6 Touristy Things Worth Doing in London

London is the kind of city that will always keep surprising you. There is something new and exciting just around the corner. History, culture, sights, the whole package. Even if you have already been there a few times, every time you set foot in this city, you feel like a curious traveler with new discoveries awaiting you. And one of the things to love about London is that some of the most touristy activities are actually worth the hype. If you are wondering how to experience London the right way, then these 6 things to do in London are the perfect starting point.

Ride the London Eye 

That big wheel that you see in almost any postcard depicting London is, of course, the London Eye, and yes, it’s as touristy as touristy can be. But once you are inside one of those glass capsules and the wheel slowly lifts you above the city, you will understand why it is one of the most popular attractions. The view is breathtaking. You can see Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral and on a clear day even Windsor Castle in the distance. Staying at a Kensington Hotel London makes it easy to reach this spot and return to your room after a long day of sightseeing.

Tip: You can buy your tickets online to avoid the long queue.

The Tower of London 

There is no other place in the world like the Tower of London. History and storytelling collide as you walk through a building that has been a royal palace, a prison, a zoo, and the home of the Crown Jewels for nearly 1,000 years. When you enter the walls of this fortress, you feel the power and history hanging over you. The Yeoman Warders, as the guides are called, are entertaining and chilling in their storytelling as they take you on a journey through time. The Tower of London is like a history book that comes to life.

Tip: Get there early to beat the queue and the crowds, especially in the summer.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace 

It is a cliché, and if you want to experience London, you must do the clichéd things. Seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is the quintessential British experience. From the precision of the guards’ movements to their uniforms to the music. When you are in the crowd outside Buckingham Palace with people from all over the world, you feel the excitement as the musicians set the tone and the guards approach in a very British military march rhythm. Free to see and the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement. It is crowded, but it is a must-do, and even if you have done it before, you will always feel the magic of the occasion.

Tip: Make sure to check the official schedule for the times the ceremony is held. It does not take place every day. 

Thames River Cruise 

London has a very different look from the River Thames. A Thames River cruise allows you to see the city skyline from a different perspective. Sailing past the iconic London sights like Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament and The Shard will give you a completely new view of London. The old and the new fit so perfectly in this city, and when you watch it all from the river, you are in for a treat. There are hop-on-hop-off boats where you can take a short ride, or there are full-day cruises with a guided tour. Whichever you choose, you are bound to enjoy the cruise down the Thames and its photo-op moments.

Tip: Evening cruises can be a great way to see the city lights.

Also Read: An Insider’s Guide to Seven Dials, London

Visit the British Museum 

The British Museum is another place that you must see even if you are not a big museum person. This museum is amazing. The British Museum is home to artifacts from around the world including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Strolling around the museum is like walking through the history of humankind. And the best part is that it is free to enter. You can spend a few hours wandering around the British Museum galleries or just stay in the Great Court and enjoy the architecture. It is a special place where you find something new every time you visit.

Tip: Choose a few sections that you want to visit and take your time. You cannot see everything in one go as it is quite large.

Wander Around Covent Garden 

If you want to do something that is almost completely touristy but also very much not, then there is no better place to wander around in London than Covent Garden. There is something for everyone here. Street performers entertain you as you watch people in boutique shops. There is the historic market buzzing with energy, and of course, the perfect places for a photo-op. You can do some shopping, or if you are like me, you can just people-watch. There is a vibrant energy about Covent Garden and it is so much fun to just wander around.

Tip: Afternoons and evenings are the best time to visit Covent Garden.

Conclusion 

London has so many things to do, and in a city like this, sometimes the touristy activities are the most memorable. From the big wheel, the London Eye, to the history and power of the Tower of London, there is something that each of these six things to do in London has to offer. If you’re staying in a comfortable hotel near Buckingham Palace, you’re never far from adventure. The activities might be touristy, but that is because they are quintessentially London. So, do not feel ashamed of doing touristy things when you are in London, because in London, it is all part of the experience.