London is perfect for a long weekend or as a component of a longer trip to England. But as there is a lot to see, a good planning is important. In my article I have put together 13 highlights for you that you should not miss during your visit to London. I also give you some photo tips for the respective sights.
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Sights and Highlights in London
#1 London Eye - the largest Ferris Wheel in Europe
With a height of 135 metres, the London Eye is indeed not the highest point of London (this is "The Shard" with 310 metres) but surely the one that is the most fun. The trip takes about 30 minutes and offers you a spectacular view of the Thames, the Palace of Westminster and the skyscrapers of downtown. On a clear day, the view should even reach as far as Windsor, 40 kilometres away. What better way to get a first overview of London?
The Ferris wheel, built in 1998, has become a landmark and top highlight of London. Maybe also because of its great location. Diagonally opposite Big Ben, on the south bank of the Thames, it is right in the middle of the tourist centre - the South Bank. With a total of 32 closed gondolas, it rotates at a slow 0.26 m/s up to the most beautiful view of London.
Photo tips for the London Eye
- The panoramic view from above over the Thames and the Palace of Westminster.
- Details of a gondola from outside towards the sky.
- Panorama of the Ferris wheel photographed from the northern bank of the Thames.
- The London Eye with evening illumination. Great effects can be achieved with a long time exposure, as the turning wheel then blurs into a circle.
London Eye - Quick Facts
Where? On the south bank of the Thames, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB. You can reach the London Eye in about 10 minutes from Westminster or Waterloo tube station.
When? Daily from 11am to 6pm
How much? Adult standard ticket 27 pounds, fast track ticket 37 pounds. The ticket office is in the County Hall opposite. There is a 10% discount on online tickets. gibt es 10% Rabatt.
#2 Big Ben - Landmark of London
The Big Ben is one of the landmarks of London and should therefore not be missed during any sightseeing tour. Moreover, the clock tower built in gothic style is also one of the most photographed motives of the city. The building was finished in the year 1858, at that time, there was a prison in the interior that was meant for the members of the parliament. The tower rises a whole 96 metres or 16 floors. And at the very top hang 5 bells. The heaviest of them weighs 13.5 tons and is called Big Ben - Big Benjamin. Because the name Big Ben actually means the bell and not the whole tower. Since 2012, the tower officially bears the name Queen Elizabeth Tower.
Photo Tips for the Big Ben in London
Unfortunately the tower is scaffolded until 2021/22 due to restoration work.
- The top of the tower against the blue sky.
- The clock tower photographed from the southern bank of the Thames.
- In the evening, when the faces of the four clocks are illuminated.
Big Ben - Quick Facts
Where? On the North Bank of the Thames, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA; about 10 minutes from Westminster tube station.
When? From the outside 24 hours a day. However, due to restoration work, the tower cannot currently be visited from the inside.
How much? From the outside free of charge; from the inside, however, not possible at the moment. Further information can be found here.
#3 Westminster Abbey - the most beautiful Highlight of London
Westminster Abbey is one of the most beautiful buildings you can visit in London. The most famous church of England was completed in 1269 after 24 years of construction. But the towers were not built until later in the 18th century. But it is not only the impressive arquitecture that makes the Westminster Abbey to a highlight. Here, traditionally, the kings are crowned and they also find their last resting place here. The Abbey is therefore home to many artistic tombs of kings and other important personalities.
Photo Tips for Westminster Abbey in London
- Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside Westminster Abbey.
- But on the beautiful gothic façade you can discover many nice details.
Westminster Abbey - Quick Facts
Where? 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA; Underground station Westminster or St James Park
When? daily from 9.30 to 15.30, Wednesdays until 18.00; Saturdays from September to April from 9 to 13 and from May to August from 9 to 15. Sundays only for church services.
How much? Adults £23, Online Ticket with quick admission £21 (including audio guide).
#4 Buckingham Palace & Change of Guard
If you want to visit the highlights in London, you can't get past the royal family. But you probably won't see them in persona. But there are several places where you can see the royal life, traditions and treasures of the Royal Collection. First of all, there is Buckingham Palace itself. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip use the Palace as their home and for state receptions, audiences and celebrations. If the Queen is not there, you can visit the west wing of the Palace. An audio guide will lead you through the rooms worth seeing.
Another must see is the ceremonial changing of the guard in front of Buckingham Palace. This famous tradition goes back approximately 700 years and is a highlight for every visit to London. Accompanied by the Guard Band, the soldiers of the "Old Guard" alternate with the "New Guard". All are dressed in splendid parade uniforms with red jackets and bearskin caps.
Photo Tips for Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard & Co
- Unfortunately, photography is not permitted at Buckingham Palace
- How about a photo story of the guard change?
- A great motive are also the guards in their uniforms with their horses
Buckingham Palace - Quick Facts
Where? Westminster, London SW1A 1AA
When? August and September
How much? Standard adult ticket £26.50. Tickets should be purchased online as soon as possible. online as soon as possible..
Change of Guard at Buckingham Palace
Where? Buckingham Palace; nearest Victoria, St James's Park and Green Park tube stations.
When? Changing of the guard starts at 11am and takes about 30 minutes. From April to July you can see the changing of the guard daily, but from August to March only every other day (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun). To get a good seat, you should be there about an hour before.
How much? free of charge
#5 Natural History Museum
Many natural history museums have something in common: they are located in beautiful historical buildings with a huge entrance hall. And in this hall you are greeted by dinosaur skeletons. So also in the Natural History Museum in London. Only one size bigger.
The Natural History Museum in the southwest of London is one of the biggest natural history museums. It shows approximately 70 million exhibits on four floors. I was specially impressed by the entrance hall with the dinosaur skeletons. The biggest one is 26 metres long! Alone here, I surely spent three quarters of an hour and admired the animals of former epochs. But not only the exhibited animals fascinated me. The entrance hall itself is a highlight and a great photo motif.
The building of the museum was finished in the middle of the 19th century. It is built in romanesque style and you can discover many interesting details on this building. On the outside facade as well as inside you will find animal figures as well as artistically worked columns and arches.
Photo Tips for the Natural History Museum in London
- The entrance hall is from my point of view the best motive in the whole museum. Don't forget the wide angle!
- Detailed photos of the building: columns, animal figures, windows
- And of course the exhibits themselves.
Natural History Museum - Quick Facts
Where? Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD; you can reach the museum in 5 minutes from South Kensington tube station
When? daily from 10 to 17:50; closed on 24 to 26 December
How much? Entry is free, but donations (about 5 pounds) are welcome. Admission is required for special exhibitions.
#6 Walk along the South Bank of the Thames & Millennium Bridge
You want to take a real nice stroll? That works out great on a walk along the south bank of the Thames. There's always something to see. On the one hand there are the classic sights and tourist attractions, on the other hand there are the people and the hustle and bustle. One could easily spend a whole day here. Beside the popular amusement area South Bank with the London Eye, the Aquarium and London Dungeon, there are several museums, view points as also nice cafés. Some of the highlights of a walk along the banks of the Thames are
- View of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster
- South Bank with the London Eye, the Aqurium and London Dungeon and other attractions
- Several beautiful bridges, including the famous Millennium Bridge
- Tate Modern with viewing platform
- Shakespeare’s Globe
- Southwark Cathedral
- HMS Belfast
- View of London Bridge and Tower Bridge
- A break in one of the numerous cafés with a view of the Thames
- And a little bit aside: The Shard skyscraper
The Millennium Bridge cost 18.2 million pounds and was opened on 10 June 2000. But only two days later it had to be closed due to strong vibrations. In February 2002, it was finally released again.
Photo Tips for the Southwalk in London
- The Southwalk is an El Dorado for street photography with countless motifs of people and situations
- The Millennium Bridge
- Panorama photos of London Bridge and Tower Bridge
#7 Tate Modern - Modern Art in the Old Power Station
The Tate Gallery of Modern Art on the South Bank of the Thames is worth seeing for its location alone. For it is here that the Bankside Power Station - a former oil-fired power station - was prepared for use as a museum. The high rooms are impressive and offer great photo opportunities with their special atmosphere.
At the Tate Modern everything revolves around contemporary art by artists from all over the world. Important works of classical modernism as well as contemporary art are complemented by changing special exhibitions. The Tate Modern is one of the most famous and largest museums of modern art in the world and is one of the most popular highlights in London.
Photo Tips for the Tate Modern in London
- The imposing architecture of the former power station can be easily photographed from the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral.
- The interior architecture offers endless possibilities for photography. But I find it specially nice to contrast the huge halls with tiny looking people.
Tate Modern – Quick Facts
Where? Bankside on the south bank of the Thames, London SE1 9TG; underground stations Blackfriars, Monument or Southwark
When? Saturday to Thursday 10 to 18 h, Friday and Saturday 10 to 22 h
How much? With the exception of special exhibitions, admission is free of charge. There are also free guided tours on various topics. There are also tours on architecture, but these are quickly booked out.
#8 St. Paul's Cathedral - Architecture and Atmosphere
Beside the Westminster Abbey, the St. Paul's Cathedral is the most famous sacral building of London. Its impressive architecture, the Golden Gallery, the Whispering Gallery and the underground crypt make the cathedral a highlight with atmosphere. Take your time during your visit so that you can let this atmosphere affect you in rest. The best way to do this is to visit the cathedral early in the morning.
About 500 steps lead you 111 meters high to the cathedral's viewing platform. From here you have a fantastic view of the Thames, the Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge.
The St. Paul's Cathedral was built in the 17th century in the style of the classicistic baroque. It replaced the bishop's church that was previously on the same site. But in the big devastating fire of the year 1699, it burnt down together with many other buildings of the centre of London.
Photo Tips for St. Paul's Cathedral in London
- Unfortunately, taking pictures inside St. Paul's Cathedral was not allowed during my visit. Today, however, it is limited. Detailed information can be found here.
- You can take great panorama pictures from the viewing platform at a height of 111 metres. From here you also have a great view of the Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge.
St. Paul´s Cathedral – Quick Facts
Where? St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD; Underground Station St. Paul's Cathedral
When? Monday to Saturday 8.30 to 16.30
How much? Adults 20 pounds; online tickets. are available at the reduced price of 17 pounds
#9 Tower Bridge - another London Landmark
With its two tall towers in neo-Gothic style, Tower Bridge of London is unmistakable. It got its name from the nearby Tower of London. The famous road bridge spans 244 metres over the Thames and is crossed daily by approximately 40.000 vehicles. In order not to block the shipping traffic, the bridge that was finished in the year 1894 was designed as a bascule bridge. You can find out here when the bridge opens its lane for ships.
Zwischen den beiden Türmen befinden sich oberhalb der Fahrspuren zwei zusätzliche Fußgängerbrücken. Hier ist heute ein Museum eingerichtet, in dem ihr euch über die Geschichte der Tower Bridge informieren könnt. Der Fußboden der Brücken ist an einer Stelle aus Glas. Wer mutig ist kann drüber laufen. Doch auch wenn ihr neben dem Glas auf “festem Boden” steht, bekommt ihr einen tollen Blick von oben auf die Themse. Anschließend könnt ihr noch den Maschinenraum der Tower Bridge im südlichen Turm besichtigen.
Tip: It is time for a break! South of Tower Bridge you will find several cosy cafés and restaurants on the banks of the Thames with a great view of the bridge.
Photo Tips for Tower Bridge in London
- You have a nice view for a panorama photo from the neighbouring London Bridge. Also from the pedestrian promenade southwest of the bridge you have a great perspective for pictures.
- When the bridge is open. You can find out the opening hours here.
- At night when the bridge and everything around it is nicely lit - don't forget your tripod!
- The engine room of the Tower-Bridge is perfect for interesting detail photos.
Tower Bridge – Quick Facts
Where? Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP; underground station Tower Hill or London Bridge
When? April to September from 10am to 17:30pm and from October to March from 9:30am to 17pm
How much? Adults 9.80 pounds; in advance as an Online Ticket 8.80 pounds
#10 Tower of London - old Walls and Crown Jewels
The Tower of London is one of the most visited sights in London. But to be honest: one has already seen similar complexes a thousand times. But here in the Tower of London there is a highlight that is unique. The British Crown Jewels! And these brought the Tower of London far up on my bucket list. Unfortunately, there are no pictures, as in the case of the Crown Jewels, photography was prohibited.
After I had a quick look at the medieval fortress, I joined the queue in front of the Crown Jewels. After 20 minutes I started. What can I say? They are really breathtakingly beautiful, just unimaginable. And so that the visitors don't get stuck in front of the jewels and get stuck in traffic, there are even conveyor belts in front of the display cases. But of course they are much too fast. You can, however, walk a small arc and then simply stand on the conveyor belt again. As often as you want!
The Tower of London was built in the 11th century and has been extended and redesigned several times since. The fortress is constructed as a ring castle with two fortress rings and a tower in the middle. It served the kings as residence, armoury, workshop, warehouse, museum, mint, prison and execution site. Between 1235 and 1835, the Tower of London also had a zoo. Today there are only seven ravens left here. According to a legend, their condition is closely connected to the well-being of the British Kingdom. They are therefore in the loving care of the raven master.
Already in the 16th century the tower was opened for sightseeing. At first, the zoo was the visitor magnet, but since 1967, the crown jewels have been the attraction. There is also a large collection of weapons and armour and an exhibition on the history of the fortress. Since 1988, the Tower of London is listed as a UNESCO world heritage.
Tower of London – Quick Facts
Where? North of Tower Bridge, London, EC3N 4AB; about 5 minutes walk from Tower Hill tube station or Tower Millennium Pier
When? Tuesday to Saturday 9 to 16:30; Sunday and Monday 10 to 16:30
How much? Adults 26 pounds as an Online Ticket
#11 Boat Trip on the Thames - the Charm of the old Warehouses
In any case, a visit to London also includes a boat trip on the Thames. On the observation deck you can put up your tired feet and have a drink and admire many sightseeings simply by passing by. You will see the Big Ben, the London Eye, the Tower, Tower Bridge, old warehouses and much more. You'll also get lots of additional information about the sights via an audio guide.
Boat Trip on the Thames - Quick Facts
Where? There are several piers where you can get in and out. From west to east are: Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier
When? Every 40 minutes from morning to night
How much? There are several possibilities: For City Cruises , a 24-hour hop-on hop-off ticket costs £19.50; single ticket from £10.75 to £13.25; round trip from £16 to £17.50
Savings tip: It is cheaper with the boats of River Bus Services. These are the regular line boats that are part of the London Transport. They depart approximately every 20 minutes from various piers, for example Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, London Bridge Pier, Bankside Pier, Greenwich Pier. A single ticket costs between 4.10 and 9.90 pounds. You can buy the tickets directly at the pier at the ticket counter or vending machines or pay with your Oyster Card. The boats have toilets and there are snacks and drinks.
#12 British Museum - a full Day Programme
It takes a while until one gets the overview in the gigantic British Museum. As alone the huge foyer is overwhelming and a highlight in itself. The British Museum that was founded in the 18th century is one of the biggest museums of cultural history worldwide. Countless exhibits document the history of mankind and amaze approximately six million visitors every year. Not for nothing it belongs to the most significant attractions of London.
If you want to look at all the showrooms thoroughly, it will take you a whole day. As the entrance is free, you can easily split your visit over several days. However, if you have limited time available, it makes sense to pick out some of the highlights. For 2 pounds you can get a map with the 10 top highlights, which you can visit within an hour. These include the Rosetta Stone, the David Vases from the Yuan Dynasty in China, and an Aztec snake made of a Turkish-style mosaic.
Photo Tips for the British Museum in London
- You have the best view of the foyer from the gallery on the first floor. Don't forget the wide angle!
- However, as in most museums, photography with flash is not allowed. The exhibits are usually not very brightly illuminated. Therefore you should take a fast lens with you and take pictures with a small aperture.
British Museum – Quick Facts
Where? Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG; underground stations Tottenham Court Road, Holborn or Russel Square
When? 10:00 to 5:30 every day, 8:30 on Fridays. It is best to visit the British Museum at less frequented times, i.e. before 12 or after 16.
How much? Free of charge, donations (about 5 pounds) are welcome. However, special exhibitions cost between 15 and 20 pounds.
#13 Highgate Cemetery - romantic and also a bit spooky
At the beginning of the 19th century, the space for burials in London became scarce. The simultaneously high mortality rate posed a problem for the city, as it did not know where to put its dead. As a result, the parliament decided to establish seven new private cemeteries in the surroundings of the city. One of the cemeteries was Highgate Cemetery, which was opened in 1839. It developed into a cemetery with the most impressive funerary architecture in London, such as the Chapel, the Colonnade, the Egyptian Alley, the Lebanon Circle, the Terrace Catacombs and the Mausoleum of Julius Beer.
Doch der Highgate-Friedhof verfiel in den 1970er Jahren, denn die Menschen sahen sich nach günstigeren Arten der bestattungen um. Gerettet hat den Friedhof schließlich die Wohltätigkeitsorganisation “Friends of Highgate Cemetery Trust”. Heute zählt der Friedhof 53.000 Gräber, in denen über 170.000 Menschen ruhen. Mit seinen verwunschenen Pfaden und den efeubewachsenen Grabsteinen ist er zudem eine romantische Ruheoase, ein friedlicher und wunderschöner Ort.
The cemetery is divided into two areas. However, you can only visit the West Cemetery as part of a guided tour. The East Cemetery, on the other hand, can be discovered on your own with a map. Among others Karl Marx is buried here.
Photo Tips for the Highgate Cemetery in London
Photography with a handheld camera (without a tripod) is permitted for personal use only. Therefore you will not find any of my photos here. Nevertheless I would like to give you some tips for your photos:
- You can capture great moods here.
- The bright gravestones give a great contrast against the dark leaves of the many trees.
- With open aperture you can play with the blur and set accents.
Highgate Cemetery – Quick Facts
Where? Swain's Lane, London N6 6PJ. It is a 15 minute walk from Archway tube station and about 20 minutes from Highgate station.
When? Daily 10 am to 4 pm (November to February); 10 am to 5 pm (March to October)
How much? Adult 12 pounds. For the days Monday to Friday you can book tickets online in advance. For Saturday and Sunday, however, tickets are sold on site for the day. The guided tours take place every half hour from 10.30 to 15.00 (from March to October until 16.00). The East Cemetery costs 4 pounds for adults.
Attention: in case of bad weather (rain, snow, storm) the cemetery might be closed. So if in doubt check the website of the cemetery again.
Welcome to London - a few helpful Tips at the End
Subway and Bus
Many sights in London are close together and you can visit many highlights during a city walk. But for the longer distances you cannot avoid the subway and/or bus. And a trip with the red double-deckers belongs anyway to each visit of London. But in order to use the public transportation, you need the Oyster-Card. The ticket is tagged with a chip and you have to hold it up to the card reader when getting on and off the bus. You can get the Oyster Card for a £5 deposit at most stations and ticket machines. You can easily recharge it at the machines. For a stay of 3 days 20 pounds of credit should be enough. You can return the card later at the points of sale. Your deposit and remaining credit will then be paid out. Of course you can also order the Oyster-Card online in advance . This is a bit more expensive.
Tourist Tickets
To save time and money, I also recommend one of the practical tourist tickets. If you want to visit many sights in London, you can save a lot of money with this ticket. Also, with this ticket you often have an extra queue that is shorter and faster. Some passports also offer the Oyster-Card as an option. Here is a short comparison of three offered tourist tickets:
London Pass: over 80 attractions; choice of 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 consecutive days; public transport option. Prices for adults: One day 75 pounds; 3 days 109 pounds.
London Explorer Pass: Choose 3, 5 or 7 attractions from over 20 popular attractions. You save between 37% and 47%. Adult prices: 3 sights £64; 7 sights £114.
London City Pass: 1 to 7 days duration; public transport option. Adult prices: One day £76.90; 3 days £119.9
Guide Books for London and England
Lonely Planet travel guide London*
Available at Amazon
Lonely Planet travel guide England*
Available at Amazon
Travel Know-How Travel Guide London*
Available at Amazon
Have you ever been to London yourself and what were the highlights for you? Do you have any questions about my article or suggestions? If so, please write me a comment!
