Discovering London: Top Sights to See

Like New York City, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Paris, London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. And like those bustling metropolitans, there’s plenty to do and see, especially if you’re completely new to London. While there are plenty of off-the-beaten path attractions, those who have never visited should first check out these standards that should be on any globetrotter’s bucket list:

Parliament and Big Ben

Did you know that Big Ben is named for the bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, not the massive clock? Either way, this iconic landmark stands proud on the River Thames in central London, adjoining Parliament’s grand building in a Gothic Revival style. They are doing extensive renovations on the structure, but you can still tour various chambers, robing rooms and halls. You can even stand behind the Prime Minister’s chair in the House of Commons.

Tower Bridge

Not to be confused with the concrete London Bridge, the Tower Bridge is the most recognizable overpass of the River Thames. It’s near the Tower of London, which hold the royal family’s crown jewels. The bridge can be walked across, or you can climb to the top of its towers and stroll along a glass-bottomed walkway nearly 130 feet in the air.

The Shard

Towering over London’s skyline is a triangular, modern structure that was completed in 2012. Inside The Shard there are big business hubs, a luxury hotel, shopping, restaurants, and a large observation area. You can take an elevator that travels 18 feet per second, up over 70 floors for panoramic views at The View from the Shard, the tallest in the city.

20 Fenchurch Building

Although The Shard is well worth a visit, you can go to the top of the building for views just as stunning, and admission is sometimes free during the day with a reservation. Walk around the observation deck, then head inside for a cheeky cocktail or fine dining experience at one of the several restaurants. The biggest draw is the Sky Garden, an ecosystem of beautiful flora growing from the steps inside 20 Fenchurch Street.

St Paul’s Cathedral

It’s well worth the trek up 528 steps to reach the cathedral dome’s golden gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral and lookout point over London. There’s other stops along the way too, including the famous whispering gallery at the 257th step, where because of the unusual acoustics, you can hear voices from across the large room as if someone were standing next to you.

Buckingham Palace

Indeed, 90-year-old Queen Elizabeth II calls Buckingham Palace her base in the heart of London. You can tell when she’s home by spotting her Royal Standard flag flying from the roof. Every other day at 11am, there’s a changing of the guards ceremony open to the public, and another change down the mall at Horse Guards Parade featuring their trusty steeds. Multimedia tours will bring you through some of the luxurious state rooms and private gardens, or you can simply admire the exterior from the front gate, including the Palace’s 760 windows.