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    The City of London

    The City of London

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    5. Great Britain
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    9. The City of London
    The City of London, the original Roman settlement, forms the historical and financial heart of the British capital. Here you'll experience a unique contrast of centuries-old history and modern architecture that shapes the skyline. Must-see attractions include the impressive St. Paul's Cathedral, the historic Tower of London, and the Monument to the Great Fire of London. Explore the Victorian charm of Leadenhall Market or the imposing buildings of the financial district, such as the Bank of England. While the City buzzes with the financial world's hustle and bustle during the week, it offers remarkable tranquility on weekends, ideal for relaxed strolls through historic lanes.
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    Overview

    The City of London forms the historic Roman settlement area and the financial heart of the British capital.Here you'll discover a striking contrast of centuries-old history and modern architecture, which shapes its unique skyline.Don't miss visiting the impressive St. Paul's Cathedral, the historic Tower of London, and the Monument to the Great Fire of London.Also explore the Victorian charm of Leadenhall Market, the imposing Bank of England, and modern skyscrapers of the financial district.During weekdays, the City pulsates with business activity; however, on weekends it offers remarkable tranquility for leisurely strolls through historic alleyways and pub visits.

    Places in The City of London

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in The City of London

    Tower of London

    1Tower of London

    The Tower of London is a historic fortress complex on the River Thames that played a central role in English history. Originally built as a royal residence and stronghold, it also served for centuries as a prison and place of execution. Here, you'll experience Britain's multifaceted past, from royal splendor to its darker chapters.At the heart of the complex stands the White Tower, the oldest and most distinctive building, which today houses collections of armor and weaponry. A highlight of your visit is the viewing of the Crown Jewels, displayed under strict guard in the Jewel House.The famous Yeoman Warders, often called Beefeaters, are not only guardians but also knowledgeable guides who share anecdotes and facts about the Tower's history with you. Also look out for the ravens that live here; an old legend states that the kingdom will fall should they ever leave the Tower. You can also explore historical sites like Traitors' Gate and the Bloody Tower, linked to the fates of famous prisoners. The Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula serves as the final resting place for some of those executed here.
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    Saint Paul´s Cathedral

    2Saint Paul´s Cathedral

    The Saint Paul's Cathedral is an iconic landmark in the City of London and a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture. You'll find it on Ludgate Hill, where it majestically towers over its surroundings. The current cathedral was built after the Great Fire of London and is closely linked to the history of the city and the country. Its architect was Christopher Wren, whose vision shaped its present-day appearance.Inside, you're greeted by an impressive spaciousness and rich ornamentation. Particularly noteworthy is the colossal dome, which forms the centrepiece of the structure. You have the opportunity to ascend various galleries within the dome, including the famous Whispering Gallery, known for its unique acoustic properties. From the upper galleries, you're also offered sweeping views across London. To this day, the cathedral serves as a significant Anglican church and has been the setting for numerous national events, from royal weddings to state funerals. It is a place of contemplation and at the same time a testament to British history and architectural art.
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    Leadenhall Market

    3Leadenhall Market

    Leadenhall Market stands on the site of the Roman Forum of Londinium, the centre of the ancient city. The location has been documented as a market since the 14th century, initially for poultry and game. The current hall with its glass roof, cast-iron girders, and painted stucco was designed in 1881 by Horace Jones, the same architect who also planned the Tower Bridge and Smithfield Market.The passages are framed in green, wine red, and cream, and appear most lively in the evenings when the clientele from the financial district flocks to the pubs. Wine merchants, cheesemongers, and tailors have maintained their presence in the shops. The passage served as a filming location for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter film adaptation. On weekends, the market is largely closed, like the entire financial district.
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    Sky Garden

    4Sky Garden

    The Sky Garden is located on the top three floors of the skyscraper 20 Fenchurch Street, which is called the Walkie Talkie due to its outwardly curving shape. The rooftop gardens were the condition under which the city approved the controversial construction: publicly accessible space in exchange for building volume.Beneath the glass barrel vault, Mediterranean and South African plants grow on terraced beds. The viewing platform at 155 meters overlooks Tower Bridge, the Thames, and The Shard. Admission is free, but requires a timed entry booking in advance. In 2013, the concave facade focused sunlight so intensely that it melted car parts on the street; louvers have since remedied the problem.
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    Barbican Centre

    5Barbican Centre

    The Barbican emerged from the 1960s onwards on a site completely obliterated by World War II air raids. Chamberlin, Powell and Bon designed a residential city for around 4,000 people, featuring elevated pedestrian walkways, water basins, and three residential towers, which were then Europe's tallest residential buildings.The exposed concrete was not cast in formwork, but rather hand-roughened with picks after hardening, giving the facades their coarse texture. The Barbican Centre at its heart is Europe's largest cultural centre under one roof: concert hall for the London Symphony Orchestra, two theatres, cinemas, a gallery, and a tropical conservatory. The complex is considered a major work of British Brutalism and remains polarizing to this day. Orientation can be difficult; yellow lines on the floor help.
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    City walks in The City of London

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Das Herz von London: Geschichte, Glanz und Gherkin

    Entdecken Sie The City of London, das historische und finanzielle Zentrum Londons, auf diesem 2-stündigen Spaziergang. Von der majestätischen St. Paul's Cathedral bis zum imposanten Tower of London erleben Sie Jahrhunderte der Geschichte, beeindruckende Architektur und pulsierendes Stadtleben. Tauchen Sie ein in die Geschichten der Römer, des Großen Brandes und der modernen Finanzwelt.

    ~2 Std. 15 Min.
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    Stopps (6)

    Restaurants in The City of London

    Food & Drink

    The **City of London's dining scene** reflects its role as a financial hub, offering a diverse selection from traditional pubs to upscale restaurants. Around St Paul's Cathedral and Leadenhall Market, you'll discover modern British dishes as well as diverse international cuisine.

    Local specialities

    In The City of London you'll find local restaurants, cafés and markets with regional specialities. Taste your way through the dishes typical of the region.

    Culture, Architecture and History of the City of London

    The City of London, often referred to as the “Square Mile,” looks back on over two thousand years of history, beginning with its founding as Roman Londinium. Over the centuries, it evolved into a central trading hub and the financial heart of Great Britain. A turning point was the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed large parts of the city, but paved the way for extensive redevelopment that significantly shaped its current architectural identity.The City’s architecture is a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Masterpieces like St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and many of his surviving churches stand in stark contrast to contemporary skyscrapers dominating the skyline. Historic buildings such as the Guildhall, the Royal Exchange, and the Mansion House bear witness to the city's long tradition as a centre for trade and governance.Cultural peculiarities and traditions are deeply rooted in the City. These include the annual Lord Mayor's Show and the continued relevance of the ancient Livery Companies (guilds), which play a unique role in the administration and social life of the City. These institutions underscore the unique autonomy and rich cultural heritage of this historic financial centre.

    Exploring Locally

    The City of London, the financial heart and a fascinating blend of old and new, is excellently connected. The efficient underground network, the "Tube", is ideal for quickly covering longer distances, while the iconic red double-decker buses offer a picturesque alternative for shorter journeys. For payment across all public transport, the Oyster Card, a contactless bank card, or the official TfL-App are recommended; multi-day passes are useful for longer stays. Although trams exist in London, they play a minor role for the City itself. For active travelers, Santander Cycles (rental bikes) are available, while private e-scooters are prohibited on public roads – only licensed rental services may be used. Classic Black Cabs and ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt offer flexible alternatives. The City of London is also extremely pedestrian-friendly; many historical sights are close together. However, plan for weekday peak times and use navigation apps for up-to-date travel information and to find the best route.

    Excursions & Activities

    Recommended activities

    Around The City of London there are rewarding day trips and activities – from sights and nature to the surrounding area.

    Accommodations in The City of London

    Accommodation

    Places to stay

    In and around The City of London there are places to stay across different categories and price ranges – from simple to comfortable.

    Accommodations in The City of London

    Find perfect stay in The City of London

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    Campgrounds in The City of London

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    Locations nearby

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    East End

    East End

    Das East End von London ist ein historisch gewachsenes Viertel, das sich durch seine dynamische Mischung aus Tradition und Moderne auszeichnet. Einst Zentrum der Arbeiterklasse und Einwanderung, beherbergt es heute eine lebendige Kunstszene und zahlreiche kreative Unternehmen. Du findest hier ikonische Orte wie die Brick Lane, bekannt für ihre Curryhäuser, Vintage-Märkte und beeindruckende Street Art, besonders am Sonntag. Das historische Spitalfields Market und das trendige Shoreditch bieten eine Fülle von Boutiquen, Galerien und Restaurants. Die Gegend um Whitechapel erzählt von ihrer bewegten Geschichte, oft verbunden mit den Jack the Ripper Touren. Für ein authentisches Erlebnis empfiehlt sich ein Besuch des Columbia Road Flower Market am Sonntagmorgen. Plane genügend Zeit ein, um die verborgenen Gassen und die vielfältige Kulinarik abseits der Hauptstraßen zu erkunden.
    South Bank

    South Bank

    London's South Bank is a vibrant cultural and entertainment district stretching along the River Thames, from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. Here, you'll discover an impressive concentration of leading art and cultural institutions, including the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Southbank Centre. Once known for its entertainment venues beyond the city walls, the area has transformed into a modern hub, with the former Bankside Power Station now housing the Tate Modern. A stroll along the riverside promenade offers not only views of the London Eye and St. Paul's Cathedral but also takes you through lively street performer zones. Visit Borough Market for culinary discoveries, just a short walk away, offering a wide array of international specialties. In the evening, numerous restaurants and bars invite you to enjoy the illuminated skyline; for the London Eye, it's best to plan your visit outside peak travel times.
    West End

    West End

    London's West End forms the vibrant heart of the city's entertainment and culture. It's home to the famous Theatreland, with its numerous stages covering a wide spectrum from classical dramas to modern musicals. You'll find iconic landmarks like Piccadilly Circus with its distinctive neon signs, and the historic Trafalgar Square, home to the National Gallery. Beyond the cultural offerings, exclusive shopping on streets like Regent Street and Oxford Street define the district. Historically, the West End has been a significant hub for art and social life for centuries. To secure the best seats for a theatre performance, book tickets early, especially for popular shows. Ideally, plan your visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
    London

    London

    London is a vibrant metropolis that uniquely combines history, culture, and modernity. From royal palaces to trendy districts, the city offers an endless variety of experiences that will continually captivate you.
    Kensington & Chelsea

    Kensington & Chelsea

    The London borough of Kensington & Chelsea stands out as one of the city's most elegant and culturally rich districts. Here you'll find an impressive concentration of world-class museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum, all easily explorable on foot. Magnificent Victorian buildings and verdant squares define the landscape, while King's Road in Chelsea boasts exclusive boutiques and galleries. In Kensington Gardens, you can enjoy leisurely strolls and visit Kensington Palace, the former residence of Princess Diana. Historically established as a royal borough, Kensington & Chelsea continues to reflect an affluent lifestyle and a deep appreciation for art and education. To experience the museums unhurriedly, a weekday morning visit is recommended; the area is also perfectly explored on foot or by bus.