London is home to several top-notch museums and other attractions. Partially because of its rich historic significance and artistic contributions, London immerses its visitors in culture and deep-rooted traditions. Below represents a few pieces in the city’s oeuvre.

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1. Tower of London – Besides having served as the official residence of the monarch, the Tower has also been used as a dungeon, castle, and site of execution. Take the Beefeater tour and check out the crown jewels.

2. Westminster Abbey – More than 1000 years of English history resides here, including 3,000 tombs and the remains of nearly 30 kings and queens.

3. Borough Market – A gourmet food market consists of up to 70 stalls selling fish, meats, vegetables, ciders, cheeses, breads, coffees, cakes and patisseries.

4. Chinese Festival – Welcome in the new Chinese year in Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue. Festivities begin at with a parade of colourful floats from Trafalgar Square to Rupert Street. At noon, Boris Johnson and Chinatown president Stanley Tse commence the Dotting of the Eye ceremony, kickstarting an afternoon of performances featuring music, dance, Chinese dragons, lions and acrobatics.

5. Ceremony of the Keys – Every night at precisely 21:30, with pageantry-filled ceremony, the Tower of London is locked up (as it has been for the last 700 years). To attend this free 30-minute event, you need to request an invitation by mail.

6. Notting Hill Festival – London’s answer to Carnval, the Notting Hill Festival is a week-long parade and music jam featuring unique dances and South American/Central American flair.

7. Tate Modern – Soak up contemporary art amid dazzling video lights and funky displays. The awe-inspiring Turbine Hall runs the length of the entire building and you can see amazing work for free by artists such as Cézanne, Bonnard, Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, Dalí, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois. Free admission.

8. Hyde Park – One of the most impressive green spaces in Europe, Hyde Park is one of London’s eight Royal Parks and hosts millions of tourists every year. It is home to famous landmarks including the Diana Memorial, Wellington Arch, and Marble Arch.

9. Buckingham Palace – Queen Elizabeth II’s official residence and has been the official London residence of Britain’s sovereign since 1837. Check out the large State Rooms or visit during the Changing of the Guard.

10. St. Paul’s Cathedral – St. Paul’s Cathedral is crammed full of history, memorials, and architectural detail. But it’s the climb up to the Golden Gallery for 360° panoramas across the city that inspire you.

11. British Museum– Enormous. Its collection spans over two million years of human history. Enjoy a unique comparison of the treasures of world cultures under one roof, centered around the magnificent Great Court. World-famous objects such as the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies.