Here's the Right Way to Visit London, According to an A-list Travel Advisor-Plus What Not to Do

"London is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that dazzles with history, culture, and endless activities. As someone who plans trips to the city for a living, I see first-timers make the same mistakes over and over-mistakes that can turn an exciting adventure into a stressful slog. Here are the best ways to experience the city, plus practical advice on how to plan your visit for a truly memorable stay."

"If visitors try to pack their days with too many back-to-back attractions, it's likely you'll end up frustrated and exhausted-especially once you realize that just getting from the British Museum to the Tower of London can take 40 minutes or more on the Tube. Instead, pick one or two must-see sites per day and group them together by neighborhood. This way, you are much more likely to actually have time to enjoy the sights."

London demands realistic planning because the city is vast and composed of distinct neighborhoods. Avoid overbooking; limit each day to one or two must-see sites and group attractions by neighborhood to minimize travel time and fatigue. Allow time between activities for spontaneity and discovery. Reserve tickets in advance for high-demand experiences such as Churchill's War Rooms, Buckingham Palace, the Harry Potter Studio Tour, and some free museums that require timed entries, especially during peak seasons like June–August and winter holidays. Book popular afternoon tea services ahead when necessary to secure preferred times.

Read at Travel + Leisure