Travelling from Paris to London for a day trip? London’s rich history and vibrant culture offer a plethora of iconic landmarks that can be explored in a single day. This guide will help you make the most of your short visit. We’ll explore ten of the most iconic landmarks in London that you should not miss when you are here.
If you want to speak to an expert directly, we are here for you. Our knowledgeable cabbies at Black Taxi Tour London will suggest the best trip with a bespoke curation of locations that you should visit. You can also tell us if you have any personal preferences or favourites. We’ll create a trip incorporating them to ensure the best experience for you and your group of travellers. Call +44 (0)20 3633 5262 or email info@blacktaxitourlondon.com today to get started.
“If you are planning a day trip to London from Paris, let us plan a wholesome trip including London’s top attractions for you. Our driver-guides will take your tour experience to the next level!”
Top 10 Must-See Landmarks In London On A Day Trip From Paris
1. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, an architectural masterpiece of Gothic design, is where British monarchs are crowned. It has been the site of 16 royal weddings, including Prince William and Kate Middleton’s.
You can explore the Poet’s Corner once you are there. Famous literary figures like Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens are buried in this place. To avoid the busiest times, we’d suggest that you visit early in the morning. However, based on your stay duration in London and the rest of the tour, we can plan your visit accordingly.
To further elevate your experience, our black taxi driver-guide will provide historical insights and ensure a smooth visit, highlighting key aspects of this iconic structure.
2. Houses of Parliament And Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, and Big Ben, are symbols of London’s political heritage. Big Ben is officially called the Elizabeth Tower. It is one of the most recognised landmarks in the world. Bespoke black taxi tours provide detailed historical context about these iconic buildings. Your guide can share stories about the workings of British democracy and point out architectural details that are often missed by the casual observer.
3. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch, which makes it a must-see landmark in London. Time your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colourful spectacle that takes place around 11:00 AM.
Your black taxi driver can navigate the best routes to the palace and provide fascinating insights into its history and architecture. With us, you will receive anecdotes about the daily lives of the royal family and the significance of the palace in British culture. The surrounding gardens and Victoria Memorial are also worth exploring.
4. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is a bustling public space known for its iconic Nelson’s Column and the majestic fountains. It’s a hub of cultural activity, often hosting events and performances.
The National Gallery, which is located at the square, houses an extensive collection of European paintings. If the world of art enthrals you, you mustn’t skip this beautiful London attraction.
Through a black taxi tour, you will get to learn the history of the square and its significance as a central meeting point in London. The square’s statues and artworks, including the Fourth Plinth, are highlights that your guide will explain in detail.
5. St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It has been the site of many important events, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.
Inside, you can admire the stunning mosaics and climb to the Whispering Gallery for a unique acoustic experience. Your guide will share stories of the cathedral’s resilience during the Blitz and its role in London’s history. The crypt holds the tombs of notable figures such as Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
6. The Tower of London
The Tower of London, a historic castle and former prison, houses the Crown Jewels. You can explore its medieval architecture and learn about its dark history of executions and imprisonment.
Highlights include the White Tower, the Bloody Tower, and the Royal Armouries. Your guide can narrate the tales of infamous prisoners like Anne Boleyn and provide insights into the Tower’s role in England’s royal history.
Please note that we do not typically go into larger London attractions, such as the Tower of London. The recommended time to tour the inside of this attraction is a minimum of 3 hours. However, we will be more than happy to drop you off at the location at the end of your day trip so that you can continue to explore it in your own time. These locations usually have their own qualified guides or audio guides.
7. Platform 9¾
For Harry Potter fans, a visit to Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station is essential. The platform features a luggage trolley embedded in the wall, providing a perfect photo opportunity for fans of the series.
Your black taxi driver-guide can take you directly to this magical spot to ensure you make the most of your time. There, you will learn about the station’s role in the Harry Potter films and get tips on capturing the best photos. It’s a quick stop that adds a touch of magic to your London tour.
And if you have kids with you, you must definitely include this iconic landmark in your tour plan.
8. London City Hall
London City Hall is located near Tower Bridge. It is a modern architectural marvel designed by Norman Foster. It serves as the headquarters of the Greater London Authority. The building’s distinctive shape and sustainable design make it a noteworthy stop on your tour.
Trust our knowledgeable driver-guide to explain the functions of City Hall and its significance in London’s governance. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the River Thames and Tower Bridge, making it an excellent spot for photos and a brief exploration.
This location was also used while filming the much-popular James Bond movie Spectre.
9. The British Museum
The British Museum is renowned for its vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies.
A quick visit can cover these key exhibits, with your black taxi guide ensuring you see the most significant artefacts without wasting time. The museum’s impressive architecture and rich history are also worth noting.
Your guide will provide context and stories behind the exhibits, making your visit both informative and efficient.
10. The Shard
The Shard is the tallest building in the UK, offering panoramic views of London from its observation deck. Standing at 310 metres, it provides a unique perspective of the city’s skyline.
A visit to The Shard is a perfect way to conclude your day trip in London. Your black taxi driver will ensure you get there efficiently and provide information on the building’s design and construction.
Conclusion
A day trip from Paris to London can be an unforgettable experience, especially with a well-planned itinerary. By choosing a black taxi tour, you ensure a smooth, informative, and enjoyable journey through London’s most iconic landmarks.
Let us help you make the most of your visit and create lasting memories in this remarkable city. At Black Taxi Tour London, our day tours offer a VIP experience, allowing you to avoid the crowds and hassle of public transport. Our working cabbies, all qualified tour guides, provide personal tours, pointing out areas of interest and sharing in-depth information about each landmark.
We’re passionate about our city and can’t wait to share its rich history and hidden gems with you. Book your tour online now. If you’d rather speak to us for expert advice, contact us today.
