London City Guide

By Stella Pelissari

London is a magical city and arguably the most cosmopolitan capital in Europe.

And as the writer Samuel Johnson said in 1777: " …When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life”.

The food! The people! The energy! The architecture! The fashion! The stores!  Everything is so exciting… You have so many things to choose from including museums, parks, shops, bookstores, monuments, pubs, restaurants ... so how about some tips?

WHAT TO BUY

If you want to purchase souvenirs, look no further than Lock & Co., the famous hat store in Mayfair, or cosmetics, creams and even vitamins from Boots, a traditional English breakfast tea from Fortnum & Mason, great value quality clothing & cashmere from Marks & Spencer, a tie from Dunhill or a typical English rose soap from Santa Maria Novella…

WHERE TO EAT

Make your way to the bohemian Soho district of London. It’s a great place to discover, always very lively, full of energy and with a thousand gourmet options for all tastes and budgets... We would recommend these authentic eateries;

Hoppers

With a fantastic range of Sri Lankan dishes in the heart of Soho, you will love Hoppers from the first tasty mouthful. They don't take reservations, so get here early – and enjoy this experience.

Address: ‪49 Frith Street | Soho, London W1D 4SG

Barrafina

A bustling, Barcelona-style tapas restaurant serving delicious food on the original small-plates.  Make sure you try the runny-centred tortilla and the carabineros (large bright red prawns).

Address: 26-27 Dean Street | Soho, London W1D 3LL

Cafe de Paris

Fantastic cabaret and dining experience, and at the same time for a very reasonable price. The place is really gorgeous inside and you could almost imagine being in Paris.

Address: ‪ 3-4 Coventry Street, London W1D 6BL

Bob Bob Ricard

Bob Bob Ricard, the iconic Soho restaurant, serves a luxury English and Russian menu to its eclectic clientele in London's most glamorous all-booth dining room…

Address: 1 Upper James St, Soho, London W1F 9DF

WHAT TO SEE

Museums… London is well known for its rich culture and most museums are free. But two are really impermissible: The Victoria & Albert Museum and the British Museum.

After your visit, do not hesitate to visit the boutiques of each museum. You will be overwhelmed by the fantastic selection of products. Most of their gift selections are exclusively made and inspired by pieces you have seen in the museums, and they make great presents to bring back home.

Victoria & Albert Museum - ‪Cromwell Road | South Kensington, London SW7 2RL

British Museum - Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG