By Contributing Writer
London is an incredibly popular travel destination that draws tourists from around the globe. According to Visit London, the local tourism board, more than 25 million tourists visit the city each year and it is easy to understand why. The attractions in London are hard to beat--from historical sites like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to cultural treasures like the British Museum, there are activities to satisfy the needs of every traveler. It's virtually impossible to explore all of London in one trip, but the following attractions should be at the top of your list.
Big Ben and Parliament
Big Ben is one of London's most iconic attractions and the street outside is usually packed with tourists snapping pictures of the clock tower. You can climb the tower to get a better look at Big Ben, but be forewarned that the spiral staircase is very narrow and has over 300 tiny steps. If you are interested in politics, duck into the Houses of Parliament. You might be able to catch an actual political debate or legislative session, all of which are open to the public.
British Parliament, London, SW1P
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7219 3000
London Eye
The London Eye is in the same area as Parliament, so it is worth visiting both on the same day. The Eye is one of London's newest attractions and it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city. Be prepared to pay for the remarkable views--tickets for adults are £15.5 (as of 2009). Each flight lasts 30 minutes and you should expect to get in line for a ticket at least 30 minutes before the next departure.
Jubilee Gardens, London, SE1 7PB E1
Telephone: +44 (0)870 5000 600
Tower of London
Even though admission to the Tower of London is pricey, you won't want to miss this attraction. The history of the Tower is somewhat grisly, as it was the site of numerous beheadings and hangings. At the Tower Green you can walk through the site of those executions and visit the memorial to those who were executed. The Tower of London also houses the Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown that was designed with a jaw-dropping number of diamonds--2,868 to be exact.
Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4AB
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7709 0765
Buckingham Palace
Marvel at the opulence and splendor of the Royal Family's estate during a guided tour of Buckingham Palace. The State Rooms, where the Queen and her family entertain official guests are the highlight of the tour. On select tours, you can also walk the gardens and view the horses that pull the Queen's carriage. Tours are only offered during an 8-week period over the summer, but it is still worth a visit at other times. The changing of the guard outside the palace is always a sight to see, but be prepared to battle for a view with throngs of tourists.
Buckingham Palace, London, SW1A 1AA
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7766 7301
British Museum
Pay a visit to the British Museum when your wallet needs a break from the other expensive attractions. Entrance to the museum is free and you can literally spend hours wandering through the galleries on Africa, Ancient Greece, Europe and other regions. With over 7 million objects housed in the museum, it truly is a national treasure and a cultural treat for residents and visitors alike.
Russell St., London, WC1B 3DG
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7323 8299
St. Paul's Cathedral
The dome of St. Paul's Cathedral is another of one of the most recognizable sights in London. It is still a functioning church and services are held each morning at 7:30 a.m. and on Sundays at 8:00 a.m. A guided tour is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the history of this cathedral; tours take about 2 hours and wind through the public areas of the complex and the crypt.
St. Paul Churchyard, London, EC4
Telephone: +44 (0)207 246 8350
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