My thoughts on my first visit to London

When I first set foot on the land of London, I was immediately attracted by the diversity and unique charm of the city. The busy streets of London are filled with intersections of various languages and cultures, giving people a unique atmosphere as a globalized metropolis. Whether it’s the bustling Oxford Street or the peaceful Regent’s Park, every corner showcases a different style.

Strolling through the center of London, the ancient buildings and modern skyscrapers that can be seen everywhere complement each other, creating a breathtaking urban landscape. The grandeur of Westminster Abbey Cathedral and the solemnity of Big Ben all tell the profound history of this city. Modern art enthusiasts can find their paradise at the Tate Museum of Modern Art and the Snake Gallery, which showcase the world’s top contemporary art works.

The rich historical and cultural heritage of London is also its charm. The British Museum houses precious cultural relics from all over the world, reflecting the glorious history of human civilization. Walking on the Tower Bridge of London, one can hear the echoes of history and feel the glory of the past and the prosperity of today. At Covent Garden, you can experience a strong artistic atmosphere, which is not only a shopping paradise, but also a stage for street artists to showcase their talents.

As a globalized metropolis, London attracts people from all over the world. Whether you are a food enthusiast, history enthusiast, or a shopping enthusiast, London can meet your needs. The diversity of London is not only reflected in its culture and architecture, but also in its cuisine. From traditional British afternoon tea to restaurants with various flavors, the culinary culture of this city is breathtaking.

In short, London, with its unique charm and rich cultural heritage, makes first-time visitors linger and forget to leave. This city is not only a witness to history, but also a microcosm of modern life, making people want to explore again and again.

Hidden attractions in London

London, a city with a long history, not only has famous tourist attractions, but also hides many unknown treasures. Explore these hidden attractions and you will discover a more unique and profound London.

The first recommendation is the Leighton House Museum located in Kensington. This niche museum was once the home of the famous 19th-century painter Frederick Lennon, showcasing Victorian art and decorative styles. The interior of the museum is luxuriously decorated, including Türkiye bathroom and Arab hall, full of exotic atmosphere. It is located near Holland Park, where visitors can stroll through the beautiful park after visiting the museum.

Another hidden attraction worth visiting is the secret greenhouse of Kew Gardens. Kelsey Garden itself is a world-renowned botanical garden, but its greenhouse is often overlooked. These greenhouses contain various rare plants, including carnivorous plants and tropical flowers, where visitors can experience unique natural wonders. Kelsey Garden is located in Richmond, southwest London, with convenient transportation.

For tourists who enjoy shopping, Brick Lane Market is a must see place. This market is located in the East End of London and is known for its unique atmosphere and diverse products. From vintage clothing to handicrafts, to various cuisines from around the world, Brick Lane Market provides an excellent opportunity to learn about London’s diverse culture. There are many street art works around the market that are worth seeing.

Finally, why not visit Neal’s Yard near Covent Garden. This hidden small square is famous for its colorful buildings and independent shops. Here, you can find organic food shops, specialty cafes, and independent bookstores, which are a great place to relax and unwind.

These hidden attractions in the corners of London are waiting for you to discover. Whether it’s art enthusiasts, nature enthusiasts, shopping enthusiasts, or foodies, you can find your own fun here.

Travel Tips

London is a city that is suitable for all seasons, but if you want to choose the best travel time, it is recommended that tourists visit in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These two seasons have pleasant climate, moderate temperature, and relatively fewer tourists, which can allow you to better experience the charm of this city. Especially in spring, London’s parks and gardens are blooming with various beautiful flowers, and the scenery is pleasant.

London’s public transportation system is very developed, mainly including subways, buses, and taxis. The London Underground is the most convenient mode of transportation, covering major attractions in the city. It is recommended that tourists purchase “Oyster card” or “Contactless payment card”, which can save a lot of transportation costs. Buses are also a good choice, especially for sightseeing on the famous red double decker bus. Taxis can be called through mobile applications, but the cost is relatively high and frequent use is not recommended.

In terms of accommodation, London offers a wide range of options. From luxury hotels to budget homestays, there is everything. For budget conscious tourists, it is recommended to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel London or The Ritz London located in the city center. Medium budget tourists can choose either the Novotel London Tower Bridge or the Claridge’s. If the budget is limited, you can consider staying in a youth hostel or booking a homestay through Airbnb.

In terms of budget, the travel expenses in London vary from person to person, but it is possible to roughly estimate a range. The daily transportation cost is approximately between £ 10 and £ 20, depending on the frequency of use. The accommodation costs range from £ 50 to £ 500 per night, depending on the type of hotel or homestay chosen. In terms of catering, the cost per meal is approximately between £ 10 and £ 30. The admission fees for tourist attractions vary depending on the location. For example, the admission fee for the London Eye is approximately £ 30, and the admission fee for the Tower of London is approximately £ 25. Taking all factors into consideration, the total cost of a five-day and four night itinerary is approximately between £ 500 and £ 1500.

Summary and Recommendation

Visiting hidden attractions in London not only allows people to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s unique charm, but also provides a unique travel experience. These hidden treasures are far away from popular tourist attractions, allowing you to more easily enjoy London’s history and culture. Whether exploring the secret streets of the Victorian era or searching for precious books in ancient bookstores in London, your journey to London will become even more colorful.

When exploring these attractions, it is recommended that readers take some time to do their homework in advance, understand the background of each attraction and the best time to visit. Carrying a detailed map or using a mobile navigation app can help you better plan your itinerary and avoid getting lost. In addition, London’s public transportation system is very developed, and most scenic spots can be easily reached using the subway and buses.

I personally believe that every corner of London is worth exploring, especially those unknown places. For example, niche museums and galleries, coffee shops hidden on street corners, and little-known historical sites can all bring you unexpected surprises. If time permits, why not spend a few more days and feel all aspects of this city with your heart.

To help readers further plan their itinerary, they can refer to some travel websites and guidebooks that specifically introduce hidden attractions in London. For example, the London Secret Exploration Guide is a great reference book that provides many detailed introductions and practical travel advice. In addition, joining some travel forums and social media groups can also provide valuable experiences and suggestions from other travelers.

In short, exploring the hidden attractions of London is a rare opportunity to deeply experience the unique charm of the city. I hope readers can discover more beauty in London and leave unforgettable memories through this journey.