One of the world's great cities is London, which is rich in fascinating history, pageantry, and unique sightseeing opportunities.Before you go to the UK capital, you need to make sure that you have all of your travel documents in order, including your passport and Visa.You can make arrangements for travel, lodging, and activities that suit your budget.Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the notorious Tower of London are some of the world-famous landmarks that you should check out while in London.
Step 1: If you don't have a passport, get one.
You can request a passport application form from the local office of the agency that oversees travel laws in your home country.You will be asked for your personal information, along with proof of citizenship, valid personal ID, and a clear photo of yourself.You will receive your passport by mail after these documents have been approved.There may be a fee associated with passport processing.When applying for processing fees can vary from place to place, so be sure to inquire with the issuing agency.It is possible to submit your passport renewal forms by mail, if you already have a passport.You can save yourself a trip if you do that.
Step 2: You need to apply for a visa.
It is necessary to have a travel Visa in order to visit London and other cities in the UK.You can find out if you need a Visa by looking over the UK government's Visas and Immigration website or asking the British embassy in your area.You can apply for a Visa on the same site if you discover that you need one.You might not need a Visa to travel to London.Swiss citizens can come and go throughout the UK as they please.You should always get your Visa-related information from an up-to-date source.
Step 3: You can fly into London from all over the world.
If you are coming from outside of Europe, this will most likely be the easiest option.You can take off from a major international airport near you and land in one of London's 5 main airports, with possible connections in between.You should book your tickets as far in advance as possible because flights to London tend to fill up quickly.
Step 4: You can take a train into London from one of the surrounding cities.
It is possible to get to London by rail if you are already in England or another part of the UK.You can buy a Railcard online, plot your points of departure and arrival, and reserve a seat.If you cover a lot of distance, train travel will be cheaper and more accessible than flying.The cost of a one-year Railcard is an average.You can purchase an unlimited number of trips with your Railcard.If you are a senior citizen, disabled person, or traveler, you may be eligible for additional discounts.A Railcard has the potential to save you money, especially if you will be moving a lot in the UK.
Step 5: If you want to travel by water, you can charter a ferry.
If you want to reach London from other parts of the UK and continental Europe, you can take a ferry.Ferries carry passengers from as far away as Ireland, France, Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands to one of the 3 central seaports near London.It is a short drive or train ride to London proper from there.Some of the well-known services that run day-and-night trips to London seaports from nearby areas are DFDS Seaways, P&O, and Brittany Ferries.If you are not in a hurry, a ferry ride can be an interesting way to get into the UK capital.
Step 6: It's a good idea to book a hotel at least 3-6 months in advance.
There is no off-season in London because it is a popular tourist destination year-round.It is advisable to secure lodging before you leave your current location.There are hotels, inns, all over London, so you are almost certain to find something.Take some time to read a little bit about the different parts of London and reserve a room somewhere that suits your tastes, budget, and expectations for you trip.If you think you will be shuttling back and forth frequently during your stay, look for a place with easy access to the London Underground subway system.
Step 7: You can save money and experience authentic London living by renting anAirbnb.
You can find listings around the London area on the website.If you are traveling with a small group or only plan on being in the city for a short period of time, you may be able to find a more affordable place to stay on the platform.Most Airbnbs will still be offering a lower nightly rate than a hotel chain.You can see how the locals live for a few days when you stay at an Airbnb.You can choose from a house, flat, or single-person room, as well as a cottage.
Step 8: You can use the tube.
The London Underground runs to each of the city's major districts as well as outlying counties.To pay for your way, use an ordinary credit or debit card or purchase a pre-paid Oyster card.Oyster cards allow you to ride a certain number of times without having to queue up.Pick up a paper map on your way in or refer to one of the many maps posted at the station or inside the train cars themselves to determine where you are going and when you need to get off.Different lines have different hours of operation.If you miss an appointment or get stranded, you need to check the schedule of the line before you set out.
Step 9: You can travel within London on a bus.
Thanks to their convenience and affordability, buses are the most used form of transportation in London.If you only go a few miles, it will be easier to wait for a bus than to find a Tube entrance.The London Transit Commission has a website where you can find bus routes and scrolling display screens.If you have an Oyster card, you can take a bus anywhere in the city for a fixed price of $1.Unlike with the Tube, there is no chance of being left behind due to poor planning or timing on the bus lines.
Step 10: You can get a tour of the city in a black cab.
The hackney carriage taxi services in London are one of the most fun ways to get around.They will take care of the rest if you flag down any cab with its light on.If you are lucky, they will also entertain you with stories about the city and its history.London cab drivers only accept payments in the form of cash or credit card.Oyster cards are not a good idea.Black cab passengers usually tip their drivers by rounding up the nearest pound.If you enjoyed the ride, you are free to leave more.
Step 11: You can take the tube to see Big Ben.
Big Ben is the nickname for the clock tower on the north side of the Palace of Westminster, where the Houses of Parliament meet.It is considered to be one of the best landmarks in the modern world.The first thing you will see when you get off at the station is the imposing structure.Don't forget to bring your camera.It is customary for first time visitors to take a photo of Big Ben.
Step 12: There is a chance to see royal life at Buckingham Palace.
The Royal Family of England reside in Buckingham Palace.The Throne Room, the Queen's choir room, and the White Drawing Room are all State Rooms at Buckingham Palace.The Abbey is open to visitors on Mondays through Saturdays.You should get there early to get a spot in the line.You can see the Changing of the Guard ceremony if you visit Buckingham Palace at 10:45am.
Step 13: There is a show at the Globe Theater.
William Shakespeare's plays were originally performed at The Globe.Today, there are still shows of these and other celebrated productions on there.If you are a fan of the performing arts, they are not to be missed.The Tate Modern art gallery is next to the Globe Theater and features works by artists like Picasso, Dal, and Warhol.You can cross the Millennium Bridge if you go to the Globe Theater or Tate Modern.
Step 14: One of London's world-famous retail districts is a great place to shop.
If you have some money to spend, you should go to one of the many shops at Oxford Street, Covent Garden or King's Road.You can find everything from designer fashion and luxury goods to hip local boutiques and cafes there.Pick up some souvenirs for your family back home, or treat yourself to a new wardrobe for the trip.Ask the locals for recommendations for places to eat and drink if you get hungry while you are in the area.
Step 15: Enjoy Trafalgar Square.
Trafalgar Square is the official center of London.A lot of museums, exhibits, and historical buildings and monuments can be found here.Many interesting people, including celebrities, artists, and street performers, gather in the Square at any given time.It is a good idea to take a seat by the large fountain in the middle of Trafalgar Square if you are tired.
Step 16: You can visit the grounds of the Tower of London.
No trip to London is complete without a visit to the Tower of London, which is located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.You can get a guided tour of the Tower and its battlements after paying admission.The Crown Jewels are on the walls of the Tower.Admission to the Tower of London costs more for children than adults.You can use your London Pass to save on this fee.The courtyard of the Tower of London has seven black ravens.The Tower and Crown are protected by these birds.