ONE: THE CLASSICS, AT NIGHT
360 view in the heart of London: a late night stroll crossing Westminster Bridge, taking in the view up and down the Thames, The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Eye, all in a splendid swirl.
TWO: THE HIGH(EST) VIEW
London seen from above is more than extraordinary, is utterly dramatic and incredibly enjoyable, especially with a glass of prosecco to complement the view. Book your ticket to The View from the Shard (yes, it’s worth every penny and then some) or/ and to Sky Garden for a true show of wonder.
Tip 1: Sky Garden is free entrance, but you need to book a week ahead to make sure you register for your favourite slot – you can alternatively queue to enter on spot. Tip 2: choose the best time slot when you book. Check weather for clear skies and sunset time and book one hour early, to make the most out of both views. Insta-perfect, checked
SHOPPING AND PUB CRAWL IN REGENTS / CARNABY
You are here to enjoy the ultimate London cool: retail therapy plus classic pub culture equals true love. Of course everybody will flock to Oxford Street discounts, but we’ll go to these two iconic, neighboring districts: Regent Street and Carnaby for a day of high-street hauls, unique boutique finds, and, of course, refreshing pints and greasy bites. From the grand, flagship stores of Regent Street, where Liberty, the stunning mock-Tudor department store is a must-browse, to Carnaby’s eclectic and independent spirit, you’re in for a treat. Speaking of treats, have a lively chat in Kingly Court and then retire to a classic pub such as The White Horse or The Blue Posts.
COVENT GARDEN & WEST END
Yes, it’s all right to revisit Pygmalion and go to Covent Garden for the market, but do take your time. The pubs and the street artists are local legends, and the only right thing to do in the evening is “supper and a show”. Choose your fave from the West End musicals or simply pop at a show last-minute, the experience is really worth it. There are some – myself included – who travel a long way to see their West End Phantom of the Opera.
SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS: HYDE PARK, PRIMROSE HILL, KEW GARDENS
Trade the crowds for open green spaces: it’s so amazing how much nature you can find in what I always call the capital of the world 🙂 magic happens when you grab a simple lunch to enjoy in Hyde Park or sprawl out for a picnic on the gentle slopes of Primrose Hill, with unobstructed views of the city. It feels like a countryside escape right in the city’s heart. Kew Gardens is a treasure of botanical wonders and relaxing landscapes, and a different kind of wonder in winter time.
ONE DAY IN GREENWICH
The Cutty Sark is there, and so is the First Meridian, for a winner instapic. A trip to Greenwich is a delightful thing to do, because, on top of the great things to see, there’s that English village vibe that ‘s so comforting after the overwhelming rhythm of London downtown. The trip itself can be a nice experience: you can take a Thames cruise and navigate thru the famous wharfs, or you can take the tube, like locals do, and go straight through the famous financial district and alight at North Greenwich, on the Jubilee line.
LIVE LIKE A LOCAL: CHELSEA, MAIDA VALE, KENSINGTON
While there are some luxury hotels that are worth the sterling if you’re in splurge mode, true lovers of London have to experience the borough life – well, at least the “fashionable” ones. A premium Airbnb farther from the tourist traps can be the jewel on the crown, so to speak – so can the local avoshop, bakery or pub.
THE FOOD AND FOOD MARKETS
This one should be under continuous editing, like all foodie sections. One thing first: he who says you don’t go to London for good food is the one who stopped at a fish and chips that he read about in a guide or “dined” somewhere in the shopping district. Leave aside the glorious pub/ brasserie/ vegan heaven/ fine restaurant scene, do check the food markets; you’ll be happy.
