London Countdown
Big Ben, the Thames, West End theatre, and iconic British culture.
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About London — why count down to it.
London is one of the world's great capital cities — a place where history, culture, fashion, and innovation collide. From the ancient Tower of London to the cutting-edge Tate Modern, from Buckingham Palace to the East End's street art scene, London offers inexhaustible depth for visitors.
A London countdown builds anticipation for a city that rewards repeat visits. Even first-timers will find their itinerary overflowing before they start. Use our packing checklist and milestone timeline to prepare: book West End shows 6-8 weeks out, reserve the Shard and Tower Bridge experience in advance.
Free London:
Free London: Many of London's greatest attractions are completely free: the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. A trip to London can be remarkably affordable if you plan wisely.
Getting around:
Getting around: The London Underground (the Tube) is the fastest way to get around. Use contactless payment or an Oyster card. Walking between central sights is often quicker than you'd expect — many iconic landmarks are surprisingly close together.