London the city of dreams, is really special to me. I love this city very much. The city stands on the banks of river Thames (London Ki Ganga…haha). London is considered one of the world’s most influential global city and has been the world’s most visited city. There are plenty of places to visit in London for free! Come let’s explore London without burning your pocket. Check out this budget and travel friendly travel guide to explore London. Start your sightseeing in London now with these popular spots.
1. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar square is a public square that features some of London’s top galleries, statues and monuments. Trafalgar Square is in Westminster, in central London. Charing Cross is the nearest station (Underground and local train services). It’s surrounded by the National Gallery. Visit the famous lion statues, the iconic fountains and Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square.
2. Tower Bridge
A must see London attractions is the iconic Tower Bridge. It opens in the middle to allow tall boats on the Thames to pass through. Catch a glimpse of the bridge opening (lift times are posted on the Tower Bridge website), and walk across its high-level walkways 42 metres above the Thames. Nearest underground station is London Bridge.
3. London Eye
It is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel on the south bank of the river Thames. You can witness the breath taking view of London’s skyline. Although admission to this attraction isn’t cheap and it costs £ 31/ person. The nearest underground station is Waterloo, although Embankment, Charing Cross, and Westminster are also within easy walking distance.
4. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of The Queen, the focus of national and royal celebrations as well as the backdrop to the regular Changing the Guard ceremony. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality
5. House of Parliament/ Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament also known as the Palace of Westminster is the seat of Britain’s political power. It’s the Gothic-style building, and its Elizabeth Tower (13-ton bell, Big Ben) is one of the most iconic London attractions.
6. National Gallery
The gallery hosts more than 2,000 paintings from the 13th to the 19th century and it’s absolutely a treat to eyes. It is located near Trafalgar square. You can visit this museum free of cost.
7. China Town
Explore the authentic restaurants and shops of London's Chinatown neighbourhood. It is home to a large East Asian community, who gather together for events and activities throughout the year, in particular during London's Chinese New Year celebrations.
8. Leicester Square
Leicester Square is a pedestrianised square in the West End of London, England. It’s a very popular square with cinema houses, restaurants, pubs and bars. It’s famous for Christmas markets during Christmas.
9. Oxford Street
A 2.4-kilometre stretch of department stores, popular chains, and independent retailers makes Oxford Street London’s prime shopping destination. Selfridges, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Topshop call this famous street home.
10. Greenwich Royal Observatory
Here you can stand on the world’s prime meridian, with one foot in the Earth’s eastern hemisphere, and the other in the western hemisphere. Since the late 19th century, the Prime Meridian at Greenwich has served as the reference line for Greenwich Mean Time, or GMT. Greenwich was chosen as the centre for world time. It is also home to Astronomy centre, and planetarium. There is a very beautiful park for relaxing. The Cutty Sark and National Maritime Museum are also located nearby. From London take a river bus from Embankment Station/Westminster Station or take DLR (metro) from Bank Station.
The most convenient way to travel in London is by underground railways. You can either by tickets or use oyster cards. One-day pass is also available and is valid in both metro and buses.
Airport: Heathrow International Airport is the most popular and busiest airport to reach London. There are also other airports, Gatwick, Luton, and Stratford airport which is in a reasonable distance from London. The flights from these airports are much cheaper than Heathrow.
Railways: London is well connected by railways to other European cities. The nearest international station is St. Pancras. The St. Pancras International is set at the heart of Central London with more underground connections than any other London station.