Canada Association of Tourism Employees

Finest Vacationer Sights in London, England

Europe is a place of wonder with many sights and attractions across the continent, but no city shines as brightly as London. London is considered the most visited city in Europe and the third most visited city in the world. It’s the UK’s crown jewel (and it’s their home too!). Though smaller than other cities, there is no shortage of activities to keep you excited for the duration of your stay.

We have compiled a list of the top tourist attractions for you to explore during your visit. These range from well-known landmarks to lesser-known hidden gems.

Best tourist attractions in London, England

1-Big Ben

Big Ben Clock Tower, London

When you think of London, you immediately think of the infamous clock tower on the Thames, affectionately known as Big Ben. The tower itself is called Elizabeth Tower, with the name Big Ben referring to the bell inside, which is responsible for the threatening carillon that is recognized around the world. The tower was built in 1859, although construction had started as early as 1843. Big Ben is currently undergoing basic maintenance and so tours are currently on hold, but you can still admire the Victorian landmark from Westminster Bridge.

2. Tower of London

Tower of London

If you really want to soak up the history of London, the Tower of London is a must. Built by William the Conqueror to protect London in 1066, it has survived and thrived for more than 1,000 years. Over the years the tower has been used in many ways, including as a royal palace, hangman’s chamber and political prison. It is currently home to the Crown Jewels, which you can see on your visit. During a tour of the tower you will learn more about its bloody and brutal past as well as the infamous secret about the princes in the tower. You can find the Tower in the London borough of Tower Hamlets, which is easily accessible via the Tube.

3. Jack the Ripper

What could be more famous than Big Ben and the Crown Jewels? Why, of course, Jack the Ripper? The centuries-old killer has never been identified and, despite the age of the crimes, remains one of the most intriguing true crime cases in the world. You can follow Jack’s steps through Whitechapel and learn about the sad demise of the Canonical Five. Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes and Mary Jane Kelly. You can also meet some of the most likely suspects, including Montague John Druitt, Francis Tumblety, James Maybrick, Aaron Kosminski, and William Bury.

4. The British Museum

If you like museums, you’ll be delighted as there are several in London, the most famous of which is the British Museum. The nearly 300-year-old institution is home to more than two million years of history and displays many notable artifacts, including an Easter Island head, the rosetta stone, and samurai armor, to name a few. There is a large collection of prints and drawings, as well as statues and sculptures. The museum is as controversial as it is steeped in history, but one thing that everyone can agree on is the splendor of every single item in the collection.

5. The beach

If you are in the Trafalgar Square area, it is worth driving a half mile to the beach. A little known fact about the Strand is that the thoroughfare was the first street in London to give an address a number. It is also believed that Guy Fawkes and his friends hatched the Gunpowder Plot (the plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament) in a tavern on Strand. The tavern no longer stands, but somewhere on the beach one of the largest properties in England has been conjured up. The beach is now home to the opulent Savoy Hotel and a number of high-end bars, restaurants, and pubs. If you are looking for the epitome of London, the beach is a must. It spans the River Thames and Covent Garden, which means that once you’ve traversed this iconic street, you can easily get to another spectacular sight.

The Strand London

These are just five tourist destinations in London, but much more awaits you. From Harrods and Oxford Streets to the Royal Palaces and London Dungeons, there is more than enough in the British capital to satisfy multiple visits. Whatever you want to see and do, you can easily get around London’s extensive underground network or hop on a red bus. Alternatively, you can take a black taxi in London, although this is considerably more expensive than any of the other public transport links.

There are several world famous restaurants in London including Nobu, Chiltern Firehouse and Sexy Fish. For something more informal, head to Camden Market, which is lined with street food shops of all origins.

When you’re done exploring, head to a glamorous hotel like the aforementioned Savoy or even the Ritz to relax. If these are out of your budget there are plenty of other cheap hotels to accommodate your sleeping head in central London.

Cheap hotels in London

If you’re an international visitor, Heathrow Airport is just a stone’s throw away from the sights. Several underground lines run directly there, so you’ll continue to appreciate all that London has to offer until the last moment.