London is the kind of city that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set, historic, modern, quirky, and full of stories around every corner. There are lots of moments that feel genuinely unique, from royal landmarks to vibrant marketplaces and enchanted pop culture locations.
In this guide, you’ll discover iconic sights, unforgettable tours, and once-in-a-lifetime things to do in London that help you see the city from fresh angles. If you’re here for three days or a full week, these picks highlight the must see and do in London,with practical tips to help you plan smarter and travel smoother.
All of London’s best sights
1. Ride the London Eye for skyline views
London Eye
Seeing the city from above is a must do in London UK, and the London Eye delivers that wow factor instantly. Each glass pod lifts you high above the River Thames, giving you sweeping views of Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the river snaking through the city.
Booking the London Eye experience will make you experience the calm, smooth, and surprisingly relaxing, making it perfect even if heights aren’t your thing. Go slow, take photos, and spot landmarks you’ll visit later in the day. This experience is especially magical at sunset when the city lights begin to glow.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🌇 Late afternoon or sunset
🚇 How to go: Walk from Waterloo Station
2. See London from above at St. Paul’s Cathedral
An unmistakable part of the city skyline, St. Paul’s Cathedral is a true classic and a must do in London for first-time visitors. Located proudly on Ludgate Hill, this historic landmark blends powerful architecture with unforgettable views.
Walk inside to admire the grand dome, then climb up to the Whispering Gallery, where even the softest sounds travel across the curved walls. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue up to the Golden Gallery for breathtaking views of the River Thames, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe.
It’s one of those must see and do in London moments that rewards curiosity and effort. If you’re chasing once in a lifetime things to do in London, this climb is absolutely worth it.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🌤️ Morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and clearer views from the dome
🚇 How to go: Take the Tube to St. Paul’s Station (Central Line), then walk about 2 minutes to the cathedral entrance
3. Explore Borough Market for a food adventure
If you love food or going on a food trip, this is a must do in London UK you can’t skip. Borough Market bursts with global flavors, fresh produce, and irresistible smells.
Try flaky pastries, sizzling street food, and local cheeses all in one place. It’s casual, social, and budget-friendly compared to sit-down restaurants. Come hungry and explore slowly, you’ll want seconds.
To elevate the experience, you can also book a Borough Market and Beefeater Gin Distillery walking tour; it pairs local flavors with a behind-the-scenes look at one of the city’s most iconic spirits.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🍴 Late morning on weekdays
🚇 How to go: London Bridge Station
4. Cruise the Thames like a local
A Thames River cruise is one of the most relaxing must see do in London experiences you can add to your itinerary. Floating past landmarks like Tower Bridge and Westminster lets you rest your feet while still sightseeing.
It’s perfect if you want to know more about the city without rushing. You’ll hear fun facts along the way and enjoy a totally different view of the city. For families, couples, or solo travelers, this is an easy win
⏰ Best time to visit: ☀️ Midday for clear views
🚇 How to go: Board near Westminster Pier
5. Explore Westminster Abbey’s royal history
It’s one of the most meaningful must see and do in London stops, especially for first-time visitors. Take your time and let the stories sink in.
⏰ Best time to visit: ⛪ Early morning
🚇 How to go: Westminster Station
6. Take a Stonehenge day trip from London
Book this Stonehenge day tour paired with stops at Windsor or Oxford to make your journey even richer. The countryside views alone make it worth the trip, and guided tours add helpful insight into the site’s long-debated origins.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🌸 Spring or autumn
🚍 How to go: Guided coach from central London
7. Discover Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden
A hidden gem in London, Neal’s Yard feels like a secret London moment. Bright buildings, cozy cafés, and indie shops make it a joy to explore.
It’s perfect for photos, coffee breaks, and slow wandering. If you’re looking for a lighter, more creative side of the city, this spot absolutely belongs on your must do in London list. To know more, you can check out Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🌈 Afternoon
🚇 How to go: Covent Garden Station
8. Follow Harry Potter filming locations
If you’re a certified Potterhead, the Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour in London ranks high among once-in-a-lifetime things to do in London. You’ll visit real-life spots that inspired Diagon Alley and the Ministry of Magic, all while uncovering hidden corners of the city.
Even non-fans enjoy the engaging storytelling, making this a fun and interactive way to explore London on foot while adding a little magic to your day.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🎬 Morning or early evening
🚇 How to go: Central London walking route
9. Watch a West End musical live
Experience the electrifying energy of Les Misérables live on London’s West End stage
You can make your day with a live show, which is a must do in London experience. The West End is famous for world-class performances, and seeing a musical like Les Misérables is unforgettable!
All the energy, vocals, and staging pull you right in. Book ahead of time, dress comfortably, and enjoy one of London’s best nighttime experiences.
⏰ Best time to visit: 🌙 Evening
🚇 How to go: Leicester Square Station
FAQs about the bucket list activities in London
What should I see the first time in London?
Start with major landmarks like the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London. These give you more insights about the city’s history and layout. From there, you can branch out into markets and neighborhoods.
What are unique things to do in London?
River cruises, hidden courtyards like Neal’s Yard, and themed walking tours feel more personal. Day trips to places like Stonehenge also offer unforgettable contrast.
What to do with 3 days in London?
Mix big sights with slower experiences. Spend one day on landmarks, one on markets and neighborhoods, and one on a show or day trip.
We recommend booking the London Klook Pass to help you cover London’s biggest sights efficiently while still leaving time to slow down and explore.
Ready to tick off your London bucket list?
London fulfills curiosity, so don’t just see it, experience it! If you’re chasing history, food, views, or magic, these must do in London moments help you travel deeper and smarter. Start booking, pack comfortable shoes, and turn your trip into something unforgettable.
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Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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