City Guides
10 Must-Visit Places in London (With a Budget Plan)
Plan around walkable clusters
London is easier when you group sights by area. Build each day around one cluster and walk between them instead of taking the Tube for every stop.
The 10 must-visit list
- Westminster and Big Ben
- Buckingham Palace and St James's Park
- South Bank walk from London Eye to Tate Modern
- Tower Bridge and the Thames Path
- Borough Market for lunch
- British Museum (free)
- National Gallery (free)
- St Paul's Cathedral exterior and Millennium Bridge
- Camden Market for street food
- Notting Hill and Portobello Road
Free wins that feel premium
- Hyde Park walk and Kensington Gardens
- Sky Garden (book free tickets online)
- Changing of the Guard schedule viewing
- Greenwich Park views over the city
Transport savings
Use contactless or an Oyster card and let the daily cap do the work. Buses are slower but cheaper and a nice way to see the city above ground.
Where to stay on a budget
Zones 2-3 are the sweet spot. Look for stays near the Northern or Central lines so you can get into the center quickly without hotel prices.
Food under GBP 12
- Market lunch at Borough, Camden, or South Bank
- Pret or Wasabi meal deals for quick days
- Pub lunch specials on weekdays
- Bakery breakfast and a coffee to start the day
A simple 2-day budget plan
- Day 1: Westminster, South Bank walk, Tate Modern, Borough Market
- Day 2: British Museum, Covent Garden, Sky Garden, evening in Soho
Free evening views
Walk the Thames after dark for skyline views without a ticket. The bridges between St Paul's and Tower Bridge are the best stretch for photos.
FAQs
What is a realistic daily budget for London?
GBP 65-90 per day covers a budget stay, transport, and food if you mix free sights with a few paid entries.
Is the London Pass worth it?
Only if you plan to visit 3-4 paid attractions per day. For most trips, pay as you go and focus on free museums.
What is the best time to visit London?
Late April to June or September to early October offers mild weather and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Which airport is cheapest to get into the city?
Stansted and Luton have lower flight prices, but Gatwick often has smoother transport into central London.
Do I need to prebook museums?
Most free museums do not require booking, but ticketed exhibitions sometimes need a timed slot.
Is it worth taking the bus over the Tube?
Yes for short distances. Buses are cheaper, and you see more of the city at street level.
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