Self-guided audio tour in London

Besides our audio guide, there are many other ways to discover London. Here are some suggestions that can enrich your visit to complement the self-guided tours London offers:

• Tower of London - Step into 1,000 years of fascinating British history at this UNESCO World Heritage site. The legendary Beefeaters share tales of intrigue while the Crown Jewels dazzle visitors with their splendor. Book in advance during peak season.
• Westminster Abbey - Explore this magnificent Gothic church where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066. The audio guide provides fascinating insights into the abbey's royal connections and the famous figures buried here.
• Thames River Dinner Cruise - Experience one of the best tours in London from a different perspective as you glide past illuminated landmarks while enjoying a four-course meal. The city transforms at night, offering spectacular views of Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament.
• British Museum - Navigate one of the world's greatest collections of human history and culture with expert guidance. From the Rosetta Stone to the Elgin Marbles, this tour helps you appreciate the must-see places in London's premier museum.
• Borough Market - Immerse yourself in London's oldest food market, dating back to the 13th century. Sample artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and international cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for foodies looking to experience London without a guide.
• Sky Garden - Enjoy breathtaking 360° views of London from this free public garden at the top of the "Walkie Talkie" building. Book your free ticket online in advance to access one of the hidden gems in London with spectacular vistas.
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace - Witness this iconic ceremonial tradition featuring the Queen's Guard in their distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats. Check the schedule online as it doesn't happen daily.
• Tate Modern - Explore one of the world's most influential contemporary art galleries housed in a former power station. The massive Turbine Hall hosts spectacular large-scale installations, making it one of the best areas to explore in London for art lovers.

Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather and blooming royal parks, ideal for London walking tours. Autumn (September-October) brings golden colors to Hyde Park and thinner crowds at major attractions. Summer hosts exciting events like Notting Hill Carnival and Wimbledon, while winter transforms the city with Christmas markets and festive lights.

Getting There
London is exceptionally well-connected with six international airports and extensive rail links to Europe and the UK. Once in the city, purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment for the comprehensive Underground (Tube), bus, and Overground network. Consider the Santander Cycles (locally known as "Boris Bikes") for short journeys between London sightseeing tours.

Opening Hours and Holidays
Most museums and galleries open around 10am and close between 5-6pm, with many offering late openings one day per week. Most shops operate from 9am-7pm on weekdays with reduced Sunday hours. Pubs typically serve until 11pm, while restaurants may close their kitchens by 10pm. Bank holidays (particularly Christmas Day and Boxing Day) significantly affect opening times.

Comfort on the Go
Wear comfortable, waterproof footwear as London sightseeing tours involve considerable walking, often on uneven cobblestones. The British weather is famously changeable, so pack layers and a compact umbrella regardless of season. Public drinking fountains have been installed across central London, so bring a refillable water bottle.

Local Customs and Etiquette
Stand on the right on escalators to allow people to pass on the left—a cardinal rule Londoners take seriously. Queuing (lining up) is practically a national sport; respect the line. Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15%) but not mandatory for pubs or taxis. When visiting pubs, order and pay at the bar rather than waiting for table service.

How much time should I plan for a visit to London?
You need at least 2-3 days to experience London's highlights. Our self-guided tours London offers can be completed in 2-3 hours if walked continuously, but the real joy comes from setting your own pace. Take breaks at traditional pubs like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street or stop for afternoon tea at one of the many charming cafés along the route.

What makes London different from other cities in the UK?
London stands apart with its unmatched cultural diversity, with over 300 languages spoken across its 32 boroughs. Unlike other British cities, London combines royal pageantry and medieval history with cutting-edge architecture and global financial power. The city's extensive green spaces (nearly 40% is green space) are unusual for a metropolis of its size and density.

Why choose an audio guide instead of a guided tour in London?
An audio guide gives you complete freedom to explore London at your own pace, avoiding the rigid schedules of guided groups. This flexibility is particularly valuable in London's unpredictable weather and allows you to linger at the hidden gems in London that interest you most, or duck into a cozy pub when you need a break from exploring.

Do I need internet while walking?
No, once downloaded, our London walking tours work completely offline. This is particularly useful in London where Underground stations and some historic buildings can create connectivity dead zones. All maps, audio, and directions function without using your data allowance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, though primarily designed for adults, children from about 12 years will enjoy the stories of London's ghosts, royal scandals, and fascinating historical figures. Younger children might appreciate the sections about the Tower of London's ravens or the tales of exotic animals once kept in the royal menagerie.

Can I share the tour with my travel companions?
Absolutely! Our London sightseeing tours can be enjoyed by your entire group. Each person can use their own device with headphones, and we offer attractive discounts for multiple purchases. Check our London product page for current multi-user offers.

What else is there to do in London?
Beyond our audio guide, London offers world-class theater in the West End, boat trips on the Thames, and exceptional museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum. The Camden and Portobello Road markets provide unique shopping experiences, while Greenwich offers scientific history and stunning views across the city.

Is there a free tour in London?
While "free" walking tours exist in London, they typically expect substantial tips (often £15-20 per person). Our audio guide offers premium content at a fixed, transparent price with no hidden costs or awkward tipping situations. Unlike free tours that follow rigid schedules with large groups, our self-guided tours London visitors praise allow complete flexibility.

Who is CityAppTour?
We're a team of travelers passionate about sharing local stories. Our London content is crafted by historians and local experts who know the city intimately—from the architectural significance of St. Paul's Cathedral to the best time to visit Covent Garden. We combine historical accuracy with entertaining storytelling to create the best tours in London.

How can I see London in one day?
While challenging, you can experience London's highlights in one day by focusing on a specific area. Our audio guide helps you maximize your time by providing efficient routes through central London, covering major landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. Start early (around 8am), wear comfortable shoes, and use the Tube to connect between areas.

Which London neighborhoods are best for food lovers?
Soho offers everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic Chinese cuisine in nearby Chinatown. Borough Market provides artisanal food stalls perfect for sampling local specialties. Brick Lane is famous for its curry houses, while Shoreditch features innovative pop-ups and food markets. Our audio guide points out notable culinary spots along the route.

Is the London Pass worth buying?
The London Pass can offer good value if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions in a short time. It includes entry to over 80 attractions including the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. However, if you're primarily interested in self-guided tours London has to offer, along with free museums and markets, you might not recoup the cost of the pass.

"The audio guide revealed stories about London I'd never have discovered on my own, despite visiting twice before. The freedom to pause for a pint at a historic pub or explore a quirky bookshop made this the highlight of our trip." — Muriel, Scotland

"Ich war wirklich bewegt von der Erzählung über Londons Widerstandsfähigkeit während der Blitz, als ich vor der St. Paul’s Cathedral stand. Diese verborgenen Juwelen in Londons Geschichte ließen die Stadt auf eine Weise lebendig werden, die Reiseführer einfach nicht können." — Monica, Deutschland

"Come viaggiatore solitario, questa è stata perfetta! Ho potuto esplorare le migliori zone di Londra al mio ritmo senza dover controllare continuamente le mappe. La funzionalità offline mi ha salvato quando il mio piano dati stava per esaurirsi, e le informazioni locali erano molto più interessanti rispetto ai fatti turistici generici." — Joey, Italia