LONDON

There’s something magical about this city. Maybe it’s the way history and modernity coexist so effortlessly, or how every street corner holds a story. Or maybe, it’s just the energy—the kind that makes you feel like anything could happen here. London isn’t just another stop on the map for me. It’s the city that feels like coming home, no matter how far I’ve roamed. Let me take you through the gems I explored this time around—some iconic, some hidden—but all unforgettable. London has many faces—historic, modern, royal, gritty, poetic. And I love them all. Every time I visit, I discover something new, something I hadn’t noticed before. If you’ve never been, go. And if you’ve already been, go again. London doesn’t grow old. It grows on you.

Places

1. Buckingham Palace – No matter how many times I visit, the charm of Buckingham Palace never wears off. The grand facade, the Union Jack flying proudly, and of course, the Changing of the Guard—it’s everything you expect and more. If you’re lucky, you might catch the guards’ parade, a truly British spectacle. Don’t skip St. James’s Park nearby—it’s one of the most peaceful green spaces in the city. Address: Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK

2. Tower Bridge – Often mistaken for London Bridge by first-timers, Tower Bridge is an architectural masterpiece. Watching it lift to let ships pass is like watching a living piece of history in motion. Walk across it—especially during golden hour—for sweeping views of the Thames and the city skyline.

3. London Bridge – It’s not as flashy as Tower Bridge, but London Bridge is steeped in history. From ancient Roman crossings to Viking battles, it has stories to tell. While the bridge itself is fairly modern today, its surroundings, like Borough Market, are buzzing with life and flavors. Grab a bite, a pint, and soak in the local vibe.

4. Big Ben & Westminster – No trip to London is complete without seeing Big Ben. Standing tall beside the Thames, it’s every bit as iconic as you imagine. The chimes never fail to give me goosebumps. Just a few steps away is Westminster Abbey, where kings and queens have been crowned for centuries. You don’t just see history here—you feel it.

5. Garden at 120 – This one’s a bit of a hidden gem. The Garden at 120 is a free rooftop garden tucked away in the City of London. Not only is it peaceful and beautifully landscaped, but the panoramic views are breathtaking—especially at sunset. Bonus: there’s usually no crowd. A perfect spot for a quiet moment above the chaos.

6. Lookout 21 – This was a new discovery for me, and wow—Lookout 21 offers a lesser-known perspective of the London skyline. If you’re into photography or just want a unique angle of the city, this place is worth the trip. You might need to do a bit of research to get access, but that’s part of the fun.

7. St. Paul’s Cathedral – Majestic. That’s the word that comes to mind. St. Paul’s Cathedral is not only an architectural marvel but also a spiritual sanctuary in the heart of London. Climb to the Whispering Gallery and try it out—it’s one of the coolest acoustic tricks I’ve ever seen. If your legs can handle it, go all the way to the Golden Gallery for 360° views that’ll leave you speechless.

Food

Discover London’s vibrant food scene with diverse cuisines from around the world on my travel blog. From traditional British fare to innovative fusion dishes, explore the best restaurants and eateries to satisfy your culinary cravings in the bustling metropolis.