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London: Travel Guide

Discover the vibrant essence of London: an adventure through history, culture and elegance.

Summary

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General information

London, the iconic British capital, fascinates visitors from all over the world with its unique combination of tradition and modernity. From iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the London Eye to trendy neighborhoods like Shoreditch, London offers a kaleidoscope of discoveries for all tastes.

POPULATION

With a diverse and cosmopolitan population, London embodies the fusion of cultures from across the globe. The city warmly welcomes its multicultural residents and visitors, creating an atmosphere where traditions blend harmoniously.

CLIMATE

London's climate is generally temperate, with mild winters and moderately hot summers. Showers are frequent throughout the year, so be sure to pack an umbrella to fully enjoy your stay.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).

LANGUAGE

The official language is English.

A bit of history

Dive deep into London's rich past, a city that has shaped world history through the ages. Founded by the Romans almost two thousand years ago, London has witnessed a remarkable evolution through the ages. From the Middle Ages to the Industrial Revolution, each period has left its indelible mark on the city.

During the Middle Ages, London became a thriving center of commerce and a place of royal importance. Iconic buildings such as the 11th-century Tower of London hark back to that era of knights and kings. St. Paul's Cathedral, with its majestic dome, is another silent witness to the city's history.

The Renaissance era brought further changes, marked by the reign of the Tudors. The reigns of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I shaped the fate of England and London, with events such as the English Reformation and the Golden Age of Maritime Exploration.

The Industrial Revolution transformed London into a growing metropolis, with booming industrial and commercial districts. The Tower Bridge and the Science Museum bear witness to this era of technological progress and social change.

In the 20th century, London survived the challenges of World War II, with episodes like the Blitz leaving visible scars on the city. However, it also saw moments of progress, such as the Swinging London of the 1960s, when music, fashion and culture were booming.

Today, London is an influential world capital, a financial and cultural center where past and present intersect. Cobblestone streets stand alongside modern skyscrapers, and museums contain artistic and historical treasures. As you explore its varied neighborhoods, from Roman ruins to contemporary works of art, you will feel the dynamic and complex essence of this city which continues to write its fascinating history.

What to visit in London?

Discover the multitude of experiences London has to offer. From iconic attractions to secret corners, every corner of the city has unforgettable moments in store for you.

Buckingham Palace

Big Ben

Tower Bridge

Hyde Park

When to visit London?

The ideal time to visit London is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are pleasant and crowds are less, allowing you to make the most of the city's attractions.

What to do around London?

Explore hidden gems and undiscovered wonders around London. From scenic getaways to nearby towns, get ready to expand your horizons.

Windsor Castle

Oxford

Stonehenge

Portsmouth

Our selection of accommodation in London

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Our selection of Restaurant in London

Discover unrivaled culinary fusion in London's restaurants. From traditional flavors to modern dining experiences, let your palate travel.

Sketch

dishoom

The Ledbury

Padella

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Unmissable events in London

Experience the cultural vitality of London through its landmark events. From world-class theater to thrilling festivals, prepare to be amazed.

Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival

A colorful festival celebrating Caribbean culture with lively parades, live music and dancing.

Wimbledon

Wimbledon

Attend the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, where the best players compete on the famous grass courts.

Transport in London

Subway (Tube)

The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is one of the most iconic and efficient transport systems in the world. With its well-connected lines, it offers a quick and convenient way to get around the city. The stations are recognizable by their round logo and the color code associated with each line. The Tube generally operates from early morning until midnight, and even later on weekends on some routes. To travel, you can use the Oyster card or contactless credit cards to pay for your journey.

Bus

London's iconic red double-decker buses offer a unique experience for exploring the city. With routes covering nearly every corner of London, buses are a great way to take in the scenic views while on the go. Plus, they're more affordable than the Tube and also accept Oyster cards. Climb to the top floor for sweeping views of bustling streets and iconic attractions.

Train

London's rail network connects the city to its suburbs and surrounding regions. Major stations, such as King's Cross, Paddington and Victoria, are departure points for longer journeys to other parts of the UK. Fast trains, like the Heathrow Express, also connect Heathrow Airport to the city center in record time.

Taxi

London black cabs, also called black cabs, are famous all over the world. Driven by professional drivers, these taxis offer a comfortable way to get around town. They are more expensive than public transport, but they are convenient for direct and quick journeys. Make sure the TAXI sign is on to see if the taxi is available.

Bike

London's self-service bike system, called Santander Cycles, is ideal for cycling enthusiasts. You can rent a bike from one of the rental stations, explore the city at your own pace, and then drop it off at another station near your destination. It's an eco-friendly and economical option to experience London from a new perspective, traveling through scenic routes and verdant parks.

 

The cost of living in London

0
Average Salary in London
Cost of living very expensive 80%

Find out how to manage your budget in London, a dynamic metropolis where choices abound.

Accommodation

The cost of housing in London varies greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Luxury hotels in the city center are more expensive, while hostels and vacation rentals offer more economical options.

Food

Food options in London are varied, with possibilities for all budgets. From budget food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, you can choose between inexpensive meals and sophisticated dining experiences.

Transportation

The cost of transport in London depends on how you use it. Oyster cards or day passes offer reduced fares compared to individual tickets. Taxis are more expensive, while bike-sharing offers an affordable option.

Activities

The costs of entertainment in London vary depending on the activity chosen. Theater tickets can be pricey, but there are deals for lesser-known shows as well. Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted entry.

Things not to miss in London

Practical information

London is a safe city, but it's always important to stay alert and take the usual precautions. Make sure you have a local SIM card or data plan to stay connected. Electrical outlets are type G, requiring a three-prong plug. In an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

UK travel insurance

Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to the UK.

Although the country is relatively safe for tourists, it is always possible to encounter unforeseen situations such as health problems, lost or stolen luggage, or transport delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Cash Management

When traveling to the UK, it is important to consider bank charges in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The easiest way and the one we recommend is to open an account Revolution Metal.

Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips

  1. Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.

  2. Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.

  3. Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.

  4. Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.

  5. 24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

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Frequently asked questions

Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) are the best times to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.

London offers iconic landmarks (Big Ben, Tower Bridge), renowned museums (British Museum, Tate Modern) and a vibrant art scene.

The Tower of London combines royal history, Crown Jewels and stories of prisoners, offering a unique insight into the city's past.

Use the Tube, buses or explore on foot to discover the varied neighborhoods, views along the Thames and attractions.

Winter (January-March) is often cheaper for travel, avoiding price spikes during tourist periods.

As an EU citizen, a valid passport or identity card is usually sufficient to enter London.

Londoners mainly use the Tube, buses, trains, taxis and self-service bicycles.

Use the prepaid Oyster card or contactless credit cards to pay for tube, bus and train journeys.

Credit cards are widely accepted. Make sure it has the contactless feature for quick payments.

Withdraw money free of charge from ATMs belonging to networks such as Barclays, HSBC and Lloyds.

Closing times vary. Most lines close around midnight on weekdays, with later hours on Fridays and Saturdays.

Buy an Oyster Card at tube stations, train stations or online. Load it up with an upright and use it on various modes of transport.

Shop Oxford Street for big name brands, Covent Garden for quirky boutiques and Harrods for luxury. Camden Market and Notting Hill also offer interesting options.

 

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