From world-class museums and buzzing food markets to hidden cocktail bars and historic bookshops, London never stops surprising you. Some cities reveal themselves all at once, but London unfolds in layers. There’s history in every street name, a centuries-old pub around every corner, and something new happening in every neighborhood.
One moment, you’re wandering through a Victorian-era market, and the next, you’re sipping a futuristic cocktail in a hidden speakeasy. It’s a city of contrasts—timeless yet constantly evolving. And with bunq in your pocket, you can skip the hassle of foreign exchange fees, tap your card anywhere, and track your spending in real-time.
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Where to Stay
1. One Hundred Shoreditch
Shoreditch has long been London’s creative heart, and One Hundred Shoreditch is right in the middle of it all. This stylish hotel is an ideal mix of modern luxury and East London cool, with sleek interiors, cozy rooms, and a rooftop bar that offers one of the best views in the city.
Downstairs, you’ll find a casual yet refined seafood restaurant and a selection of workspaces where freelancers and digital nomads settle in with their morning coffee. It’s the kind of place where the line between business and leisure blurs—start your day with an espresso in the lobby, explore the city, and end the night sipping cocktails while looking out over the London skyline.
Where to Eat & Drink
London’s food scene is as diverse as the city itself. From old-school institutions to modern must-tries, here are the places worth putting on your list.
2. Tayyabs
For over 50 years, Tayyabs has been an East London staple, and if you ask any local where to get the best Punjabi food, this is where they’ll send you. The restaurant is always packed, the atmosphere lively, and the smell of sizzling lamb chops fills the air. Order the mixed grill, soak up the flavors with fresh naan, and prepare for a meal you won’t forget.
3. Discount Suit Company
Hidden behind an unmarked door on a quiet street, Discount Suit Company is one of London’s best speakeasies. Once a tailor’s shop, this basement bar now serves expertly crafted cocktails in a dimly lit, intimate setting. The menu is short but innovative, with drinks that blend classic techniques with unexpected flavors. If you’re looking for a spot that feels like a well-kept secret, this is it.
4. Dishoom
Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom is one of the most beloved restaurants in London. Every location has its own charm, but the Covent Garden branch—with its vintage decor and lively atmosphere—is a great place to start. The food is nothing short of legendary: buttery naan rolls for breakfast, rich black daal for dinner, and a house chai that people swear by.
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Where to Explore
London is a museum-lover’s dream, but even if art galleries aren’t your thing, these spots are worth a visit.
5. Tate Modern
Set in a former power station on the South Bank, the Tate Modern is one of the most striking museums in the world. The vast Turbine Hall is home to ever-changing large-scale installations, while the permanent collection features everything from Picasso to Jenny Holzer. Best of all? Entry is free.
6. The National Gallery
If classic art is more your style, The National Gallery houses some of the greatest paintings in history. You’ll find Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Monet’s Water-Lilies, and Da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks all under one roof. Even if you only have an hour, it’s worth stepping inside.
Tip: Get Instant Notifications every time you make a purchase at the museum giftshop, so you always know exactly where your money’s going.
7. Borough Market
More than just a food market, Borough Market is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Traders sell everything from fresh oysters and artisanal cheeses to handmade pastries and exotic spices. Grab a coffee, wander through the stalls, and sample as much as you can.
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Where to Unwind
London may be fast-paced, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful green spaces in the world.
8. Hampstead Heath
If you need a break from the city, Hampstead Heath is the perfect escape. Sprawling across nearly 800 acres, this wild green space feels more like the countryside than a city park. Climb up to Parliament Hill for a stunning panoramic view of the London skyline, take a dip in the Heath’s famous swimming ponds, or just find a quiet corner to breathe in the fresh air. It’s a reminder that, even in one of the busiest cities in the world, there’s always room to slow down.
London is a city that rewards curiosity. Whether you're exploring its historic streets, discovering hidden bars, or settling into a cozy bookshop on a rainy afternoon, the best way to experience it is to follow your instincts—and maybe a good recommendation or two.
With bunq, you can focus on the experience. Tap to Pay anywhere, track your spending effortlessly, and enjoy ZeroFX. Because the only thing you should be worrying about in London is whether to have another round.
