London Travel Guide
London was one of the first cities to capture my heart from afar. I dreamed of traveling here for years, and when I finally made it, it became the very first city I explored in Europe. From the moment I arrived, I was in awe.
As a city girl at heart, London felt electric—familiar yet entirely new. The energy, the history woven into every street, the endless neighborhoods to get lost in, the pubs buzzing at all hours, and the food scene that’s so much richer than people give it credit for—it all felt like stepping into a place I somehow already belonged to. It’s a city that keeps calling me back, and I truly hope I get to live here one day.
I’ve been to London twice so far and will be heading back again this December. Read below for my favorite places to eat, sights to see, and things to do.
Where to Stay
During my second trip to London, I stayed at the Clermont Hotel in Victoria. It is a beautiful historic hotel with a modern touch. The rooms were quite small, but I feel like most London hotel rooms are (at least ones in my budget lol). The hotel was in the perfect location as it was within walking distance to Buckingham Palace and other major sites. There were plenty of coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants right outside. The Victoria tube station was right next to the hotel for easy access to get around the city.
I stayed at the Crown Plaza in Kings Cross during my first trip to London as I tagged along on my husband’s business trip. The hotel was honestly great. It was located in a quieter part of the city, which meant it offered more space, both in amenities and rooms. It was very close to King’s Cross station, so I was able to get around the city easily. It had the restaurant Bloom right inside the hotel, where I tried some delicious traditional English meals. If you want to be within walking distance to more sites, I’d recommend the Clermont instead.
Where to Eat
I’m obsessed with the food scene in London. There are so many restaurants that I want to try that it’s hard to squeeze them all in during my week-long stays. Below are the places that I have loved and recommend.
Smashed Avocado Toast at Timmy Green
Breakfast:
Timmy Green (Fitzrovia): This is a bright Aussie-inspired restaurant that is part of the Daisy Green group, offering delicious brunch dishes. You have to try the Smashed Avocado toast made on charcoal sourdough. My mom and I loved it and went back for a second time during the same trip!
Breakfast Club (Soho + Other Locations): A beloved London spot known for its cozy vibe and hearty comfort breakfasts. Their pancakes, eggs, and classic English plates hit the spot—especially before a full day of sightseeing. You can make a reservation M-F and only a few are offered for early slots on weekends. If there’s a line, trust me—it’s worth the wait.
Daylesford Organic (Notting Hill + Other Locations): A friend introduced me to Daylesford Organic on my first trip to London, and now I make a point to go back every time! What started as an organic farm in the Cotswolds has grown into a series of beautiful London storefronts—part grocery store, part café. They offer an incredible selection of high-quality, organic food. My personal favorite is one of their fresh pastries, topped with butter and jam, paired with a steaming cup of tea. Honestly, everything on their menu is worth trying!
English Rose Cafe + Tea Shop (Victoria): If you want to cross a classic “traditional English breakfast” off your list, head to English Rose Café + Tea Shop. This charming, cozy café is tucked just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal in a homey, welcoming atmosphere.
Dinner at Circolo Popolaire
Dinner:
Dishoom (Covent Garden + Other Locations): Seriously, no London visit is complete without going to Dishoom. This is a British chain of Indian restaurants inspired by the Irani cafes of Bombay. It is the most delicious Indian restaurant I have tried so far. I go back every time I am in London. Make a reservation in advance if you’re with a group. Otherwise, you can walk in, but there might be a wait.
Circolo Popolare (Kings Cross): This is a very joyfully decorated Italian restaurant that is a part of the Big Mamma chain. It’s as fun as it is delicious. (Seriously, look at some photos of both the restaurant and the food).
Vagabond Wines (Victoria + Other Locations): Hands down one of the coolest wine bars I’ve ever visited. Their self-pour taps let you sample as many wines as you like—no waiting, no fuss. Pair your tasting with one of their delicious small plates, and soak in the laid-back, lively vibe that makes this spot so special.
Sights to See
Buckingham Palace: I don’t think this place needs a description, but obviously a must-see!
Palace of Westminster: Home of the UK Parliament with beautiful Gothic architecture.
10 Downing Street: Prime Minister’s residence.
Big Ben: The Famous clock tower that is a symbol of London.
Churchill War Rooms: The underground bunker where Winston Churchill led Britain during WWII, now preserved as a fascinating museum.
London Eye: Iconic Ferris-wheel-like structure located on the South Bank.
Kensington Palace: Gorgeous royal residence surrounded by expansive gardens located within Kensington Gardens.
Crown Jewels: Located inside the Tower of London, showcase the regalia of the British monarchy.
Things to Do
Have afternoon tea
Afternoon tea at the Dorchester Hotel
I make it a tradition every time I visit London—afternoon tea is the perfect way to immerse yourself in a classic British experience. Traditional options feature some of the best-tasting teas, accompanied by a tower of delicate pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, and perfectly crafted finger sandwiches. For an impeccable experience, I highly recommend The Dorchester. Other top spots for afternoon tea include The Ritz, Claridge’s, The Savoy, and The Langham, each offering a beautifully elegant setting and unforgettable service.
Walk around different neighborhoods
One of my favorite things to do when I travel is to walk around different neighborhoods, get lost, and explore the city on foot. Here are some of the neighborhoods where I love doing that:
Soho: Vibrant, lively, and full of things to do. Pop into Foyles Bookstore, wander through Carnaby Street, browse Hamley’s, and treat yourself to Crème Cookies. The energy here is unmatched, and I can walk these streets for hours.
Notting Hill: A colorful, charming neighborhood known for cafés, boutiques, and pastel streets. Don’t miss Farm Girl Café, Farmacy, Daylesford Organic, Granger & Co, the famous blue door, and of course, Portobello Market.
Explore Shoreditch: London’s creative, quirky neighborhood that I compare to Williamsburg, NY. Walk down Brick Lane, browse the vintage shops, try international street food, and check out the vendors at Old Truman Brewery.
Visit the Christmas Markets (If in season)
Covent Garden during the holidays
You’ll quickly learn that I absolutely adore Christmas markets—it’s one of the reasons I try to take a winter trip every year. Luckily, London has no shortage of them! I’m slowly working my way through the list below, but I’m sharing all of the options so you can find one that’s conveniently close when you visit.
Hyde Park – Winter Wonderland: A huge seasonal spectacle with more than 100 wooden chalets, a giant Ferris wheel, ice rink, rides, live shows, and a festive Bavarian-style market.
Southbank Centre Winter Market: Located along the Thames by the Southbank Centre, this market features riverside wooden huts, artisan gifts, food stalls, and pop-up bars.
Covent Garden Christmas Market: The Piazza in Covent Garden becomes a winter wonderland with hundreds of twinkling lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, craft stalls, and seasonal shopping.
Leicester Square Christmas Market: A quaint, European-style market right in the heart of the West End. Expect festive stalls, family entertainment, and even a mirrored “Spiegeltent” with shows and cabaret.
London Bridge / Christmas by the River: Along the riverside near Tower Bridge, this market offers unique gifts, gourmet food, and stunning views of the Tower of London and the Thames.
Old Spitalfields Market Christmas: This historic market transforms for Christmas with artisan gifts, handmade crafts, seasonal foods, and live entertainment.
Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre: For a more royal and historic feel: this market takes place in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace, with Tudor charm, local artisan stalls, and warm drinks
Where to Workout
More info coming soon!
Unfortunately, all of the yoga studios I tried in my previous visits have gone out of business so I need to explore some more options during my next trip!