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When Americans imagine their dream trip to Europe, Big Ben and the unforgettable London skyline is the peak of most travelers’ fantasies.
No bucket list is made complete without the opportunity to wander the streets of the Big Smoke and take in all this cosmopolitan European capital has to offer.
Being one of the largest and most iconic cities in Europe, it’s no surprise that Americans have been flying to London more than any other European city this year.
History
Exploring Europe’s cities can feel as though you’re stepping back in time, as there is such an abundance of historical sites and old architecture that simply can’t be found in a country as young as America.
London is no exception, and the sheer amount of history to be discovered here is one of the most exciting things about this urban metropolis.
Must-see places include Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben.
For those willing to venture further out of the city, a visit to the prehistoric monument Stonehenge makes a memorable day trip.
Museums
Any trip to London wouldn’t be complete without spending an afternoon or two taking in the incredible collections of one of this city’s world-class museums.
The best part? Many of these incredible institutions offer free admission.
Whether your interest lies in art, natural sciences, or world history, there is sure to be a museum that piques your interest.
The Tate Modern, British Museum, and Museum of Natural History are a few of our favorite choices.
We recommend giving yourself ample time to explore and not planning multiple days in a row at museums so you avoid brain burnout.
Shopping
London is an excellent destination for travelers in need of some retail therapy.
It doesn’t matter if your weakness is designer brands or if you’re a thrift queen; this city has enough shops to fit every style.
Budget-conscious and sustainability-minded travelers can spend their time hunting for second-hand gems at London’s “charity shops” (British English for thrift store).
You’ll surely walk away from Camden Market or Brick Lane with an epic thrift haul.
For discovering name-brand designers, up-and-coming brands, and boutique shops– Oxford, Regent, and St. James Streets are the places to be.
Accessibility
Another factor that makes London so appealing to Americans is its accessibility.
Travelers can fly from NYC’s JFK to London Heathrow in just 7 hours.
With London’s multiple airports and the large number of connections to the U.S., travelers can easily find affordable and convenient flight choices.
Food and Nightlife
While most people agree that English cuisine itself is not all that special, the international influence and diversity of this city has created an exciting and eclectic food scene.
While you can certainly delight in ordering the classic English favorite of fish and chips, there’s always more to discover in this city.
Foodies will never be bored eating in London; you could start your day with an English breakfast, stop for a delicious roll from a Swedish Bakery, and find top-notch Jamaican food for dinner if you so wish.
Once it’s dark, it’s time to grab a drink at a proper British pub.
Similar to its food scene, the diversity of London’s nightlife means no two nights out have to feel the same.
A good starting point is Soho, the center of LGBTQ nightlife and famous for its trendy restaurants, chic clubs, and music venues.
Another popular option is Camden, a great spot for pubs, live music, and bohemian vibes.
The Arts
London is at the epicenter of the global arts scene next to Paris and New York City for a good reason.
This city continues to attract the best musical, art, and theater talent from around the world and the arts thrive here.
This city has plenty to enthrall art lovers, from the impressive architecture to its many galleries and the enticing live theater.
Catching a play is a unique activity to add to your itinerary, and London always has new shows along with timeless favorites to check out.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com