London is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is definitely the number one destination for visitors to the UK. If this is your first time visiting London, planning your trip can be extremely difficult.
1. Decide when to go to London
Determining when to visit the UK is the first step for a UK tour planner. If London is your first destination, you may be considering how much time you should spend in London.
London is the most popular city in the UK for visitors from all over the world. It’s busy all year round. However, it is busiest during the school holidays, especially during the summer months of July and August.
July and August are the months when most Britons, as well as foreign visitors, travel to the capital for their vacations. That time is the peak tourist season. London is not a particularly budget-friendly destination at any time of the year. Hotel prices will be particularly high during peak tourist arrivals.
On weekends and public holidays, London can also be a bit busy, especially around popular shopping areas such as Oxford Street and Covent Park. Museums and galleries can also be more crowded than ever.
London is always busy in December. Keep in mind that the weekends before and after the markets are the worst during the Christmas period. If you plan to go to London in the winter and want to avoid the busy season, January and February are the best time. Prices are also lower as tourist arrivals are less frequent during that time.
2. Book your accommodation
Hotels in London are very expensive. It is therefore advisable to book accommodation outside the capital. When planning your UK travel budget, keep in mind that accommodation in London can be the most expensive part of your trip. Better to be in the West End, including Soho, Leicester Square, Westminster, or the South Bank and the bank side. All of London’s major destinations are centrally located within walking distance and with easy access.
3. Plan your route
When you go to London you may not be able to see and do everything you want. So it is easy to plan and overestimate the best you can do. But it can be exhausting.
As you plan your trip to London and develop your London itinerary around them, identify your “do’s and don’ts” and travel accordingly. Pay special attention to the following as well.
* Take care of your luggage in London. Unfortunately, there are pickpockets around, so I recommend using a non-pickpocket bag/backpack when you travel.
* Be very careful when withdrawing money from ATMs. Card removal is a problem, especially in popular tourist destinations such as Oxford Street. If possible, use only bank machines.
* Tipping is not expected at all in the UK. Keep 10% off for good service. But if you have already added a service charge of 10 – 12.5%, check your bill.
* Vehicles in the UK drive on the left. Pay attention when you cross the road. Because, if you are used to driving in the south, you will see the wrong side. Always stop at traffic lights. Do not walk. The London roads are very busy. Remember to be careful when crossing them.
* The weather here can be very hot at any time of the year. Shops can also be jammed in the winter. If necessary, I recommend drawing layers so you can cool. Also, be sure to bring a bottle of water to hydrate.
* If you want to see Buckingham Palace changing guards, it doesn’t happen every day. Check the schedule as times may vary.
* Arriving in London you always have to walk to many places. So don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes too.
* The weather in London can be very hot and can change rapidly. London can actually be very hot in the summer. Get ready for it.