From London’s West End and Buckingham Palace to Abbey Road and the London Eye, there’s always something to see and do in the busy city of London. The city is home to a large financial center, meaning both those on business and holidaymakers travel here each year.

With so many places to explore, having your own car is going to make your stay cheaper and more convenient. You can rent a car at the London Heathrow Airport (LHR) easily. After leaving the airport, stop at Hampton Court Palace and try your hand at its famous maze before driving into the city.

Key Facts

At the Tower of London, you can learn a lot more about British history. This site has served as a castle, fortress and prison over the centuries. Its best known as the prison Ann Boleyn, Henry the VIII's second wife, was held in before being executed. While touring the tower, you will want to make time to see the Crown Jewels display. On the grassy areas inside the tower, you might notice some black birds. English folklore claims that if the ravens leave the tower, the British Empire will fall. At Buckingham Palace, you can watch the ceremony of Changing the Guard and try to get a Beefeater to smile.

Hints and Tips

Your flight from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to London will have you in the air for a little less than 11 hours.