Iconic European cities: London

The Tower of London dates back to 1066, and today the UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the crown jewels. In the past, it has served as a royal residence and a prison. Take a Yeoman (aka Beefeater) tour for a look at British history with someone who actually lives at the tower. Then head to Tower Bridge, built in 1894, to admire the Victorian engine rooms or climb one tower for a great view.

Most museums in London are free.The British Museum has exhibits ranging from prehistoric to modern times, with items from around the world. It offers free guided tours by trained volunteers to ensure you find the must-see attractions. More than 60 galleries are centered around the magnificent Great Court.

Admire the dinosaur and animal collection in South Kensington at the Natural History Museum (pictured), or visit the Science Museum to be inspired by human inventions. The Victoria and Albert Museum has exhibits on furniture, paintings, sculpture, metalwork and textiles. Art lovers should try the National Gallery, the Royal Academy and the Tate Britain or Tate Modern, to name a few.

Explore Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, then cross Westminster Bridge and ride the London Eye wheel for spectacular views. Other breathtaking vistas can be found at the Sky Garden located on the top of the Walkie Talkie building, or from the rooftop bar of the Shard, the UK's tallest skyscraper. Or climb 528 steps to enjoy the view from the top of St. Paul's Cathedral.

Buckingham Palace, the London residence of the reigning monarch dating from 1703, is a must-see — especially at around 11 a.m. when the Changing of The King's Guard ceremony takes place. From here, walk down the Mall to Trafalgar Square with its statue of Nelson. Then you can explore Covent Garden and maybe watch some street performers, before ambling on to Leicester Square and Chinatown in Soho.

London has many parks in which to escape the big city bustle. The best known and largest is Hyde Park with its Serpentine Bridge, Holocaust Memorial, Diana Memorial Fountain and Speaker's Corner. Others include Green Park, St. James Park and Regent's Park with its zoo. Downriver, Kew Gardens of the Royal Botanic Gardens, (pictured) holds the world's most important collection of living plants.

Any visit to the UK should at some point include fish and chips, served with splashes of malt vinegar. Another must is afternoon tea, which traditionally involves tea cakes and scones, but should include some savory treats like cucumber sandwiches. London is home to many gourmet eateries, but honest pub grub like pies or sausages and mash are a treat — especially with lots of gravy!

Treat yourself to a West End show or head across the Thames for a performance at the Globe Theatre or the Southbank Centre. Music lovers are also spoiled for choice: they can enjoy a concert at the Royal Albert Hall (pictured), listen to jazz at Ronnie Scott's or rock on down at the Brixton Academy. The O2 indoor arena in Greenwich holds big events and can be reached via a riverboat.

Shop till you drop on Oxford Street, or check out the exclusive stores on Savile Row and Knightsbridge including Harrods. Don't forget all the wonderful markets the city has to offer: browse antiques at Portobello Road Market or new fashion at the markets at Old Spitalfields or Carnaby. Find curious souvenirs at Camden Lock Market or go food shopping and tasting at Borough Market (pictured).

Walking tours are a good way to explore London and avoid crowds. There are a range on offer, including a graffiti and street art walk or, on a more gory note, the Jack the Ripper tour of Whitechapel. If museums are your thing but you prefer something more low-key, the Horniman Museum and Gardens is a real insider tip — don't miss the "over-stuffed" walrus while visiting this Victorian Museum.