Visiting London for the first time? Free museums, markets and Tube tips
The essentials
- Visa: United Kingdom visa required
- Currency: Pound sterling (GBP)
- Transport: Contactless card, daily cap
- Plug: Type G, get an adapter
- Our number one tip: No matter what the forecast says, pop a small umbrella in your bag; experiencing four seasons in one day is nothing unusual in London.
London is expensive, that’s true. But it’s also a city where you can get into most of the world’s best museums for free, eat lunch at a market and spend hours in a park.
1Ride the Tube with a contactless card
You don’t have to buy an Oyster card. Tap your contactless card or phone at the entrance and exit; the daily and weekly fare caps apply automatically. And don’t forget to stand on the right on escalators.
2Free museums
- British Museum
- National Gallery
- Tate Modern
- Natural History Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
Permanent collections are free, while temporary exhibitions may charge admission. Leaving a small donation in the donation boxes is customary.
3Lunch at the markets
Borough Market next to London Bridge, Camden’s street food, and the antique dealers on Portobello Road on weekends. They’re both affordable and among the best places to see the rhythm of the city.
4Don’t pay for the view
Sky Garden is free, but it requires an online booking. The city skyline from Primrose Hill is at least as beautiful.
Book this tour: availability and prices on GetYourGuide (discount code GEZSEKDEDIK5)
Places in this story
- Borough Market (London Bridge, London) — Market. One of London’s oldest food markets. Go at lunchtime and wander from stall to stall, tasting as you go. Must try: Sandwich from the street stalls
- Sky Garden (City, London) — Viewpoint. An enclosed garden and viewing terrace at the top of the skyscraper. It’s free, but online booking is required. Must try: Sunset booking
Frequently asked questions
How do you ride the Tube in London?
You don’t need an Oyster card. Tapping your contactless bank card or phone at the entrance and exit is enough. Daily and weekly fare caps apply automatically.
Which museums in London are free?
British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum; permanent collections are free.
Do Turkish travelers need a visa for London?
Yes, Turkish citizens need to obtain a United Kingdom visa.
Authors
This story was written by Tuğba & Burak. We have been traveling together for 13 years and we visit every place we recommend ourselves. Instagram: @gezsekdedik