London is a remarkable city where your first visit becomes an unforgettable experience. It's not just the capital of the UK, but it is a lively and diverse place where old traditions mix with modern life. London has existed for a very long time, founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. The original city center is called the City of London. It is tiny, but when people talk about London, they usually mean the larger area around it.
With almost 9 million people living here, the city is always buzzing with activity. You can feel the excitement as you ride the Underground or stroll along the Thames River. From fancy shopping spots to the famous Buckingham Palace, London has something for everyone.
The city's history is pretty impressive too. London used to be the center of a powerful empire that influenced the world for nearly three centuries. Nowadays, it continues to be a crucial hub for politics, business, and culture.
Exploring London is also very easy since they provide very good public transportation, like the London Underground and iconic red buses. And don't miss the chance to hop in a classic black cab which is driven by knowledgeable drivers who know all the best routes. So, you don’t have to worry if you want to visit The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, or the Natural History Museum because you will not get lost. Now pack your bag and look at our guide first before your trip to London. Through our guide here, you will find out about the best time to visit London, things to do in London, and the best place to stay in London.
London is a super popular place for people to visit. Every year, a million tourists come to see famous places like Buckingham Palace or Big Ben. But not everyone comes at the same time. You can visit London any time of the year because the weather is usually nice, and extreme weather is rare. However, your experience will be different depending on the season. The best time is just what you personally like. It depends on what kind of experience you want. Let's figure out what and when that is exactly. Below, we explain it all so you can find the perfect time to see the city.
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This is when the Summer occurred. The weather is the warmest, making it the best time to visit London. The city also hosts many events during these months, creating a lively atmosphere. It is also an excellent period to explore London, featuring warm to hot weather ideal for enjoying the city's parks, beer gardens, and rooftop bars. The temperatures usually hover around 18°C (64°F) and can even reach above 30°C (86°F), making it perfect for attending summer music festivals or outdoor cinemas. Due to the pleasant weather and school holidays, summer stands out as the most popular time to visit London. It's advisable to book attractions in advance to avoid long queues. As the summer equinox arrives in mid-June, daylight extends before 5 a.m., and darkness doesn't settle in until well after 9 p.m. With over 16 hours of sunlight, there's ample opportunity for an extended morning stroll along canals and green spaces. Following that, indulge in a full English breakfast or a legendary Sunday roast before exploring the shops and restaurants of Mayfair.
September to October is a great but often overlooked time to visit. The weather is a bit cool, but with a warm coat, you can handle it. There are fewer crowds, so you get to enjoy more of London to yourself. From September to October is actually Autumn. During Autumn, you can enjoy at the annual events like the Totally Thames festival and Halloween celebrations. The Christmas lights start shining in November. Families often visit during the October half-term because kids have a break from school. Meanwhile, March to April is also good because the days are getting warmer, but the big crowds haven't arrived yet. During this Spring season is also a good idea to bring an umbrella because it often rains. Easter happens during this time, with days off on Good Friday and Easter Monday. On Easter Sunday, many shops are closed, and there might be fewer buses and trains. Central London is crowded during the Easter weekend and for the whole two-week Easter break.
Winters in London are cold and wet. If you don't mind a lot of rain and cold weather, you can plan a trip between November and February. Visiting around Christmas and New Year can be special and festive, lifting your spirits. December is also extra special because of the Christmas lights and decorations. Be sure to plan your travel ahead from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day as there might be changes and fewer buses or trains. After Christmas, don't miss out on the January sales. January and February are usually less busy times to visit, and except for the February half-term week, you can often get better deals on places to stay, things to do, and places to eat.
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There are many annual festivals you can enjoy in London. Every month London offers different kinds of events following the annual cultural or religious events. Make sure you adjust the best time to visit London with the annual event you want to come, to so you will not miss anything!
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Get ready for the famous London New Year's Eve fireworks by the Mayor of London. You can watch them from different spots. Get official tickets for a good view or consider booking a cruise, restaurant, or bar with a view. There are lots of things to do on New Year's Eve, like going to club nights, taking a cruise, or having a meal in a top restaurant. Central London is busy, so plan ahead and use public transport.
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A must for fashion fans! See the latest designs at London Fashion Week in February. Hear about trends from experts and discover new pieces by British and international designers. It is usually held from February 16-20. The event presents more than 250 designers to an international audience of important media and retailers. It is part of the "Big Five" worldwide fashion weeks, along with Milan, Paris, New York, and Tokyo. If you are a fashion lover, make sure to come to London Fashion Week this year!
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St. Patrick's Day is the perfect event to celebrate the good relationship between the British and Irish communities. It is usually celebrated by over 50,000 people during the parade featuring Irish marching bands, dance groups, and festive displays. Watch the colorful St Patrick's Day Parade and enjoy live performances in Trafalgar Square. Check out craft stalls and try traditional Irish food.
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Eid Festival is an annual Muslim festival celebrated on the first Saturday after the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr at Trafalgar Square in Westminster, London, England. This event has become a significant cultural highlight on London's calendar, attracting over 25,000 participants. Celebrate the end of Ramadan at the Eid Festival. Taste Arabian food, see Muslim artists' work, and enjoy live music.
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The FA Cup is the largest football competition in England and one of the oldest competitions in the world. For you who love watching football, this is a must-visit event once you in London. Find out which team wins the silver trophy at the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium and make sure you book the accommodations close to the stadium.
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The Wimbledon championship is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and is regarded as the most prestigious. Cheer for the pros at Wimbledon. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with strawberries and cream during two weeks of tennis matches.
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The Notting Hill Carnival is an annual Caribbean Carnival held in London since 1966, occurring on the streets of the Notting Hill area in Kensington during the August Bank Holiday weekend. During this event, you can celebrate Caribbean culture at Europe's largest street festival by enjoying music, a vibrant parade, street food, and more over the August bank holiday weekend.
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Enjoy the beauty of Christmas Eve in London by watching the Peter Pan Cup swim in Hyde Park, and having Christmas dinner at a festive pub. London turns into a winter wonderland with lights, markets, and festive cheer. You can also admire the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree and sing carols around it during the Christmas countdown.
London is large and each neighborhood offers a distinct atmosphere, providing a completely different experience. Every area is ideal for tourists, featuring numerous attractions, pubs, and fantastic hotels. Take a look at our area’s list and find the best place to stay in London.
Covent Garden in London's West End is a fantastic starting point for a 2 or 3-day stay. It is the best place for first-timer tourists. It's in the center of the city, making it easy to explore. The atmosphere is lively, and you'll find museums, theaters, and famous places like Leicester Square and the Royal Opera House. Perfect for all types of travelers! In this area, you can stay at the luxury The Resident Covent Garden Hotel for the most comfortable stay.
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Looking for a central place to stay in London where you can walk everywhere? This area is for you! These areas have a similar vibe and offer many of the best things to do in London, including famous landmarks like Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey. Perfect for families with activities for kids and beautiful parks nearby! To have a pleasant holiday here, you can stay at The Rubens at the Palace or The Westminster London.
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Perfect for foodies and explorers, these areas offer a vibrant café and restaurant scene, ideal for visiting attractions and enjoying evening drinks. The nighttime views, with all the lights on, are fantastic. Check out famous landmarks like the London Eye and The Shard. The best place to stay in the Southbank area is London Marriott Hotel County Hall or for the cheaper price, you can try at Holiday Inn Express Southwark.
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For live music, cafés, underground clubs, and vibrant nightlife, head to Soho, just a 15-minute walk from Covent Garden. Both are in the West End, the city's heart. Soho is filled with theaters showcasing famous shows like Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre. It's a top choice for nightlife, but consider other options if you're with kids due to its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. In this area, you can stay at The Soho Hotel, and Firmdale Hotels.
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This area is perfect for culture lovers and families, these areas form London’s Museum Quarter, known for its tranquility. South Kensington boasts famous museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. Don't miss the iconic Kensington Palace, the former home of Princess Diana. Last but not least, have a luxurious stay during your trip in 5-star classic Milestone Hotel Kensington.
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Get ready to shop until you drop in London! Mayfair and Marylebone, with iconic streets like Oxford, Regent, and Bond, are a paradise for fashion lovers. From designer boutiques like Chanel and Louis Vuitton to high street shops and the renowned Selfridges department store, these areas have it all! Since this is the best place for shopping in London, make sure you also have the best accommodation here. The Landmark London Hotel provides a comfortable and timeless British elegance nuance for your stay.
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The City of London, also known as The City, is a small area in Central London with towering office buildings. Don't miss London Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Museum of London, and the Tower of London while you visit the city. This area is also known as the best place for a business trip in London. There are many great hotels here like Canopy by Hilton London City, CitizenM Tower of London, and Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square.
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Want to watch the most popular and prestigious tennis tournament in the world? Come to Wembley Stadium! Before coming to the tournament, make sure to book the best accommodation near the Wembley Stadium. The best places to stay in Wembley are Hilton London Wembley, London Wembley International Hotel, and St George Hotel Wembley.
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