Curator’s statement
London was my first international solo travel experience and will always hold a special place in my heart. Being one of the oldest and largest cities in the world, history and culture is at every turn. Couple that with the food scene and friendly locals, London is a perfect option for solo travel, couple's travel or a group trip!
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Day 1: Settle in & go sightseeing
The first day in any new city, I love to walk and explore the area. This is also great after a long flight/travel day! On your first day in London, see the iconic London sites: Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey and West End. Walk across the Thames to the London Eye and get a birds-eye view of the city.
Day 2: Tower of London and Tate Modern Museum
Day two starts with a tour of the Tower of London. Learn all the grissly details of this medieval fortress and see the glitz and glam of the crown jewels. From there, continue across the Tower Bridge where you can climb to the top and see London through the Glass Floor.
Continue your way to the South Bank and stop for a bite to eat at Borough Market — the largest and oldest food market in London.
End the day by taking in the masterpieces at Tate Modern Museum which houses the UK's national collection of British and international modern and contemporary art.
Day 3: Hampton Court Palace
Let's get out of the city! A quick 35-minute train ride is all it takes to get to Hampton Court Palace (King Henry VIII's most famous residence). Before exploring all the palace has to offer, take an eight mile guided bike ride through the medieval hunting grounds of Henry VIII. Here you will see deer, countryside and can even stop at a local pub for a pint.
Once the tour has concluded, it's time to visit the palace and beautiful gardens. Hop back on the train and make it back to the city with enough time for dinner!
Day 4: Shopping & Kensington Palace
London is known for it's shopping! While the majority of the stores can be found worldwide, there are a few unique spots you must check out.
Harrods is a must-see experience — this department store is like a museum where you can buy everything. Even just window shopping is an experience.
On Saturdays, check out the Portobello Road Market — a vintage street fair in Notting Hill.
While in this area, it's a perfect time to jaunt over to Kensington Palace and gardens. This has been the home to young royals for over 300 years and is the location of the new Princess Di memorial.
Day 5: Afternoon tea & theater
What London trip is complete without afternoon tea?! There are so many to choose from based on your style and preferences (i.e. bougie/elegant, kid-friendly with Alice in Wonderland or Mary Poppins themes, all pink decor at the famed Sketch). Just tell me what you're looking for and I will find it for you!
The last night in London would be a perfect time to take in some theater. The West End rivals Broadway and there are so many long running shows.
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Travel Advisor
Kelly Hendrix
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For more European travel inspo, check out my guide to Scotland: Culture & Adventure in Scotland: Edinburgh and Loch Lomond.