London, an iconic city with a two-thousand-year history

London, one of the coolest and most vibrant cities in the world, is a destination that has it all: history, culture, art, and a culinary offer that mixes influences from Chinese, Indian, and other European cuisines. From the majestic Big Ben to the picturesque streets of the famous Notting Hill neighbourhood, the British capital is full of iconic places where you can discover its many facets.

Join us on this celebratory trip for our fifteen years to this city, one of the most cosmopolitan in the world.

Tradition and modernity hand in hand

With a history spanning over two thousand years, London is a melting pot of cultures, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. It is home to iconic monuments such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, but it is also known for its world-renowned museums, parks and gardens, and dynamic nightlife. To help you see and experience this city at its finest, here are some ideas on what to do:

• London is rich in diversity and culture, something you’ll notice in its various neighbourhoods, each with its personality and, above all, a lot of charm. You can't miss them! Covent Garden is the cultural hub, known for its market and luxury shops. Notting Hill is a bohemian neighbourhood, famous for its colourful houses. Shoreditch is the hipster district, with alternative shops, modern cafes, and street art. Camden Town is the neighbourhood for music and fashion lovers. Kensington, elegant and well-kept, is a residential area that houses some museums. Southbank, along the Thames, is another cultural center, home to theatres and art galleries. And if you want to enjoy the nightlife, Soho is packed with bars and clubs. Once you've visited them, tell us, which neighbourhood represents you the most?
   
• Art lovers will enjoy London like kids in a candy store, as it has some of the most prestigious museums and art galleries in the world. The British Museum is a global treasure with iconic pieces such as the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. The National Gallery exhibits masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner, and Tate Modern is a must-see for its impressive collection of contemporary art.
   
• Street markets are one of the most authentic gems of the city. Some are very old, making them a unique experience. There, you can find vintage fashion, local art, antiques, and international food. A must-visit are Camden Market, the alternative paradise; Portobello Road Market, where you'll take a trip back in time; and Borough Market, a delight for food lovers. But these aren’t the only ones; you can also visit Brick Lane Market, Old Spitafields Market, Bermondsey, and Columbia Road Market.
   
• Once you've walked around the city, how about seeing it from another perspective? In London, you'll find many viewpoints from where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the city. The iconic London Eye and the famous Shard skyscraper will offer you a 360º view. If you visit St. Paul's Cathedral, in addition to enjoying its architectural beauty, you can see London from its dome. In the financial district, Tower 42 offers a different view, even if it’s not the most famous. You can also experience something unique by taking the IFS Cloud cable car, flying over the River Thames. And, of course, the Sky Garden, London’s most famous garden with a view.
   
• Amid the urban hustle and bustle of this hectic city, you’ll find wonderful parks and gardens, a green respite for tourists eager to relax. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are perfect for unwinding or having a summer picnic. Regent’s Park is a lovely floral garden where you’ll find the famous Zoo, and from St. James's Park, you'll get stunning views of Buckingham Palace. Other parks of interest include Chelsea Physic Garden, Hampstead Heath, the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

British flavor with a multicultural twist

In London, the cuisine reflects the vibrant mix of cultures that makes this city such a special destination. From traditional fish and chips, Sunday Roast, or afternoon tea, to delicious Indian curry in Brick Lane or exquisite dim sum in Chinatown. Get ready to savoir England… and the rest of the world too!

• Fish and chips, a British classic consisting of battered and fried fish fillets served with chips, often with tartar sauce. A light dish.
• Sunday Roast is the traditional Sunday meal. It includes roasted meat (chicken, beef, or lamb), accompanied by roasted potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. 
• The Full English Breakfast is only for the brave. A hearty breakfast that includes eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast. This is how Londoners start the day with energy. Bangers and Mash is a very popular dish often served in pubs. Its sausages are served with mashed potatoes and gravy. 
• Pork Pie, a cold meat pie, usually made with pork and jelly, is perfect for a picnic or as an appetizer. 
• Thanks to its strong Indian influence, you can’t miss out on a good curry in London. Tikka Masala is one of the standout dishes. 
• Something sweet you can't miss is Scones, buns served with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

To end the menu, two culinary experiences you must try: afternoon tea, which includes a selection of teas, sandwiches, scones, and cakes, ideal for the afternoon! And a street food tour, where you can find dishes at markets like Borough Market or Camden Market.

A changeable climate, but rain guaranteed

London’s weather is highly unpredictable; in a single day, it can be cold, sunny, and rainy. It’s a generally gray city, and rain is much more frequent than sunshine, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your days here. That’s why we recommend what to pack for this trip.

Even though London’s weather is indecisive, what is certain is that at any time of the year you visit, even in summer, you should bring a coat. In winter, temperatures range between 5º and 10º, and if the wind blows, which is common, the wind chill increases. So in winter, make sure to bundle up in a thick coat, and in summer, with temperatures not exceeding 28º, you’ll need a lighter coat, especially for the evenings.

Additionally, a raincoat and an umbrella will undoubtedly be your best allies on your British adventure, as well as comfortable shoes like sneakers for walking around the city and not missing anything.

What’s really important for this trip is to get proper advice on what you can bring to London, as Brexit has changed many things when it comes to traveling to the UK. Make sure you’re informed beforehand to avoid any surprises on your flight day. We hope these ideas help you discover the most authentic London. Remember that if you’re not the lucky one to enjoy this trip to London this time, you can still participate in our fifteenth-anniversary raffle and travel to another of the destinations we’ve prepared. Follow us on our channels and participate!

Check the legal terms and conditions of the aparca&go 15th anniversary raffle.