London is one of the most visited cities in the world and it’s not difficult to know why. It has a unique history, beautiful buildings and parks, and countless tourism attractions.

If you’re planning to visit the English capital city anytime soon, you’ll want to read and print off this Yello mini-guide which lists five of the best sights to see.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen of England and one of the most impressive buildings in London. Featuring intricate architecture, 775 rooms, and a central courtyard, the palace is one of London’s top tourist sites.

Located within walking distance of Green Park, Hype Park and St James’ Park, the palace is also a short stroll away from Downing Street and several other attractions within the City of Westminster.

In the summer months, between July and September, some of the palace’s ornately-decorated State Rooms are opened to the public. Tickets are £24 for adults and can be booked in advance.

Another major attraction is the ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony which usually takes place at 10.15am but only on select days.

Big Ben / Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster is where the UK’s two Houses of Parliament meet. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most recognisable buildings in the world, primarily because of an imposing clock tower which houses a large bell known as Big Ben.

The original palace, which housed the British parliament since 1512, was extensively destroyed by a fire in 1834 and rebuilt by architect Charles Barry. Barry envisaged a new Gothic-Revival facade and the building he created has 1,200 rooms, 11 courtyards, and 2.1 miles of corridors.

The Great Clock and Big Ben are currently undergoing refurbishment and the bell has fallen silent until its extensive renovation is complete in 2021.

London Southbank / The London Eye

London’s Southbank area is home to various top attractions including the Southbank Centre, Sea Life London Aquarium, BFI IMAX, the National Theatre, and the London Eye.

The London Eye, which was opened in 2000, gives 28 passengers a 360-degree view of the skyline from 32 sealed and air-conditioned observation capsules.

It is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel and the most popular paid tourist attraction in the UK with over 3.75 million visitors annually. Tickets start from £25.20 and can be booked in advance online.

The Southbank can be explored on foot but one of the best ways to see all of it is on the River Thames. There are several river boats and tours available.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is an awe-inspiring site filled with history, art and faith.

Visitors can explore all five levels of the building including the basement crypt where some of the UK’s most famous heroes are buried.

You can also climb up to the famous dome and listen to the unique acoustics of the Whispering Gallery or enjoy some of the most spectacular views over London from the Stone and Golden Galleries.

Tickets can be purchased on the door or online and start from £17 for adults with discounts for families of three and over.

The Shard

The Shard opened to the public in February 2013 and has already cemented its place as one of the leading attractions in London.

Designed by award-winning architect Renzo Piano, the 95-story ‘vertical city’ is currently occupied by a hotel, offices, restaurants and apartments. There is also an 804-foot high observation deck on the 72nd floor which offers unparalleled views of the city for 40 miles (on a clear day).

General admission to the ‘View from the Shard’ is £32 for adults and £25 for children aged 4-15. Tickets include access to the indoor viewing platform and open-air ‘Skydeck’ with no time limit on how long you can enjoy the attraction.

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Sources: Lonely Planet / Visit London