17 Sensational Things To Do in the City of London

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The City of London – a compact enclave within the sprawling metropolis – is a fascinating place to explore. It ranks as one of our favorite London districts and we are enthralled by how it manages to be simultaneously historic and modern. On our curious wanders, we have discovered an incredible number of Things To Do in the City of London!

Top City of London Things To Do

With nearly two millenniums of history, the City of London hosts both major attractions and secret spots. Although the area is rather small (it’s nicknamed The Square Mile), it attracts history buffs, architecture aficionados and Harry Potter fanatics.

The map at the end of the article will help you pinpoint the prime sights. Find more tips for tourist in our complete 3-Day London Itinerary.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our City of London Travel Guide for your trip to the UK!

#1 See St. Paul’s Cathedral

The beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral is a City of London landmark. Featuring Renaissance and Baroque styles, the structure sits on the highest hill in the district. It occupies the site of a previous church that dated to the year 604.

Designed by famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul’s is the centerpiece of the extensive rebuilding program after the devastating 1666 Great Fire of London. The cathedral, with its massive dome, ranked as the tallest building in London until 1963.

A ticket is required to enter, unless you are attending a service. In our opinion, it is well worth going inside this City of London landmark. Even those Visiting London on a Budget should make an effort to view the exterior from up close.

Did You Know: St. Paul’s Cathedral hosted the wedding of Charles and Diana in 1981 as well as the funerals of Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher.

#2 Soar Up City of London Skyscrapers

London is an incredible city to see from above – and there are several spots where visitors can enjoy the sublime views. In fact, there are numerous elevated scenic spaces in the City of London that are completely free to enter!

London Sky Garden

Sky Garden London is an oasis located on the 38th floor of the Fenchurch Building (aka the Walkie Talkie). The attraction actually occupies the top three levels of 20 Fenchurch Street. With floor to ceiling windows, there are spectacular views of London in every direction. Additionally, there is an outdoor terrace, a full-service restaurant and an on-site bar.

Advance reservations are highly recommended, but some walk-ins are allowed when capacity permits. Get all of the details on how to book your free tickets in our guide to Visiting the London Sky Garden.

The Garden at 120

A phenomenal 15-story rooftop that requires no reservation or ticket, Garden at 120 is a spacious, open-air platform. While not nearly as high as Sky Garden, the view encompass many of the same landmark sights. We believe it is one of the absolute best free viewpoints in the City of London!

One New Change

Although only 6 stories high, this modern mall boasts an outstanding terrace. The One New Change Rooftop is also easy to get to – simply take the elevator to the 6th floor! The open space offers a unique vantage point of St. Paul’s and the London skyline. Currently closed for refurbishment.

Horizon 22

London’s newest and highest free viewing platform is Horizon 22 at 22 Bishopsgate. We have yet to take in the vista from this skyscraper, but it’s on our list of City of London things to do! Booking far in advance is essential, as it can be quite difficult to find an available timeslot.

Pro Tip: Located practically next door, The Look Out at 8 Bishopsgate is also worth a peek!

#3 Revel in the Past at Leadenhall Market

A gorgeous Victorian-era arcade, Leadenhall Market stands in the heart of the City of London. The historic shopping center dates to 1445 and is often overlooked by travelers. Yet, every time we stroll along the cobbled lanes in the atmospheric space, we feel like we are stepping back in time.

Unfortunately, there were quite a few empty shops during our most recent visit. However, the grand architecture – and fun City of London pubs – are reason enough to swing through this treasure!

The Leadenhall Market is especially popular with Harry Potter fans, as it was featured as Diagon Alley in the first film. Try to find the blue door at 42 Bull’s Head Passage that marked the entrance to Leaky Cauldron Pub.

Top Travel Tip: Those fortunate enough to be in London at Christmas should definitely visit Leadenhall Market. The arcade exudes a festive yet cozy vibe. Plus, they display a gigantic Christmas tree that is covered in dazzling lights!

#4 Find Respite at St. Dunstan in the East

A secret garden set among ruins, the St. Dunstan in the East Church is a City of London hidden gem. The Church of St. Dunstan dates to the beginning of the 12th century – but was severely damaged in both the Great Fire in 1666 and the London Blitz of 1941.

Rather than rebuilding after WWII, it was turned into a public green space. Typically quiet, the garden is an escape from the bustle of the city. With benches and lush greenery, it’s a great spot to enjoy a coffee or take-away lunch.

Did You Know: The steeple was an addition in the late 1600s by Sir Christopher Wren.

#5 Visit the Museum of London

A fascinating place to learn about the history of the City of London is the free Museum of London. The space traces its evolution from prehistoric days to modern times via engaging displays. We were absolutely enchanted by how they moved guests through the centuries. Additionally, the gallery hosts special exhibits. We thoroughly enjoyed “The Clash: London Calling” during our visit.

The museum is currently closed as it is undergoing major renovation and relocation. It is scheduled to reopen in 2026 near Smithfield Market. In the meantime, consider visiting other Free London Museums.

#6 Marvel at the Monument

A famous 202-foot-tall commemorative column, the Monument to the Great Fire of London serves as a memorial of the devastating inferno and a beacon to the city’s ambitious rebuilding efforts.

One of the most destructive events in the history of London, the Great Fire blazed for four days and destroyed a third of the city’s buildings. After the smoke cleared, it took 50 years to rebuild.

Sightseeing Tip: The Doric-style tower is open to visitors who want to climb the 311 steps to top (ticket required).

#7 Discover the City of London Guildhall

The opulent Guildhall, which dates to the 15th century, serves as the City of London Townhall. For centuries, the building has hosted an array of royal and government events. Today, two exhibition rooms are open to the public: the Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheater.

While it is free to visit both, it is recommended to book online to ensure entry. Guests can also opt to join one of the free Art Gallery Tours.

Art Gallery

The Art Gallery at the Guildhall hosts a collection of more than 4,500 works – from Victorian paintings to London landscapes. There has been an Art Gallery at the Guildhall since 1885, but it was severely damaged during World War II and several pieces were lost forever. In the mid-1980s, the building was renovated and that’s when Roman ruins were discovered.

Roman Amphitheater

While London is currently known for being modern and contemporary, it is steeped in a 2000-year-old history. A Roman settlement was established in the 1st century AD along the River Thames, which is exactly where the City of London is today.

Called Londinium, the walled town was a wealthy trading port and one of the largest Roman settlements outside of the Mediterranean. While fragments of the past still exist, none are quite as beguiling as the Roman Amphitheater in the basement of the Guildhall.

#8 Walk Fleet Street to the Strand

Dating to Roman times, Fleet Street was an important route that led west from the Londinium City Walls. The thoroughfare has seen a slew of changes (for 500 years it served as the hub of the country’s newspaper industry) – and history has left its mark in obvious and unsuspecting places.

Top historic things to see on Fleet Street are St. Dunstan-in-the-West Church and the Crypt at St. Bride’s Church. Also not to be missed is the dragon atop the Temple Bar Memorial, which marks the boundary between the City of London and Westminster. The location is also where fictional character Sweeney Todd (The Demon Barber) committed his atrocious murders.

The main reason we like going to Fleet Street, however, is for the classic and utterly charming London Pubs. Among them, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese ranks supreme. Dating to 1538 (but rebuilt in 1667), the age-old establishment was a well-known literary hangout. Famous writers Charles Dickens and Mark Twain were among its esteemed guests.

Across the way, The Old Bell Tavern has been around a mere 300 years. It was built to house Wren’s masons during his rebuilding of the city after The Great Fire. Just around the corner from Old Bell is The Blackfriar – one of our all-time favorite City of London pubs!

Join a Tour: The history of Fleet Street and the surrounding area is astounding. Those who are seeking a deeper experience can join a local guide on a highly rated tour.

#9 Pop into Postman’s Park

Quaint and quiet, Postman’s Park is another treasure in the City of London. The verdant garden, which sits just a stone’s throw from St. Paul’s, was established in 1880 on the site of a church graveyard. Tombstones still stand on the periphery and a moss-covered fountain drips amongst the blooming flowers.

The highlight, however, is the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. Located along a canopied wall, tiles commemorate the selfless acts of common Londoners.

Interesting Fact: The park earned its name due to the fact that it was located right next to the General Post Office and sorting facility. The green space became quite popular with GPO workers, who often took breaks and ate their lunch here.

#10 Admire the Beauty of St. Bart’s

Ranking as the oldest parish church in London, St. Bartholomew the Great is a fascinating place to visit. Plus, as there is no entry fee, it’s also one of the top free things to do in the City of London. Featuring Romanesque architecture, the history of the Medieval church can be traced to the year 1123.

Breathtakingly beautiful – and a bit eerie – the structure managed to survive the Great Fire and WWII. Since the 1990s, it has become a popular film location, with scenes from movies (like Four Weddings and a Funeral) and television series taking place inside the ancient church.

Top Tip: Don’t miss the nearby Sir William Wallace Memorial on the outer wall of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital. The fervent defender of Scottish independence, he was hanged for treason near the site in 1305.

#11 Explore The Barbican Estate

A unique design concept brought to the City of London in the mid 1960’s, the buildings of the Barbican were meant to be a city within itself. The maze of cement is bewildering and it’s truly like nowhere else in London.

Built over an area severely destroyed in WWII, the Barbican complex includes over 2000 apartments, several theaters, art galleries, offices, restaurants and shops. Fans of Brutalist architecture should not miss the Barbican Estate!

Tip for Travelers: Although the area can feel quite dystopian, the Barbican Center is a cultural institution that encourages creativity. Hosting a library, a conservatory and several public spaces, it’s worth stepping inside on your visit.

#12 Roam the Roman London Mithraeum

The City of London is full of surprises – such as the discovery of an ancient Roman temple after the 1941 Blitz. The archaeological site, which dates to around 240 AD, was excavated and dismantled in 1954.

When Bloomberg built their new European headquarters in 2010 on the original location, they opted to reassemble the ruins in the basement and open a free exhibition space.

The reconstruction of the Temple of Mithras has been enhanced with light and sound to help transport guests to Roman times. Additionally, there is a small display of artifacts – as well as a contemporary art display.

Pre-Book Your Visit: We highly recommend checking times and making an advance online reservation.

#13 Go for Gold at the Bank of England Museum

If you have ever wanted to hold a gold bar in your hand, go to the Bank of England Museum! Fun and educational, the gallery showcases the history of money and the UK financial system.

This free London City attraction features exhibits that are likely most interesting to adults, but we imagine kids will get a kick out of trying to lift a gold bar. In addition to the informational placards, visitors can also use an audio guide (via smartphone).

Itinerary Tip: The museum is only open on weekdays!

#14 Step Inside All the Hallows by the Tower

We stumbled into this church recently and were absolutely baffled that it wasn’t already on our list of things to see! Believed to have been established in the year 675, it is touted as the ‘Oldest Church in the City of London’.

Regardless of the uncertainty over its exact age, it is a place that has endured an incredible history. Still an active place of worship, staff welcome visitors to tour the sacred space for free. Guests can walk the same aisles as monarchs, creep into the crypt and marvel at the memorials.

Fun Facts: John Quincy Adams (the 6th president of the United States of America) got married here in 1797 and William Penn (founder of Pennsylvania) was baptized at All Hallows in 1644.

#15 Tour the Tower of London

Technically just outside the boundaries of the City of London, but too close not to mention, the Tower of London is one of the most magnificent sights in England. Therefore, it’s best to buy tickets in advance.

The iconic riverside castle was established 1066 and was used as a royal residence. Through the years, the site has also served as a prison, an armory, the treasury and the Royal Mint. Today it stands as one of the four UNESCO sites in London.

A must-see at the Tower of London is the Crown Jewels, which are used in the monarchy’s coronations. Informational displays detail the history of the castle and Beefeaters are on hand to answer any questions, too.

The Yeoman Warder Tours are included as part of the admission ticket. The guides are known for their wit and humor – in addition to their storytelling. Alternatively, guests can join a private tour by Beefeaters.

The daily Tower of London Ceremony of the Keys – which is the evening changing of the guards – is an inexpensive London event. However, tickets are snapped up in a hurry, so you have to be quick!

Nearby: On the north side of the Tower of London, seek out the remains of the old Roman Wall. Dating to the beginning of the 3rd century, the 10-foot-tall defensive wall encircled the city of Londinium.

#16 Strut across London Tower Bridge

Another sight just beyond the City of London is the stunning Tower Bridge. Of the more than 20 bridges that span the Thames River, Tower Bridge is – by far – the most sensational. Built in the late 1800s, the two-tower, two-level bridge is an icon of England.

Visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition requires a ticket, but walking across the lower level is absolutely free.

Hidden Gem: At the south end of Tower Bridge, find the Horsleydown Steps that lead to a secret, water level view. Just be sure to watch your step, the stairs are slippery at low tide!

#17 Venture into the City of Westminster

Westminster borders the City of London to the west – and it’s one of our favorite London Neighborhoods to explore!

Traveling west, Fleet Street becomes The Strand, which is home to the elaborate Royal Courts of Justice. The gorgeous Victoria Gothic Revival building first opened in 1882. Popular stores – like the original Twinings Tea Shop – line the opposite side of the street.

Nearby are several notable museums. Somerset House hosts art exhibitions (ticket required), the London Transport Museum features vintage buses (ticket required) and Sir John Soane’s Museum is filled with curiosities (free to visit).

Tip for Sightseeing: Find more tips on what to see and do in our Self-Guided Westminster Tour.

City of London Map

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Map of City of London Attractions below.

Where To Stay in the City of London

Centrally located and served by multiple transport lines, the City of London is a fantastic place for travelers to base themselves while on vacation. We recently stayed at Locke at Broken Wharf and couldn’t have been happier!

The contemporary property offers spacious rooms with small kitchens – plus a coffee shop, coworking space, laundry room and a gym. Check availability for your stay!

More London Vacation Tips

Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

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