
- Travel by boat: If you are travelling by car, you can make the crossing by boat from Calais or Dunkirk in about 2 hours. Although more boats make the crossing from Calais, we recommend you make the crossing from Dunkirk. This is because it is often quieter and cheaper here!
- Travelling by train (LeShuttle): Yes, this may sound crazy, but the train is also an option if you want to go by car. If you take LeShuttle through the Channel Tunnel, you will stay in the car for the 35-minute journey from Calais to Folkestone. Once your car is loaded onto the deck of the shuttle and your crossing begins, however, you can leave the car to stretch your legs or use the toilets on board.
Then, from Dover or Folkestone, it is about 1.5 to 2 hours' drive to London. Which options is best for you depends mainly on your budget. Several crossings go every day and last-minute options are also often available. Ferries are available from as little as €100 each way.
Note: When driving in London, you should be aware of the Congestion Charge, a toll for driving in the city centre. In addition, parking in the city centre is often pricey and traffic can be heavy. Therefore, consider parking your car outside the city centre and using public transport to explore the city.
Tip: We always book hotel & transport separately as this often saves a lot of money. However, we also fully understand that you prefer to book a complete trip. In that case, choose a reliable organisation such as TUI.
Transport in London
Even when you are in London itself, you have several options to get yourself from A to B. For example, opt for the metro, bus, taxis or explore the city on one of the scooters.
The metro - Tube/Underground
The Underground, or Tube or Underground, is, in our opinion, the most efficient way to get around London. Instead of buying individual tickets, we recommend travelling with a Oyster Card or pay contactless with your debit card. This is about 50% cheaper than single tickets.
Travelling with an Oyster Card
The Oyster Card works similarly to the Dutch public transport chip card. You can easily buy this card at major metro stations or airports. Although the Oyster Card is very convenient, there is an even easier option: using your own contactless bank card. The rates are exactly the same as for the Oyster Card, and it works the same way. You simply check in and out with your debit card, without spending time to load a card.
Tip: If you prefer to use an Oyster Card, opt for the Pay As You Go-option. You pay a one-off £5 deposit for the card. When you end your trip and deactivate the card, you get both the deposit and any remaining balance back!
Lime Steps
A fun and flexible way to explore London is with Lime scooters. For just £10, you can get a day pass, and renting a scooter is easy via the Lime mobile app.
How does renting a Lime step work?
- Download the Lime app: Find Lime on the App Store or Google Play Store and install the app.
- Activate your account: Follow the simple steps to register your account.
- Book your ride: Use the app to find a scooter nearby, unlock it and you're ready to go!
Tip: Make sure your smartphone is sufficiently charged before you set off or bring a power bank! You need a full battery to check in, end your ride and log off the scooter.
Double-decker bus (Hop-On Hop-Off Bus)
We never actually opt for this, but this is a really good option in London. The iconic Double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is popular among tourists for a reason. After all, it gives the freedom to get off at different points in the city and explore popular sights, without having to navigate yourself.
How does the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus work?
- Buy a ticket: You can buy a ticket for 1, 2 or several days, and it offers you unlimited entry and exit during the validity of your card.
- Get on the bus: Find one of the many routes through the city. Buses stop at famous landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the British Museum.
Helpful Tips:
- Combine your tickets: You can often combine tickets for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with tickets to popular attractions, such as the London Eye or a tour of Parliament. This can be cheaper than buying individual tickets.
- Avoid rush hour: Buses are busiest during the morning and afternoon hours, so try to travel outside these times.
- Check the route in advance: Check the route maps in advance to see which sights you absolutely don't want to miss!
The best things to do in London
London is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and for good reason. It is a city that has something to offer everyone, whether you love art, culture, shopping, history or culinary delights. From iconic sights like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to hidden gems in atmospheric neighbourhoods. London continues to surprise us and below we share our favourite things to do with you!
1. Visit Big Ben
Anyone who thinks of London probably thinks of Big Ben. Alongside the red double-decker buses and telephone booths, Big Ben is one of the city's eye-catchers. Originally called ‘Clock Tower’, it was renamed ‘Elizabeth Tower’ in 2012 in honour of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. And even though Big Ben can only be viewed from the outside, it is still well worth a visit.
→ Book a Hop-on Hop-off tour past Big Ben
Fun fact: It is actually only the clock that bears the name Big Ben. This 19th-century tower is part of the iconic Houses of Parliament and is close to Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where no fewer than 16 royal weddings have taken place, including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
2. Take a ride in the London Eye
A less historic but equally iconic London attraction is the London Eye, a giant rat along the Thames. Located close to Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, it offers views of both historic inner London and the modern skyline with buildings like The Shard and Walkie Talkie. When it opened in 2000, the London Eye was the largest Ferris wheel in the world at 135 metres tall. Although that is now no longer the case, it remains Britain's most popular paid tourist attraction.
→ Order your tickets for the London Eye here
3. The vibrant heart of London Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is the vibrant heart of London, and you can't ignore it. This famous square, named after the Battle of Trafalgar, can be found in the middle of Westminister. The square is a popular meeting place and is always busy. You'll find the National Gallery, impressive fountains, the iconic lions and views of many other landmarks. So whether you're looking for cool museums, galleries, cultural spots or historic buildings, you'll find it all at Trafalgar Square!
Read also: The ultimate itinerary for a tour of England
Read also: What to do in Oxford, England? 7x handy and fun tips
4. Go to Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is not only one of the most famous churches in England, but also one of the most important. This imposing abbey is where royal weddings and coronations take place, and where countless famous Britons are buried. The building itself is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with impressive stained-glass windows. Whether you love history or just want to admire the beautiful details, Westminster Abbey is definitely worth a visit!
5. The Tower of London
Besides the Elizabeth Tower, London has a much older tower namely the Tower of London. But the Tower is much more than just a tower; it is a castle complex with no less than 22 different towers. Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the medieval structure played a crucial role in British history for more than 1,000 years. Once a royal palace, it was also known as a notorious prison where several royals lost their lives. Nowadays, you can admire the crown jewels there and even see ravens flying around, as tradition says the castle must always be ‘inhabited’ by at least six ravens.
→ Buy your admission ticket to the Tower of London here
6. Take a walk across Tower Bridge
London has plenty of bridges, but there is only one that so often serves as a symbol of the city: Tower Bridge, which is not to be confused with London Bridge. This 19th-century bridge, with its two neo-Gothic towers, was a prime example of innovation. The lanes rose quickly so that ships could pass through to the port. Although the bridge doesn't open very often now, it remains an unmistakable landmark. You can visit Tower Bridge's towers to learn more about its history and enjoy the stunning views of the city via a glass pedestrian walkway.
→ Buy your admission ticket to the Tower Bridge exhibition here
7. Visit Buckingham Palace
Besides the imposing towers and bridges, there is one place not to be missed: Buckingham Palace, the home of the royal family. This 18th-century palace is still the official home and venue for important royal ceremonies. The famous changing of the guard is one of the biggest draws for tourists and usually takes place at 11:00 in the morning, but check the palace calendar in advance as it can sometimes be cancelled. During the summer months (July to September), visitors can visit the state rooms and gardens.
8. Go to Piccadilly Circus
When you think of big billboards and neon lights, Times Square in New York often comes to mind. But you will also find such a place in London: Piccadilly Circus. It is smaller than Times Square, but no less impressive. Its lively atmosphere, huge screens and crowds make it a must-see. Perfect for a quick stop during your exploration of the city!
9. Have a great meal at Covent Garden
Covent Garden is the hotspot for a fun day out, making it popular among tourists. Not surprisingly, as this district is packed with restaurants, cafés and shops, and in the centre you will find the famous Covent Garden market. Especially in summer and at weekends, it's nice and busy here, with street performers and cosy pavement cafés. It's the perfect place to relax, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the lively atmosphere!
10. Walk through London's most beautiful district: Notting Hill
Notting Hill is arguably London's most beautiful district. Known from the film ‘Notting Hill’ starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant or you may have seen this colourful district pass by on Instagram. The district has a trendy, chic vibe and is full of colourful houses and cosy boutiques. Ideal for a stroll, a tasty meal at one of the restaurants and a visit to markets such as the famous Portobello Road Market. No wonder this neighbourhood is so popular!
11. Stroll through the various markets
London is known for its bustling markets, and in addition to the famous Portobello Road Market (antiques), there are many more to discover! For example, visit Borough Market, the place for foodies where you can enjoy delicious snacks and local delicacies. Or go to Old Spitalfields Market for clothes and art. These markets are ideal for strolling around and soaking up a bit of the London atmosphere.
12. Choose from one of the many museums!
London is a museum lover's paradise, and the best part is that many of the top museums are free to enter! Visit the British Museum for a journey through world history, discover masterpieces in the National Gallery Or dive into the fascinating natural sciences at the Natural History Museum. Perfect for a day out, especially if you are looking for something cultural inside!
Tip: Always check the website of the museum you want to visit for the current rules. For example, we found out too late that you are not allowed to enter the British Museum with a trolley (suitcase).
We hope these tips help you plan your trip London. Do you have any questions about this blog? Then feel free to drop us a line at Instagram.
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