It’s been a dream of mine to live in London and I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to do so as part of my MBA exchange program. Since I only had three months there, I wanted to make the most of my experience and see as much of London as I could — not only the tourist attractions, but also the hidden gems and local favorites. Having walked all over the city (clocking over 10,000 steps most days!), I truly believe that London is one of the prettiest cities I’ve been to. While it’s impossible to choose my favorites, here are 10 Instagram worthy spots you don’t want to miss!
Big Ben & Palace of Westminster
Closest tube stop: Westminster (Circle, District, and Jubilee lines)
There are so many places to take a photo of the iconic tower, and the Westminster Bridge Arch and Parliament Square are two very popular ones. These two spots have blown up on Instagram so there’s usually a huge crowd, but my best pro tip is to walk a little farther down Albert Embankment along the Thames for an identical shot with no people.
London Eye
Closest tube stop: Embankment (Circle, District, Bakerloo, and Northern lines)
While I don’t necessarily recommend going up the London Eye (it’s quite pricey for what you get and you can find a similar view elsewhere — especially Sky Garden, which is free!), the view of it from Victoria Embankment, framed by two red telephone booths, is so quintessential London that I have to add it to the list.
Tower Bridge
Closest tube stop: London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines) or Tower Hill (Circle and District lines)
Tower Bridge is stunning from all angles, with plenty of spots to capture its beauty from both sides of the Thames. My favorite view is from the Queen’s Walk, as you can head there directly after grabbing lunch at Borough Market.
Notting Hill
Closest tube stop: Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle, and District lines)
I’m cheating a bit because this isn’t a specific spot, but rather an entire neighborhood. Notting Hill is just so darling and an absolute pastel wonderland! I could walk around for hours admiring the pretty houses. Some of my favorite streets are Portobello Road, Lancaster Road, Westbourne Park Road, and St. Luke’s Mews. While you’re in the area, stop by Layla for croissants, Alice’s Antique Shop for some fun window shopping, and Holland Park for a peaceful walk in nature.
Primrose Hill
Closest tube stop: Chalk Farm (Northern line)
Like Notting Hill, Primrose Hill is equally as colorful but way less touristy. I loved the vibes of this neighborhood and can totally see myself living here! Some highlights: Chalcot Square was once home to Sylvia Plath, and Chalcot Crescent is where Paddington was filmed. Climb up the Primrose Hill for a panoramic view of the London skyline, find a new book to read at Primrose Hill Books, and grab some Greek food at Lemonia and a cupcake at Primrose Bakery.
Hampstead
Closest tube stop: Hampstead (Northern line)
Hampstead is a cute and cozy neighborhood that many tourists miss, but it happens to be one of my favorites. Between the Hill Garden & Pergola at Hampstead Heath and its many cobblestone streets, there’s so much to see and do. Flask Walk, Perrin’s Court, and Holly Mount are definitely worth checking out.
Chelsea
Closest tube stop: Sloane Square (Circle and District lines)
Yet another cute neighborhood to explore! Chelsea is especially breathtaking in the spring when the magnolias start blooming against the pastel houses. The best places to see the flowers are what I like to call the 3 B’s: Bywater Street, Bramerton Street, and The Boltons.
Daunt Books
Closest tube stop: Baker Street (Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines)
As an avid reader, I love popping into independent bookstores whenever I travel. Daunt Books in Marylebone is of the most beautiful bookstores I’ve ever been to and has a massive collection.
I’d be silly not to mention Word on the Water as well, which is a secondhand bookshop inside a boat — so cool! To get there, take the Circle, Hammersmith, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, or Victoria lines to King’s Cross. And while you’re there, might as well check out Platform 9 3/4!
Regent Street
Closest tube stop: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines) or Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines)
London during the winter holidays is absolutely magical, and Regent Street certainly captures that essence. Check out my blog post for a comprehensive list of where to see the Christmas lights in London.
Covent Garden
Closest tube stop: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) or Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)
Last up, Covent Garden — an eclectic neighborhood with tons of markets and nooks and crannies. While it can be a bit touristy, there are many fun stalls to explore. Neal’s Yard is a colorful courtyard tucked away on a side street, and Cecil’s Court is a must-visit for any book lovers, with so many vintage bookshops to browse.
For even more London inspiration, check out my itineraries on my favorite London eats and the best things to do in London in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, and 1 week!
From London with love,
