Explore the City of London

So you’re planning a visit to London. The vast English capital is home to boroughs, villages, and neighbourhoods that span all types, which means there’s a niche for everyone to fall in love with.

The City of London is the area of Central London defined by its historical significance, modern and medieval architecture, and many of the most famous landmarks in the world. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth visit to the City of London, you’re sure to find new and exciting ways to explore.

How to explore the City of London

Iconic attractions? Check. Historical landmarks? Check. World-class restaurants, bars, and traditional pubs? Check! There’s so much to see and do in the City of London, which means efficient travel will be the key to making the most of your trip.

Thankfully, London boasts a comfortable and convenient public transport system, including underground trains (tubes) and busses. Getting to grips with the system is simple, especially with map apps telling you which service you need in seconds. Hop on the tube or use busses to see more of the City of London as you travel.

City of London highlights 

Stuck on what to do? Here are some must-sees to get you started.

Tower, London, Millennium, Blackfriars, and Southwark Bridges

 London’s most famous landmarks include its beautiful bridges. And there are five to see when you visit Central. From its first, London Bridge, to Victorian Tower Bridge and Millennium Bridge, which opened in 2000, these Thames crossings are equally unique and impressive.

Cross the river and enjoy spectacular views across the water, with Central London on one side and Southbank on the other – it’s a City of London must.

Historic and modern architecture

The City of London is home to more than 50 churches and religious buildings, including All Hallows-by-the-Tower and Temple Church, which are always interesting whether you follow a faith or not. Contrasted with glistening modern architecture, like Salvation Army HQ, Tower 42, and One Coleman Street, Central London is an exciting destination to explore.

Attractions and museums

Looking for ways to spend a couple of hours in the City of London? There’s plenty to see and do. From Europe’s largest multi-arts venue, The Barbican Centre, to the Bank of England Museum, there’s something to appeal to everyone in London.

Visit the Bridewell Theatre or City of London Distillery. Try Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds Immersive Experience, or explore the house where John Keats lived and worked. The Museum of London takes visitors on tour through the capital’s history. At the same time, the Museum of London Docklands explores the city’s trade.

Prince Henry’s Room is one of the only houses that survived the Great Fire of London in 1666. View it from the street when you visit the City of London. While you’re at it, visit The Monument to the Great Fire of London and climb the 311 steps for a unique view.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is a must when you’re in the City of London, and London more broadly. One of the capital’s most recognisable historic buildings, St Paul’s sits on Ludgate Hill, the highest part of Central London, and has been there since the late 17^th century.

Designed in the English Baroque style by legendary architect Christopher Wren, the present-day cathedral was part of a significant rebuilding project after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Views are breathtaking both inside and out. St Paul’s architecture is an intricate work of art with many details to take note of. Climb steps to the Golden Gallery for panoramic views of London, or explore the crypt for an exhibition that tells the history of St Paul’s.

Tower of London

An iconic castle and World Heritage Site, the Tower of London is a 1,000-years-old must while you’re in the City of London. It’s also where you’ll see the famous Crown Jewels!

The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror in 1070, at the centre of his London fortress. It’s still as impressive today as it was all those years ago. A tour of the tower includes ghost stories and tales of torture and execution, including some famous residents like Anne Boleyn.

The Tower of London is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Tickets cost £29.90 for adults and £14.90 for children.

Choose the best hotels in the City of London

Are you still searching for your perfect London City hotel? Our Leonardo Royal Hotel in London St Paul’s is perfectly positioned for exploring the capital. Next to St Paul’s, the hotel boasts easy access to the entire City of London. Not to mention an on-site bar and restaurant and a Rena Spa, so you can relax and enjoy from the moment you arrive.