This large multicultural city can be divided into districts, each having its own character and choice of attractions. The River Thames winds its way through the heart of the city and offers some pleasant walks along the banks. One of the best things about London is the amount of 'green space' and the number of beautiful parks that help you forget you are in a busy metropolis.

Central London is condensed into a small area, meaning that it is easy to get around and much of it can be explored on foot. Avoid using the underground system to get to every destination and wander around some of the interesting backstreets to discover some hidden gems.

The narrow streets contain some of the best restaurants and boutique shops you will find, while the small gardens and squares are a great place to stop for a short break. This area of the West End is popular with shoppers, and a short walk away you can find the main shopping areas of Oxford and Regent Streets.

A walk through the huge Hyde Park will eventually bring you to Buckingham Palace, home of the Queen of England. You can then stroll through one of the most beautiful spots in London, St James's Park.

At the other end of Whitehall is Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery, and if you continue a little farther you come to Covent Garden, a trendy district with some great theatres, wine bars and shops. Heading east you will arrive in London's financial district known as the Square Mile, and home to some of the city's greatest historical monuments. A newer financial area has been developed in the once poor East End district in Canary Wharf.

London is a major travel hub, serviced by five international airports including Heathrow and Gatwick. An international rail terminal has Eurostar trains travelling to cities throughout Europe, while several key train stations have services to hundreds of destinations throughout the UK.