London City Guide

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London Travel Tips

London remains one of our favorite cities for a city trip. From iconic highlights and creative neighborhoods to the best restaurants, cozy pubs, and endless fun spots: there is always something new to discover. In these Travel Tips, you will find everything you need to know for your trip to London, clearly listed. From the nicest neighborhoods and best time to visit to handy apps, hotels, and practical tips: this way, you will be well-prepared for your city trip.

| What are the nicest neighborhoods in London?

The nicest neighborhoods in London are Covent Garden & Soho, Notting Hill, Shoreditch en MaryleboneWhich neighborhood suits you best depends on the type of city trip you are looking for: from iconic landmarks and the best restaurants to creative neighborhoods, boutique shopping, and quiet residential areas. That is why the choice of your accommodation is at least as important as the sights you want to see. Choose a hotel in a neighborhood that suits your travel style, and you will get much more out of your city trip.

Covent Garden & Soho

Best neighborhood for first-timers, food lovers, and a weekend in London

Are you going to London for the first time? Then are Covent Garden en Soho One of the best places to stay. From here, you can easily walk to highlights such as Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and the West End theaters. In between, you discover charming little streets such as Seven Dials and the colorful Neal's Yard, where you find nice cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.

This is also one of the nicest parts of the city for food lovers. From classic British pubs and modern bistros to cocktail bars and international cuisine, virtually every street has a place worth visiting. Thanks to its central location, you can explore a lot on foot and only take the metro for the more distant neighborhoods.

Notting Hill

Best neighborhood for boutique shopping, beautiful streets, and a relaxed atmosphere

Notting Hill is one of the most photogenic districts of London. The colorful townhouses, quiet squares, and charming streets make this neighborhood perfect for a relaxed morning stroll. In addition to well-known brands, you will find many independent boutiques, delicatessens, antique shops, and cozy coffee bars here.

Portobello Road Market It is open several days a week, but Saturday is by far the best and largest market day. Come early if you want to stroll leisurely past the antique, vintage, and food stalls. During the week, however, you experience the local character of the neighborhood. Take the time to wander through the side streets, have lunch at one of the many cafes, and discover why so many Londoners love living here.

Shoreditch

Best neighborhood for creative hotspots, vintage shopping, and nightlife

Are you looking for a creative side of London? Then stay Shoreditch One of the nicest neighborhoods to discover. Street art, concept stores, vintage shops, and innovative restaurants effortlessly alternate here. You will also find many specialty coffee bars, wine bars, and rooftops where you can linger a little longer after a day of sightseeing.

From Shoreditch, you can easily walk to Brick Lane, Old Spitalfields Market and on Sunday to Columbia Road Flower MarketHave you visited London before? Then head on towards H en L, where more and more new restaurants, wine bars, and coffee spots are opening. It is precisely these neighborhoods that reveal a creative side of London that remains constantly in motion.

Marylebone

Best neighborhood for design lovers and boutique hotels 

Marylebone is perhaps the most stylish neighbourhood in London. Despite its central location, it feels surprisingly quiet here. You will find elegant Georgian streets, luxury boutiques, excellent restaurants, and one of the most beautiful bookstores in the city: Daunt Books.

Marylebone High Street is a destination in itself, with a mix of well-known brands and local entrepreneurs. If you stay here, you are within walking distance of Regent's Park, Oxford Street en Hyde Park, while you return at the end of the day to a neighborhood that feels much less crowded than the tourist center.

Also fun to discover

Do you have more time or have you been to London before? Then these neighborhoods are also absolutely worth a visit:

East London (Hackney, London Fields, Bethnal Green & Hackney Wick) for a creative side of London. Here you will discover new restaurants, natural wine bars, specialty coffee, vintage shops, galleries, and green city parks where many Londoners themselves love to spend their weekends.

South Bank & Bankside for a walk along the Thames, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe and beautiful views of the London skyline. Walk on towards Borough Market to conclude the route with a culinary experience.

Chinatown for dim sum, handmade noodles, Asian bakeries, bubble tea, and restaurants where you discover the cuisines of China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. One of our favorite neighborhoods to dedicate an afternoon or evening entirely to food.

Bermondsey for the Bermondsey Beer Mile, cozy wine bars, Maltby Street Market and a food scene that is becoming increasingly interesting. Borough Market is within walking distance and can easily be combined with a walk along the Thames.

Hampstead for a village feel, historic pubs, elegant houses, and a walk across Hampstead Heath, where you enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city.

YLBB tip

Are you going on your first city trip to London? Then choose a hotel in Covent Garden, Soho, or Marylebone. You'll be centrally located, can explore a lot on foot, and have plenty of good restaurants, coffee bars, and shops nearby. If you've been to London before, consider staying in Shoreditch or discovering Hackney and London Fields. You'll experience a completely different side of the city, with many creative hotspots, local favorites, and new restaurants you won't find in every travel guide.

| What are fun things to do in London?

The best things to do in London are visiting iconic landmarks, browsing food markets, discovering museums, taking a walk along the Thames, and exploring the city's various neighborhoods. Ideally, set aside at least three days so that you can include London's local hotspots alongside the well-known highlights.

London continues to surprise, no matter how often you visit. Of course, there are sights you'll want to see at least once, but it is precisely the combination of iconic locations, food markets, green parks, and creative neighborhoods that makes the city so special. In our opinion, these are the best things to do during a city trip to London.

Visit the icons of London

A first visit to London is not complete without a walk past the most famous sights. Go past the Big Ben, walk over Westminster Bridge, visit Buckingham Palace and take a round through St. James's ParkThen cross the Thames towards the London Eye or walk further along the South Bank for one of the most beautiful routes through the city.

YLBB tip: Book popular attractions such as the Tower of London, London Eye of Westminster Abbey in advance. Especially during peak season and school holidays, this often saves you a lot of waiting time.

Discover the food markets of London

London is a paradise for food lovers, and the food markets are absolutely among the best experiences in the city. Borough Market is the most famous and a must for anyone who enjoys tasting local products and street food. If you are in East London, also visit Old Spitalfields Market for a combination of food, shopping, and design. On weekends, it is also Maltby Street Market Highly recommended for good coffee, street food, and a slightly more local atmosphere than Borough Market. On Sundays, you are allowed Columbia Road Flower Market naturally cannot be missing, where flower stalls alternate with nice cafes and boutiques.

Do you want to get to know the London food scene even better? Then book a food tour through a neighborhood like Soho, Borough Market or East London. Together with a local guide, you will sample various specialties, discover addresses you would otherwise walk right past, and hear more about the stories behind the different neighborhoods.

Explore the nicest neighborhoods on foot

It is precisely by walking that you discover the charm of London. Stroll through the colorful streets of Notting Hill, go vintage shopping in Shoreditch, discover the independent shops in Marylebone or let yourself be surprised by the narrow streets of Covent Garden, Chinatown en Seven Dials. Do you have more time? Then also walk through King's cross en Coal Drops Yard or discover the creative atmosphere of H en London Fields.

Visit a museum in London

London has one of the finest museum collections in the world, and many museums are also free to enter. The British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum en Tate Modern They all belong to the absolute highlights. Even if you don't normally visit museums, these collections are impressive enough to set aside a few hours for.

Take a walk along the South Bank

The South Bank is one of the nicest places in London to spend an afternoon. Walk along the Thames from Westminster towards Tower Bridge and along the way you will pass street performers, outdoor cafes, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and cozy pop-up bars. Especially around sunset, this is one of the most beautiful walks in the city.

Experience the international food scene

London is one of the best culinary destinations in Europe. Start the day with specialty coffee in Shoreditch or Notting Hill, have lunch at a food market, and in the afternoon go to Chinatown for dim sum or fresh bao buns or book a food tour through Chinatown and end the evening in one of the many restaurants the city has to offer. From classic British pubs to MICHELIN-starred restaurants and cuisines from all corners of the world: nowhere in Europe will you find such a diverse food scene as here.

End the day in a British pub

A visit to London is really not complete without an afternoon or evening in a traditional pub. Order a pint, share a few pub snacks, or pull up a chair for a Sunday Roast if you are in the city on the weekend. From historic pubs with wooden interiors to modern gastropubs: it is right here to get a taste of London culture.

View London from the water

The Thames is one of the most beautiful ways to discover London from a different perspective. Step aboard a river cruise or take the Thames Clippers, the fast ferries that are part of the public transport system. Along the way, you will sail past iconic buildings such as Tower Bridge, The Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament.

YLBB tip: Do you have more time? Then take a day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge, or the Cotswolds. These destinations are easy to reach from London and are among the most popular excursions from the city.

Don't miss this during your city trip

  • Walk across Tower Bridge and visit the historic Tower of London.
  • Sample street food at Borough Market or Maltby Street Market.
  • Visit a musical in the West End.
  • Stroll through Notting Hill, Covent Garden, Shoreditch, and King's Cross.
  • Admire the skyline from Sky Garden (free advance reservation).
  • Take a boat trip on the Thames or use the Thames Clippers as an alternative to the metro.
  • Plan at least one afternoon without a fixed schedule and let yourself be surprised by the cafes, shops, and markets in one of the many characterful neighborhoods.

YLBB tip

London is not a city you tick off just by visiting the well-known highlights. It is precisely the combination of iconic sights, local markets, unique restaurants, and creative neighborhoods that makes every city trip different. Therefore, consciously plan time in your trip to wander through a neighborhood without a map. That is often where you discover the places that make your trip unforgettable.

| What must you taste in London?

London is known for its surprisingly diverse food scene, where classic British dishes go hand in hand with cuisines from all over the world. During a city trip, you certainly shouldn't miss a Sunday Roast, fish & chips, afternoon tea, British pies, and the international street food culture.

Forget the old image that you can't eat well in London. The city has grown into one of the most interesting culinary destinations in Europe. From centuries-old pubs to MICHELIN-starred restaurants, and from food markets to the best Asian and Indian restaurants outside of Asia: in London, you eat every meal somewhere different.

Sunday Roast

Ask a Londoner about their favorite meal of the week, and chances are they will answer Sunday Roast. This traditional dish consists of roasted meat or a vegetarian alternative, roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and a rich gravy. It is a beloved tradition, especially on Sunday afternoons.

Where to taste? At a classic British pub or a modern gastropub. Book well in advance on Sundays, as popular spots are often full.

Fish & Chips

Fish & chips remains one of the most famous British classics. The tastiest version consists of crispy fried cod or haddock with thick chips, mushy peas, and tartar sauce. It is precisely traditional fish & chips shops and neighborhood pubs that often serve the best version.

Where to taste? At a traditional fish & chips place or a local pub outside the busiest tourist streets.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is much more than just drinking tea. You receive a tiered stand full of sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, followed by small pastries and, of course, a pot of tea. For a special experience, choose one of the luxury hotels, but modern tea houses also give it a contemporary twist.

Where to taste? In a classic hotel like The Ritz or Claridge's, or perhaps at a contemporary afternoon tea with a modern menu.

British pies

A good pie is one of the comfort dishes British cuisine is known for. Think of a hearty steak & ale pie, a chicken & mushroom pie, or a vegetarian version with seasonal vegetables. These savory tarts remain popular, especially in traditional pubs.

Where to taste? At a classic pub or a modern British gastrobar.

The international food scene

Perhaps London's greatest culinary surprise is the enormous diversity of international cuisines. The city ranks among the best places in Europe for Chinese, Indian, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Turkish, Mexican, and Middle Eastern food. Chinatown, Soho, Shoreditch, and East London, in particular, are neighborhoods where you can keep exploring endlessly.

Where to taste? Visit Borough Market or Maltby Street Market for street food, go to Chinatown for dim sum and handmade noodles, or discover the many restaurants in Soho and Shoreditch. In the mood for Indian food? London is among the absolute world leaders for that too.

Finishing sweetly

Those with a sweet tooth will also find plenty to enjoy in London. From artisanal bakeries and famous cookies to excellent patisserie and specialty coffee bars where the display cases are filled with cinnamon buns, focaccia sandwiches, croissants, and other treats. Especially in Notting Hill, Marylebone, and East London, you will find an increasing number of independent bakeries worth visiting.

Is London vegetarian- and vegan-friendly?

Yes. London is one of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly cities in Europe. Virtually every restaurant has multiple vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu, and the city also has many fully vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Nowadays, you can also find plenty of plant-based options at food markets and in pubs.

YLBB tip

During your city trip, plan not only dinners but also time for spontaneous culinary discoveries. Start the day with specialty coffee and a treat from a local bakery, have lunch at Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, or in Chinatown, and end the evening in one of the many restaurants in Soho, Shoreditch, or East London. It is precisely this variety that makes London, in our opinion, one of the best food cities in Europe.

| What are the best hotels in London?

The best hotels in London can be found scattered throughout the city: from distinctive design hotels in East London to colorful boutique hotels in Covent Garden and iconic luxury addresses in Mayfair. Be sure to choose a hotel that suits the neighborhoods you want to explore, because in a city like London, location makes a big difference.

The hotel selection is vast, but far from every address fits the style of Your Little Black Book. In this selection, you will find hotels with unique interiors, fine restaurants, beautiful rooftops, or spacious apartments for a city trip with children. From well-known classics to newer openings you'll want to keep on your radar.

Best design hotels

One Hundred Shoreditch

In the middle of Shoreditch High Street lies One Hundred Shoreditch, a design hotel with bright rooms, muted tones, and various places to eat or have a drink. On top of the hotel you will find rooftop bar Kaso, where you can go for cocktails, snacks, and views over East London. From the hotel, you can easily walk to Brick Lane, Redchurch Street, and the restaurants and coffee bars of Shoreditch.
100 Shoreditch High Street, London – View the rates here >>

Town Hall Hotel

In a monumental former town hall in Bethnal Green you will find Town Hall HotelHistoric Art Deco details are combined here with modern rooms and spacious apartments, several of which have their own kitchens. The indoor pool is also a nice extra after a long day in the city. Town Hall Hotel is located just outside the busiest part of Shoreditch, but close to Broadway Market, Victoria Park, and the restaurants of East London.
8 Patriot Square, London View the rates here >>

Best boutique hotels

Covent Garden Hotel

Colorful interiors, art on the walls, and the recognizable style of Kit Kemp make Covent Garden Hotel to one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in the West End. The hotel is located in the heart of the theatre district, a short walk from Seven Dials, Soho, and the Royal Opera House. At Brasserie Max You can sit down for breakfast to dinner, making it also pleasant to stay at the hotel for an evening during your stay.
10 Monmouth Street, London – View the rates here >>

The Portobello Hotel

For years, The Portobello Hotel A beloved address in Notting Hill. The rooms are all decorated differently and range from romantic and classic to distinctive, with special details such as freestanding bathtubs and colorful wallpaper.
22 Stanley Gardens, London – View the rates here >>

Best luxury hotels

Raffles London at The OWO

The former Old War Office on Whitehall has been transformed into after a major restoration. Raffles London at The OWO. Behind the historic facade, you will find spacious rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, a large indoor pool, and an extensive spa.
57 Whitehall, London – View the rates here >>

Claridge's

For classic London luxury, it remains Claridge's One of the city's most famous hotels. Art Deco elements are combined with spacious rooms, a spa, and restaurants and bars that are also popular with many Londoners. The famous afternoon tea is served in the foyer, and from the hotel, you can easily walk to Bond Street, Mount Street, and Hyde Park.
Brook Street, London – View the rates here >>

The Emory

One of the most striking luxury hotel openings of recent years is The Emory in Knightsbridge. The hotel consists entirely of suites, furnished by various renowned designers. Guests have access to a private rooftop bar with views of Hyde Park and the Surrenne wellness club, featuring an indoor pool, spa, and gym. Also abc kitchens You can find works by Jean-Georges Vongerichten in the hotel.
1 Old Barrack Yard, London – View the rates here >>

Best hotels with a rooftop

The Hoxton, Southwark

If there is one hotel concept where we love staying during a city trip, it is definitely The HoxtonThe Southwark location is also highly recommended, with a great location within walking distance of Borough Market, Tate Modern, and the South Bank. Be sure to reserve a table at the rooftop restaurant during your stay. Seabird, where you enjoy fresh seafood and a view of the London skyline.
40 Blackfriars Road, London – View the rates here >>

The Standard London

Do you enjoy staying in a hotel with good restaurants and bars? Then is The Standard London An address you'll want to remember. You'll find this hotel with a restaurant opposite St Pancras. Tenth, where Spanish-Mexican dishes and views over London come together. In the summer is also The Rooftop A nice place to end the day with a cocktail. Especially convenient if you are travelling by Eurostar, because you can easily walk there from St Pancras.
10 Argyle Street, London – View the rates here >>

Best hotels for a romantic city break

NoMad London

In a former courthouse, close to Covent Garden, you will find NoMad LondonA favorite if you love hotels with a unique story, good restaurants, and a central location. From here, you can easily walk to Soho, the West End, and the city's best restaurants. During your stay, be sure to reserve a table in the atrium restaurant or pull up a chair at the Side Hustle Bar for a cocktail.
28 Bow Street, London – View the rates here >>

Ham Yard Hotel

Just behind Piccadilly Circus lies Ham Yard Hotel around a sheltered courtyard. The colorful interior by Kit Kemp, the art collection, and the various lounges ensure that there is something to see everywhere. In addition to luxury rooms, Ham Yard Hotel features a restaurant, bar, rooftop terrace, spa, and even its own bowling alley.
1 Ham Yard, London – View the rates here >>

Best family-friendly hotels

Cheval Gloucester Park

Are you traveling with children and do you want more space than a standard hotel room? At Cheval Gloucester ParYou will stay in modern apartments with a fully equipped kitchen, living room, and one or more bedrooms. Some apartments also feature a balcony and views of London.
Ashburn Place, London – View the rates here >>

The July London Victoria

A nice place for families is The July London Victoria, the first hotel of the Amsterdam brand outside the Netherlands. The studios and apartments have their own kitchens, and there are also accommodations with two or three bedrooms. The art deco-inspired interior feels warm and contemporary, while restaurant The Idler, the wellness area and the gym ensure the comfort of a hotel.
282 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London – View the rates here >>

YLBB tip

Are you visiting London for the first time? Then look for a hotel in Covent Garden, Soho, Southwark, or around King's Cross. You will be close to many famous sights and can explore various neighborhoods on foot. If you have been to the city before, Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, or Notting Hill are great places to experience a different side of London. If you are traveling with children, the apartments at Cheval Gloucester Park and The July London Victoria offer just a little more space and freedom.

| What is the best time to travel to London?

The best time to visit London is from May through September, when temperatures are pleasant and you can fully enjoy the many parks, pub terraces, and rooftops. The Christmas period, from late November to early January, is also highly recommended thanks to the atmospheric Christmas lights, beautifully decorated shopping streets, Winter Wonderland, and the cozy winter atmosphere that permeates the entire city.

Do you want to avoid the biggest crowds? Then plan your city trip in January through March or early November. Do keep in mind, however, that hotel prices can rise significantly during school holidays, Wimbledon, Notting Hill Carnival, and the weeks before Christmas. Thanks to the many museums, restaurants, markets, and theaters, London is actually a great destination all year round.

Important events

  • Chinese New Year (January / February)
  • Wimbledon (June / July)
  • Notting Hill Carnival (August)
  • London Design Festival (September)
  • Winter Wonderland & Christmas lights (late November to early January)

| How many days do you need for London & sample itineraries?

For a first city trip to London, we recommend at least three to four days. This gives you enough time to combine the most famous sights with the nicest neighborhoods, restaurants, and markets. If you have five to seven days, you can discover the city at a more relaxed pace or take a beautiful day trip.

Highlights (4 days)

Covent Garden & Soho (2 nights) Shoreditch & Hackney (2 nights)

Perfect if you want to combine the most famous sights with the best restaurants, markets, shops, and creative neighborhoods.

Food lovers (5 days)

Covent Garden (2 nights) Shoreditch (3 nights)

Discover the international food scene, from Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, and Chinatown to the newest restaurants, wine bars, and specialty coffee in East London.

Culture lovers (4 days)

South Bank (2 nights) Covent Garden (2 nights)

Perfect if you want to combine museums, theater, historical sights, and the West End.

Combining London with the surrounding area (7 days)

London (4 nights) The Cotswolds (3 nights)

A beautiful combination of vibrant city life and the English countryside. From the Cotswolds, explore charming villages such as Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold, and make a stop in Oxford along the way before returning.

YLBB tip

Do you only have a long weekend? Then focus on Covent Garden, Soho, Notting Hill, Shoreditch, and South Bank. Try not to tick off all the highlights, but alternate famous sights with long lunches, nice coffee bars, and time to wander through a neighborhood without a plan. It is precisely those spontaneous discoveries that make a city trip to London so much fun.

| How do you get to London?

London is easily accessible from the Netherlands by plane, train, or car. You can fly from Amsterdam to London in just over an hour, while the Eurostar takes you directly from Amsterdam Central to London St Pancras in over four hours. For a city trip, we prefer the train, but if you are staying in Shoreditch or East London, London City Airport is often the fastest option.

London has five major airports. Heathrow (LHR) is the largest and has the best connections to the city centre. London City Airport (LCY) is our favourite if you want to get to the city as quickly as possible. Thanks to the compact airport and its location in East London, you can often be in Shoreditch, the City of London, or Canary Wharf within half an hour. Additionally, you can fly to Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), and Luton (LTN), depending on the airline.

From Amsterdam

  • Flight time: approximately 1 hours.
  • Train: Eurostar from Amsterdam Centraal to London St Pancras in approximately 4 hours.
  • Airlines: KLM, British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and Transavia.

From London City Airport

  • DLR + metro or Overground: about 25 to 35 minutes to Shoreditch or the City of London.
  • Taxi or Uber: approximately 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your destination.

From Heathrow

  • Elizabeth Line: about 35 to 45 minutes to the center.
  • Heathrow Express: approximately 15 minutes to Paddington Station.
  • Taxi or Uber: On average 45 to 75 minutes, depending on how busy it is.

From Gatwick

  • Gatwick Express: about 30 minutes to Victoria Station.
  • Southern of Thameslink: approximately 35 to 45 minutes, depending on your final destination.
  • Taxi or Uber: about 1,5 hours.

From Stansted or Luton

Both airports are located further outside the city. The train or coach bus is usually the fastest and cheapest way to reach central London.

YLBB tip

If you travel by Eurostar, you disembark right in the heart of London and can often head out immediately. Prefer to fly? Then Heathrow and London City Airport are our favorite airports thanks to the fast connections to the city center.

| What is the easiest way to get around London?

London has one of the best public transport networks in the world. The Underground is the fastest way to get around the city, while many neighborhoods such as Covent Garden, Soho, South Bank, Notting Hill, and Shoreditch are best explored on foot. The Underground and bus are ideal for longer distances, while for shorter trips you can easily hop on a shared bike.

The London Underground (Tube) is the fastest way to explore the city. You can easily check in and out using a contactless debit card, credit card, or your phone. As a result, an Oyster Card is no longer necessary for most visitors. The iconic red double-deckers are also a fun way to discover London. Not only do they take you to places the metro doesn't go, but you also see much more of the city along the way.

For late-night rides or if you want to get quickly from one neighborhood to another, Uber is the most popular taxi app. Additionally, there are many traditional black cabs, although they are usually considerably more expensive.

Do you want to discover London in an active way? Then the official Santander Cycles or the Lime shared bikes are a great option. You can find them scattered throughout the city, and it is especially nice to cycle along the South Bank, through Hyde Park, or between Shoreditch and Hackney.

YLBB tip

Don't buy single metro tickets. Just travel with your contactless payment card or phone, as you will automatically pay the cheapest fare. Are you staying mainly in Covent Garden, Soho, Marylebone, South Bank, or Shoreditch? Then put on comfortable shoes and combine walking with the metro or bus. It is precisely on foot that you discover the nicest streets, hidden cafes, and shops that you would otherwise just walk right past.

| Practical tips & useful apps for London

London is an easy destination for a city trip. You pay with the British pound (GBP), can pay contactless almost everywhere, and you can get by well with English. Do keep in mind, however, that it is one hour earlier in London than in the Netherlands.

You can use a contactless debit card, credit card, or your phone almost everywhere for payments. Only at markets or with small businesses is it sometimes useful to carry a small amount of cash.

Google Maps and Citymapper are indispensable for planning your route. Citymapper often provides the fastest combination of metro, bus, and walking and is one of the most popular public transport apps among Londoners. If you travel frequently by metro or bus, you can easily check in and out using your debit card or smartphone.

Do you want to quickly convert prices on the go? Then Xe Currency is a handy app to instantly see what something costs in euros.

Good to know: most Dutch providers also offer roaming within your bundle in the United Kingdom. However, be sure to check this with your own provider before departure to avoid unexpected costs.

YLBB tip

Download our Google Maps of London before you leave. It features all our favorite restaurants, coffee shops, cocktail bars, shops, hotels, and attractions conveniently organized on a single map. It is ideal if you want to decide spontaneously where to have lunch while on the road, are looking for a good coffee, or want to find a nice wine bar for the evening. Along with the map, you will also receive a handy PDF with extra tips and explanations, so you can get even more out of your city trip.

| Is London a fun place to travel with children?

Yes, London is one of the nicest cities in Europe for a city ​​trip with childrenThanks to the many free museums, large parks, and diverse attractions, there is plenty to do for young and old. Public transport is also easy to use, making it simple to explore the city with children.

Visit the together Natural History Museum with the impressive dinosaurs, discover the interactive exhibitions in the Science Museum or step aboard a boat on the Thames for a completely different view of the city. Also the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, an ride on the London Eye and a visit to the Tower of London are a favorite with many families.

During your city trip, also plan enough time for one of the many parks. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and Regent's Park are perfect for relaxing or letting the children play. Moreover, Kensington Gardens is home to the Diana Memorial Playground, one of the nicest playgrounds in London. Also a ride in a red double-decker, a visit to the toy store Hamley's on Regent Street or a afternoon tea make a city trip extra fun for the whole family.

YLBB tip

Traveling with young children? Then plan a maximum of one major attraction per day and combine it with a park, playground, or a nice lunch. This way, a city trip to London remains relaxed for everyone. Do you have time left? Then book a free time slot for Sky Garden. Children often find the view of the city at least as impressive as the London Eye. Also check out our tips for a city trip to London with children >>