The best time to visit London is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is generally mild and many of the city's events take place. However, summer is also popular with tourists despite being busier and occasionally hotter.
Many of London's major museums, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Museum of London, offer free admission to their permanent collections. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.
Must-see attractions include the British Museum, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye, the Tate Modern, the Natural History Museum, and the West End theatres. Don't forget to walk across the Tower Bridge and visit one of the royal parks, such as Hyde Park or Regent's Park.
London has an extensive public transport network that includes the London Underground (Tube), buses, and trains. The Oyster card is a convenient way to pay for travel on public transport. There's also the option to hire bicycles, take taxis, or use ride-sharing services.
Visa requirements for London depend on your country of origin. Many visitors can enter the UK without a visa for short stays, but it's important to check the UK government's official website for visa requirements specific to your country before traveling.
The currency in London is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted but having some cash on hand can be convenient for small purchases.
In London, it is customary to stand on the right on escalators so others can pass on the left. Always form an orderly queue when waiting for services, and it's polite to say 'please' and 'thank you.' Tipping is not obligatory, but is appreciated for good service, typically around 10% in restaurants.
London is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Keep your valuables secure and try not to travel alone at night in unfamiliar areas. The emergency number in the UK is 999 or 112.
If you're visiting from abroad, check with your service provider for international roaming charges. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card or use Wi-Fi hotspots across the city. Many cafés, restaurants, and public areas offer free Wi-Fi.
Traditional British foods to try include Fish and Chips, Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding, Full English Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Bangers and Mash, and traditional pies. Don't miss out on sweet treats like Scones with clotted cream and jam, and the classic Eton Mess dessert.
