Practical travel tips for the best London trips in 2025

London, a city rich in history and multiculturalism, is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. From spectacular historical buildings to modern art venues, London is undoubtedly an ideal place to explore. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed travel guide to help you get the best out of your trip to London.

Travel Preparation

1. Passport and Visa

• Check passport validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months to avoid problems when entering or leaving the country.
• Understand Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, check if you need to apply for a visitor's visa. Citizens of many countries can apply for an e-visa (e.g. e-travel authorization).
• Application time: Visa application usually takes one to two weeks, so it is recommended to apply in advance.

2. Flight Booking

• Choice of flight: Book a direct flight from your city to London in advance, usually from major cities in China, with a flight time of about 10-12 hours.
• Price comparison websites: Use price comparison websites (e.g. Skyscanner, Kayak) to compare prices of different airlines to find the best choice.
• Flexible dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try traveling during off-peak hours to get cheaper airfares.

3. Baggage Preparation

• Suitable Clothing: Prepare suitable clothing according to the season. London's weather is changeable, so it is recommended to bring light clothing, long-sleeved shirts and waterproof jackets.
• Comfortable shoes: As London is walkable, it is recommended to choose comfortable shoes for exploring the city.
• Accessories: Don't forget to bring suitable accessories such as sunglasses, scarves and umbrellas.

4. Trip Planning

• Make an itinerary: Plan your travel itinerary in advance, including the sights and activities you wish to visit, and you can use mobile apps (such as Google Maps) to help with the planning.
• Prioritize: Prioritize based on interests and time to ensure you don't miss the sights you most want to visit.
• Flexibility: Allow some free time to make adjustments as you travel.

5. Travel Insurance

• Purchase of insurance: It is recommended to purchase suitable travel medical insurance in case of accidents or illnesses during your trip to ensure that the cost of medical treatment abroad is covered.
• Check coverage: Ensure that the insurance covers emergency medical treatment, lost baggage and trip cancellation.
• Retain documentation: Print out the insurance policy and carry it with you in case of emergency.

6. Currency exchange

• Change Pounds Sterling: Exchange some Pounds Sterling (GBP) for small purchases before departure. Currency exchange is usually available at airports and local banks.
• Credit Card Use: Most merchants accept credit card payments and it is advisable to carry an international credit card for spending.
• ATM CASHWASH: Cash can be easily withdrawn from ATMs in London, but be aware of the fees.

London travel highlights

1. Cultural richness

• Museums & Galleries: London is home to a wide range of museums and galleries, such as the British Museum and Tate Modern, offering a rich cultural experience.
• Festivals & Events: There are a wealth of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the London Festival of the Arts and London Fashion Week, which attract many visitors.
• Multicultural Communities: London is a multicultural city where various cultures mingle and visitors can experience different cultural flavors.

2. Historic Sites

• Famous Landmarks: From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, London's historical sites are scattered all over the city, showcasing its rich history and culture.
• Architectural styles: Visitors can enjoy different styles of architecture, from medieval churches to modern skyscrapers, and experience the city's historical changes.
• Guided tours: Many of the historical sites offer guided tours that provide insight into the background and story of each site.

3. Diverse Cuisine

• International Cuisine: London is known for its diverse international cuisine, where you can try Indian curries, pasta, Chinese food and more.
• Local specialties: Don't miss out on traditional English breakfasts and fish and chips, which are the best way to experience London's culture.
• Gourmet markets: such as Borough Market, ideal for fresh snacks and local specialties.

4. Parks and green spaces

• Urban Oasis: London is home to many beautiful parks, such as Hyde Park and St. James's Park, offering opportunities to relax and enjoy nature.
• Outdoor activities: There are many activities in the parks such as boating, cycling and picnics that are perfect for families.
• Natural Landscapes: You can enjoy a variety of plants and animals in the parks and experience the natural beauty of the city.

5. Shopping Paradise

• Shopping Options: London's shopping options are almost endless, from high-end brands to independent designers.
• Shopping districts: such as Oxford Street, Regent Street and Notting Hill, each area has its own unique charm and character.
• Markets: London markets such as Camden Market and Portobello Road Market offer unique goods and crafts.

6. Diverse nightlife

• Bars & Clubs: London's nightlife is varied, with bars, clubs and live music performances making for an enjoyable evening.
• Cultural performances: Catch a musical or theater performance in the West End and soak up London's artistic scene.
• Gourmet Dinners: Many restaurants offer dinner with live music, so you can spend an unforgettable evening with food and music.

How to get around London

1. Tube system

• Wide Coverage: The London Underground (Tube) covers a wide area and is the most convenient way to get to almost all major attractions.
• Ticketing: Pay with your Oyster Card or Contactless for cheap fares and easy access.
• Peak hours: The subway can be crowded during peak hours (7am-9am, 4pm-7pm), so try to avoid these times.

2. Buses

• Double-decker buses: London's red double-decker buses are an icon of the city, and touring by bus is a unique experience.
• Fares: Like the Tube, buses can be conveniently paid for with an Oyster card.
• Route options: Many bus routes pass by the main attractions, allowing you to explore the city by bus.

3. Taxis and shared mobility

• Black taxis: London's black cabs are very convenient and the drivers are professionally trained and know their way around the city.
• Shared trips: Using a shared trip service such as Uber is convenient for short trips.
• Cost Estimation: You can check the cost in the app in advance to avoid unnecessary expenses.

4. Bicycle rental

• Public Bikes: London offers a “London Bike” rental service, which allows tourists to conveniently rent bicycles to explore the city.
• Cycling paths: There are many dedicated cycling paths in the city, making cycling very safe.
• Healthy and environmentally friendly: Cycling is not only an environmentally friendly way of traveling, but also a good way to exercise.

5. Walking

• Concentration of Major Attractions: Many of the major attractions are relatively centralized, and a walking tour is a good option to better experience the atmosphere of the city.
• City Exploration: Walking allows you to stop at any time to take photos and explore alleys and cafes that are not in the guidebooks.
• Safety Tip: Always pay attention to traffic signals when crossing the street to ensure safety.

6. Train

• Surrounding City Tours: If you plan to travel to cities around London, such as Cambridge and Oxford, trains are an efficient option.
• Major train stations: London's major train stations such as King's Cross and Victoria offer convenient train services.
• Purchase tickets in advance: It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for better prices and seat selection.

London food recommendations

1. English Breakfast

• Traditional dishes: Try a traditional English breakfast including omelette, sausage, bacon, beans, etc. Recommended to be enjoyed at local cafes.
• Nutritious: The rich ingredients provide you with plenty of energy for starting the day's travel.

2. London Fish and Chips

• Classic Cuisine: Enjoy this classic British dish with vinegar and tartar sauce at your local fish and chip store.
• Unique Flavor: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, fish and chips are a must-try.

3. Afternoon Tea

• Elegant Experience: Experience an authentic English afternoon tea, choose an elegant hotel or tea room and enjoy sandwiches, pastries and tea.
• Socializing: Afternoon Tea is not only a food culture, but also a social activity, suitable for gathering with friends.

4. International Cuisine

• Variety of choices: London is known for its diverse international cuisine, try Indian curries, Chinese food or pasta.
• Food Streets: You can find cuisines from different countries in the major food streets and markets, catering to all tastes.

5. Local Market Snacks

• Boro Market: Try a variety of fresh snacks and local specialties at local markets such as Boro Market to experience the local food culture.
• Handicrafts: In addition to food, there are many handicrafts in the market, making it a good place to buy souvenirs.

6. London Desserts

• Classic Desserts: Don't miss out on local desserts such as scone and English pudding to savor the sweet taste of London.
• Café Experience: Enjoy a dessert in a café with a cup of strong coffee.

Introduction to the vicinity of the main attractions

1. Around the British Museum

• Covent Garden: a vibrant shopping and entertainment district known for its unique stores, restaurants and street performances. You can find crafts and independent design brands, enjoy fine dining and cultural events.
• Piccadilly Circus: The bustling commercial center of London, Piccadilly Circus is known for its huge LED billboards and heavy traffic. Surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and bars, it is the ideal place to relax and socialize.
• London Transport Museum: not far from the British Museum, showcasing the history and development of transport in London. The museum is family friendly and offers interactive exhibitions and educational activities.
• Royal Opera House: If you're interested in music and the performing arts, consider taking in a performance at the Royal Opera House for its elegant architecture and rich cultural atmosphere.
• South Hampton Square: a peaceful garden for walking and relaxing, surrounded by many historic buildings and cafes, it is a great place to enjoy afternoon tea.
• The Aldwych Theatre: a renowned performing arts venue with regular theater, music and dance performances for art lovers.

2. Around the Tower of London

• Tower Bridge: An iconic landmark in London, you can walk across this magnificent suspension bridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the River Thames. There are also exhibitions inside Tower Bridge about its history and architecture.
• St. Catherine's Dock: a charming docklands area for walking and dining. With many restaurants and bars serving delicious seafood, it's a great place to experience London in style.
• Humphrey Baldwin Library: this historic library is ideal for research and study, with a quiet and cozy interior for readers and scholars.
• London Bridge: a short walk from Tower Bridge will give you beautiful views of both sides of the river and an insight into the bridge's rich history.
• British Financial District: This is the financial center of London, with skyscrapers lining the streets, where you can experience the business atmosphere of modern London.
• Thames River Cruise: Near the Tower of London, you can take a cruise on the River Thames and enjoy the scenery and historical sites along the river.

3. Around Buckingham Palace

• St. James's Park: This royal park is located next to Buckingham Palace and is ideal for walks and picnics. The park has beautiful flowerbeds, lakes and a variety of birds for relaxation.
• Westminster Abbey: Not far from Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey is an important symbol of British history and culture and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its architecture and history.
• The Queen's Gallery: This is a gallery showcasing the Royal Art Collection, with regular exhibitions featuring a wide range of artworks for art lovers.
• House of Parliament: Within walking distance, this magnificent building is the center of British politics and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its history and function.
• Big Ben: Adjacent to the Houses of Parliament, this is one of London's most famous landmarks and visitors can take photos around it.
• Piccadilly Circus: Walk from Buckingham Palace to Piccadilly Circus and enjoy the bustle and energy of London along the way.

4. Around the London Eye

• South Bank Arts Center: This is a concentration of modern art and cultural events with regular exhibitions, concerts and performances for art lovers.
• The Tate Modern: not far from the London Eye, this is an important venue for modern art, exhibiting works by contemporary artists, and is worth a visit.
• Westminster Abbey: just a short stroll along the Thames, a symbol of British history and culture, visitors can visit the many historical sites inside the church.
• Waterloo Station: this is one of the largest train stations in London and is surrounded by many restaurants and cafes for rest and dining.
• Oceanarium: suitable for families, it exhibits a variety of aquatic creatures and offers interactive experiences and educational activities.
• River Walk: Take a stroll along the River Thames walkway to enjoy the riverfront scenery and experience London's unique atmosphere.

5. Around Hyde Park

• Kensington Palace: This historic Royal Palace is located in Hyde Park and is perfect for visiting and enjoying the beautiful gardens.
• Harrods: Not far from Hyde Park, this world famous upmarket department store offers a luxury shopping experience.
• Royal Albert Hall: a renowned performing arts venue that hosts regular concerts and cultural events for art lovers.
• Kensington Gardens: Connected to Hyde Park, this is a beautiful garden for walking and enjoying nature.
• Natural History Museum: within walking distance, it exhibits a rich natural history collection and is ideal for families.
• Science Museum: also an important cultural venue not far from Hyde Park, offering interesting science exhibitions and interactive experiences.

Electronic visas and electronic travel authorizations for UK travel

1. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

• DEFINITION: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a new policy introduced by the UK government to simplify the entry process for short-term visits to the UK. It allows eligible visitors to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travelling to the UK.
• Applicable to: This policy mainly applies to short-term visitors from specific countries for purposes including business, tourism and visiting relatives.

2. Application Process

• Online application: Applicants are required to submit their applications through the official website of the UK government by filling in the relevant information and uploading the necessary documents. The whole process is usually simple.
• Required information
  • Basic personal information: name, date of birth, nationality, etc.
  • Passport information: passport number, expiry date, etc.
  • Travel plans: including expected date of entry, duration of stay and accommodation arrangements.
• Fee: A fee is usually required to apply for an ETA, and the exact amount will be shown at the time of application.

3. Review and Approval

• Expedited Review: Most applications will be reviewed and approved within 24 hours, in some cases it may take longer.
• Email Notification: Applicants will receive the result of their application via email and confirmation of electronic travel authorization upon approval.

4. Entry Requirements

• Bringing of authorization documents: Once the ETA is granted, travelers are not required to bring paper documents upon entry, but are advised to keep the electronic version for inspection.
• Arrival Check: Upon arrival, immigration officers may ask to see passport and electronic travel authorization information to ensure compliance with entry requirements.

5. Travel Precautions

• Validity: An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is normally valid for two years or until the expiry of the passport (whichever is earlier) and allows multiple entries into and exits from the UK during the validity period.
• Restrictions on use: ETA is only valid for short-term visits. If you plan to stay or work for a long period of time, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa.
• Update Information: If there is any change of information during your trip (e.g. loss of passport, change of name, etc.), you need to update your ETA information in time.

6. Important Notes

• Apply in advance: It is recommended to apply for an ETA as early as possible before planning your trip to avoid disruption to your itinerary due to delays in processing.
• Official website application: Be sure to apply through the official website of the UK government and avoid using unauthorized third-party websites to avoid unnecessary costs or information leakage.

Best time to travel to London

London is a city of four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. Choosing the best time to travel depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip. Below are features and suggestions for each season to help you decide when to visit London.

1. Spring (March to May)

• Climate: Temperatures gradually pick up in spring, usually between 8°C and 15°C. Parks and gardens begin to bloom with flowers and colors.
• ACTIVITIES: Spring is the perfect time to experience London's flower shows and cultural events. You can visit places such as the Royal Botanic Gardens and Hyde Park to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful scenery.
• Crowds: There are relatively few tourists, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter trip.

2. Summer (June to August)

• Climate: Temperatures in summer usually range from 15°C to 25°C, making it the warmest season of the year. Long daylight hours make it suitable for outdoor activities.
• Events: There are many music festivals, street festivals and outdoor events during the summer months, and you can enjoy a wide range of entertainment on the London Eye and along the River Thames.
• Crowds: Visitor numbers increase, especially in July and August, so it's advisable to book accommodation and attraction tickets in advance.

3. Autumn (September to November)

• Climate: Temperatures gradually drop in autumn, usually between 10°C and 20°C, the leaves change color and the park is stunning.
• Activities: Ideal for strolling around the city and enjoying the beautiful fall scenery. Many places hold harvest festivals and Halloween events, allowing you to experience different cultures.
• Crowds: The crowds gradually decrease, making it suitable for travelers who wish to avoid the crowds.

4. Winter (December to February)

• Climate: Temperatures are cooler in winter, usually between 0°C and 10°C, with occasional snowfall.
• Events: During the Christmas period, London is stunningly lit and decorated, with many places hosting Christmas markets and festivals for those who enjoy a festive atmosphere.
• Crowds: Visitor numbers are low in the winter months, but there is a peak during the Christmas period, so it is advisable to plan your trip in advance.

Introduction to esim in the UK

Before traveling to the UK, purchasing an eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo is a smart way to ensure a smooth internet connection. This high-speed service designed for travelers will keep you online at all times during your trip, whether you're navigating, watching videos or interacting socially. Activate your eSIM in advance and enjoy a stable internet connection immediately upon arrival, making your trip to the UK even smoother!

UK Travel Warning Questions

While enjoying your trip to the UK, knowing and following a few travel warnings is an important step in ensuring a safe and smooth trip. Firstly, being vigilant is key, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation - be sure to keep an eye on your personal belongings to prevent theft and pickpockets. Secondly, be aware of local traffic rules, especially when crossing the street, and pay attention to the direction of vehicle traffic to ensure safety. For more questions about UK travel warnings, visit: Guide to UK Travel Warnings

London Travel FAQs

1. When is the best time to travel in London?

   • The best time to travel to London is usually during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

2. How do I get from London Heathrow Airport to the city center?

   • You can choose to take the Tube (Piccadilly line), Heathrow Express, cab or airport bus, depending on budget and time.

3. How does London's public transportation system work?

   • You can easily pay on the Tube, buses and trams using your Oyster card or contactless payment card. Make sure to plan your trip in advance.

4. What are the must-see attractions in London?

   • Must-see attractions include Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and museums.

5. What is the weather like in London? What kind of clothing do I need to bring?

   • The weather in London is very changeable and it can rain all year round. It is advisable to bring lightweight raincoats and layers of clothing for different weather.

6. What are some family-friendly activities in London?

   • Family-friendly activities include visits to the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, London Zoo and Harry Potter Studios.

7. What do you recommend for dining in London?

   • London has a wealth of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food. It is recommended to try traditional local dishes such as fish and chips and English breakfast.

     

8. How safe is London?

   • Overall, London is a safe city, but you still need to stay alert, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transportation.

9. How do I buy tickets for attractions in London?

   • Tickets for most attractions can be purchased online, and booking in advance usually results in discounts and avoids queues.

10. What are the shopping areas in London?

    • London's shopping districts include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Harrods, Covent Garden and Notting Hill for shoppers with different needs.

With this detailed travel guide, we hope you will enjoy an unforgettable trip to London and explore the city's unique charms. Whether it's culture, food or nature, London will offer you a rich experience. We wish you a pleasant journey!