London

London is made up of 32 boroughs. Tourists usually stay within the 12 inner boroughs. Check out our list of some of the best hotels, plus an in-depth review of some of the best areas to stay in London. Let’s look at the best places and London neighborhoods you must not miss.

City of London

It’s an independent administrative district, part of London, but strangely separate. Although a cutting-edge economic center, it’s where to tap into London’s olden days. A must-see is the Tower of London, Europe’s most complete 11th-century fortress palace. Its top attraction is the Crown Jewels – all $6 billion worth. These include the solid gold crown Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III used. Close by is the iconic Tower Bridge. There’s also the Baroque splendor of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Check out its Geometric Staircase, which is featured in the Harry Potter movies. Another gem is the 15th-century Guildhall, sitting above a Roman amphitheater. While on this side of town, head to Brick Lane in Shoreditch for outstanding Indian food. Take one of the many walking tours to see breathtaking street art.

Westminster

No London visit is complete without a selfie alongside Westminster’s Elizabeth Tower, aka Big Ben. It’s within easy walking distance of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and St. James’s Park. Close by is Buckingham Palace – visit in summer to see the State Rooms. Swing by most mornings (check the schedule here) to see the Changing of the Guard. This is one of the best free things to do in London. For the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, head to nearby Trafalgar Square. And history buffs shouldn’t miss the Churchill War Rooms, Winston Churchill’s HQ during World War II.

West End 

This area from Covent Garden to Mayfair is London’s theaterland, with hundreds of shows to choose from every day. Come here for Soho’s exciting nightlife and Chinatown’s incredible food. We’re talking super-stylish here. This prime location is where to come if your London vacation demands fine dining and a stay at a luxury hotel. (Pick the legendary Dorchester to cover both bases.) There’s also world-class shopping in Covent Garden Market, Oxford Street, Burlington Arcade, and Savile Row.

South Bank

Cross to the South Bank for London’s playground. For a unique city view, take a ride in the London Eye. Save money with a ticket bundle pairing the London Eye with the Sea Life Aquarium or the London Dungeon, both nearby. The South Bank is also a cultural hub, home to Tate Modern and the National Theatre. Theater fans will love Shakespeare’s Globe, a reconstruction of the 1599 wooden playhouse where Shakespeare worked. Head to London’s highest observation deck at The Shard for more panoramic views. For great views while you dine, try the Oxo Tower. There’s more delicious food at Borough Market – come hungry. While you’re south of the river, visit Maritime Greenwich. This beautiful place is home to the Royal Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory.

Kensington & Chelsea

This area has more than a touch of class. Fans of all things royal should visit Kensington Palace, home of the Prince and Princess of Wales (aka William and Kate). And try to catch a concert at the Royal Albert Hall. South Kensington is famous for its world-class museums: The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum (the V&A). What’s extra special is that, though you can opt for skip-the-line museum tours, all these museums are free to visit. There’s superb shopping in this part of west London in chic Notting Hill, ever-trendy King’s Road, and Portobello Road Market. And not far away is a million square feet of retail heaven at Harrods, Knightsbridge. If you’re staying in Kensington (for example, at the comfortable Ampersand Hotel) you’re handy for day trips out west. While in the United Kingdom, why not visit Windsor, Stonehenge, or the Cotswolds?

Marylebone

Marylebone, just north of Hyde Park, is another London neighborhood full of fun things to do. As well as Madame Tussauds, you’ll find London Zoo, the world’s oldest scientific zoo. For one of the world’s great museums, head east to the British Museum in Great Russell St. Sherlock Holmes, the Beatles, or Hogwarts fans will love this part of north London. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is (of course) at 221b Baker Street, while the Abbey Road Studios are a mile northwest. Harry Potter nuts must visit Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station. For the essential Harry Potter Studio Tour, take a day trip to Warner Bros. All book lovers will want to explore the Treasures Gallery at the British Library. There are more Marylebone treasures at the opulent Wallace Collection museum. For your taste of 5-star opulence, pick the handily-placed Langham Hotel.