When planning your next vacation, there are hundreds of options to consider when deciding where to visit. But few destinations can offer the rich history and diverse cultural offerings that London can, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in Europe (and the world). With so many things to do, visit and explore in this unique city, it can take time to decide where to begin. In order to help you plan your trip to London as efficiently as possible, here is a compiled list of 15 amazing things you need to know before visiting London.
1. The Weather
The weather in London is generally pleasant, but like any city, it has its micro-climate. The summers are typically warm and humid, with highs of around 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and lows at night in the high teens or low twenties. Winters are usually cold, with highs around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and lows near freezing. Expect plenty of rain all year round, but less from October to April.
2. The Language
English is the native language spoken in London. However, it is common for people to speak other languages fluently, and many locals will quickly switch to their second language when they realize that you don’t speak English.
Londoners are very friendly and will be happy to help you find your way or answer any questions you may have. They might also offer some advice on what’s worth seeing in the area. Just remember that if someone offers unsolicited advice, they’re not trying to be rude; they’re just being nice!
3. The currency
The British pound is the currency in England, Wales, and Scotland. The currency is also used in Northern Ireland and Jersey. There are 100 pence per pound. Coins come in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p and 50p while banknotes come in denominations of £5, £10 and £20. To make your trip to London seamless, convert your money into British pounds.
4. The food
It’s no surprise that the cuisine in London is fantastic. With such a diverse population, there are many different types of food to try. One thing that you should not leave without trying is a full English breakfast. This includes bacon, eggs, sausages, mushrooms, and baked beans.
5. The culture
The culture in London is rich and diverse. Initially, it can be a bit overwhelming, but this wonderful city is full of the best people and has so much history. There are many ways you can get immersed in the culture, such as by visiting museums or galleries and going on pub crawls. One thing you should know before you visit is that there are no tipping customs in England, but it’s always appreciated when someone does!
6. The fashion
London is a fashionista’s dream come true. It offers everything from high-end couture and luxury brands to street wear, vintage, and independent designers. The city is home to some of the most renowned fashion weeks in the world, including Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, and New York Fashion Week. Whether you are looking for that perfect outfit for your next date or want to walk down Oxford Street admiring all the window-shopping possibilities, London has something for everyone.
7. The architecture
The architecture of London is an eclectic mix of old and new buildings. The Tower of London is a must-see medieval castle, while the Shard offers stunning views over the city. Shoppers can find everything they need at Harrods or Harvey Nichols, while foodies should head to Borough Market. And if you like a bit of history with your city break, then the British Museum is just the ticket. While there are plenty of ways to keep occupied on the weekends in London, finding something free can be challenging.
8. The history
London is one of the world’s most diverse and historically rich cities. It has been a part of England for centuries, but its history stretches back even further than that. The city was established around 2000 BC by the Celts as a trading center and grew into a major city during Roman times when it was known as Londinium. From then on, it became an economic powerhouse of the medieval world, experiencing a massive population boom following the discovery of America and helping keep it afloat during periods of famine. Since then, the city has been flooded with immigrants from around the world and has become one of Europe’s most culturally diverse places.
9. The cafes
It’s not uncommon for Londoners to spend their days working from cafes. Depending on where you are in the city, you can find cafes that are geared more towards freelancers and those looking for a less noisy atmosphere or those that cater more to families with children and people who need an area with outlets for charging. Regardless of what type of cafe you choose, it’s important to note that most cafes do not offer free WiFi unless they have a membership program. Moreover, If there is no table available, it’s customary to order your drink at the counter and then take it to a table yourself rather than wait for someone else to vacate one.
10. The music
London is known as the birthplace of rock and roll. Whether you’re a Beatles fanatic or love listening to Elvis, it’s no surprise that there are more than enough places to enjoy live music in the city. With so many venues, however, it can take time to figure out where to start. The Royal Albert Hall is one of the best places where you can enjoy live music and plenty of other activities, especially for those who want more than a night at the show. This iconic building has hosted notable celebrities like Bob Dylan, Tina Turner, and Led Zeppelin.
11. The art
London is the capital of England and one of the most culturally, ethnically, and religiously diverse cities in Europe. The city is well-known for its art scene, with countless theaters, galleries, and museums that are sure to please any art lover.
Art lovers should make a point of visiting the British Museum located in Bloomsbury. This museum has vast collections of Egyptian artifacts and paintings from artists such as Van Dyck and Rembrandt. It’s also home to one of the largest collections in the world of Chinese artwork.
For those looking for more modern pieces, Tate Modern is an excellent choice.
12. Accommodation
London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so make sure you are aware of your budget before booking a hotel. Booking accommodation can be difficult because of the high demand for housing in London. Be aware that prices will increase during events like Wimbledon and Christmas. – Many hotels offer discounted rates for long-term stays and room-only bookings, so consider staying at an Airbnb or renting a room from a local host. This can save you quite a bit of money over time. – Hostels are cheap accommodations, but they can be noisy and often lack privacy. Consider booking one with private rooms if that’s important to you.
13. The nightlife
The nightlife in London is impressive. There’s something for everyone, and it never feels like you’re stuck in a tourist trap. There are plenty of pubs, bars, and clubs for people who want to go out and have a few drinks with friends or colleagues. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are trendy cocktail lounges and jazz clubs where you can enjoy some live music with your drink. And if you’re looking to get away from it all, there’s always the option of going on a pub crawl! No matter what kind of nightlife experience you’re looking for, it will be available here in London.
14. The mode of transport
London has a substantial public transit system, so getting around is easy. The Underground, or Tube, is the quickest way to get from one side of the city to the other. Tubes are composed of eight lines and run every few minutes during most hours of the day. Taps can be identified by their color: red for Central Line, green for District Line, etc. Buses and trains are also available, but you’ll want to avoid these if possible as they take significantly more time than the tube. If you need a bus or train (or even if you don’t), plan your route in advance using an app like CityMapper or Transport for London’s Journey Planner.
15. The best time to visit
The best time to visit is during the summer when the temperature is a comfortable 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit (16-21 degrees Celsius), and there’s plenty of sunshine. This also means that many attractions are open later in the day. In winter, it can get very cold in London – temperatures rarely go above 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), so it’s best to dress warmly and pack some gloves!
