Like New York, London is a beautiful city that holds a lot of promise for visitors looking to explore the charming streets and many neighborhoods it offers. To give readers a look into London and the abundance of activities, historic sights, splendor and cuisine it boasts, guest contributor Henry Will-who has a wide knowledge of the London Travel and Property Market-has shared his top must-do items for this iconic city-from a cruise down the Thames to the best pubs in town.
1. A cruise down the Thames.
Thames, the holy river of London unfolds around the city with unparalleled beauty. For those visiting London for the first time, a cruise down the Thames is filled with beguiling sightseeing and gorgeous vistas that you see can via your own boat or a rented one. A ride down the Thames is popular amongst London’s folks, where the zippy catamarans take passengers from East London to the west, by the London eye.
2. Delighting in the best bites of London.
With glorifying restaurants, five-star rated hotels and sophisticated outdoor dining; the culinary scene in London alone makes the city a destination worth visiting. For avid travelers (and foodies) there are a few historic streets that are off-the-beaten-path and offer amazingly luscious native London cuisine at highly affordable prices. Check out Exmouth Market, the Tower Bridge Road of Manze to enjoy Clarks or reach the Lebanese Cafes at Edgware Road, Stockpot located on Old Compton Street for some truly memorable meals.
3. A Visit to John Soane’s house.
If you are curious about arts and antiques then John Soane’s House is the place you must visit. The astounding house, built on the Lincoln’s Inn Fields, houses wonderful collections of art and antiques created by Soane. Soane was the draughtsman of England’s Bank and the former architecture professor at the Royal Academy. After his death, his house was preserved as the museum it is today that attracts thousands of spectators. The house is candlelit holistically on the first Tuesday of every month, so you can come and enjoy your evening to the fullest.
4. Finding affordable London accommodations.
Over the past decade, the hostels of London have undergone a mutiny. Now, you can find a lot of wonderful places to stay (such as the Independent lodging at St Pancras YHA) at an affordable budget. For other wallet-friendly options, you can try the local Travelodge to find rooms with great facilities or (if staying in town longer) explore short term apartment rentals in the city.
5. Exploring London’s must-see museums.
Dip into London’s (and Europe’s) history at some of the iconic museums such as the National Gallery, British Museum, Tate galleries, museums in South Kensington and the many historic churches.
6. Biking around London town.
For a cheap way to get around London, try renting a bike from the many outlets across the city to explore the local neighborhoods and wander around the mesmerizing surroundings. Join the cycling campaign of London to get the best of the city!
7. Enjoying amazing drinks at Samuel Smith’s pubs
For a classic English beer in a conventional London pub, the natives of London swear by Sam Smith’s Pubs-a chain of some great pubs in the city where you can delight in your favorite beer. Some of those must visit pubs include- The Princess Louise on High Holborn, Fitzrovia, and The Fitzroy Tavern on Charlotte Street, which serve the best drinks that you will hardly find anywhere else in central London.
8. Take in the best panoramas of London.
London is a picturesque destination. If you don’t believe it, check out Primrose Hill or the Parliament Hill. If you desire to catch the other mesmeric views then London eye is something you simply must go experience. Ascend the London Eye monument, which was built by Wren in order to resemble the Great Fire of London, they offer a wonderful view of London, the Thames and beyond.
9. Ride the double decker bus!
London offers a lot of captivating side panoramas which are best viewed by riding the local double decker buses. A bus ride will set you back only £1 for the pre-paid Oyster card holder. Try taking route 9, which take you across Hyde Park Corner, Piccadilly Circus, Aldwych Passes Harrods and Royal Albert Hall and also route 15, to see the St Paul’s Cathedral, Fleet Street and other areas of the city.
10. Attend musicals and theater (at affordable prices!)
To enjoy some of the most esteemed musicals and theatre London has to offer, reach the ticket booths at Leicester Square which sell the tickets at half prices for same day performances to save you big on some off the fantastic musical shows and plays being shown.
Make sure to check out TIPS FOR ENJOYING LONDON ON A BUDGET and share your comments, questions and feedback below! If interested in guest writing for The Pin the Map Project, visit this page.

Elizabeth @Something Saturdays says
The view from the Shard is also worthwhile if you’re looking for great views of the city!
Thanks for sharing your tip! 🙂
London is on my list of places I want to visit! My sister lived there for a couple of years and her stories about it are great! 🙂 Everything on this list looks awesome!
Thanks for the tips, I’ve never been to London, but it is on my to-visit wishlist already 🙂 I’d like to share a useful service for those who’re going to travel in Europe, including Great Britain and London, check - euroguide.co.uk - more places of interest and helpful information.