How many days do you need in London?

3 to 5 days is ideal for a first visit. You can see the major highlights in 3 days, but 5 days lets you explore at a relaxed pace and add a day trip.

Is London expensive to visit?

London can be expensive, but there are many ways to save. Free museums, market food, and off-peak travel all help. Budget around £100-150 per person per day including accommodation, food, transport, and 1-2 paid attractions.

Do I need to tip in London?

Tipping is not compulsory in London. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is standard if service charge is not already included. Tipping in pubs, taxis, or hotels is appreciated but not expected.

First Time Visiting London: The Complete 2026 Guide

Quick answer

Everything first-time visitors need to know about planning a trip to London, from transport to top attractions.

Updated: 19 March 2026

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Tower of London

4.6 (31,489 reviews)2-3 hoursFrom £37

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When to Visit London

London is a year-round destination, but the best months for sightseeing are April to June and September to October. Summer (July and August) is peak tourist season with the longest days and warmest weather, but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. Winter offers lower prices and festive Christmas markets, though days are short and grey. Spring brings blooming parks and mild temperatures, making it arguably the sweet spot for first-time visitors.

Where to Stay

For first-time visitors, staying in Zone 1 or Zone 2 puts you within easy reach of everything. South Kensington and Bloomsbury are excellent for museum-goers. Covent Garden and Soho are ideal for nightlife and theatre. Southwark (near Borough Market and the Tate Modern) offers great value with a central location. If budget is tight, look at hotels in Paddington, Kings Cross, or Earl's Court, all well-connected by Tube.

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Tower of London

4.6 (31.4k+)2-3 hoursFrom £37

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London Eye

4.6 (39k+)30 minutesFrom £25

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Getting Around London

Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment for the Tube, buses, and overground trains. The Tube is the fastest way to cover long distances, but walking is often quicker for short trips in central London. Bus route 11 is a budget sightseeing option, passing Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Chelsea. Thames Clippers offer a scenic river commute. Avoid driving in central London, as congestion charges and parking costs make it impractical.

Top 10 Things to See

The Tower of London and Crown Jewels, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace (and the Changing of the Guard), the British Museum (free), St Paul's Cathedral, the South Bank walk (London Eye, Tate Modern, Borough Market), Hyde Park, the West End for a show, Camden Market, and a Thames river cruise. These ten experiences cover London's history, culture, food, and entertainment in a well-rounded first visit.

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Tower of London

4.6 (31.4k+)2-3 hoursFrom £37

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Red open-top double-decker sightseeing bus in London

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

4.3 (8k+)Full dayFrom £25

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How to Save Money

Many of London's best museums are completely free, including the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, V&A, Natural History Museum, and Science Museum. Book attraction tickets online in advance for discounts. Eat at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market for affordable, quality food. Travel off-peak on the Tube (after 9:30am) for cheaper fares. Consider a London Pass if you plan to visit 4 or more paid attractions.

Safety and Practical Tips

London is generally safe, but stay aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on the Tube. Stand on the right on escalators (this is taken very seriously). Tipping is not mandatory but 10-12.5% is standard in restaurants. The UK uses Type G plugs (three rectangular pins), so bring an adapter. Tap water is safe to drink everywhere. The emergency number is 999.

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Tower of London

4.6 (31.4k+)2-3 hoursFrom £37

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Thames cruise boat passing Tower Bridge in London

Thames River Cruise

4.5 (24.7k+)1-2 hoursFrom £17

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Recommended Tours

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2-3 hours

Tower of London

Explore 1,000 years of history and see the Crown Jewels at this iconic London fortress.

London Eye

See London from 135m up with 360-degree panoramic views from the iconic observation wheel.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Explore London's top sights from an open-top bus, hopping on and off at your own pace.

Thames River Cruise

Cruise the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich past Tower Bridge and iconic landmarks.

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