While most of London’s most world-renowned attractions are clustered around the city’s West End, you’ll find dozens of things to do, see and experience near London’s financial district and the villages scattered throughout the city. London’s cosmopolitan air and wealth of historic attractions make it a popular destination for art and history buffs, shoppers, foodies and sports fans alike. Whether you’re spending the entire day or an entire week in the city of London, here’s what you need to know.

SLEEP

Cozy bed and breakfasts, budget-friendly hostels and luxury hotels offer several options for overnight and extended stay travelers in London. If you want to stay near London’s major shopping areas, book a room at The Langham luxury hotel, located within walking distance to Regent Street and Bond Street, or The Westbury, a stylish destination also located near Bond Street. Take in breathtaking views of Hyde Park and live like a king (or queen) at The Metropolitan, one of the most stylish destinations in the city. Stay at The Dorchester in Mayfair and you’ll be chauffeured around the city in a shiny Bentley.

History enthusiasts can stay at The Goring, the last hotel of the Edwardian era that features themed rooms and serves a classic afternoon tea in its Garden Bar. Miller’s in Notting Hill is stocked with antiques and historic furnishings, and you can settle in for a hearty breakfast served at the communal table each morning.

EAT

From Piccadilly Circus to Knightsbridge, there’s no shortage of great places to eat and drink in London. In addition to a lineup of British pubs and gastropubs, you’ll find traditional Indian buffet restaurants, Mediterranean foodstuffs, Peruvian cuisine, Parisian cafes and Italian trattorias throughout the city. The most sought-after tables are located at the Gordon Ramsay restaurant at Claridge’s, The Landau and L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon. Fill up on classic British cuisine at St. John, a traditional English eatery or Roast, located in the historic Borough Market.

PLAY

The pulsating nightlife scene in London never slows down, and even though many pubs close down for the night by 11:00 PM or midnight, you’ll find plenty of bars and late-night eateries open until the wee hours of the morning. Supper clubs, old-fashioned pubs, dance clubs and live entertainment venues make up the nightlife circuit in London, attracting all types of crowds on any given night. Make your way to Soho for a lineup of gay and lesbian bars and dance clubs, or Richmond Street and King Street to party the night away with local revelers. Talbot Street and John Street are other popular destinations for lounges, pool halls and some of London’s top bars.

SHOP

London’s shopping districts serve shopaholics of all persuasions, and you’ll find dozens of vintage stores, locally-owned boutiques, souvenir and gift shops nestled among the department store and brand name retail store lineup. Chinatown spans the three blocks between Shaftesbury Avenue and Leicester Square near Soho. If you’re looking for designer fashions, head to Oxford Street, the busiest shopping district in the city. Other popular shopping destinations include Covent Garden, Commercial Street, Regent Street and Portobello Road, home to the world-famous Portobello Road Market. Harrods is located in the ritzy Knightsbridge district, and is worth an entire day of shopping on its own.

DO

Spend the late afternoon relaxing on Waterloo Bridge and watch the sun set over Westminster Abbey. If you have the chance to take a tour, head to the docks on the Thames to enjoy a cruise down the historic river. Sundays are perfect for spending a lazy afternoon in Hyde Park and watching the speakers share their views at Speakers Corner. If you’re heading to London during the spring and summer, don’ t miss the opportunity to walk through Covent Garden to haggle for the best price on antiques, clothing and accessories.

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Photo Credits

London Eye: mostaque, via Flickr

Portobello Market: johanohrling, via Flickr