London has to be one of the most iconic cities in the world and it is chock full of must-see sights. From Buckingham Palace to the London Eye, you are certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to top-notch attractions.
It can get a little pricey though, so it’s definitely worth figuring out if you want to go to all the best spots, or perhaps even buy a London Card to save you a few bucks!
Either way, whether you are spending only a few days here, or a longer period of time, you certainly want to get a few Insta-shots to spread a little envy amongst your friends. So, without further ado, here are the most instagrammable places in London right now…
Not only is Oxford Street one of the best shopping streets in the world, but it’s also one of the hottest Instagram spots in London. The narrow sidewalks between the wide streets are the perfect spot for an awesome photo, especially if you want a double-decker in the background. Pro-tip: December is the best period for stunning Instagram photos here when the street is fully decorated for the holidays. And the earlier in the day you get here, the less foot traffic you will have to contend with. And if you can find a place to stay around this area, you won’t have to walk far either!
The luxurious department store is not only a great spot for some shopping, but also for some breathtaking photographs. Although, I’m not sure what’s better – posing in front of this magnificent building, or snapping a shot with those insane sports cars parked in front of it. However, I do know one thing – this place is great for evening shots when the entire building lights up like a Christmas tree.
Did you know that “technically” you can’t actually take a photo of Big Ben? Here’s why: it’s a bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, and only a few select people actually have access to it. Nevertheless, this 16th century gothic clock tower is probably the most iconic London landmark, and definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in London. Just make sure to use the right hashtag, for the most exposure.
Oh, and while you are in the area, why not get a London Instagram photo of the Houses of Parliament. It is probably best taken from on the bridge just next to Big Ben!
Yes, a simple red telephone box is our next location. Why? Because it’s one of the most iconic British things ever. It’s ideal for retro photos, and a perfect way to spice up a gloomy or rainy day in London. And there can be plenty of those. There are lots of these throughout the city, but the ones on Broad Court are probably the most instagrammable. Or the ones on Great George St, on the left-hand side as you approach Big Ben – you pick!
Formerly known as the London Bridge Tower, this stunning skyscraper offers some of the most amazing views of London. Of course, the Shard itself is a very instagrammable place, and the views from inside it even more so.
You know how some people can’t take a bad photo? Well, Sketch is the place where even the photographically challenged can succeed. Everything about it is Instagram worthy – the pink chairs, the modern art on the walls, the stunning white stairs and even the pod bathrooms. The design of this teahouse/restaurant/gallery/cocktail lounge screams Instagram backdrop, and the Michelin-starred food doesn’t disappoint either. Of course, if it’s a real British afternoon tea you are after, then this might not be the place to come.
Peggy Porschen Cakes is without a doubt one of the most photo-worthy spots in London. The pink facade is incredibly charming, and the season-themed display in front of the shops makes it stand out even more. The cafe specializes in producing delicious cupcakes, which also happen to be Instagram worthy – make sure to take photos before you eat them!
Gods Own Junkyard features hundreds of neon signs that were designed by Chris Bracey. The artist is famous for designing pieces for movies like Batman, Casino Royale and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But Gods Own Junkyard is without a doubt his neon masterpiece and something you just have to get a snap of while in town.
One of the most iconic spots in London is the Tower Bridge. You can take some Instagram photos of it or on it – both are highly Instagrammable. The blue railings will pop even on a cloudy day, and the tower itself is truly enchanting. You can also go inside for a quick tour, and get a glimpse of the original machinery that used to power the raising of the Tower bridge.
Head to Neal’s Yard street for a backdrop with a blast of color. Neal’s Yard is actually a narrow little street in the corner of Covent Garden, and it’s probably one of the most underrated spots in the city. With ivy climbs and flowers on the buildings, colorful signs and door arches, it’s really hard not to take a good photo in Neal’s Yard. And don’t forget to explore Covent Garden a little while you are in the neighborhood!
It’s the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, so you know how hashtags are. The exterior of this 19th century hotel is remarkable, and it looks lovely in photos. The best part about this hotel, even if it is not the quirkiest hotel in London, is that it’s going to be super close if you’re arriving to London by train! If you do go here, make sure to also go inside the building. The staircase inside is rather iconic, and it’s another popular spot for Instagram shots.
This one is for all the Harry Potter fans out there – remember when the Death Eaters collapsed the bridge in the Half Blood Prince? Well, that only happened in the movie – the steel footbridge is still standing, and it’s a great spot to take for a snap. It’s worth checking out even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan – the structure of the Millennium bridge is quite interesting and unique.
Even if you didn’t watch the 90s movie, Notting Hill should be on your list of the hottest spots in London. The district is best known for its colorful, pastel houses, but also for the Portobello Market. It is the largest antique market in the entire world – how’s that for Instagrammable? And you can also snap some photos of the Notting Hill Carnival, if you’re there in August.
For the perfect autumn photo, you want to go to the entrance to the Kynance Mews. The gate is covered with red leaves and looks stunning in October. This is not an extremely popular spot, so you’re more likely to have both a stunning and unique photo!
On the inside, this is a pub decorated with Winston Churchill memorabilia. So, maybe something for the history buffs? But on the outside, it’s one of the most photographed places in the city. The exterior walls are covered with flowers and plants, which are in full bloom in the summer. In the winter, the place is decorated with fairy lights and Christmas trees. It’s a great image, any time of the year.
The 14th century market is situated in (what used to be) the centre of Roman London. Once upon a time, it was a meat, game and poultry market. Today, it’s one of the most beautiful locations in London. The indoor marketplace is full of pubs, restaurants and boutiques, so a worthy photo is not the only reason to visit the Leadenhall Market.
Yes, of course the London Eye is on the list. The iconic observation wheel is officially the most popular paid tourist attraction in the entire city. As well as one of the most instagrammable places in London!
But you don’t have to pay for a ride to get an Insta-worthy photo of the London Eye – the wheel itself serves as a stunning backdrop. However, I do recommend going on a ride, for some mesmerizing and scenic views of London.
This iconic church is beautiful both on the inside and the outside. But photos are not allowed inside, so it’s only Instagrammable from the outside. For an amazing artsy shot, go to One New Change, the shopping mall across the street from St Paul’s Cathedral. The reflective windows add a wow factor to the photo, and make the church look even more majestic.
You’ll always find some sort of floral decor in front of this little perfumery. It changes depending on the season, but you can check out the most recent decorations on Instagram. Talk about a marketing strategy! The best part about this spot is that it’s not remarkably popular, so you’re more likely to have a unique photograph!
Everything about this locale is instagrammable – from the charming little storefront, to the colorful teapots. Located in the heart of Notting Hill, this lovely little cafe specializes in making biscuits (duh!). If you’re interested in more than just cute photo-ops, they offer classes on making and decorating biscuits. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon, if you ask me.
The Farm Girl Cafe is just down the road from Biscuiteers. It’s a quite famous cafe, thanks to their insanely beautiful coffees. Everything you order here is stunning and Insta-ready – from the bulldog-shaped foam in your cappuccino to the carefully arranged salads and muesli. And the best part – the food is actually delicious!
Not only is this place literal heaven on Earth for bookworms, but it’s also one of the best hidden spots for a photo. There’s several Daunt Books shops throughout the city, but the most Instagrammable one is definitely the store on Marylebone High Street. This is also where James Daunt opened his first bookstore back in the 90s.
This London district is widely known for its inspiring street art. And there’s not just one great spot in this area – there are plenty. Nearly every street in the neighborhood is covered in colorful graffiti, but my favorite work of art is definitely this mural of Jack Nicholson. Here comes Johnny!
The concert hall in South Kensington is undoubtedly one of London’s most distinctive buildings. The ellipse building features a 41-meter high dome, and it looks stunning. It was first opened at the end of the 19th century by Queen Victoria, and some of the most notable artists in the world performed here since then. Last year, Queen Elizabeth celebrated her birthday in the Royal Albert Hall. And if it’s good enough for the Queen, it’s certainly good enough for us!
For a stunning panoramic view of London, head to the rooftop of the Sky Garden. And that’s not the only great news, it can be a free view, too – if you book your free ticket in advance that is. The sky garden itself is a bit of a letdown, but you’re not going there to look at the plants. And there’s a restaurant on the top floor, in case you wanted to have a bite to eat afterwards.
You may not think that a museum such as the Natural History Museum is going to be one of the most instagrammable places in London, but boy are you in the a surprise!
Starting with the Natural History Museum facade that is very much in line with many of the other buildings from the same era you will see around London. This is a great spot to get creative with your camera.
Inside you should be able to sneak in a few shots of yourself surrounded by items that are centuries old. Even the halls themselves, or perhaps a dinosaur skeleton might make it into your favorite shots of the Natural History Museum. Don’t let anything slip through the cracks!
Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!