Westminster skyline with Big Ben and Nelson's columnGetty Images
Avoid street food
This is a controversial one, but hear us out – we don’t mean avoiding London’s famous street markets. There are just certain areas of the city centre where stalls are selling subpar food at eye-watering prices (we’re looking at you, hot dog stand outside Tottenham Court Road). Avoid these places and head instead for ye olde faithful food markets, like Borough Market, Broadway Market, Arcade Food Hall or Seven Dials Market.
Choose independent restaurants
While we’re on the topic of food, this is a biggie: don’t get swept up in the moment and let the hanger get the best of you. Steer clear of touristy chains or any names you recognise from your hometown; instead, take a chance on independent restaurants. For inspiration on the best new restaurants in London right now, see our guide.
Ask for directions
We’ll admit that some Londoners can be grumpy (in our defence: the tube is hot, crowded, stressful, and everyone in the city is always in a rush). But, having said that, it is always better to ask for help if you need it – standing in front of the tube entrance or ticket barriers frantically trying to make sense of a map is only going to annoy your fellow passengers. It’s ok to ask a friendly-looking local to point you in the right direction – more often than not you’ll be surprised at how eager to help Londoners can be.
London UndergroundGetty Images
Know the rules of the tube
On that note – do your homework. There’s nothing more frustrating for a Londoner trying to get to work on time than having to push through rowdy crowds or dart between lost tourists. Avoid travelling during rush hour, which is typically between 7-9am and 5.30-7.30pm on weekdays (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are the busiest). Remember that, except for certain lines, most tubes close overnight, so take that into consideration when planning your activities. When taking the escalator, stand to the right and walk on the left-hand side if you so wish. When you’re on the tube itself, make sure you are aware of your fellow passengers so you can offer up your seat to anyone who might need it more than you. Remember to keep quiet during any tannoy announcements so that other passengers can hear about any delays or changes to the route.
Visit the neighbourhoods
Instead of fighting your way through the crowds to visit the city’s main tourist attractions, get out of central London. Leicester Square may host some of the world’s biggest movie premieres, but apart from that, it’s typically too busy and a sure-fire disappointment (the M&M store must be avoided at all costs). Some of the city’s prettiest places are away from central London – head to London Fields for summer vibes, Notting Hill for pastel-hued houses or Barnsbury for cute pubs. For more inspiration on London’s best neighbourhoods, check out our guide.
Find alternative modes of transport
London is known for its excellent public transport services, so don’t be fooled into hopping into the city’s black cabs to zip to your next destination. The tube is a fast and easy way to cross the capital, but the bus is a cheaper and more picturesque way to get a tour of London. Don’t waste your money on a sightseeing bus – the red buses offer a decent alternative. Try the number 26, for example, which takes you from Chelsea through Westminster, Trafalgar Square, Fleet Street and St Paul's Cathedral. Lime bikes are another fun way to explore – London has great cycle lanes around the main roads (just be sure to wear a helmet). For those looking to experience the city from the water, hop onto an Uber boat instead of paying for a tourist-trap boat tour.
Walk where possible
While the capital’s transport links are truly great, the city is best explored on foot. It can often be a less stressful option to stroll through London, soaking up the sights and sounds as you go – you’ll get your bearings much faster, which is a huge help when trying to navigate the city’s many neighbourhoods. From pretty shopfronts to lush green parks via towering observation decks, check out our guide to the prettiest places in London.
