Alex Untola
As a global holiday hub the historic and captivating environs of London are home to some of the most renowned attractions in the world. Here is a list of the British capital's best points of interest.
Famed for its breathtaking and awe-inspiring views of the city the London Eye remains the British capital's favorite observation point for good reason. As a larger than life Ferris wheel with 32 individual capsules weighing in at 10 tonnes each a ride on board the London Eye is both a cultural experience as well as an exciting thrill for first time visitors. With the capacity to hold nearly 25 passengers in one capsule the futuristic Eye's rotation offers visitors unparalleled views of more than 55 iconic landmarks littering the capital. With a bird's eye view of the metropolitan skyline of the city there's no quicker way to experience the scale and depth of this global city than on board the London Eye on which a tour lasts a mere 30 minutes.
Revered as one of the finest art galleries in the world the National Gallery is a one of a kind institution in the heart of Trafalgar Square. Documenting and celebrating the art work of Western Europe's finest artists the museum's illustrious collection spreads out from the 13th century, all the way to the masterpieces from the 19th century. Visitors can marvel at the museum's impressive catalogue of paintings including works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Renoir, Botticelli, Stubbs, Constable and Titian. Open to visitors free of charge the museum is a must-visit highlight that is not just reserved for art enthusiasts.
As a British franchise that has a global following visitors can experience face to face encounters with their favorite celebrities in the original Madame Tussauds. Littered with top names in the field of cinema, television, sports, politics and pop culture the true to life wax figurines at Madame Tussauds have been drawing visitors to London since it was first established. Snapping photographs with one's favorite celebrities visitors can also enjoy a once in a lifetime audience with members of the British royal family and photo-ops with other British greats such as the Beatles and David Beckham at this one of a kind museum.
As the residence of the British monarchy since time immemorial Buckingham Palace has served as the British crown's principle seat of power for centuries. As one of the most iconic landmarks in London no visit to the British capital would be complete without a tour of this exquisite royal palace and its sprawling gardens. With an impressive 775 chambers within its confines the palace also boasts 92 offices and 78 restrooms. With an average staff of 188 serving its residents the venue also houses 19 state rooms where many dignitaries are met and entertained by her Majesty the Queen. Visitors based in centrally situated London long stay apartments such as Citadines St Marks London will have easy access to the venue.
Another iconic London landmark there is no public space in the British capital that lays claim to such a tumultuous history. Once a royal palace, the 900 year old structure then famously served as the kingdom's most infamous prison with more than its fair share of iconic executions of key figures in British history taking place there. Once the home of the Crown Jewels the Tower of London also served as an arsenal as well as a makeshift zoo in the past. Hear the dark tales of the Yeoman Warders and walk the grounds of this imposing structure which has been the subject of many legends and tales.
