Free world-class museums, a market in every neighbourhood, and a pub for every mood.
Last updated: 2026-07-17
What to know before you go.
Tourist traps, SIM cards, cash vs card, taxis and safety — the city's reality in five questions.
Getting stuck on the Oxford Street–Big Ben line and missing the markets (Borough, Columbia Road) and pub culture.
Giffgaff/Three tourist packs are cheap; eSIMs work fine.
A nearly cashless city; your contactless card opens every door, with automatic daily fare caps.
A black cab is a nice experience for short hops; Uber/Bolt for longer runs; night buses run till morning.
Safe; the one common crime is phone-snatching by bicycle — don't type at the kerb edge.
The city's 24-hour rhythm.
Turn the dial to any hour and it tells you where you should be.
What will it cost me?
Pull the day dial; the estimated per-person cost is calculated instantly.
Figures are per-person daily USD estimates compiled from BudgetYourTrip, Numbeo and recent traveller reports. Flight/ferry tickets not included.
Insider knowledge.
Things you won't find on the first page of a search engine.
Must Do
- Enter at least two national museums — they're all free.
- Ride the top-front seat of a red double-decker (route 15 is the classic).
- Have a Sunday roast at a real gastropub.
Avoid These
- Black cabs for long trips — Uber/Bolt runs 30-50% cheaper.
- Buying single Tube tickets — always tap contactless.
- The 'sale' games in Oxford Street souvenir shops.
Tips
- Contactless caps your daily fare automatically (~£8) — ride without thinking.
- Sky Garden is free but needs booking 3 weeks ahead.
- Museums are quietest first thing on weekdays.